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

Iran says Hormuz reopening plan remains on table as Trump predicts quick war end

Lizard people? Ex-US Army sniper claims soldier killed by 'reptilian beings' in battle near Area 51

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

JD Vance admits H-1B rhetoric was ‘imperfect’ after immigrant challenges him

Saudi Arabia executes Two Bangladesh nationals over immoral act

5 things that make Tesla's new Roadster different from every other electric car

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

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

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

  No Kings' Instagram suspended during early-voting campaign 

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

PICS | France reels after violent protests leave trail of destruction, 1,800 arrested

Tiger Shroff firing case: AICWA raises alarm over safety of Bollywood celebrities

Taylor Swift performs at star-studded Academy Museum Gala 2026 in stunning Dior ensemble

US midterms 2026: Trump’s 33% approval rating spells trouble for Republicans as Democrats pull ahead

‘I don’t know how my family escaped': Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi chokes while revealing he was inside US temple during foiled attack

US regulator hits OpenAI and Anthropic with sweeping demands after their AIs went rogue

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

5 technologies that could make the Tesla Roadster one of the most unusual cars ever built

US midterm elections 2026: Why Atlanta matters in Georgia’s political battle – All you need to know

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

UAE agrees with Saudi Arabia to rejoin Yemen fight as Houthi strikes rattle Riyadh

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

5 reasons why the Tesla Roadster’s rocket thrusters are so difficult to engineer

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

WATCH | iPhones, luxury perfumes floating in Hormuz? Iranian fishermen make bizarre discovery

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

Bessent accuses Europe of refusing secondary tariffs on India, China

'Those who have destroyed must pay': Macron says France feels 'anger and shame' over protest violence

Iranian woman, 23, handed death sentence for ‘blasphemy’ in social media post; appeals for help

Tesla Roadster engineering: The hidden hardware behind its flying demonstration

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

WATCH | Flames engulf St Petersburg oil sites as Ukraine launches 1,000 drones at Russia

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

The death toll in the Godavari riverboat capsize incident near Kacchuluru village rose to 25 on Tuesday as 17 more bodies were recovered, an NDRF official said.

The rescue team today recovered one body each from Pattiseema, Anguluru Coffer Dam and Polavaram Launch River while 10 bodies were recovered from Devipatnam.

The remaining bodies were recovered from Dawaleswaram and Atreyapuram Down Stream.

On Sunday, a tourist boat carrying 61 people on board capsized in the Godavari river.

It is believed that the accident took place due to overloading of the boat.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia for the bereaved families.

He had also directed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy and ONGC helicopters to carry out the rescue operations on war-footing.

The death toll in the Godavari riverboat capsize incident near Kacchuluru village rose to 25 on Tuesday as 17 more bodies were recovered, an NDRF official said. The rescue team today recovered one body each from Pattiseema, Anguluru Coffer Dam and Polavaram Launch River while 10 bodies were recovered from Devipatnam.

The death toll in the Godavari riverboat capsize incident near Kacchuluru village rose to 25 on Tuesday as 17 more bodies were recovered, an NDRF official said. The rescue team today recovered one body each from Pattiseema, Anguluru Coffer Dam and Polavaram Launch River while 10 bodies were recovered from Devipatnam. The remaining bodies were recovered from Dawaleswaram and Atreyapuram Down Stream. On Sunday, a tourist boat carrying 61 people on board capsized in the Godavari river. It is believed that the accident took place due to overloading of the boat. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia for the bereaved families. He had also directed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy and ONGC helicopters to carry out the rescue operations on war-footing.

Devipatnam boat tragedy: 17 more bodies recovered, toll rises to 25

Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that the largest growth is coming from the Asia-Pacific and the countries of this region also face challenges that are "quite common".

Speaking at the Ninth Asia-Pacific Trade Facilitation Forum (APTFF) organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and Ministry of Commerce, Goyal said,&nbsp;"This region holds 60 per cent of the world's population. The largest growth is coming from this region. We are very large economies and there are also small economies in the region".

"Many of the challenges are quite common. Environment, poverty, etc, are our prime challenges. All the countries in the region are looking together to engage with each other. We have several Sustainable Development Goals set up by the United Nations. We will achieve faster results on some goals like poverty, zero hunger, clean water and sanitation, and affordable and sustainable energy," he added.

Goyal further said that this forum will help those countries which are developing economies.

Speaking on the initiatives taken at the national level, Goyal said, "Jal shakti mission will help masses with clean water.

"Our clean energy programme is the most ambitious program in the world. I am confident that we will achieve our ambitious target of five trillion-dollar economy," he added.

Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that the largest growth is coming from the Asia-Pacific and the countries of this region also face challenges that are "quite common".

Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that the largest growth is coming from the Asia-Pacific and the countries of this region also face challenges that are "quite common". Speaking at the Ninth Asia-Pacific Trade Facilitation Forum (APTFF) organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) and Ministry of Commerce, Goyal said, "This region holds 60 per cent of the world's population. The largest growth is coming from this region. We are very large economies and there are also small economies in the region". "Many of the challenges are quite common. Environment, poverty, etc, are our prime challenges. All the countries in the region are looking together to engage with each other. We have several Sustainable Development Goals set up by the United Nations. We will achieve faster results on some goals like poverty, zero hunger, clean water and sanitation, and affordable and sustainable energy," he added. Goyal further said that this forum will help those countries which are developing economies. Speaking on the initiatives taken at the national level, Goyal said, "Jal shakti mission will help masses with clean water. "Our clean energy programme is the most ambitious program in the world. I am confident that we will achieve our ambitious target of five trillion-dollar economy," he added.

Largest growth coming from the Asia-Pacific region: Piyush Goyal

Central Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday filed an application in a special court in Delhi&nbsp;seeking permission to interrogate Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal, inside Tihar Jail.

Judge Arvind Kumar has sought the response of Michel on the application.

The investigative agency has also sought a specimen of his signature and handwriting for the probe.

In its application, CBI told the court that Michel needs to be confronted with some more documents.

The next hearing on the matter will be held on September 20 as Michel's lawyer Aljo K Joseph has sought time to file a response.

Michel will also be produced in the court on September 20.

Observing that the accusations against Michel are serious, a Delhi court had on September 7 dismissed his bail plea.

Micheal, in his bail plea, contended that he should be granted bail since he has been in custody for the last 375 days, including the days spent in Dubai jail during his extradition proceedings.

Michel was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal.

While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a "middleman" in the deal, the Enforcement Directorate is investigating money laundering charges against him.

Central Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday filed an application in a special court in Delhi seeking permission to interrogate Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal, inside Tihar Jail.

Central Bureau of Investigation on Tuesday filed an application in a special court in Delhi seeking permission to interrogate Christian Michel, an alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600 crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal, inside Tihar Jail. Judge Arvind Kumar has sought the response of Michel on the application. The investigative agency has also sought a specimen of his signature and handwriting for the probe. In its application, CBI told the court that Michel needs to be confronted with some more documents. The next hearing on the matter will be held on September 20 as Michel's lawyer Aljo K Joseph has sought time to file a response. Michel will also be produced in the court on September 20. Observing that the accusations against Michel are serious, a Delhi court had on September 7 dismissed his bail plea. Micheal, in his bail plea, contended that he should be granted bail since he has been in custody for the last 375 days, including the days spent in Dubai jail during his extradition proceedings. Michel was extradited from Dubai last year and is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with alleged irregularities in the chopper deal. While the CBI is probing his alleged role as a "middleman" in the deal, the Enforcement Directorate is investigating money laundering charges against him.

