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Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram will be produced before a Delhi Court in connection with INX media money laundering case on Monday.

This comes two days after it was reported by media&nbsp;that the probe agency is <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-ed-likely-to-arrest-p-chidambaram-on-monday-255323">likely to arrest Chidambaram</a> on October 14 as a special court in Delhi had directed to produce the former union minister in connection with the case.

Judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar has ordered to produce Chidambaram in the court today at 3 pm.

During the proceedings on October 12, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the matter, had told the court that Chidambaram's custodial interrogation is required as the agency wants to seek information related to the shell company in abroad and 17 bank accounts highlighted in the case.

Even the Supreme Court had observed that his custodial interrogation is required in the case, Mehta had asserted.

Chidambaram is currently in judicial custody in Tihar jail in a corruption case related to the alleged scam being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The case pertains to an FIR registered by the CBI for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Union finance minister.

The ED is investigating the alleged offence of money laundering that arose out of the FIR.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram will be produced before a Delhi Court in connection with INX media money laundering case on Monday. This comes two days after it was reported by media that the probe agency is likely to arrest Chidambaram on October 14 as a special court in Delhi had directed to produce the former union minister in connection with the case.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram will be produced before a Delhi Court in connection with INX media money laundering case on Monday. This comes two days after it was reported by media that the probe agency is likely to arrest Chidambaram on October 14 as a special court in Delhi had directed to produce the former union minister in connection with the case. Judge Ajay Kumar Kuhar has ordered to produce Chidambaram in the court today at 3 pm. During the proceedings on October 12, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the matter, had told the court that Chidambaram's custodial interrogation is required as the agency wants to seek information related to the shell company in abroad and 17 bank accounts highlighted in the case. Even the Supreme Court had observed that his custodial interrogation is required in the case, Mehta had asserted. Chidambaram is currently in judicial custody in Tihar jail in a corruption case related to the alleged scam being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The case pertains to an FIR registered by the CBI for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by Chidambaram when he was the Union finance minister. The ED is investigating the alleged offence of money laundering that arose out of the FIR.

INX media case: Chidambaram to be produced before Delhi court today, Enforcement Directorate to seek custody

A 9-cm wide terracotta artefact lies in Hong Kong, in the possession of an art dealer, but the inferences and interpretations from it could possibly lead to interesting revelations about the time period of the Indian epic Mahabharata and its occurrence.

The tablet depicts a man holding four horses, standing on the back of a half chariot with a spoked wheel. There are two figures in the chariot, one who is presumably the charioteer, while another has his hand pointed in a direction. Both the figures in the chariot have quivers that contain arrows.&nbsp;

Curious to know more about the tablet, Jeremy Pine, the owner had sent a picture of it to&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;Nanditha Krishna, CPR Institute of Indological Research and requested her to share her interpretations of the same and its historical significance.&nbsp;Dr&nbsp;Nanditha along with other historians and domain experts had studied the image and historical texts to draw inferences.

According to a document shared with the media, the tabled is said to have been authenticated by Oxford Authentication using Thermoluminescence (TL testing) on May 14&nbsp;2019. Its result&nbsp;states that the terracotta was fired between 2300 and 3600 years ago ie&nbsp;between 1600 to 300BCE.&nbsp;

This date corresponds to the late Indus Valley Culture (1500 BCE) and the historical period (600 BCE), a period known as the Painted Grey Ware Culture, an Iron Age Culture of North India lasting roughly from 1200 BCE to 600 BCE. According to “The Painted Grey Ware Culture of the Iron Age” by BB&nbsp;Lal, the period has been associated with the settlements at Hastinapura and the five&nbsp;villages which the Pandavas had requested&nbsp;from the Kauravas in the epic Mahabharata.&nbsp;

Dr&nbsp;Nanditha Krishna, based on her four-month study and interpretation of the images of the terracotta told WION, “We see four horses in a war chariot, the art of managing horses was fairly well developed by this time, till now we do not have horses belonging to 1000BC, we don’t see horses in any kind of art. It has a spoked wheel, which is described in the Rig Veda, which means that the Mahabharata also uses the same spoked wheel. All these inferences link it to the Mahabharata age.”

<img alt="Terracotta tablet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cf7cb2ce-b0ce-40d6-a9e9-8195474a698b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2815%29_5.jpg" />

Speaking of the possible identity of the two men on the chariot, she said, “Many people in the Mahabharata are said to have driven four-horse chariots, but only Arjuna’s four horses are given specific names and have an identity of their own. When I saw it, the first thing I thought was - this is Krishna and Arjuna. The general picture of ‘Gitopadesham’ is that of Krishna holding the horses and Arjuna pointing to his grandfather and his cousins and refusing to fight them.”&nbsp;

However, the observations also note that since Krishna chose not to fight, so the second quiver of arrows could not belong to him. One of the reasons stated is that Arjuna- the world’s greatest archer, may need more than one quiver of arrows for a day of battle.&nbsp;

Another possibility is that&nbsp;when Arjuna asks Krishna what he would do if Arjuna is killed in battle, Krishna says, “maybe the fire will become cold, but if it happens, I will take up my weapons and kill Karna and Salya”. So, maybe Krishna had his weapons with him “just in case”.

According to the observations, if the two figures are Arjuna and Krishna as suggested, this would be the earliest available portrayal of the ‘Gitopadesham’ scene of the Bhagwad Gita, going back to about 1000 BCE. The two figures are also seen&nbsp;wearing Harappa-style headbands. Thus raiding the question of whether the Mahabharata extended into the late Harappan period.

What makes it even more interesting is that&nbsp;this observation, if true, would place the Bhagawad Gita and Mahabharata in a much earlier period than generally accepted.

The chariot in the terracotta tablet is said to be similar to a half-chariot that was excavated from Sanauli in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat District. The find is said to be dated back to around 2000-1800 BCE. Baghpat is said to be one of the five villages demanded by the Pandavas. However, the major difference remains that the Sanauli wheel is solid, whereas the terracotta tablet depicts a spoked wheel.&nbsp;

“I have no doubt personally that this is Krishna and Arjuna, but I will agree with anyone who says that there is no inscription that says so. But why would you just have two people - one driving the chariot and another pointing in one direction, that’s only the ‘Gitopadesham’. Which makes the ‘Gitopadesham’, just on the basis of this tablet, a minimum of 1000BCE“, Dr&nbsp;Nanditha Krishna told WION.

A 9-cm wide terracotta artefact lies in Hong Kong, in the possession of an art dealer, but the inferences and interpretations from it could possibly lead to interesting revelations about the time period of the Indian epic Mahabharata and its occurrence.

A 9-cm wide terracotta artefact lies in Hong Kong, in the possession of an art dealer, but the inferences and interpretations from it could possibly lead to interesting revelations about the time period of the Indian epic Mahabharata and its occurrence. The tablet depicts a man holding four horses, standing on the back of a half chariot with a spoked wheel. There are two figures in the chariot, one who is presumably the charioteer, while another has his hand pointed in a direction. Both the figures in the chariot have quivers that contain arrows. Curious to know more about the tablet, Jeremy Pine, the owner had sent a picture of it to Dr Nanditha Krishna, CPR Institute of Indological Research and requested her to share her interpretations of the same and its historical significance. Dr Nanditha along with other historians and domain experts had studied the image and historical texts to draw inferences. According to a document shared with the media, the tabled is said to have been authenticated by Oxford Authentication using Thermoluminescence (TL testing) on May 14 2019. Its result states that the terracotta was fired between 2300 and 3600 years ago ie between 1600 to 300BCE. This date corresponds to the late Indus Valley Culture (1500 BCE) and the historical period (600 BCE), a period known as the Painted Grey Ware Culture, an Iron Age Culture of North India lasting roughly from 1200 BCE to 600 BCE. According to “The Painted Grey Ware Culture of the Iron Age” by BB Lal, the period has been associated with the settlements at Hastinapura and the five villages which the Pandavas had requested from the Kauravas in the epic Mahabharata. Dr Nanditha Krishna, based on her four-month study and interpretation of the images of the terracotta told WION, “We see four horses in a war chariot, the art of managing horses was fairly well developed by this time, till now we do not have horses belonging to 1000BC, we don’t see horses in any kind of art. It has a spoked wheel, which is described in the Rig Veda, which means that the Mahabharata also uses the same spoked wheel. All these inferences link it to the Mahabharata age.” Speaking of the possible identity of the two men on the chariot, she said, “Many people in the Mahabharata are said to have driven four-horse chariots, but only Arjuna’s four horses are given specific names and have an identity of their own. When I saw it, the first thing I thought was - this is Krishna and Arjuna. The general picture of ‘Gitopadesham’ is that of Krishna holding the horses and Arjuna pointing to his grandfather and his cousins and refusing to fight them.” However, the observations also note that since Krishna chose not to fight, so the second quiver of arrows could not belong to him. One of the reasons stated is that Arjuna- the world’s greatest archer, may need more than one quiver of arrows for a day of battle. Another possibility is that when Arjuna asks Krishna what he would do if Arjuna is killed in battle, Krishna says, “maybe the fire will become cold, but if it happens, I will take up my weapons and kill Karna and Salya”. So, maybe Krishna had his weapons with him “just in case”. According to the observations, if the two figures are Arjuna and Krishna as suggested, this would be the earliest available portrayal of the ‘Gitopadesham’ scene of the Bhagwad Gita, going back to about 1000 BCE. The two figures are also seen wearing Harappa-style headbands. Thus raiding the question of whether the Mahabharata extended into the late Harappan period. What makes it even more interesting is that this observation, if true, would place the Bhagawad Gita and Mahabharata in a much earlier period than generally accepted. The chariot in the terracotta tablet is said to be similar to a half-chariot that was excavated from Sanauli in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat District. The find is said to be dated back to around 2000-1800 BCE. Baghpat is said to be one of the five villages demanded by the Pandavas. However, the major difference remains that the Sanauli wheel is solid, whereas the terracotta tablet depicts a spoked wheel. “I have no doubt personally that this is Krishna and Arjuna, but I will agree with anyone who says that there is no inscription that says so. But why would you just have two people - one driving the chariot and another pointing in one direction, that’s only the ‘Gitopadesham’. Which makes the ‘Gitopadesham’, just on the basis of this tablet, a minimum of 1000BCE“, Dr Nanditha Krishna told WION.