AgustaWestland case: CBI seeks permission to interrogate Michel in Tihar Jail

In a bid to bolster military infrastructure along the China border, the Indian Air Force is set to operationalise its Vijaynagar Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday.

Eastern Air Commander Air Marshal R D Mathur and Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan will jointly inaugurate resurfaced Vijaynagar ALG on September 18, Defence Spokesperson (Shillong) Wing commander Ratnakar Singh said today.

The officials will land at Vijayanagar ALG in AN-32, a turboprop twin-engined military transport aircraft. Vijaynagar is situated in a remote corner of the state and is not connected with any motorable road.

The area is important as it is close to the borders with China and Myanmar.

A total of eight ALGs have been revived for operations by the Indian Air Force as part of steps to strengthen military infrastructure along the China border.

Other seven ALG which have been made operational by EAC are Pasighat, Mechuka, Walong, Tuting, Ziro, Along and Tawang.

Vijaynagar ALG has been non-operational for fixed-wing operations since 2016 due to want of repair and up-gradation of its facilities there.

In a bid to bolster military infrastructure along the China border, the Indian Air Force is set to operationalise its Vijaynagar Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday.

In a bid to bolster military infrastructure along the China border, the Indian Air Force is set to operationalise its Vijaynagar Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday. Eastern Air Commander Air Marshal R D Mathur and Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General Anil Chauhan will jointly inaugurate resurfaced Vijaynagar ALG on September 18, Defence Spokesperson (Shillong) Wing commander Ratnakar Singh said today. The officials will land at Vijayanagar ALG in AN-32, a turboprop twin-engined military transport aircraft. Vijaynagar is situated in a remote corner of the state and is not connected with any motorable road. The area is important as it is close to the borders with China and Myanmar. A total of eight ALGs have been revived for operations by the Indian Air Force as part of steps to strengthen military infrastructure along the China border. Other seven ALG which have been made operational by EAC are Pasighat, Mechuka, Walong, Tuting, Ziro, Along and Tawang. Vijaynagar ALG has been non-operational for fixed-wing operations since 2016 due to want of repair and up-gradation of its facilities there.

IAF to operationalise air field in Arunachal Pradesh near China border

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said that reservation should be given to the "oppressed, Dalit, socially and economically backward sections," however thinking that a community will progress by reservation alone is not true.

Gadkari was addressing an event in Nagpur to mark the 60th Foundation Day of Mahatma Phule Education Society.

At the event, a few leaders of the Mali community demanded tickets and more representation for themselves ahead of the State Assembly elections. Later, Gadkari urged them to look beyond the demand for reservation.

"When people fail to get a ticket on the basis of their works (kartutva), then they bring forward the caste card," Gadkari said.

"George Fernandes belonged to which caste? He did not belong to any caste...He was a Christian. Indira Gandhi did not come to power because of her caste...Ashok Gehlot became the Chief Minister of Rajasthan after people from other caste groups supported him," he claimed.

Gadkari went on to say that earlier people told him that women should get reservation.

"I said yes they should definitely get it. But I immediately asked them, did Indira Gandhi get reservation? For several years she ruled the country and became popular...I asked whether Vasundhara Raje and Sushma Swaraj got reservation?" asked Gadkari.

Gadkari also added that reservation should be given to those "Who are oppressed, Dalit, socially and economically backward sections of the society."

"However, it is not true if someone says that just by giving reservation the community will progress. This is also not true that the communities which got maximum reservation progressed due to it," he stated.&nbsp;

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said that reservation should be given to the "oppressed, Dalit, socially and economically backward sections," however thinking that a community will progress by reservation alone is not true.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said that reservation should be given to the "oppressed, Dalit, socially and economically backward sections," however thinking that a community will progress by reservation alone is not true. Gadkari was addressing an event in Nagpur to mark the 60th Foundation Day of Mahatma Phule Education Society. At the event, a few leaders of the Mali community demanded tickets and more representation for themselves ahead of the State Assembly elections. Later, Gadkari urged them to look beyond the demand for reservation. "When people fail to get a ticket on the basis of their works (kartutva), then they bring forward the caste card," Gadkari said. "George Fernandes belonged to which caste? He did not belong to any caste...He was a Christian. Indira Gandhi did not come to power because of her caste...Ashok Gehlot became the Chief Minister of Rajasthan after people from other caste groups supported him," he claimed. Gadkari went on to say that earlier people told him that women should get reservation. "I said yes they should definitely get it. But I immediately asked them, did Indira Gandhi get reservation? For several years she ruled the country and became popular...I asked whether Vasundhara Raje and Sushma Swaraj got reservation?" asked Gadkari. Gadkari also added that reservation should be given to those "Who are oppressed, Dalit, socially and economically backward sections of the society." "However, it is not true if someone says that just by giving reservation the community will progress. This is also not true that the communities which got maximum reservation progressed due to it," he stated.

Not true that just by giving reservation, community will progress: Nitin Gadkari

Supreme Court on Monday directed the government to ensure restoration of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir but made it clear that the government cannot compromise on national security.

Supreme Court on Monday directed the government to ensure restoration of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir but made it clear that the government cannot compromise on national security. The top court was hearing PILs challenging the communications blackout in the state following the abrogation of Article 370 which gave special status to the state. Attorney General KK Venugopal told the top court that the valley has remained calm while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta noted that no loss of life has been reported in the valley since August 5 when the Centre revoked Article 370. The apex court asked the Union Of India and Jammu and Kashmir government to file an affidavit in the case, and fixed the matter to September 30 for further hearing. Earlier, the apex court set up a five-judge Constitution Bench to hear all the petitions related to the abrogation of Article 370 in the first week of October. During the hearing, Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi said that he may visit the valley if the requirement arises. "If the requirement arises, I may visit Jammu and Kashmir," Gogoi said.

Supreme Court directs Centre to ensure restoration of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir 

<div class="content">
Ahead of the assembly elections in Maharashtra, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-chief-minister-devendra-fadnavis-to-discuss-state-cabinet-expansion-with-uddhav-thackeray-227250">Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis</a> said on Monday that his party was undergoing talks with Shiv Sena regarding seat-sharing.

He further added that a decision for the same will be taken soon.

Meanwhile, several reports speculate that Shiv Sena was thinking on contesting the elections all alone, without the alliance partner BJP.

Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray has reportedly asked his partymen to remain prepared to contest the upcoming assembly election without an alliance with the BJP, a report stated.

The two parties are under tussle over the number of seats for the polls.

Days before, sharing a stage with PM Modi, Thackeray had said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bjp-holds-the-aces-in-maharashtra-as-sena-has-to-play-second-fiddle-248814">alliance between BJP and Shiv Sena</a> for the assembly election was "inevitable".
</div>

Ahead of the assembly elections in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Monday that his party was undergoing talks with Shiv Sena regarding seat-sharing.

Ahead of the assembly elections in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Monday that his party was undergoing talks with Shiv Sena regarding seat-sharing. He further added that a decision for the same will be taken soon. Meanwhile, several reports speculate that Shiv Sena was thinking on contesting the elections all alone, without the alliance partner BJP. Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray has reportedly asked his partymen to remain prepared to contest the upcoming assembly election without an alliance with the BJP, a report stated. The two parties are under tussle over the number of seats for the polls. Days before, sharing a stage with PM Modi, Thackeray had said that the alliance between BJP and Shiv Sena for the assembly election was "inevitable".

We'll soon take decision on seat sharing with Shiv Sena: Devendra Fadnavis

Indian and US Army soldiers were trained jointly on the howitzers and Chinook helicopters during their Yudh Abhyas 2019 exercise at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.

The exercise "Yudh Abhyas" started on September 5 and will continue till September 18.&nbsp;

It is a part of the ongoing Indo-US defence cooperation.

Chinook and ultra-light howitzers have been acquired by India also and both would be used during Exercise HimVijay in Arunachal Pradesh near the China border in October.

This is the 15th edition of the joint exercise hosted alternately between the two countries.

Both armies are jointly training, planning and executing a series of well-developed operations for neutralisation of threats of varied nature.ln the end, a joint exercise will be undertaken by both countries in an operational setting under a UN mandate.&nbsp;

Indian and US Army soldiers were trained jointly on the howitzers and Chinook helicopters during their Yudh Abhyas 2019 exercise at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.

Indian and US Army soldiers were trained jointly on the howitzers and Chinook helicopters during their Yudh Abhyas 2019 exercise at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. The exercise "Yudh Abhyas" started on September 5 and will continue till September 18. It is a part of the ongoing Indo-US defence cooperation. Chinook and ultra-light howitzers have been acquired by India also and both would be used during Exercise HimVijay in Arunachal Pradesh near the China border in October. This is the 15th edition of the joint exercise hosted alternately between the two countries. Both armies are jointly training, planning and executing a series of well-developed operations for neutralisation of threats of varied nature.ln the end, a joint exercise will be undertaken by both countries in an operational setting under a UN mandate.

Yudh Abhyas 2019: US, India troops train jointly on howitzers, Chinook helicopters

India and Iran on Monday reviewed bilateral cooperation on key issues like ongoing connectivity and infrastructure development projects including development of Shahid Behesthi Port, and full operationalisation of the Trilateral Transit Agreement (Chabahar Agreement) between the two countries along with Afghanistan.

The first shipment from Afghanistan under the TIR Convention through Iran's Chabahar Port arrived at India's Nhava Sheva port in Mumbai and Mundra port in Gujarat in March this year.

During the 16th round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Iran here, the two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale led the Indian delegation and Deputy Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi led the Iranian side.

"It was agreed to maintain the momentum of mutually beneficial multifaceted bilateral cooperation and exchanges between the two sides and to hold the next round of Joint Commission Meeting at the level of External Affairs Minister at an early date in Iran," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

The next round of Foreign Office consultations will be held in New Delhi on mutually convenient dates, the MEA said.

India and Iran on Monday reviewed bilateral cooperation on key issues like ongoing connectivity and infrastructure development projects including development of Shahid Behesthi Port, and full operationalisation of the Trilateral Transit Agreement (Chabahar Agreement) between the two countries along with Afghanistan.

India and Iran on Monday reviewed bilateral cooperation on key issues like ongoing connectivity and infrastructure development projects including development of Shahid Behesthi Port, and full operationalisation of the Trilateral Transit Agreement (Chabahar Agreement) between the two countries along with Afghanistan. The first shipment from Afghanistan under the TIR Convention through Iran's Chabahar Port arrived at India's Nhava Sheva port in Mumbai and Mundra port in Gujarat in March this year. During the 16th round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Iran here, the two sides also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale led the Indian delegation and Deputy Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi led the Iranian side. "It was agreed to maintain the momentum of mutually beneficial multifaceted bilateral cooperation and exchanges between the two sides and to hold the next round of Joint Commission Meeting at the level of External Affairs Minister at an early date in Iran," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. The next round of Foreign Office consultations will be held in New Delhi on mutually convenient dates, the MEA said.

Iran, India review operationalisation of development projects, including Chabahar

In a major boost for India's aerial firepower, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has started receiving the 'building blaster' version of the Balakot airstrike-fame Spice-2000 bombs at the Gwalior airbase. Watch this video to know more.

IAF receives Spice-2000 bombs, used in Balakot airstrike from Israel

British MP Bob Blackman on Saturday said Pakistan should vacate Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) as it's part of sovereign India.&nbsp;

Blackman also slammed Pakistan over its decision to move the United Nations after India decided to rescind Article 370 of its Constitution and end the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"The entirety of the state of Jammu and Kashmir is part of sovereign India, and people that ask for UN resolution to be implemented ignore the first resolution, which is that Pakistani military forces should leave Kashmir to re-unite the state," Blackman was quoted as saying at the "Balidan Divas" or Day of Sacrifice event held in London.

Blackman has been vocal about his support for India since the decision to revoke Article 370 found echoes among Britain's MPs.

The north London MP, who is also chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on British Hindus, has been a long-time supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He had also written to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accusing Opposition Labour Party MPs of making provocative claims against India.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bob-blackman-writes-letter-to-uk-pm-regarding-abrogation-of-article-370-in-jk-242074/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I strongly support the revocation of Article 370 Narendra Modi has again shown proper and strong leadership in honouring the manifesto of the BJP now is the time to properly integrate Jammu and Kashmir into the Indian Constitution," he said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after New Delhi ended Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcated it into two Union Territories.

British MP Bob Blackman on Saturday said Pakistan should vacate Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) as it's part of sovereign India. Blackman also slammed Pakistan over its decision to move the United Nations after India decided to rescind Article 370 of its Constitution and end the special status of Jammu and Kashmir.

British MP Bob Blackman on Saturday said Pakistan should vacate Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) as it's part of sovereign India. Blackman also slammed Pakistan over its decision to move the United Nations after India decided to rescind Article 370 of its Constitution and end the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. "The entirety of the state of Jammu and Kashmir is part of sovereign India, and people that ask for UN resolution to be implemented ignore the first resolution, which is that Pakistani military forces should leave Kashmir to re-unite the state," Blackman was quoted as saying at the "Balidan Divas" or Day of Sacrifice event held in London. Blackman has been vocal about his support for India since the decision to revoke Article 370 found echoes among Britain's MPs. The north London MP, who is also chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on British Hindus, has been a long-time supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He had also written to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson accusing Opposition Labour Party MPs of making provocative claims against India. × "I strongly support the revocation of Article 370 Narendra Modi has again shown proper and strong leadership in honouring the manifesto of the BJP now is the time to properly integrate Jammu and Kashmir into the Indian Constitution," he said. Tensions between India and Pakistan spiked after New Delhi ended Jammu and Kashmir's special status on August 5 and bifurcated it into two Union Territories.

Pakistan should vacate PoK as it's part of sovereign India: British MP Bob Blackman

Scientists for the first time have detected water in the atmosphere of an Earth-like planet orbiting a distant star, evidence that a key ingredient for life exists beyond our solar system. The newest exciting find involves K2-18 b, a planet about 110 light-years from Earth.&nbsp;

In an interview to WION, lead author of a study at University College London (UCL), Angelos Tsiaras, said the&nbsp;K2-18 b&nbsp;planet is the best candidate to be a habitable place out there and added that life can evolve in different ways.&nbsp;

"Like here on earth, we have the extremophiles, these are kind of life that exist in extreme environments something like volcanoes or very deep in the oceans where humans would not be able to live. Hence it could be possible that other forms of life in the universe evolve in a way that they don't need water, who knows that hence we need to find out!", said Tsiaras.