Does this terracotta tablet from around 1000 BCE depict Lord Krishna and Arjuna ?

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday.

This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana. He will be in Thanesar (Kurukshetra) and Dadri on October 15 while the last rally before polls commence in the state will be in the Jat-dominated Hissar on October 18.

The Prime Minister is likely to woo the voters using Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's clean image and the developmental works done by the Centre along with the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.

On Sunday, the BJP released its manifesto and made a host of promises to woo the electorates ahead of forthcoming Haryana Assembly elections.

In the manifesto titled 'Mhare sapno ka Haryana' (my dreams of Haryana), the BJP made a plethora of promises ranging from launching Haryana start-up mission, constitution of a new 'Yuva Vikas and Rozgar' ministry and one All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), doubling of farmers' income by 2022 and increase in pension.

The manifesto was released in the presence of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, BJP national working president J P Nadda and other party leaders.

Apart from the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other party MPs too are scheduled to hold rallies in the state to help BJP's chances of retaining the state.

Elections to the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 along with 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. PM Modi is also set to address rallies in Maharashtra.

The counting of votes is scheduled to commence on October 24.

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday. This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana.

Ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address an election rally in Ballabhgarh on Monday. This will be the first of the four rallies the Prime Minister is scheduled to address in Haryana. He will be in Thanesar (Kurukshetra) and Dadri on October 15 while the last rally before polls commence in the state will be in the Jat-dominated Hissar on October 18. The Prime Minister is likely to woo the voters using Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's clean image and the developmental works done by the Centre along with the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. On Sunday, the BJP released its manifesto and made a host of promises to woo the electorates ahead of forthcoming Haryana Assembly elections. In the manifesto titled 'Mhare sapno ka Haryana' (my dreams of Haryana), the BJP made a plethora of promises ranging from launching Haryana start-up mission, constitution of a new 'Yuva Vikas and Rozgar' ministry and one All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), doubling of farmers' income by 2022 and increase in pension. The manifesto was released in the presence of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, BJP national working president J P Nadda and other party leaders. Apart from the Prime Minister, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other party MPs too are scheduled to hold rallies in the state to help BJP's chances of retaining the state. Elections to the 90-member Haryana Assembly will be held on October 21 along with 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. PM Modi is also set to address rallies in Maharashtra. The counting of votes is scheduled to commence on October 24.

Haryana Assembly polls: PM Modi to address rally in Ballabhgarh today

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/residents-of-jammu-and-kashmir-express-joy-after-restoration-of-postpaid-mobile-services-255860">Jammu and Kashmir</a> administration has set up internet kiosks in every district to&nbsp;facilitate students and common people&nbsp;as there is no internet access&nbsp;in the valley following the abrogation of article 370.

In Srinagar, two such centres have been established at the Tourist Reception Centre and the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Every day, hundreds of students and contractors visit the locations to fill different forms with the assistance of&nbsp;an official.

Students who visit these centres say that they were worried about their appearance in the competitive exams including GATE, JEE and&nbsp;UPSC. “We help them in filling examination and job forms. We have established six&nbsp;counters here and four&nbsp;at DC office. Around a&nbsp;thousand forms have already been filled from this centre,” said Wahid, in charge of this centre.

The officials also help them scan their documents, pay&nbsp;for exams and jobs online in all the districts of the state.

&nbsp;“We were facing hardships to fill these forms and this is of great help. I have come to fill UGC Net exam. I can’t afford to lose this opportunity but having said that in digital India, we want internet back in the state,” says Rashid, a UGC aspirant, who has been waiting for his turn, adding that the government should set up more such centres.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/postpaid-mobile-services-restored-in-jammu-and-kashmir-after-two-months-255767">The internet connection</a> isn’t just limited to students. At the Deputy Commissioner’s office, people who want to fill other forms are also welcomed by the officials. According to the sources, the government may restore the broadband internet in Kashmir at the end of this month after reviewing the security,&nbsp;law and order situation after the restoration of postpaid mobile services.

“Since the last two months, we had no internet and I think this is a great initiative. If we had no such system, I was planning to go outside the state to fill my MCI form,” said Mudasir Ahmad.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has set up internet kiosks in every district to facilitate students and common people as there is no internet access in the valley following the abrogation of article 370.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has set up internet kiosks in every district to facilitate students and common people as there is no internet access in the valley following the abrogation of article 370. In Srinagar, two such centres have been established at the Tourist Reception Centre and the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Every day, hundreds of students and contractors visit the locations to fill different forms with the assistance of an official. Students who visit these centres say that they were worried about their appearance in the competitive exams including GATE, JEE and UPSC. “We help them in filling examination and job forms. We have established six counters here and four at DC office. Around a thousand forms have already been filled from this centre,” said Wahid, in charge of this centre. The officials also help them scan their documents, pay for exams and jobs online in all the districts of the state. “We were facing hardships to fill these forms and this is of great help. I have come to fill UGC Net exam. I can’t afford to lose this opportunity but having said that in digital India, we want internet back in the state,” says Rashid, a UGC aspirant, who has been waiting for his turn, adding that the government should set up more such centres. The internet connection isn’t just limited to students. At the Deputy Commissioner’s office, people who want to fill other forms are also welcomed by the officials. According to the sources, the government may restore the broadband internet in Kashmir at the end of this month after reviewing the security, law and order situation after the restoration of postpaid mobile services. “Since the last two months, we had no internet and I think this is a great initiative. If we had no such system, I was planning to go outside the state to fill my MCI form,” said Mudasir Ahmad.

Government sets up internet kiosks in every district of Kashmir to help people

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday&nbsp;termed terrorism as one of the major challenges confronting the world today and said nations which aid and abet terror should be isolated.

"Terrorism is one of the major challenges confronting the world today. All the nations must intensify their collective efforts and strive to eliminate the menace of terrorism and also isolate nations which aid and abet terrorism. India has borne the brunt of cross border terrorism over decades," the Vice President said in a press statement during his visit to Sierra Leone.

The Vice President made the remarks after his delegation-level meeting with President of Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio.

Naidu while thanking President Bio for Sierra Leone's support to India's candidatures in various International organisations, also called for reform in UNSC saying, "We agreed that both sides need to continue pushing for these reforms so that one-third of mankind residing in Africa and India occupy their rightful place at the high table in decision making bodies of the United Nations."

The Vice President also expressed his happiness at Sierra Leone joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in order to enable rapid deployment of solar energy globally and to facilitate the transfer of technology.

Terming the vibrant Indian community in Sierra Leone as an organic bridge between the two nations, Naidu thanked President Bio for 'taking care of their welfare'.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday termed terrorism as one of the major challenges confronting the world today and said nations which aid and abet terror should be isolated.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Sunday termed terrorism as one of the major challenges confronting the world today and said nations which aid and abet terror should be isolated. "Terrorism is one of the major challenges confronting the world today. All the nations must intensify their collective efforts and strive to eliminate the menace of terrorism and also isolate nations which aid and abet terrorism. India has borne the brunt of cross border terrorism over decades," the Vice President said in a press statement during his visit to Sierra Leone. The Vice President made the remarks after his delegation-level meeting with President of Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio. Naidu while thanking President Bio for Sierra Leone's support to India's candidatures in various International organisations, also called for reform in UNSC saying, "We agreed that both sides need to continue pushing for these reforms so that one-third of mankind residing in Africa and India occupy their rightful place at the high table in decision making bodies of the United Nations." The Vice President also expressed his happiness at Sierra Leone joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in order to enable rapid deployment of solar energy globally and to facilitate the transfer of technology. Terming the vibrant Indian community in Sierra Leone as an organic bridge between the two nations, Naidu thanked President Bio for 'taking care of their welfare'.

Isolate nations which aid, abet terrorism: VP Venkaiah Naidu in Sierra Leone

Female candidates are participating in the ongoing recruitment drive for Special Police Officers (SPOs) being organised in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-director-general-of-police-says-all-precautions-will-be-taken-during-restoration-of-mobile-services-255669">Jammu and Kashmir</a>.

"In the ongoing recruitment of SPOs, starting from October 9, as many as 4,072 candidates including a large number of females are competing for their final selection," said Anita Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).

"These female candidates are from backward districts of the state. They are feeling encouraged. Most of them have qualified marathon, shot-put, and other tests. They want to help their families. They also want to be independent," Sharma told ANI.

"I have qualified 1,000-metre&nbsp;long run and shot-put outdoor tests. Now the height and documents are to be examined. I want to serve my country and have no fear in the mind," said one of the participants.

These girls are from the remotest and hilly parts of Ramban district and are participating in the recruitment rally with a lot of enthusiasm.

"This is the second time I have come. Last time, I didn't qualify but I hope this time I will be selected. I was always passionate about joining the police. It will also make me financially sound," said another candidate.

The minimum qualification to be an SPO is matriculation. However, many aspirants are intermediates and graduates.

Female candidates are participating in the ongoing recruitment drive for Special Police Officers (SPOs) being organised in Jammu and Kashmir. "In the ongoing recruitment of SPOs, starting from October 9, as many as 4,072 candidates including a large number of females are competing for their final selection," said Anita Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).

Female candidates are participating in the ongoing recruitment drive for Special Police Officers (SPOs) being organised in Jammu and Kashmir. "In the ongoing recruitment of SPOs, starting from October 9, as many as 4,072 candidates including a large number of females are competing for their final selection," said Anita Sharma, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). "These female candidates are from backward districts of the state. They are feeling encouraged. Most of them have qualified marathon, shot-put, and other tests. They want to help their families. They also want to be independent," Sharma told ANI. "I have qualified 1,000-metre long run and shot-put outdoor tests. Now the height and documents are to be examined. I want to serve my country and have no fear in the mind," said one of the participants. These girls are from the remotest and hilly parts of Ramban district and are participating in the recruitment rally with a lot of enthusiasm. "This is the second time I have come. Last time, I didn't qualify but I hope this time I will be selected. I was always passionate about joining the police. It will also make me financially sound," said another candidate. The minimum qualification to be an SPO is matriculation. However, many aspirants are intermediates and graduates.