When asked about the next steps and other factors, besides water that&nbsp;confirm the existence of life, Tsiaras said,&nbsp;"The next step will be the James webspace telescope which will be able to give us a much better spectrum of the planet and also help in finding methane which is a sign of life."

Here is the full excerpt&nbsp;of the conversation-

WION: Why is this discovery of water on the exo-planet significant? Does this mean that life exists in other places in the universe?

Tsiaras: No, we cannot answer this question with the current observation. We can say that this planet from what we know right now is the best candidate to be a habitable place out there in the universe. But to find the science of life or a really habitable planet, we will need much better observations. This will come in the next decades. So, unless we have this big telescopes we cannot say more than the existence of water and the existence of an atmosphere around this planet which has very pleasant temperatures similar to the earth.

WION-What more do we know about this exo-planet? Is it a gas giant or does it have a surface to speak of?

Tsiaras: So, we know that the planet has the density that is similar to Mars or the Moon. This means probably that it has a surface. It is definitely not a gas giant. We know that based on the mass and the radius. But given that we cannot really observe the surface and we cannot say much about the surface itself. I can only think of that.

WION- The exo-planet is said to be in the habitable zone but the dwarf star around which it is orbiting is said to be more active. How does this complicate things for the emergence of life?

Tsiaras: These stars are more active than our sun. But until now there have been many studies that are trying to understand whether this is hostile or not. So for example, this star is not that active as per example some has a temperature around 3,5000 kelvin, so it has an activity and it has some more harmful radiation. But we have not detected any flares so very hostile events. In addition, if you think of an atmosphere that it is bigger than ours, so this is probably working as a better against this radiation.

WION-So what is the next step? What else besides water confirms the existence of life?

Tsiaras: The next step will be the James webspace telescope which is three times bigger than Hubble and will be flying in 2021 very soon. It will be able to give us a much better spectrum of the planet and it is a very interesting one. So I believe that we will try to find methane as a next step. As we know that on earth methane is a sign of life. It is produced because life is here. we don't know if life outside universe is working in the same way. Life in a different place could evolve differently and produce different kind of gases. What we are actually looking at is gases that shouldn't be there. Assuming that we put together a mix of certain elements we expect certain molecules to exist in an atmosphere. If we find something that it is not right and it shouldn't be there it is a sign that it could because, of life, this is what we call as biomarkers. 
Our estimate is not very good. We don't know how much water is there. So the estimate is between 0.01 per cent up to 50 per cent. It's a huge race. We don't know. It could be made out of water. For example here on Earth, mostly the atmosphere is made of Nitrogen. Imagine an atmosphere which is mainly made of water, that would be a completely different atmosphere. We will be able to bring down this estimate with smaller and certainty with future telescopes.

WION-How is the water found on this exoplanet different from the water found on the moons of Jupiter and Saturn?

Tsiaras: So the water in the icy moon is an ocean and it is liquid water. Here we are talking about gaseous water. We don't know if there is indeed liquid water. We know that the planet can support liquid water so presumably, we can say but not sure. In the moon, the water is beneath the surface, it's something different. The moon is covered with ice crusts and water lives beneath that.

Scientists for the first time have detected water in the atmosphere of an Earth-like planet orbiting a distant star, evidence that a key ingredient for life exists beyond our solar system.

Scientists for the first time have detected water in the atmosphere of an Earth-like planet orbiting a distant star, evidence that a key ingredient for life exists beyond our solar system. The newest exciting find involves K2-18 b, a planet about 110 light-years from Earth. In an interview to WION, lead author of a study at University College London (UCL), Angelos Tsiaras, said the K2-18 b planet is the best candidate to be a habitable place out there and added that life can evolve in different ways. "Like here on earth, we have the extremophiles, these are kind of life that exist in extreme environments something like volcanoes or very deep in the oceans where humans would not be able to live. Hence it could be possible that other forms of life in the universe evolve in a way that they don't need water, who knows that hence we need to find out!", said Tsiaras. When asked about the next steps and other factors, besides water that confirm the existence of life, Tsiaras said, "The next step will be the James webspace telescope which will be able to give us a much better spectrum of the planet and also help in finding methane which is a sign of life." Here is the full excerpt of the conversation- WION: Why is this discovery of water on the exo-planet significant? Does this mean that life exists in other places in the universe? Tsiaras: No, we cannot answer this question with the current observation. We can say that this planet from what we know right now is the best candidate to be a habitable place out there in the universe. But to find the science of life or a really habitable planet, we will need much better observations. This will come in the next decades. So, unless we have this big telescopes we cannot say more than the existence of water and the existence of an atmosphere around this planet which has very pleasant temperatures similar to the earth. WION-What more do we know about this exo-planet? Is it a gas giant or does it have a surface to speak of? Tsiaras: So, we know that the planet has the density that is similar to Mars or the Moon. This means probably that it has a surface. It is definitely not a gas giant. We know that based on the mass and the radius. But given that we cannot really observe the surface and we cannot say much about the surface itself. I can only think of that. WION- The exo-planet is said to be in the habitable zone but the dwarf star around which it is orbiting is said to be more active. How does this complicate things for the emergence of life? Tsiaras: These stars are more active than our sun. But until now there have been many studies that are trying to understand whether this is hostile or not. So for example, this star is not that active as per example some has a temperature around 3,5000 kelvin, so it has an activity and it has some more harmful radiation. But we have not detected any flares so very hostile events. In addition, if you think of an atmosphere that it is bigger than ours, so this is probably working as a better against this radiation. WION-So what is the next step? What else besides water confirms the existence of life? Tsiaras: The next step will be the James webspace telescope which is three times bigger than Hubble and will be flying in 2021 very soon. It will be able to give us a much better spectrum of the planet and it is a very interesting one. So I believe that we will try to find methane as a next step. As we know that on earth methane is a sign of life. It is produced because life is here. we don't know if life outside universe is working in the same way. Life in a different place could evolve differently and produce different kind of gases. What we are actually looking at is gases that shouldn't be there. Assuming that we put together a mix of certain elements we expect certain molecules to exist in an atmosphere. If we find something that it is not right and it shouldn't be there it is a sign that it could because, of life, this is what we call as biomarkers. Our estimate is not very good. We don't know how much water is there. So the estimate is between 0.01 per cent up to 50 per cent. It's a huge race. We don't know. It could be made out of water. For example here on Earth, mostly the atmosphere is made of Nitrogen. Imagine an atmosphere which is mainly made of water, that would be a completely different atmosphere. We will be able to bring down this estimate with smaller and certainty with future telescopes. WION-How is the water found on this exoplanet different from the water found on the moons of Jupiter and Saturn? Tsiaras: So the water in the icy moon is an ocean and it is liquid water. Here we are talking about gaseous water. We don't know if there is indeed liquid water. We know that the planet can support liquid water so presumably, we can say but not sure. In the moon, the water is beneath the surface, it's something different. The moon is covered with ice crusts and water lives beneath that.

K2-18 b planet is best candidate for life beyond Earth: Astronomer Tsiaras to WION

In a bid to provide relief to people from paying hefty fines for traffic violations under the new Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Act, the Jharkhand government has asked state residents to complete all their documents within three months while putting the provisions of the Act on hold for the said period.