Many female candidates participate in police recruitment drive in Jammu and Kashmir

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has enhanced the withdrawal limit for depositors of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-meets-pmc-customers-takes-cognizance-of-concerns-254962">Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank</a> Ltd to Rs 40,000.

On October 3, the RBI had permitted the depositors of the bank to withdraw up to Rs 25,000 of the total balance in their accounts.

"The RBI, after reviewing the bank's liquidity position and its ability to pay its depositors, has decided to further enhance the limit for withdrawal to Rs 40,000, inclusive of Rs 25,000 allowed earlier," read a statement from the RBI.

With the relaxation, about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/affected-by-pmc-bank-restrictions-many-threaten-to-boycott-upcoming-assembly-polls-252399">77 per cent of the depositors of the bank will be able to withdraw their entire account balance</a>, the statement said.

"The financial position of the bank has been substantially impaired due to fraud perpetrated on it by certain persons. As soon as the matter came to the notice of the Reserve Bank of India, the action was taken in appointing an Administrator and ensuring that the bank's available resources are protected and not misused or diverted," the statement added.

Based on a complaint filed by the bank against its officials and borrowers associated with the fraud/financial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pmc-bank-case-eow-freezes-bank-accounts-of-former-md-253981">irregularities in the bank and manipulation of its books</a> of accounts, the Economic Offences Wing, Maharashtra Police, has started its investigations into the matter.

Forensic auditors have been appointed by the Administrator of the bank to look into the related transactions. The Administrator and the three-member Advisory Committee appointed by the RBI in terms of Section 36AAA(5)(a) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949 are working for speedier resolution of the various issues being faced by the bank in conducting its operations, stated the RBI.

The central bank is closely monitoring the developments and shall continue to take necessary steps in the interest of the depositors of the bank.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has enhanced the withdrawal limit for depositors of Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank Ltd to Rs 40,000. On October 3, the RBI had permitted the depositors of the bank to withdraw up to Rs 25,000 of the total balance in their accounts.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has enhanced the withdrawal limit for depositors of Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank Ltd to Rs 40,000. On October 3, the RBI had permitted the depositors of the bank to withdraw up to Rs 25,000 of the total balance in their accounts. "The RBI, after reviewing the bank's liquidity position and its ability to pay its depositors, has decided to further enhance the limit for withdrawal to Rs 40,000, inclusive of Rs 25,000 allowed earlier," read a statement from the RBI. With the relaxation, about 77 per cent of the depositors of the bank will be able to withdraw their entire account balance, the statement said. "The financial position of the bank has been substantially impaired due to fraud perpetrated on it by certain persons. As soon as the matter came to the notice of the Reserve Bank of India, the action was taken in appointing an Administrator and ensuring that the bank's available resources are protected and not misused or diverted," the statement added. Based on a complaint filed by the bank against its officials and borrowers associated with the fraud/financial irregularities in the bank and manipulation of its books of accounts, the Economic Offences Wing, Maharashtra Police, has started its investigations into the matter. Forensic auditors have been appointed by the Administrator of the bank to look into the related transactions. The Administrator and the three-member Advisory Committee appointed by the RBI in terms of Section 36AAA(5)(a) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act 1949 are working for speedier resolution of the various issues being faced by the bank in conducting its operations, stated the RBI. The central bank is closely monitoring the developments and shall continue to take necessary steps in the interest of the depositors of the bank.

Reserve Bank of India increases withdrawal limit for Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative Bank to Rs 40,000

Security forces are keeping a strict vigil on the movement of government vehicles at Jammu-Srinagar National Highway after receiving a recent alert by intelligence agencies. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-support-terrorism-is-pakistans-state-policy-fatf-has-created-pressure-on-it-ajit-doval-255788">The intelligence agencies have warned security forces</a> and local police about the "latest strategy" of the terrorists, who are planning an attack on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. 
 
The terrorists could&nbsp;use car bombs to target the security forces. 
 
"It appears that the latest strategy of the terrorists to target the security forces is by way of car bombs and IED. There is local expertise to carry out attacks on the lines of Pulwama terror attack," an input stated. 
 
According to the agencies, the National Highway (NH) connecting Srinagar with Jammu remains vulnerable as there has been a lot of information regarding the planning of the attack. 
 
Another input claims that Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has been given the task to plan an attack on the National Highway by terror groups backed by Pakistan. 
 
Recently in a meeting held in Pulwama, with the help of Pakistan Army and ISI, three top terrorist organisations - Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-45-terrorists-being-trained-at-jaish-e-mohammeds-balakot-facility-255870">Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM)</a> have been given responsibilities to carry out terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, other parts of India and for political and police killings. 
 
A document&nbsp;says that&nbsp;a meeting was held at a location in Pulwama recently where three terror groups were briefed about the responsibilities assigned to them by their masters. 
 
As per the input, JeM has been assigned the responsibility of carrying out the attack along the national highway. 
 
LeT has been given responsibility to carrying the attack on interior security installations while as Hizbul Mujahideen has been assigned the task to ensure shutdown and police/political killings. 
 
On Monday, in an early morning operation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-hold-state-assembly-elections-in-jammu-kashmir-soon-pm-modi-241578">Jammu and Kashmir</a> police along with other security forces arrested two Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists from Ganderbal, Kashmir. AK 47 rifles and ammunition have been recovered.

Security forces are keeping a strict vigil on the movement of government vehicles at Jammu-Srinagar National Highway after receiving a recent alert by intelligence agencies.

Security forces are keeping a strict vigil on the movement of government vehicles at Jammu-Srinagar National Highway after receiving a recent alert by intelligence agencies. The intelligence agencies have warned security forces and local police about the "latest strategy" of the terrorists, who are planning an attack on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. The terrorists could use car bombs to target the security forces. "It appears that the latest strategy of the terrorists to target the security forces is by way of car bombs and IED. There is local expertise to carry out attacks on the lines of Pulwama terror attack," an input stated. According to the agencies, the National Highway (NH) connecting Srinagar with Jammu remains vulnerable as there has been a lot of information regarding the planning of the attack. Another input claims that Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has been given the task to plan an attack on the National Highway by terror groups backed by Pakistan. Recently in a meeting held in Pulwama, with the help of Pakistan Army and ISI, three top terrorist organisations - Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) have been given responsibilities to carry out terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, other parts of India and for political and police killings. A document says that a meeting was held at a location in Pulwama recently where three terror groups were briefed about the responsibilities assigned to them by their masters. As per the input, JeM has been assigned the responsibility of carrying out the attack along the national highway. LeT has been given responsibility to carrying the attack on interior security installations while as Hizbul Mujahideen has been assigned the task to ensure shutdown and police/political killings. On Monday, in an early morning operation, Jammu and Kashmir police along with other security forces arrested two Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists from Ganderbal, Kashmir. AK 47 rifles and ammunition have been recovered.

Security forces on alert as terrorists plan attack on Jammu-Srinagar Highway

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-rise-ahead-of-inflation-data-infosys-drops-255739">India's retail inflation rose close to the central bank's medium-term target of 4 per cent&nbsp;in September</a> for the first time in 14 months, but analysts still predict a sharp economic slowdown will prompt a sixth consecutive interest rate cut in December.

Annual retail inflation rose to 3.99 per cent&nbsp;last month, driven by higher food prices, up sharply compared with 3.21 per cent&nbsp;in the previous month and higher than the 3.70 per cent&nbsp;forecast in a Reuters poll of analysts.

Retail food prices, which make up nearly half of India's inflation basket, increased 5.11 per cent&nbsp;in September from a year earlier, compared with 2.99 per cent&nbsp;in August.

Subdued inflation and an economic slowdown have allowed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to cut interest rates by a total of 135 basis points this year, including a 25-basis-point cut earlier this month, making it the most aggressive central bank in Asia.

The RBI said it expected inflation to stay below its medium-term target through to the early months of the 2020-21 fiscal year, while lowering its economic growth forecast to 6.1 per cent&nbsp;for the current year ending March 2020, from an earlier estimate of 6.9 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-inflation-surged-in-september-but-wont-bring-tears-to-rbi-report-254884">Economists said economic growth could fall as low as 5.8 per cent</a>, dragged down by a slump in consumer demand and investment, encouraging the RBI to cut rates for the sixth consecutive time at its next meeting in December.

Garima Kapoor, economist and vice-president at Elara Capital, said the arrival of the new crop in the market could ease food prices and so calm inflation, providing the RBI with the headroom to cut rates further.

"We expect the MPC (Monetary Policy Committee) to cut the policy repo rate by another 50 basis points until March-2020 with 25 basis points cut in December," she said, referring to the central bank's benchmark interest rate.

Separately, figures released on Friday showed industrial output shrank 1.1 per cent&nbsp;in August, the worst performance in nearly seven years.

Annual wholesale price-based inflation eased to 0.33 per cent&nbsp;in September, from 1.08 per cent&nbsp;in the previous month, while economists in a separate Reuters poll said the central bank was not yet done with rate cuts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/inflation-under-control-clear-sign-of-revival-of-industrial-production-sitharaman-249667">India's unemployment rate was 7.16 per cent&nbsp;in September, compared with 6.47 per cent&nbsp;a year ago</a> and 8.2 per cent&nbsp;in the previous month, estimates from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, a Mumbai-based think-tank, showed.

The next decision from the RBI's monetary policy committee (MPC) is due on December&nbsp;5.

India's passenger vehicle sales slumped 23.7 per cent&nbsp;in September, the 11th straight month of declines, prompting an industry body to flag more job cuts if sales failed to pick up soon.

"All high-frequency indicators of demand indicate soft demand conditions," Kapoor said.

India's retail inflation rose close to the central bank's medium-term target of 4 per cent in September for the first time in 14 months, but analysts still predict a sharp economic slowdown will prompt a sixth consecutive interest rate cut in December.