Speaking to ANI, Jharkhand Transport Minister, CP Singh said, "Taking cognisance of people`s safety some amendments were made in the Motor Vehicle Act by Centre. However, taking note of the issues people are facing, we have decided to give three-month relief to people so that they can get their documents in order."

He also requested people to abide by all traffic rules and regulations.

"Meanwhile, the public should also make sure that they abide by all the traffic rules and regulations", Singh added.

The new Motor Vehicles Act has enhanced the penalties for traffic violations and erring drivers. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had notified the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act 2019 last month and it was implemented in many states across the nation from September 1.

Earlier on September 12, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel had said that the Central government did not take the states into confidence before implementing the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019.&nbsp;

In a bid to provide relief to people from paying hefty fines for traffic violations under the new Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Act, the Jharkhand government has asked state residents to complete all their documents within three months while putting the provisions of the Act on hold for the said period.

In a bid to provide relief to people from paying hefty fines for traffic violations under the new Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Act, the Jharkhand government has asked state residents to complete all their documents within three months while putting the provisions of the Act on hold for the said period. Speaking to ANI, Jharkhand Transport Minister, CP Singh said, "Taking cognisance of people`s safety some amendments were made in the Motor Vehicle Act by Centre. However, taking note of the issues people are facing, we have decided to give three-month relief to people so that they can get their documents in order." He also requested people to abide by all traffic rules and regulations. "Meanwhile, the public should also make sure that they abide by all the traffic rules and regulations", Singh added. The new Motor Vehicles Act has enhanced the penalties for traffic violations and erring drivers. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had notified the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act 2019 last month and it was implemented in many states across the nation from September 1. Earlier on September 12, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel had said that the Central government did not take the states into confidence before implementing the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019.

Jharkhand to give three-month 'relief' from fines under new Motor Vehicle Act

With 1,000 PhD scholarships for ASEAN students in India's Indian Institutes of Technology(IIT), New Delhi on Monday formally announced its largest capacity development initiative for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-asean-in-focus-eam-talks-connectivity-in-indonesia-strategic-partnership-in-singapore-248087">ASEAN countries</a>.&nbsp;

The total budget outlay of the scholarship programme is Rs 300 crore with the first batch of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/india-seeks-greater-connectedness-with-the-asean-jaishanker-at-ministerial-meeting-in-bankok-239873">ASEAN students</a> to be admitted in January 2020.

India's external affair minister S Jaishankar said: "Our partnership with ASEAN is built on the foundation of shared values. The most fundamental of which is the priority our civilization attaches to education and science. Our partnership with ASEAN has historically developed through a shared quest for knowledge."

The maximum tenure of each fellowship is 5 years with Rs 31,000 stipend for the first two years and Rs 35,000 for the next three years. A research grant of Rs&nbsp;170,000 will be given for travel, books etc. The funding covers the entire cost of study and living expenses for up to 5 years of the PhD programme.

ASEAN envoys have lauded the initiative. Thai Envoy to India, Chutintorn Sam Gongsakdi speaking to WION said, "it's a great initiative and also very generous. It comes at the right time, I just came from Bangkok where we were talking about IIT campus in Thailand and next week I am going to Israel. So IITs fit very well in the modern context,&nbsp;adding, "India is one of the leading countries in technologies."

Indian PM Modi had first announced the initiative at 25th Anniversary ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit in New Delhi in January 2018.&nbsp;

IIT Delhi has been designated by the ministry of human resource development as the coordinating IIT for the fellowship programme.

With 1,000 PhD scholarships for ASEAN students in India's Indian Institutes of Technology(IIT), New Delhi on Monday formally announced its largest capacity development initiative for ASEAN countries.

With 1,000 PhD scholarships for ASEAN students in India's Indian Institutes of Technology(IIT), New Delhi on Monday formally announced its largest capacity development initiative for ASEAN countries. The total budget outlay of the scholarship programme is Rs 300 crore with the first batch of ASEAN students to be admitted in January 2020. India's external affair minister S Jaishankar said: "Our partnership with ASEAN is built on the foundation of shared values. The most fundamental of which is the priority our civilization attaches to education and science. Our partnership with ASEAN has historically developed through a shared quest for knowledge." The maximum tenure of each fellowship is 5 years with Rs 31,000 stipend for the first two years and Rs 35,000 for the next three years. A research grant of Rs 170,000 will be given for travel, books etc. The funding covers the entire cost of study and living expenses for up to 5 years of the PhD programme. ASEAN envoys have lauded the initiative. Thai Envoy to India, Chutintorn Sam Gongsakdi speaking to WION said, "it's a great initiative and also very generous. It comes at the right time, I just came from Bangkok where we were talking about IIT campus in Thailand and next week I am going to Israel. So IITs fit very well in the modern context, adding, "India is one of the leading countries in technologies." Indian PM Modi had first announced the initiative at 25th Anniversary ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit in New Delhi in January 2018. IIT Delhi has been designated by the ministry of human resource development as the coordinating IIT for the fellowship programme.

India announces largest scholarship programme for ASEAN students

Pakistan violated ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Sunday.

Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation at about 2230 hours by firing of small arms and intense shelling with mortars in Balakote, Mendhar.

The Indian Army retaliated befittingly.

Ever since India announced move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, a rattled Pakistan has frequently resorted to ceasefire violations along the LOC.

These violations have been retaliated effectively by the Indian Army.

Pakistan violated ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Sunday. Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation at about 2230 hours by firing of small arms and intense shelling with mortars in Balakote, Mendhar.

Pakistan violated ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Sunday. Pakistan initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation at about 2230 hours by firing of small arms and intense shelling with mortars in Balakote, Mendhar. The Indian Army retaliated befittingly. Ever since India announced move to abrogate Article 370 of the Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, a rattled Pakistan has frequently resorted to ceasefire violations along the LOC. These violations have been retaliated effectively by the Indian Army.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Mendhar sector of Jammu and Kashmir

Indian Ambassador to the United States Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday said that two leaders (Narendra Modi and Donald Trump) addressing the ‘Howdy Modi’ event is historic and unprecedented.

Indian Ambassador to the United States Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday said that two leaders (Narendra Modi and Donald Trump) addressing the ‘Howdy Modi’ event is historic and unprecedented. ''It reflects not only closeness and comfort levels in the relationship but also the personal chemistry and friendship between PM Modi and President Trump,'' Shringla added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Houston, Texas on September 22 to address the Indian diaspora in the region. Indian Ambassador to US,Harsh Vardhan Shringla to ANI: Two leaders addressing the ‘Howdy Modi’ event is historic&unprecedented. It reflects not only closeness&comfort levels in the relationship but also the personal chemistry&friendship between PM Modi and President Trump. https://t.co/csNHbNPz3L pic.twitter.com/uhyTyJfPoB — ANI (@ANI) September 16, 2019 × According to reports, as many as 60 US lawmakers will be present at the mega event including Tulsi Gabbard. ‘Howdy Modi’ preludes the United Nations General Assembly in New York in which both Modi and Trump will take part. According to Texas India Forum, more than 50,000 people have already registered for the event which now stands sold-out.

Trump, Modi addressing ‘Howdy Modi’ event reflects personal chemistry between two: Indian envoy to US

Mongolia's President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be on a five-day state visit to India from September 19-23. The last time a Mongolian President visited India was in 2009 when the then Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj visited India.

Mongolia's President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be on a five-day state visit to India from September 19-23. The last time a Mongolian President visited India was in 2009 when the then Mongolia Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj visited India. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "During the visit, the two sides will hold in-depth discussions on a range of bilateral, regional and global issues and will also review ongoing cooperation in fields of infrastructure, energy, disaster management, defence, security, culture and capacity building." "India-Mongolia Strategic Partnership is based on the ideals of freedom and democracy and on a strong foundation of our shared Buddhist heritage," the statement said. Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Battulga had met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia. India is helping the landlocked country build an oil refinery through a line of credit announced during PM Modi's visit to the country. In 2015, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country. Mongolia, which is landlocked between Russia and China considers India as its "third neighbour" with which it has a spiritual connection. Last few years have seen a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia, including the visit of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in April 2018, former home minister Rajnath Singh on June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018.

First time in a decade, Mongolian President to visit India

Several Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders have accused the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led Andhra Pradesh government of harassment, which led to the alleged suicide of former assembly speaker Kodela Siva Prasad Rao.

"This is an unfortunate day. A great leader, popularly known as 'Palnadu tiger', committed suicide because of harassment by the state government," TDP leader and former minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy told ANI on Monday.

Party leader and former finance minister Yanamala Rama Krishnudu also expressed shock over the demise of the former speaker and said that Rao was facing mental torture at the hands of YSRCP government.

"Rao died due to the harassment and mental torture by YSRCP government. YSRCP government has filed several criminal cases for political vendetta. The government also pressurised him and harassed his family members," Krishnudu said in a statement.

"May his soul rest in peace. My condolences to his family members," he added.

TDP MP Kesineni Srinivas, in a tweet, said: "This is not suicide but a brutal murder by Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy."

On the other hand, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed grief over Rao's demise and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members. 
Dr Siva Prasada Rao had a long political inning since 1983 and was a popular doctor.&nbsp;

Several Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders have accused the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led Andhra Pradesh government of harassment, which led to the alleged suicide of former assembly speaker Kodela Siva Prasad Rao.

Several Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders have accused the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led Andhra Pradesh government of harassment, which led to the alleged suicide of former assembly speaker Kodela Siva Prasad Rao. "This is an unfortunate day. A great leader, popularly known as 'Palnadu tiger', committed suicide because of harassment by the state government," TDP leader and former minister Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy told ANI on Monday. Party leader and former finance minister Yanamala Rama Krishnudu also expressed shock over the demise of the former speaker and said that Rao was facing mental torture at the hands of YSRCP government. "Rao died due to the harassment and mental torture by YSRCP government. YSRCP government has filed several criminal cases for political vendetta. The government also pressurised him and harassed his family members," Krishnudu said in a statement. "May his soul rest in peace. My condolences to his family members," he added. TDP MP Kesineni Srinivas, in a tweet, said: "This is not suicide but a brutal murder by Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy." On the other hand, Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy expressed grief over Rao's demise and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members. Dr Siva Prasada Rao had a long political inning since 1983 and was a popular doctor.

Rao committed suicide to harassment by Andhra Pradesh government, allege TDP leaders

China has again intruded in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone(EEZ), the third major intrusion this year. The intrusion, according to Vietnam government sources began on September 7 and is underway with<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-says-deeply-concerned-about-developments-in-south-china-sea-244942"> Chinese ships</a> along with coast guards still present.&nbsp;

The previous two intrusions had taken place on July 3 and August 13. &nbsp;On July 3, Chinese ship Hauyang Dihi Bahao escorted by Chinese coast guard entered in Hanoi's EEZ but left on August 7, it was followed by the second incursion that started on August 13 and ended on September 2.

Hanoi is mulling a number of actions including excercising legal option against China with the source saying, "can't rule out anything".

The first and second intrusion saw Chinese boats being placed near<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-intrudes-into-vietnams-economic-zone-places-coast-guards-near-ongc-block-244631"> ONGC Videsh Ltd's block</a>. The July 3 intrusion was closest to the ONGC block while the current case that began on September 7 saw Chinese ships near Vietnam's mainland.

Vietnam has raised these intrusions with China through the various diplomatic channel almost forty times. Ten countries have so far reacted to Chinese intrusion in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone which include India, US, France, UK, Germany, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, EU and ASEAN.

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "South China Sea is part of the global commons. &nbsp;India, therefore, has an abiding interest in the peace and stability in the region."

Reiterating that India stands for "freedom of navigation and over-flight, and unimpeded lawful commerce in the international waters in accordance with international laws, notably UNCLOS", the foreign affairs spokesman&nbsp;added that "differences must be resolved peacefully by respecting the legal and diplomatic processes, and without resorting to threat or use of force."

This year has seen the the third major escalation by the Chinese side into Vietnam's EEZ. Earlier in 2011 and 2014, Bejing had intruded into Vietnam's EEZ . In 2011, China had cut Vietnamese cables and in 2014 Beijing had placed a drilling platform which was later withdrawn.

China has again intruded in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone(EEZ), the third major intrusion this year. The intrusion, according to Vietnam government sources began on September 7 and is underway with Chinese ships along with coast guards still present.

China has again intruded in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone(EEZ), the third major intrusion this year. The intrusion, according to Vietnam government sources began on September 7 and is underway with Chinese ships along with coast guards still present. The previous two intrusions had taken place on July 3 and August 13. On July 3, Chinese ship Hauyang Dihi Bahao escorted by Chinese coast guard entered in Hanoi's EEZ but left on August 7, it was followed by the second incursion that started on August 13 and ended on September 2. Hanoi is mulling a number of actions including excercising legal option against China with the source saying, "can't rule out anything". The first and second intrusion saw Chinese boats being placed near ONGC Videsh Ltd's block. The July 3 intrusion was closest to the ONGC block while the current case that began on September 7 saw Chinese ships near Vietnam's mainland. Vietnam has raised these intrusions with China through the various diplomatic channel almost forty times. Ten countries have so far reacted to Chinese intrusion in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone which include India, US, France, UK, Germany, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, EU and ASEAN. The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "South China Sea is part of the global commons. India, therefore, has an abiding interest in the peace and stability in the region." Reiterating that India stands for "freedom of navigation and over-flight, and unimpeded lawful commerce in the international waters in accordance with international laws, notably UNCLOS", the foreign affairs spokesman added that "differences must be resolved peacefully by respecting the legal and diplomatic processes, and without resorting to threat or use of force." This year has seen the the third major escalation by the Chinese side into Vietnam's EEZ. Earlier in 2011 and 2014, Bejing had intruded into Vietnam's EEZ . In 2011, China had cut Vietnamese cables and in 2014 Beijing had placed a drilling platform which was later withdrawn.

China intrudes into Vietnam's exclusive economic zone for the third time this year

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday summoned former finance minister P Chidambaram`s personal secretary K V K Perumal to appear before it on September 18 for questioning.ED deputy director Manish Gupta and R S Thapilial will examine him.

They have sought the property details of his family members, photocopies of visas, passports and countries travelled since 2004.

The agency has also sought answers to 40 questions from him. Notably, Perumal had evaded questions during the last two times when he was interrogated by the agency.

Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by both the CBI and the ED pertaining to alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance (FIPB) given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the union finance minister.