India's retail inflation rose close to the central bank's medium-term target of 4 per cent in September for the first time in 14 months, but analysts still predict a sharp economic slowdown will prompt a sixth consecutive interest rate cut in December. Annual retail inflation rose to 3.99 per cent last month, driven by higher food prices, up sharply compared with 3.21 per cent in the previous month and higher than the 3.70 per cent forecast in a Reuters poll of analysts. Retail food prices, which make up nearly half of India's inflation basket, increased 5.11 per cent in September from a year earlier, compared with 2.99 per cent in August. Subdued inflation and an economic slowdown have allowed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to cut interest rates by a total of 135 basis points this year, including a 25-basis-point cut earlier this month, making it the most aggressive central bank in Asia. The RBI said it expected inflation to stay below its medium-term target through to the early months of the 2020-21 fiscal year, while lowering its economic growth forecast to 6.1 per cent for the current year ending March 2020, from an earlier estimate of 6.9 per cent. Economists said economic growth could fall as low as 5.8 per cent, dragged down by a slump in consumer demand and investment, encouraging the RBI to cut rates for the sixth consecutive time at its next meeting in December. Garima Kapoor, economist and vice-president at Elara Capital, said the arrival of the new crop in the market could ease food prices and so calm inflation, providing the RBI with the headroom to cut rates further. "We expect the MPC (Monetary Policy Committee) to cut the policy repo rate by another 50 basis points until March-2020 with 25 basis points cut in December," she said, referring to the central bank's benchmark interest rate. Separately, figures released on Friday showed industrial output shrank 1.1 per cent in August, the worst performance in nearly seven years. Annual wholesale price-based inflation eased to 0.33 per cent in September, from 1.08 per cent in the previous month, while economists in a separate Reuters poll said the central bank was not yet done with rate cuts. India's unemployment rate was 7.16 per cent in September, compared with 6.47 per cent a year ago and 8.2 per cent in the previous month, estimates from the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, a Mumbai-based think-tank, showed. The next decision from the RBI's monetary policy committee (MPC) is due on December 5. India's passenger vehicle sales slumped 23.7 per cent in September, the 11th straight month of declines, prompting an industry body to flag more job cuts if sales failed to pick up soon. "All high-frequency indicators of demand indicate soft demand conditions," Kapoor said.

India's retail inflation surges for first time in 14 months, rate cut hopes still high

The Haryana Police has seized 1,204 kilograms of narcotics worth crores of rupees during a month-long special anti-narcotic drive across the state in the lead up to the assembly polls, said Director-General of Police, Manoj Yadava on Monday.

They have also arrested 483 persons by registering 386 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act&nbsp;(NDPS), Yadava added.

"A special drive was launched between August 20 and September 20, 2019, ahead of the announcement of Vidhan Sabha polls, to bust the network of supplying drugs and tightening the noose on those involved in the peddling them in the state," the Director-General of Police said.

As part of the crackdown, the DGP said that 559 kg marijuana, 1 kg&nbsp;heroin, 630 kg poppy husk, 5 kg&nbsp;opium, 3 kg&nbsp;charas, over 2 kg of smack and 458 gram&nbsp;sulfa have been seized from the&nbsp;arrested.

In addition to the above, police teams have also seized prohibited medicines including 1,43,483 tablets, 196 bottles of syrup, 15,469 capsules and 827 injections.

Sharing further details, the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Navdeep Singh Virk said that the maximum number of cases - 129 cases were&nbsp;registered in the district of Sirsa, where 178 accused were arrested under the NDPS Act.

Similarly, 30 cases were registered in Fatehabad with the arrest of 85 accused, 23 cases each were registered in Ambala and Panipat, 20 in Gurugram, 18 in Rohtak, 16 in Kurukshetra, 13 in Karnal and 10 in Yamunanagar by recovering huge consignments of drugs including heroin, poppy husk, marijuana and opium.

Virk said that the Police Department under the guidance of DGP Manoj Yadava has made elaborate security arrangements to implement a multi-pronged pre-poll strategy to ensure free, fair and peaceful polling in the state.

The Haryana Police has seized 1,204 kilograms of narcotics worth crores of rupees during a month-long special anti-narcotic drive across the state in the lead up to the assembly polls, said Director-General of Police, Manoj Yadava on Monday.

The Haryana Police has seized 1,204 kilograms of narcotics worth crores of rupees during a month-long special anti-narcotic drive across the state in the lead up to the assembly polls, said Director-General of Police, Manoj Yadava on Monday. They have also arrested 483 persons by registering 386 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS), Yadava added. "A special drive was launched between August 20 and September 20, 2019, ahead of the announcement of Vidhan Sabha polls, to bust the network of supplying drugs and tightening the noose on those involved in the peddling them in the state," the Director-General of Police said. As part of the crackdown, the DGP said that 559 kg marijuana, 1 kg heroin, 630 kg poppy husk, 5 kg opium, 3 kg charas, over 2 kg of smack and 458 gram sulfa have been seized from the arrested. In addition to the above, police teams have also seized prohibited medicines including 1,43,483 tablets, 196 bottles of syrup, 15,469 capsules and 827 injections. Sharing further details, the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Navdeep Singh Virk said that the maximum number of cases - 129 cases were registered in the district of Sirsa, where 178 accused were arrested under the NDPS Act. Similarly, 30 cases were registered in Fatehabad with the arrest of 85 accused, 23 cases each were registered in Ambala and Panipat, 20 in Gurugram, 18 in Rohtak, 16 in Kurukshetra, 13 in Karnal and 10 in Yamunanagar by recovering huge consignments of drugs including heroin, poppy husk, marijuana and opium. Virk said that the Police Department under the guidance of DGP Manoj Yadava has made elaborate security arrangements to implement a multi-pronged pre-poll strategy to ensure free, fair and peaceful polling in the state.

Haryana police arrests 483 people, seize over 1000 kg of contraband before polls

Pakistan has reverted on the Indian draft on Kartarpur Corridor by sending its own proposal but refused to budge on the thorny issue of $20 fee per pilgrim, against which New Delhi had voiced its concern in the last India-Pakistan officials meet in early September.

Pakistan has reverted on the Indian draft on Kartarpur Corridor by sending its own proposal but refused to budge on the thorny issue of $20 fee per pilgrim, against which New Delhi had voiced its concern in the last India-Pakistan officials meet in early September. India has confirmed receiving the proposal from Pakistan to WION. The proposal was sent on Friday by the Pakistan government to Indian high commission, according to sources in Islamabad to WION. The draft agreement says the two countries will exchange of list of pilgrims 10 days prior to they crossing over through the corridor with Islamabad then vetting the names at least four days prior to these pilgrims coming to Pakistan through the corridor. In case of agreement on the draft, both sides are expected to sign a deal at a ceremony which could take place at the Wagah – Attari border or at the Zero Point of Dera Baba Nanak. Pakistan and India have held three rounds of formal talks on the Kartarpur Corridor’s draft agreement whereas the at-least four times technical level experts have met to discuss the nitty-gritty of the project. The Kartarpur Corridor remained a long-standing demand of the Sikh community in India. Both Pakistan and Indian side began working on their respective sides for the Kartarpur Corridor. The corridor will be visa-free for Indian pilgrims entering from India into Pakistan, first of its kind between the two countries. Both sides plan to open the corridor, which was agreed upon last year in early November. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Indian side of the corridor on November 8.

Pakistan firm on $20 fee per pilgrim as it sends draft Kartarpur proposal to India 

A cylinder blast that led to the collapse of a two-storey building in Mohammadabad has killed 13 people and injured six. The incident happened on Monday morning.

According to a press release from the Superintendent of Police (SP) Mau, "13 people have died while six others were injured in the house collapse following a cylinder blast."

"After speaking to people and after the initial investigation it was found that the cylinder blast resulted in the collapse of the roof of the house and two neighbouring houses were also damaged. People got trapped beneath&nbsp;the debris", the statement added.

Additionally, "the blast was caused probably due to gas leakage from the cylinder".

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regretted the incident and asked the District Magistrate, the Superintendent of Police, and other officials to provide relief to the affected.

(With inputs from ANI)

A cylinder blast that led to the collapse of a two-storey building in Mohammadabad has killed 13 people and injured six. The incident happened on Monday morning.

A cylinder blast that led to the collapse of a two-storey building in Mohammadabad has killed 13 people and injured six. The incident happened on Monday morning. According to a press release from the Superintendent of Police (SP) Mau, "13 people have died while six others were injured in the house collapse following a cylinder blast." "After speaking to people and after the initial investigation it was found that the cylinder blast resulted in the collapse of the roof of the house and two neighbouring houses were also damaged. People got trapped beneath the debris", the statement added. Additionally, "the blast was caused probably due to gas leakage from the cylinder". Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath regretted the incident and asked the District Magistrate, the Superintendent of Police, and other officials to provide relief to the affected. (With inputs from ANI)

Uttar Pradesh cylinder blast and building collapse kills 13

In order to deal with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/security-forces-cleared-to-shoot-down-drones-flying-at-1000-feet-amid-sightings-across-border-255690">intrusion of drones from the Pakistani side</a>, the Border Security Force (BSF) is all set to purchase a ground-based anti-drone system. 
 
The system will have jammers, sensors,&nbsp;and&nbsp;a 360-degree surveillance system. 
 
There has almost been intrusion every day by drones sent by Pakistan to India. These drones are being used to transport arms and ammunition to the country. 
 
According to a document, the anti-drone system will also have a radio frequency receiver, electro-optic sensor, jammer, system controller, etc. 
 
The system is expected to be installed by the end of this year. A tender has been floated regarding the purchase. 
 
According to BSF, its radar will have 360-degree surveillance capability with high direction accuracy. 
 
For surveillance, the system will have cameras. Also, its jammer will be so effective that they can jam signals in less than five seconds. 
 
"The system will be compact and easily deployable which can be installed in just 10 minutes with ease of dismantling as per ground," a document reads. 
 
The system will be able to work day and night and will be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-spots-drone-along-india-pakistan-border-254531">able to detect multiple drones at a time</a>.

In order to deal with the intrusion of drones from the Pakistani side, the Border Security Force (BSF) is all set to purchase a ground-based anti-drone system. The system will have jammers, sensors, and a 360-degree surveillance system.

In order to deal with the intrusion of drones from the Pakistani side, the Border Security Force (BSF) is all set to purchase a ground-based anti-drone system. The system will have jammers, sensors, and a 360-degree surveillance system. There has almost been intrusion every day by drones sent by Pakistan to India. These drones are being used to transport arms and ammunition to the country. According to a document, the anti-drone system will also have a radio frequency receiver, electro-optic sensor, jammer, system controller, etc. The system is expected to be installed by the end of this year. A tender has been floated regarding the purchase. According to BSF, its radar will have 360-degree surveillance capability with high direction accuracy. For surveillance, the system will have cameras. Also, its jammer will be so effective that they can jam signals in less than five seconds. "The system will be compact and easily deployable which can be installed in just 10 minutes with ease of dismantling as per ground," a document reads. The system will be able to work day and night and will be able to detect multiple drones at a time.

Border Security Force to purchase anti-drone system to deal with intrusion from Pakistan

Syrian envoy to India, Dr Riad Abbas, has lauded New Delhi for backing his country after the Turkish invasion. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Syrian envoy backed India's move on&nbsp;the Kashmir issue and its policy to come hard on Pakistan.

WION: Your country has been invaded by Turkey. Your reaction?

Dr Riad Abbas: The Turkish government supports terrorism in Syria and the Turkish invasion is to protect the Islamic State and its followers.&nbsp;

They want to create a free zone in the area to put all terrorist groups there with the help of the Turkish government. The US and the Turkish government protect terrorist elements. Some terrorists are being transferred by the US from Afghanistan and South Asia to the location. We are in the process to liberate the area from foreign troops and terror groups. Our army took action in the area. We plan to defeat the Turks and terrors groups.

WION: Your reaction to New Delhi backing your country and have you briefed Indian officials on invasion by Turkey?

Dr Riad Abbas: India is a great country with a strong voice in the international community. We appreciate India's stance since the beginning of the crisis. We appreciate the statement of India on Turkish aggression on Syria. We usually do a weekly or monthly brief (to Indian officials) about the current situation in Syria.

WION: What do you have to say about Pakistan's support to Turkey?

Dr Riad Abbas: I don't have the statement but Turkey supports terrorism, all countries behind Turkey support terror.&nbsp;

WION: Do you expect any support from the Arab League and OIC?

Dr Riad Abbas: We are not keen to see what they say. They can say whatever they like and we will take action on the ground in accordance with the will of the Syrian people.&nbsp;

WION: What do you have to say about Kashmir?

Dr Riad Abbas: On the Kashmir issue, it has to be solved by discussion without any third country's participation and according to the Shimla and Lahore accords. India has the right to protect its people on the ground anywhere. 
&nbsp;

Syrian envoy to India, Dr Riad Abbas, has lauded New Delhi for backing his country after the Turkish invasion. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Syrian envoy backed India's move on the Kashmir issue and its policy to come hard on Pakistan.

Syrian envoy to India, Dr Riad Abbas, has lauded New Delhi for backing his country after the Turkish invasion. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Syrian envoy backed India's move on the Kashmir issue and its policy to come hard on Pakistan. WION: Your country has been invaded by Turkey. Your reaction? Dr Riad Abbas: The Turkish government supports terrorism in Syria and the Turkish invasion is to protect the Islamic State and its followers. They want to create a free zone in the area to put all terrorist groups there with the help of the Turkish government. The US and the Turkish government protect terrorist elements. Some terrorists are being transferred by the US from Afghanistan and South Asia to the location. We are in the process to liberate the area from foreign troops and terror groups. Our army took action in the area. We plan to defeat the Turks and terrors groups. WION: Your reaction to New Delhi backing your country and have you briefed Indian officials on invasion by Turkey? Dr Riad Abbas: India is a great country with a strong voice in the international community. We appreciate India's stance since the beginning of the crisis. We appreciate the statement of India on Turkish aggression on Syria. We usually do a weekly or monthly brief (to Indian officials) about the current situation in Syria. WION: What do you have to say about Pakistan's support to Turkey? Dr Riad Abbas: I don't have the statement but Turkey supports terrorism, all countries behind Turkey support terror. WION: Do you expect any support from the Arab League and OIC? Dr Riad Abbas: We are not keen to see what they say. They can say whatever they like and we will take action on the ground in accordance with the will of the Syrian people. WION: What do you have to say about Kashmir? Dr Riad Abbas: On the Kashmir issue, it has to be solved by discussion without any third country's participation and according to the Shimla and Lahore accords. India has the right to protect its people on the ground anywhere.

We appreciate India's stance on Syria after Turkish aggression: Syrian envoy to India Riad Abbas

Eight months after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-airstrike-was-our-leaderships-resolve-to-punish-perpetrators-of-terrorism-iaf-chief-on-air-force-day-254373">Indian Air Force (IAF) bombed the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot</a>, intelligence agencies have received inputs that 45-50 terrorists including suicide bombers are being trained there.

"Around 45-50 suicide bombers are training inside the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in the Balakot town of Pakistan," top government sources told ANI.

Indian intelligence agencies are keeping a constant watch on the facility including technical surveillance to keep a track of the developments there.

A few of the terrorists, who have trained there, have even been sent to Kashmir for carrying out terror attacks on Indian security bases, the sources said.

Sources said the facility had remained closed for six months after the Indian Air Force attacked it in February this year.

Last month, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had revealed that Pakistan very recently "reactivated" the terror camp in Balakot.

On February 26 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb the JeM facility at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-releases-promotional-video-on-balakot-airstrike-253772">Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province</a>.

The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

Eight months after Indian Air Force (IAF) bombed the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot, intelligence agencies have received inputs that 45-50 terrorists including suicide bombers are being trained there.

Eight months after Indian Air Force (IAF) bombed the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist camp in Pakistan's Balakot, intelligence agencies have received inputs that 45-50 terrorists including suicide bombers are being trained there. "Around 45-50 suicide bombers are training inside the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in the Balakot town of Pakistan," top government sources told ANI. Indian intelligence agencies are keeping a constant watch on the facility including technical surveillance to keep a track of the developments there. A few of the terrorists, who have trained there, have even been sent to Kashmir for carrying out terror attacks on Indian security bases, the sources said. Sources said the facility had remained closed for six months after the Indian Air Force attacked it in February this year. Last month, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had revealed that Pakistan very recently "reactivated" the terror camp in Balakot. On February 26 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb the JeM facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel.

More than 45 terrorists being trained at Jaish-e-Mohammed's Balakot facility

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has finalised 25 members of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-medical-association-calls-for-aggressive-public-campaign-on-national-medical-commission-bill-241445">National Medical Commission (NMC)</a>, which will replace the Medical Council of India (MCI).

A draw of lots took place on Monday for selecting the members of NMC which include ten Vice-Chancellors (VCs) from different states, nine members from the State Medical Councils (SMCs) and four part-time members from the autonomous boards.

The exercise took place in the presence of Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Ashwini Kumar Chowbey, in which 10 VCs were chosen from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Gujarat, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Dagar and Nagar Haveli, Punjab, and Haryana.

Similarly, nine representatives from various SMCs have been selected from Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Kerala, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, and Manipur.

In the third segment of the draw of lots, four members from the autonomous boards -&nbsp;Undergraduate (UG), Post Graduate (PG), Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) and Ethics and Registration Board - were chosen. These members got selected from Tripura, Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland, and Madhya Pradesh, who will serve as part-time members.

Out of nine selected members from SMCs, one member has to be a part of the Search Committee, which will be headed by the Cabinet Secretary. In the process of the draw of lots, selected members from Uttarakhand SMC was picked up for a member of the Search Committee.

Other NMC members include one senior officer of Additional Secretary rank, one Director from any AIIMS and any two directors would be selected from the PGIMER, Chandigarh, JIGMER, Puducherry, Tata Memorial Hospital, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Shillong and All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health (AIIHPH), Kolkata.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/health-minister-harsh-vardhan-urges-doctors-to-join-work-says-national-medical-commission-bill-in-their-interest-240182">Appreciating the quick work&nbsp;for the commissioning of NMC within nine months</a>, Dr Harsh Vardhan told ANI,&nbsp;"NMC is going to be the biggest and historic reform in the medical education sector. It will reduce the burden on students, ensure probity in medical education, bring down costs of medical education, help to enhance the number of medical seats in India, ensure quality education, and better healthcare quality."

"The deadline to set up the NMC was within nine months, but our Health Ministry is going to do it within six months," he added.

"Now that we have finalised ten VCs and nine&nbsp;representatives from SMCs, DGHS and DG-ICMR would be part of the NMC as ex-officio members. Till today, 25 members have finally been chosen for the NMC out of a total of 33 members," said a senior official at Health Ministry.

"The other eight members include Chairperson, President of four autonomous medical boards and three non-medical experts. These members will also be elected soon," said the officer.

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has finalised 25 members of the National Medical Commission (NMC), which will replace the Medical Council of India (MCI).