Counsel representing Chidambaram in the Supreme Court had earlier said that the FIPB clearance to INX Media was approved by six Secretaries to the government and that his client, being a minister, had merely signed the document.

In a tweet, Chidambaram had earlier said the no official should be arrested in the case as "no officer has done anything wrong".

The 74-year-old leader was arrested by the CBI on August 21 and sent to its custody for interrogation. Last week, a CBI court sent Chidambaram to judicial custody in Tihar Jail till September 19.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday summoned former finance minister P Chidambaram`s personal secretary K V K Perumal to appear before it on September 18 for questioning.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday summoned former finance minister P Chidambaram`s personal secretary K V K Perumal to appear before it on September 18 for questioning.ED deputy director Manish Gupta and R S Thapilial will examine him. They have sought the property details of his family members, photocopies of visas, passports and countries travelled since 2004. The agency has also sought answers to 40 questions from him. Notably, Perumal had evaded questions during the last two times when he was interrogated by the agency. Chidambaram is facing probe in cases registered by both the CBI and the ED pertaining to alleged irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board clearance (FIPB) given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when he was the union finance minister. Counsel representing Chidambaram in the Supreme Court had earlier said that the FIPB clearance to INX Media was approved by six Secretaries to the government and that his client, being a minister, had merely signed the document. In a tweet, Chidambaram had earlier said the no official should be arrested in the case as "no officer has done anything wrong". The 74-year-old leader was arrested by the CBI on August 21 and sent to its custody for interrogation. Last week, a CBI court sent Chidambaram to judicial custody in Tihar Jail till September 19.

Enforcement Directorate summons former personal secretary of P Chidambaram

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state.

Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said.

The proposed meeting comes at a time when former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar is being questioned by the CBI in connection with the multi-crore Saradha chit fund scam.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state. Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss various issues related to the state. Banerjee will leave for New Delhi on Tuesday and is likely to meet the Prime Minister next day, West Bengal Secretariat sources said. The proposed meeting comes at a time when former Kolkata Police Commissioner Rajeev Kumar is being questioned by the CBI in connection with the multi-crore Saradha chit fund scam.

West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee likely to meet PM Modi on Wednesday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy and assured him of government's support as the US state seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with states in India.

A release from the PMO said that the Prime Minister received Murphy on Monday morning on his first visit to India in his present official capacity.

The governor is visiting Agra, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad apart from Delhi."Prime Minister Modi welcomed the Governor's desire to promote closer commercial and people-to-people relations between New Jersey and India and assured him of the Government of India's support as New Jersey seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with the Indian States," the release said.

It added that the Governor briefed the Prime Minister of his priorities for building his state`s relations with India and committed to working towards a robust partnership between India and the US.

Noting the commonalities between India and New Jersey, he mentioned the celebration of diversity and respect for plurality in India which he had&nbsp;witnessed since his arrival.

Modi noted with satisfaction that state of New Jersey, which hosts the highest concentration of Indian-American population in the US, has emerged as a top destination for India`s trade and investment.

Both dignitaries agreed to the significance of cooperation in STEM and higher education.

The release said that Prime Minister appreciated the personal attention paid by the Governor for the well-being of the Indian American community in New Jersey and stressed their importance as a bridge between India and their host country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy and assured him of government's support as the US state seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with states in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday met New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy and assured him of government's support as the US state seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with states in India. A release from the PMO said that the Prime Minister received Murphy on Monday morning on his first visit to India in his present official capacity. The governor is visiting Agra, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad apart from Delhi."Prime Minister Modi welcomed the Governor's desire to promote closer commercial and people-to-people relations between New Jersey and India and assured him of the Government of India's support as New Jersey seeks to pursue meaningful cooperation with the Indian States," the release said. It added that the Governor briefed the Prime Minister of his priorities for building his state`s relations with India and committed to working towards a robust partnership between India and the US. Noting the commonalities between India and New Jersey, he mentioned the celebration of diversity and respect for plurality in India which he had witnessed since his arrival. Modi noted with satisfaction that state of New Jersey, which hosts the highest concentration of Indian-American population in the US, has emerged as a top destination for India`s trade and investment. Both dignitaries agreed to the significance of cooperation in STEM and higher education. The release said that Prime Minister appreciated the personal attention paid by the Governor for the well-being of the Indian American community in New Jersey and stressed their importance as a bridge between India and their host country.

Narendra Modi meets New Jersey Governor, assures support to boost cooperation with Indian states

Mumbai and Delhi ranked 37 and 41 respectively on the parameter of personal security, and 45 and 52 overall on a world's safest cities list that ranked 60 countries worldwide across five continents.

The list was topped by the Japanese capital Tokyo and included six cities of Asia-Pacific region in top 10.

As the world's cities continue to expand in size and number, striking a balance between connectivity, safety and privacy is vital for governments, the private sector and citizens alike.

A discussion in this regard between policymakers, business leader, and industry experts, was held recently at the Safe Cities Summit in Singapore.

Speaking on the occasion, Walter Lee, the Evangelist and Government Relations Leader in the Global Safety Division of the NEC Corporation, advocated that one of the key critical elements to making safer cities is to secure the digital identity of its citizens in both the cyber and physical space.

"The panel discussion was very exciting. We were talking about the long arm of the law or law enforcement agencies in creating, generating safer cities. And of course, the discussion was a fair mix of technology and other elements that would make a city safer," said Lee.

"So being a technologist, obviously we are looking at technology as a tool to make cities safer. And I was advocating the fact that one of the key critical elements to making safer cities is to secure digital identity for each one of us in both the cyber and physical space.

Discussions at the summit ranged from climate resilience, urban living, protecting against cyber attack, and police enforcement.

Tetsuro Akagi, the CEO of NEC Asia Pacific, said that his company strongly believes in contributing to the societies and communities across the Asia Pacific by improving upon technologies pertaining to networking, computing, and Artificial Intelligence."Many issues are going around public safety.

One of the most key components is sustainability and safety itself.

So based upon the technologies of NEC, including computing, AI, or networking, we strongly believe that we can contribute to the society and community in the Asia Pacific.

Cities all over the world need to continue strengthening security to keep a safe and stable society.&nbsp;

Mumbai and Delhi ranked 37 and 41 respectively on the parameter of personal security, and 45 and 52 overall on a world's safest cities list that ranked 60 countries worldwide across five continents.

Mumbai and Delhi ranked 37 and 41 respectively on the parameter of personal security, and 45 and 52 overall on a world's safest cities list that ranked 60 countries worldwide across five continents. The list was topped by the Japanese capital Tokyo and included six cities of Asia-Pacific region in top 10. As the world's cities continue to expand in size and number, striking a balance between connectivity, safety and privacy is vital for governments, the private sector and citizens alike. A discussion in this regard between policymakers, business leader, and industry experts, was held recently at the Safe Cities Summit in Singapore. Speaking on the occasion, Walter Lee, the Evangelist and Government Relations Leader in the Global Safety Division of the NEC Corporation, advocated that one of the key critical elements to making safer cities is to secure the digital identity of its citizens in both the cyber and physical space. "The panel discussion was very exciting. We were talking about the long arm of the law or law enforcement agencies in creating, generating safer cities. And of course, the discussion was a fair mix of technology and other elements that would make a city safer," said Lee. "So being a technologist, obviously we are looking at technology as a tool to make cities safer. And I was advocating the fact that one of the key critical elements to making safer cities is to secure digital identity for each one of us in both the cyber and physical space. Discussions at the summit ranged from climate resilience, urban living, protecting against cyber attack, and police enforcement. Tetsuro Akagi, the CEO of NEC Asia Pacific, said that his company strongly believes in contributing to the societies and communities across the Asia Pacific by improving upon technologies pertaining to networking, computing, and Artificial Intelligence."Many issues are going around public safety. One of the most key components is sustainability and safety itself. So based upon the technologies of NEC, including computing, AI, or networking, we strongly believe that we can contribute to the society and community in the Asia Pacific. Cities all over the world need to continue strengthening security to keep a safe and stable society.