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has finalised 25 members of the National Medical Commission (NMC), which will replace the Medical Council of India (MCI). A draw of lots took place on Monday for selecting the members of NMC which include ten Vice-Chancellors (VCs) from different states, nine members from the State Medical Councils (SMCs) and four part-time members from the autonomous boards. The exercise took place in the presence of Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Ashwini Kumar Chowbey, in which 10 VCs were chosen from Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Gujarat, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Dagar and Nagar Haveli, Punjab, and Haryana. Similarly, nine representatives from various SMCs have been selected from Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Kerala, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, and Manipur. In the third segment of the draw of lots, four members from the autonomous boards - Undergraduate (UG), Post Graduate (PG), Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) and Ethics and Registration Board - were chosen. These members got selected from Tripura, Jammu and Kashmir, Nagaland, and Madhya Pradesh, who will serve as part-time members. Out of nine selected members from SMCs, one member has to be a part of the Search Committee, which will be headed by the Cabinet Secretary. In the process of the draw of lots, selected members from Uttarakhand SMC was picked up for a member of the Search Committee. Other NMC members include one senior officer of Additional Secretary rank, one Director from any AIIMS and any two directors would be selected from the PGIMER, Chandigarh, JIGMER, Puducherry, Tata Memorial Hospital, North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Shillong and All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health (AIIHPH), Kolkata. Appreciating the quick work for the commissioning of NMC within nine months, Dr Harsh Vardhan told ANI, "NMC is going to be the biggest and historic reform in the medical education sector. It will reduce the burden on students, ensure probity in medical education, bring down costs of medical education, help to enhance the number of medical seats in India, ensure quality education, and better healthcare quality." "The deadline to set up the NMC was within nine months, but our Health Ministry is going to do it within six months," he added. "Now that we have finalised ten VCs and nine representatives from SMCs, DGHS and DG-ICMR would be part of the NMC as ex-officio members. Till today, 25 members have finally been chosen for the NMC out of a total of 33 members," said a senior official at Health Ministry. "The other eight members include Chairperson, President of four autonomous medical boards and three non-medical experts. These members will also be elected soon," said the officer.

Health Ministry has finalised 25 members of National Medical Commission

People across Jammu and Kashmir heaved a deep sigh of relief after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/postpaid-mobile-services-restored-in-jammu-and-kashmir-after-two-months-255767">postpaid mobile services were fully restored</a> in the region on Monday.

As Jammu and Kashmir is limping back to normalcy, mobile services were restored at 12 noon today after a span of over two months since the central government's move to abrogate Article 370 that granted special powers to the region.

Locals said they were not able to contact&nbsp;their near and dear ones and had felt a sense of loneliness without mobile phones.

"I am happy that phone services are operational. Now, I can talk to my family members. There was a lot of problems for us in the last 70 days. My brothers were outside Kashmir and we were not able to maintain contact with them. Without mobile phones, our lives came to a standstill," a local, Farooq Ahmed, told ANI.

Echoing similar sentiments, another resident hoped that postpaid mobile services would continue to be operational in the region.

"I am very happy that mobile connectivity has been restored fully. Earlier, we were facing the inconvenience of talking to people. When the network was down, we were feeling a sense of loneliness. But, now we can talk to our near and dear ones. I hope that the services continue to be operational," another local named Gopal said.

All network and landline connections were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, in view of security concerns in the region post-abrogation of Article 370.

Last week, Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal had said that the postpaid mobile services would be restored after reviewing the security situation in the region.

"Having reviewed the situation, a decision has now been taken to restore mobile phone services in the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir. All postpaid mobile services, irrespective of the telecom operator will stand restored and be functional from 12 noon on Monday, October 14. This will cover all 10 districts of Kashmir province," Kansal had said on October 12.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/postpaid-mobile-services-to-be-restored-in-valley-from-monday-255436">Although the landline network was restored in phases</a>, restrictions remained on the usage of mobile devices in various parts of the Valley. Apart from restoring telecommunication services, restrictions on movement have been removed in 99 per cent of the areas in Jammu and Kashmir.

The decision to restore mobile phone services comes days after Governor Satya Pal Malik announced the withdrawal of security advisory for tourists from October 10.

The administration had also said that tourists desirous of visiting the region will be provided with the necessary assistance and logistic support.

As normalcy started returning, postpaid mobile phone services were resumed in five districts - Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch - of the Jammu region on August 29.

The central government had abrogated Article 370 and also bifurcated the former state into Union Territories (UTs) of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-over-2000-youth-participate-on-day-1-of-indian-army-recruitment-drive-255496">Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh</a>. The new UTs will come into being on October 31.

People across Jammu and Kashmir heaved a deep sigh of relief after postpaid mobile services were fully restored in the region on Monday. As Jammu and Kashmir is limping back to normalcy, mobile services were restored at 12 noon today after a span of over two months since the central government's move to abrogate Article 370 that granted special powers to the region.

People across Jammu and Kashmir heaved a deep sigh of relief after postpaid mobile services were fully restored in the region on Monday. As Jammu and Kashmir is limping back to normalcy, mobile services were restored at 12 noon today after a span of over two months since the central government's move to abrogate Article 370 that granted special powers to the region. Locals said they were not able to contact their near and dear ones and had felt a sense of loneliness without mobile phones. "I am happy that phone services are operational. Now, I can talk to my family members. There was a lot of problems for us in the last 70 days. My brothers were outside Kashmir and we were not able to maintain contact with them. Without mobile phones, our lives came to a standstill," a local, Farooq Ahmed, told ANI. Echoing similar sentiments, another resident hoped that postpaid mobile services would continue to be operational in the region. "I am very happy that mobile connectivity has been restored fully. Earlier, we were facing the inconvenience of talking to people. When the network was down, we were feeling a sense of loneliness. But, now we can talk to our near and dear ones. I hope that the services continue to be operational," another local named Gopal said. All network and landline connections were suspended across Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, in view of security concerns in the region post-abrogation of Article 370. Last week, Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal had said that the postpaid mobile services would be restored after reviewing the security situation in the region. "Having reviewed the situation, a decision has now been taken to restore mobile phone services in the remaining areas of Jammu and Kashmir. All postpaid mobile services, irrespective of the telecom operator will stand restored and be functional from 12 noon on Monday, October 14. This will cover all 10 districts of Kashmir province," Kansal had said on October 12. Although the landline network was restored in phases, restrictions remained on the usage of mobile devices in various parts of the Valley. Apart from restoring telecommunication services, restrictions on movement have been removed in 99 per cent of the areas in Jammu and Kashmir. The decision to restore mobile phone services comes days after Governor Satya Pal Malik announced the withdrawal of security advisory for tourists from October 10. The administration had also said that tourists desirous of visiting the region will be provided with the necessary assistance and logistic support. As normalcy started returning, postpaid mobile phone services were resumed in five districts - Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri and Poonch - of the Jammu region on August 29. The central government had abrogated Article 370 and also bifurcated the former state into Union Territories (UTs) of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The new UTs will come into being on October 31.

Residents of Jammu and Kashmir express joy after restoration of postpaid mobile services

All India Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Trade Unions Co-ordination Committee (AIHALTUCC) on Monday started its indefinite strike for 'fair and early settlement of wage revision of the employees'.

Speaking to ANI, General Secretary of Hindustan Aeronautics Employees Association (HAEA) Suryadevara Chandrashekhar said: "The HAL executives have taken a gross hike of 35 per cent and 110 per cent to 140 per cent in perks and we are just demanding parity." He said that so far 11 rounds of negotiations had been held with the management and wage committees but nothing fruitful was achieved as the management was claiming that the company's financial condition was not good.

Chandrashekhar said that the AIHALTUCC had "no other option as they are forced to go on agitation path, for achieving fair and early wage revision of the employees."

On October 1, in a letter to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Chandrashekhar had said that the firm "did not respect the advice of the Defence Ministry and the Conciliation authorities to negotiate and resolve the issue in an amicable way."

Responding to the letter, the HAL had said that the proposed indefinite strike by firm's trade union was illegal and workers would&nbsp;lose various company benefits if they go ahead with it.

The statement further read that the AIHALTUCC has decided to resort to an indefinite strike to fulfil their "untenable demands" and the unreasonable nature of their demands had been brought out in a number of meetings.

HAL added that the management was open for discussions and conclusion of wage revision effective from January 1 could be achieved only with the co-operation of the unions based on realistic and affordable demands.

All India Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Trade Unions Co-ordination Committee (AIHALTUCC) on Monday started its indefinite strike for 'fair and early settlement of wage revision of the employees'.

All India Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Trade Unions Co-ordination Committee (AIHALTUCC) on Monday started its indefinite strike for 'fair and early settlement of wage revision of the employees'. Speaking to ANI, General Secretary of Hindustan Aeronautics Employees Association (HAEA) Suryadevara Chandrashekhar said: "The HAL executives have taken a gross hike of 35 per cent and 110 per cent to 140 per cent in perks and we are just demanding parity." He said that so far 11 rounds of negotiations had been held with the management and wage committees but nothing fruitful was achieved as the management was claiming that the company's financial condition was not good. Chandrashekhar said that the AIHALTUCC had "no other option as they are forced to go on agitation path, for achieving fair and early wage revision of the employees." On October 1, in a letter to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Chandrashekhar had said that the firm "did not respect the advice of the Defence Ministry and the Conciliation authorities to negotiate and resolve the issue in an amicable way." Responding to the letter, the HAL had said that the proposed indefinite strike by firm's trade union was illegal and workers would lose various company benefits if they go ahead with it. The statement further read that the AIHALTUCC has decided to resort to an indefinite strike to fulfil their "untenable demands" and the unreasonable nature of their demands had been brought out in a number of meetings. HAL added that the management was open for discussions and conclusion of wage revision effective from January 1 could be achieved only with the co-operation of the unions based on realistic and affordable demands.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited employees launch indefinite countrywide strike over wage revision

Pranjal Patil, India's first visually challenged woman IAS officer on Monday took charge as Sub-Collector of Thiruvananthapuram.

A warm reception was arranged to welcome her as she took over from former collector B Gopalakrishnan. She served as an assistant collector in Ernakulam for a year in 2018 before taking charge here.

"I am feeling extremely glad and proud after taking this charge. As I start working I will be able to know more about the district and would plan better for it. I expect support and co-operation from my fellow members and people of Trivandrum," Patil said while speaking to media.

Patil, who hails from Ulhasnagar in Maharashtra, lost her eye-sight at the age of six. She, however, did not lose hope and completed her graduation in political science with a master's in International relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Patil was ranked 733 in civil services in her first attempt in 2016 and 124 the next year.

Giving a message to the youth she said: "We should never be defeated and never give up. With our efforts, we will always be able to achieve what we desire."

Pranjal Patil, India's first visually challenged woman IAS officer on Monday took charge as Sub-Collector of Thiruvananthapuram. A warm reception was arranged to welcome her as she took over from former collector B Gopalakrishnan.

Pranjal Patil, India's first visually challenged woman IAS officer on Monday took charge as Sub-Collector of Thiruvananthapuram. A warm reception was arranged to welcome her as she took over from former collector B Gopalakrishnan. She served as an assistant collector in Ernakulam for a year in 2018 before taking charge here. "I am feeling extremely glad and proud after taking this charge. As I start working I will be able to know more about the district and would plan better for it. I expect support and co-operation from my fellow members and people of Trivandrum," Patil said while speaking to media. Patil, who hails from Ulhasnagar in Maharashtra, lost her eye-sight at the age of six. She, however, did not lose hope and completed her graduation in political science with a master's in International relations from Jawaharlal Nehru University. Patil was ranked 733 in civil services in her first attempt in 2016 and 124 the next year. Giving a message to the youth she said: "We should never be defeated and never give up. With our efforts, we will always be able to achieve what we desire."

India's first visually impaired woman IAS officer takes charge as Thiruvananthapuram's Sub-Collector

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday sought permission from a Delhi court to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-chidambaram-to-be-produced-before-delhi-court-today-enforcement-directorate-to-seek-custody-255736">arrest P Chidambaram and interrogate him</a> in custody in connection with the INX Media money-laundering case.

"This is pertaining to the offence under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). There is already a finding that the custodial interrogation is necessary," Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the agency, told the special CBI court.

Mehta, in the last hearing, had said that Chidambaram's custodial interrogation is required as the agency wants to seek information related to the shell company abroad and his 17 bank accounts.

Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram, however, opposed the agency's application with respect to the procedure being followed by them.

Chidambaram is currently in judicial custody in Tihar jail in the corruption case related to the alleged scam being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). His remand is slated to end on October 17.

The case pertains to an FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-ed-likely-to-arrest-p-chidambaram-on-monday-255323">alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board</a> (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by P Chidambaram when he was the Union Finance Minister.

The ED is investigating the alleged offence of money laundering that arose out of the FIR.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday sought permission from a Delhi court to arrest P Chidambaram and interrogate him in custody in connection with the INX Media money-laundering case.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday sought permission from a Delhi court to arrest P Chidambaram and interrogate him in custody in connection with the INX Media money-laundering case. "This is pertaining to the offence under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). There is already a finding that the custodial interrogation is necessary," Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the agency, told the special CBI court. Mehta, in the last hearing, had said that Chidambaram's custodial interrogation is required as the agency wants to seek information related to the shell company abroad and his 17 bank accounts. Advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Chidambaram, however, opposed the agency's application with respect to the procedure being followed by them. Chidambaram is currently in judicial custody in Tihar jail in the corruption case related to the alleged scam being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). His remand is slated to end on October 17. The case pertains to an FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 by P Chidambaram when he was the Union Finance Minister. The ED is investigating the alleged offence of money laundering that arose out of the FIR.

Enforcement Directorate seeks permission to arrest P Chidambaram in INX media case

Air quality in Delhi remained poor for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-air-quality-poor-for-fourth-consecutive-day-255588">the fifth consecutive day on Monday</a> with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 280 which is towards the upper end of 'poor' category. 
 
According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the stubble burning activity in Haryana, Panjab, and nearby border regions are moderate, but the cyclonic circulation developed over northwest Uttar Pradesh and neighbourhood is going to impact the transport pathways and marginally improve Delhi's Air quality to middle-end of poor category by tomorrow. 
 
"The predominant wind direction is predicted to change to southeasterly for the next three days and positively influence Delhi's AQI but within poor to the higher end of the moderate category," it added. 
 
An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. 
 
The AQI was 178 in Anand Vihar at 1:00 am while it dipped to 'very poor' category at 217 in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium area. The AQI near Pusa, Vasundhra and Punjabi Bagh are at 164, 171 and 170 respectively. 
 
The locals are advised to take more breaks and do less intense activities. The asthmatics have been advised to keep medicines ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. 
 
Starting October 15, strict measures to combat the menace of air pollution will come into force in the national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017.

Air quality in Delhi remained poor for the fifth consecutive day on Monday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 280 which is towards the upper end of 'poor' category.

Air quality in Delhi remained poor for the fifth consecutive day on Monday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) docking at 280 which is towards the upper end of 'poor' category. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the stubble burning activity in Haryana, Panjab, and nearby border regions are moderate, but the cyclonic circulation developed over northwest Uttar Pradesh and neighbourhood is going to impact the transport pathways and marginally improve Delhi's Air quality to middle-end of poor category by tomorrow. "The predominant wind direction is predicted to change to southeasterly for the next three days and positively influence Delhi's AQI but within poor to the higher end of the moderate category," it added. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe/hazardous. The AQI was 178 in Anand Vihar at 1:00 am while it dipped to 'very poor' category at 217 in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium area. The AQI near Pusa, Vasundhra and Punjabi Bagh are at 164, 171 and 170 respectively. The locals are advised to take more breaks and do less intense activities. The asthmatics have been advised to keep medicines ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Starting October 15, strict measures to combat the menace of air pollution will come into force in the national capital and its adjoining areas such as Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad as part of the Graded Response Action Plan, which was first implemented in Delhi-NCR in 2017.

Delhi air quality remains poor for fifth consecutive day

Most of the 127 persons arrested in connection with cases linked to terror organisation ISIS from across 14 states in the country were inspired by controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, according to Inspector-General (IG) of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jum-expanding-into-india-under-guise-of-bangladeshi-migrants-nia-top-offical-255775">National Investigation Agency</a>, Alok Mittal. 
 
Addressing a conference of anti-terror agencies here on Monday, Mittal said that 127 people arrested in ISIS-related cases over the years including 33 from Tamil Nadu, 19 from Uttar Pradesh, 17 from Kerala, and 14 from Telangana. 
 
Some of the accused arrested in cases related to ISIS have accepted that they were radicalised by the mastermind behind the Easter Day bombings in Sri Lanka and by the preacher Zakir Naik. 
 
"In three of these ISIS cases from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the accused have admitted that they were radicalised by Zahran Hashim's videos. Hashim, as we know, is the mastermind of the Easter day bombings in Sri Lanka," Mittal said. 
 
"Accused in the majority of these ISIS cases have also admitted that they were radicalised through videos of Zakir Naik and other Islamic preachers, so a case was registered against Naik and his organisation Islamic Research Foundation (IRF)," Mittal added. 
 
The inaugural session of the two-day national conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force (STF) that began here today was attended by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy. 
 
Former IB Special Director and present Nagaland Governor RN Ravi and NIA, DG, YC Modi were also present at the meeting. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-support-terrorism-is-pakistans-state-policy-fatf-has-created-pressure-on-it-ajit-doval-255788">During the conference, one session was dedicated to Jihadi terrorism and the efforts being made to counter the menace.</a>

Most of the 127 persons arrested in connection with cases linked to terror organisation ISIS from across 14 states in the country were inspired by controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, according to Inspector-General (IG) of the National Investigation Agency, Alok Mittal.

Most of the 127 persons arrested in connection with cases linked to terror organisation ISIS from across 14 states in the country were inspired by controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, according to Inspector-General (IG) of the National Investigation Agency, Alok Mittal. Addressing a conference of anti-terror agencies here on Monday, Mittal said that 127 people arrested in ISIS-related cases over the years including 33 from Tamil Nadu, 19 from Uttar Pradesh, 17 from Kerala, and 14 from Telangana. Some of the accused arrested in cases related to ISIS have accepted that they were radicalised by the mastermind behind the Easter Day bombings in Sri Lanka and by the preacher Zakir Naik. "In three of these ISIS cases from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the accused have admitted that they were radicalised by Zahran Hashim's videos. Hashim, as we know, is the mastermind of the Easter day bombings in Sri Lanka," Mittal said. "Accused in the majority of these ISIS cases have also admitted that they were radicalised through videos of Zakir Naik and other Islamic preachers, so a case was registered against Naik and his organisation Islamic Research Foundation (IRF)," Mittal added. The inaugural session of the two-day national conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force (STF) that began here today was attended by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy. Former IB Special Director and present Nagaland Governor RN Ravi and NIA, DG, YC Modi were also present at the meeting. During the conference, one session was dedicated to Jihadi terrorism and the efforts being made to counter the menace.

127 held in connection with ISIS claim they were inspired by videos of Zakir Naik, says NIA Inspector-General

The Supreme Court on Monday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-issues-notices-to-centre-uidai-on-petition-challenging-aadhar-ordinance-233388">refused to entertain a petition</a> seeking a direction to the central government to link social media accounts with the Aadhaar number to check the menace of fake and paid news. 
 
A bench headed by Justice Deepak Gupta, however, allowed the petitioner, Ashwini Upadhyay, to approach the concerned High Court. 
 
"Everything doesn't need to come to the Supreme Court. This issue is before the Madras High Court, you go there," the top court said. 
 
Upadhyay, through his petition, sought a direction to the Centre to deactivate the duplicate and fake social media accounts in order to control fake and paid news. 
 
The plea also wanted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uidai-plans-to-open-aadhar-seva-kendras-in-53-cities-170507">government to link the profiles on such platforms</a>, including those on Facebook and Twitter with the Aadhaar number.

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a petition seeking a direction to the central government to link social media accounts with the Aadhaar number to check the menace of fake and paid news.

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to entertain a petition seeking a direction to the central government to link social media accounts with the Aadhaar number to check the menace of fake and paid news. A bench headed by Justice Deepak Gupta, however, allowed the petitioner, Ashwini Upadhyay, to approach the concerned High Court. "Everything doesn't need to come to the Supreme Court. This issue is before the Madras High Court, you go there," the top court said. Upadhyay, through his petition, sought a direction to the Centre to deactivate the duplicate and fake social media accounts in order to control fake and paid news. The plea also wanted the government to link the profiles on such platforms, including those on Facebook and Twitter with the Aadhaar number.

Supreme Court refuses to entertain plea for linking social media with Aadhar

National Security Advisor (NSA)&nbsp;Ajit Doval on Monday said that supporting terrorism is the state policy of Pakistan.&nbsp;

He was speaking at the national conference of the Chiefs of ATS and STFs of the States here on Monday.

"If a criminal has the support of a state, it becomes a great challenge. Some of the states have mastered this, in our case Pakistan has made it as an instrument of its state policy," said Ajit Doval.

''Here in India, it is the state-sponsored terrorism. They not only recruit, provide training, weapons, intelligence etc but they also give them the higher degree of deniability, and resources and technology due to which intelligence agencies are not able to figure them out, degrade them or find their tentacles," said Doval.

"If a criminal gets the support of State then it becomes difficult to catch him suppose if police somewhere start supporting an underworld man," Ajit Doval said.&nbsp;

''The accessibility of high-end technology to terrorists makes the collection of evidence very complex,'' Ajit Doval added.

"Further, the approach of the judiciary is to treat the terrorism cases at par with the ordinary crime, they apply the same benchmark," said Doval.

He said that the proceedings of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has created pressure on Pakistan as no other action could have done.

"One of the biggest pressures that have come on Pakistan today is because of the proceedings of FATF, it has created so much pressure on them that probably no other action could have done," he said.

Ajit Doval also said that the impact that NIA has been able to make against terrorism in Kashmir is more than any other agency.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Monday said that supporting terrorism is the state policy of Pakistan. He was speaking at the national conference of the Chiefs of ATS and STFs of the States here on Monday.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval on Monday said that supporting terrorism is the state policy of Pakistan. He was speaking at the national conference of the Chiefs of ATS and STFs of the States here on Monday. "If a criminal has the support of a state, it becomes a great challenge. Some of the states have mastered this, in our case Pakistan has made it as an instrument of its state policy," said Ajit Doval. ''Here in India, it is the state-sponsored terrorism. They not only recruit, provide training, weapons, intelligence etc but they also give them the higher degree of deniability, and resources and technology due to which intelligence agencies are not able to figure them out, degrade them or find their tentacles," said Doval. "If a criminal gets the support of State then it becomes difficult to catch him suppose if police somewhere start supporting an underworld man," Ajit Doval said. ''The accessibility of high-end technology to terrorists makes the collection of evidence very complex,'' Ajit Doval added. "Further, the approach of the judiciary is to treat the terrorism cases at par with the ordinary crime, they apply the same benchmark," said Doval. He said that the proceedings of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has created pressure on Pakistan as no other action could have done. "One of the biggest pressures that have come on Pakistan today is because of the proceedings of FATF, it has created so much pressure on them that probably no other action could have done," he said. Ajit Doval also said that the impact that NIA has been able to make against terrorism in Kashmir is more than any other agency.

To support terrorism is Pakistan's state policy, FATF has created pressure on it: Ajit Doval

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said that the government is committed to provide energy security to India.

"....Here is the government which is committed for energy security for India. Energy security, which is not blindly using non-environment friendly sources," Sitharaman said addressing India Energy Forum CERAWeek Summit here.

The third India Energy Forum by CERAWeek has been organised in association with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas from October 13 to 15.

The Summit, gives a platform to examine the fundamental challenges and opportunities to provide sustainable, secure and affordable energy choices to the people of India.

Stating that India's energy sector and energy commitment pose a lot of challenges, the Finance Minister gave a reference of thermal units which are still dependent on coal and said that the concerned Ministry is "moving away from coal base to open renewable sources of energy".

"We have a leadership politically committed to make sure that every Indian gets the basic energy requirements as shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi," she said.

The Union Minister asserted that the government has achieved the target of providing electricity connection to 12 crores families and Liquefied petroleum (LPG) gas cylinders to 8 crores households, which was just a dream for 70 years.

Highlighting the government's efforts to facilitate a friendly environment to investors, she said: "The atmosphere to invest is going to be friendlier in terms of reducing the regulatory mechanisms and their calibrations."

"The BJP government at the Centre announced 'cooperative tax cut' with an intention to make India an attractive destination, Sitharaman said adding that now investors can move towards a newer regime which better and attractive.

On September 20, the Finance Minister made a deep cut in corporate tax rates, from 30 per cent to 22 per cent. She further said that amendments are being made to Company Act so it does not look punitive and driving towards punishment but more towards compliance.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said that the government is committed to provide energy security to India. "....Here is the government which is committed for energy security for India.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday said that the government is committed to provide energy security to India. "....Here is the government which is committed for energy security for India. Energy security, which is not blindly using non-environment friendly sources," Sitharaman said addressing India Energy Forum CERAWeek Summit here. The third India Energy Forum by CERAWeek has been organised in association with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas from October 13 to 15. The Summit, gives a platform to examine the fundamental challenges and opportunities to provide sustainable, secure and affordable energy choices to the people of India. Stating that India's energy sector and energy commitment pose a lot of challenges, the Finance Minister gave a reference of thermal units which are still dependent on coal and said that the concerned Ministry is "moving away from coal base to open renewable sources of energy". "We have a leadership politically committed to make sure that every Indian gets the basic energy requirements as shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi," she said. The Union Minister asserted that the government has achieved the target of providing electricity connection to 12 crores families and Liquefied petroleum (LPG) gas cylinders to 8 crores households, which was just a dream for 70 years. Highlighting the government's efforts to facilitate a friendly environment to investors, she said: "The atmosphere to invest is going to be friendlier in terms of reducing the regulatory mechanisms and their calibrations." "The BJP government at the Centre announced 'cooperative tax cut' with an intention to make India an attractive destination, Sitharaman said adding that now investors can move towards a newer regime which better and attractive. On September 20, the Finance Minister made a deep cut in corporate tax rates, from 30 per cent to 22 per cent. She further said that amendments are being made to Company Act so it does not look punitive and driving towards punishment but more towards compliance.

Government committed to provide eco-friendly energy security to India: Nirmala Sitharaman

Bangladeshi terror organisation Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JuM) is increasing their area of operations in India and has expanded into the country in Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala under the guise of migrants from Bangladesh, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Director-General YC Modi.

Modi was speaking at the two-day NIA's national conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force (STF) that began here on Monday.

"NIA has noticed that Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) has increased its activities in Bihar, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka among others in the name of Bangladeshis. The NIA has also identified 125 suspicious names of JNB workers and shared them with other agencies," Modi said.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy presided over the conference. Former IB Special Director and present Nagaland Governor RN Ravi was also present at the meeting.

Praising the work done by NIA, YC Modi said, "In a very short period the NIA has done excellent work on terror funding, Naxalism, North-East insurgency to registered cases and our success ratio is more than 90 per cent."I feel very proud that NIA and state police have very cordial relation due to which we were able to foil terrorist plans a number of times," Modi added.

The NIA DG, however, also raised concerns about the increased activity of some groups in states. Inspector-General (IG) NIA, Alok Mittal added that many top separatist leaders and chiefs of outlawed organisations had been found guilty of facilitating terror funding, which was being sent from across the border, leading to their arrest.

"In the main case of terror funding in Jammu and Kashmir, chiefs of proscribed organizations and top separatist leaders have been arrested and charge-sheeted. None have got bail so far. They were being funded from Pakistan High Commission, through remittances and hawala transfers," Mittal said.

He added that efforts were being made from Pakistan to revive terrorism in Punjab and the people arrested in targeted killing cases have been found to be linked with the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF).

"There have been continuous efforts from across the border to revive terror activities in Punjab. Out of 16 arrested for targeted killings in eight cases, the Khalistan Liberation Force was found to be involved. Funds from UK, Italy, France and Australia were sent for this," he said.

"We have registered fresh case based on anti-India activities of Sikhs for Justice, they are running a campaign on social media and trying to radicalize Sikh youth. 5 arrested in UP`s Shamli last year admitted they were radicalized through 'Referendum 2020'&nbsp;propaganda," Mittal added.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) is a premier Investigation agency of the Country. NIA is dedicated to creating deterrence for existing and potential terrorist groups and individuals.

Bangladeshi terror organisation Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JuM) is increasing their area of operations in India and has expanded into the country in Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala under the guise of migrants from Bangladesh, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Director-General YC Modi.

Bangladeshi terror organisation Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JuM) is increasing their area of operations in India and has expanded into the country in Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala under the guise of migrants from Bangladesh, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Director-General YC Modi. Modi was speaking at the two-day NIA's national conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force (STF) that began here on Monday. "NIA has noticed that Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) has increased its activities in Bihar, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka among others in the name of Bangladeshis. The NIA has also identified 125 suspicious names of JNB workers and shared them with other agencies," Modi said. National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy presided over the conference. Former IB Special Director and present Nagaland Governor RN Ravi was also present at the meeting. Praising the work done by NIA, YC Modi said, "In a very short period the NIA has done excellent work on terror funding, Naxalism, North-East insurgency to registered cases and our success ratio is more than 90 per cent."I feel very proud that NIA and state police have very cordial relation due to which we were able to foil terrorist plans a number of times," Modi added. The NIA DG, however, also raised concerns about the increased activity of some groups in states. Inspector-General (IG) NIA, Alok Mittal added that many top separatist leaders and chiefs of outlawed organisations had been found guilty of facilitating terror funding, which was being sent from across the border, leading to their arrest. "In the main case of terror funding in Jammu and Kashmir, chiefs of proscribed organizations and top separatist leaders have been arrested and charge-sheeted. None have got bail so far. They were being funded from Pakistan High Commission, through remittances and hawala transfers," Mittal said. He added that efforts were being made from Pakistan to revive terrorism in Punjab and the people arrested in targeted killing cases have been found to be linked with the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF). "There have been continuous efforts from across the border to revive terror activities in Punjab. Out of 16 arrested for targeted killings in eight cases, the Khalistan Liberation Force was found to be involved. Funds from UK, Italy, France and Australia were sent for this," he said. "We have registered fresh case based on anti-India activities of Sikhs for Justice, they are running a campaign on social media and trying to radicalize Sikh youth. 5 arrested in UP`s Shamli last year admitted they were radicalized through 'Referendum 2020' propaganda," Mittal added. National Investigation Agency (NIA) is a premier Investigation agency of the Country. NIA is dedicated to creating deterrence for existing and potential terrorist groups and individuals.

Terror group Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen expanding into India under guise of Bangladeshi migrants: NIA Director

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