Tokyo world's safest city; Mumbai ranked 45, Delhi at 52: Survey

An Indian Navy helicopter on Monday completed a search mission and found no survivors or bodies in the aftermath of the Godavari boat tragedy.

Even the debris of the boat was not sighted, the Navy said.

"A UH 3H helicopter took off from Rajmundary Airport at 7.30 am. It carried out multiple searches from the accident site at Devipatnam to Pollavaram for 3 hours and 15 minutes. No survivors or bodies were sighted as well as no debris of the boat was sighted. UH-3H landed back at 1100 hrs," the Indian Navy said.

"Chetak helicopter has now taken off for next search," it added.

In a major tragedy, 11 people died on Sunday afternoon when a tourist boat carrying 61 persons on board capsized in the Godavari River near Devipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) said.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia for the bereaved families.

Reddy had directed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy and ONGC helicopters to carry out the rescue operations on war-footing.

An Indian Navy helicopter on Monday completed a search mission and found no survivors or bodies in the aftermath of the Godavari boat tragedy. Even the debris of the boat was not sighted, the Navy said.

An Indian Navy helicopter on Monday completed a search mission and found no survivors or bodies in the aftermath of the Godavari boat tragedy. Even the debris of the boat was not sighted, the Navy said. "A UH 3H helicopter took off from Rajmundary Airport at 7.30 am. It carried out multiple searches from the accident site at Devipatnam to Pollavaram for 3 hours and 15 minutes. No survivors or bodies were sighted as well as no debris of the boat was sighted. UH-3H landed back at 1100 hrs," the Indian Navy said. "Chetak helicopter has now taken off for next search," it added. In a major tragedy, 11 people died on Sunday afternoon when a tourist boat carrying 61 persons on board capsized in the Godavari River near Devipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) said. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced Rs 10 lakh ex-gratia for the bereaved families. Reddy had directed National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Navy and ONGC helicopters to carry out the rescue operations on war-footing.

Godavari boat tragedy: Indian Navy helicopter finds no bodies or debris

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan was the latest to join the chorus of politicians in Tamil Nadu to oppose the comments of Home Minister Amit Shah, who had spoken at a ‘Hindi Day’ event and said that Hindi should be India’s common and unifying language.&nbsp;

Following Amit Shah’s comments made at the Hindi day event, leaders of the DMK, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and NDA-ally Pattali Makkal Katchi, among others had expressed their disapproval.&nbsp;

In a video message, Kamal Haasan stated that a lot of kings had given up their kingdoms for the creation of India, but a lot of Indians and states vehemently opposed giving up their language, culture and traditions. “When India became a Constitutional republic in 1950, the Government promised the same to the people and asserted that no Shah or Sultan or Samrat can attempt to change it”.&nbsp;

Making a mention of the 2017 protests demanding the conduct of the bull-taming sport he said, “Jallikattu was just a protest, the battle for our language will be exponentially bigger than that. India or Tamil Nadu does not need or deserve such a battle.”

“Most of the Nation happily sings their National Anthem in Bengali with pride, and will continue to do so. The reason is the poet who wrote the National Anthem gave due respect to all languages and culture within the Anthem. And hence, it became our Anthem. Do not make an inclusive India into an exclusive one. All will suffer because of such short-sighted folly” he added.&nbsp;

Earlier, DMK President MK Stalin had also slammed the Home Minister’s comments, “The Prime Minister should clarify his stand, otherwise the DMK will get ready for another language war. This is India not ‘Hindia’. There is a threat to India’s unity after attempting to thrust Hindi in Railways, Postal jobs. DMK will not hesitate to unite states which stand to lose rights due to Hindi dominance”.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan was the latest to join the chorus of politicians in Tamil Nadu to oppose the comments of Home Minister Amit Shah, who had spoken at a ‘Hindi Day’ event and said that Hindi should be India’s common and unifying language.

Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan was the latest to join the chorus of politicians in Tamil Nadu to oppose the comments of Home Minister Amit Shah, who had spoken at a ‘Hindi Day’ event and said that Hindi should be India’s common and unifying language. Following Amit Shah’s comments made at the Hindi day event, leaders of the DMK, Tamil Nadu Congress Committee and NDA-ally Pattali Makkal Katchi, among others had expressed their disapproval. In a video message, Kamal Haasan stated that a lot of kings had given up their kingdoms for the creation of India, but a lot of Indians and states vehemently opposed giving up their language, culture and traditions. “When India became a Constitutional republic in 1950, the Government promised the same to the people and asserted that no Shah or Sultan or Samrat can attempt to change it”. Making a mention of the 2017 protests demanding the conduct of the bull-taming sport he said, “Jallikattu was just a protest, the battle for our language will be exponentially bigger than that. India or Tamil Nadu does not need or deserve such a battle.” “Most of the Nation happily sings their National Anthem in Bengali with pride, and will continue to do so. The reason is the poet who wrote the National Anthem gave due respect to all languages and culture within the Anthem. And hence, it became our Anthem. Do not make an inclusive India into an exclusive one. All will suffer because of such short-sighted folly” he added. Earlier, DMK President MK Stalin had also slammed the Home Minister’s comments, “The Prime Minister should clarify his stand, otherwise the DMK will get ready for another language war. This is India not ‘Hindia’. There is a threat to India’s unity after attempting to thrust Hindi in Railways, Postal jobs. DMK will not hesitate to unite states which stand to lose rights due to Hindi dominance”.

Kamal Haasan joins Tamil Nadu politicians in chorus against Amit Shah’s Hindi pitch; warns of battle for language

Former Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kodela Siva Prasad Rao, who was at the centre of a row over alleged theft of assembly property, is said to have committed suicide on Monday.

BJP Chief Spokesperson, K. Krishna Saagar Rao in a statement said, "Shocked to know that former minister, former AP speaker Shri Kodela Siva Prasad has committed suicide. I extend heartfelt condolences on the unfortunate demise of this senior politician. May his soul rest in peace"

"I believe this forced death is a testimony to the ongoing bitter and contemptuous politics of Andhra Pradesh. It`s quite unfortunate," he added.&nbsp;

Former Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kodela Siva Prasad Rao, who was at the centre of a row over alleged theft of assembly property, is said to have committed suicide on Monday.

Former Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kodela Siva Prasad Rao, who was at the centre of a row over alleged theft of assembly property, is said to have committed suicide on Monday. BJP Chief Spokesperson, K. Krishna Saagar Rao in a statement said, "Shocked to know that former minister, former AP speaker Shri Kodela Siva Prasad has committed suicide. I extend heartfelt condolences on the unfortunate demise of this senior politician. May his soul rest in peace" "I believe this forced death is a testimony to the ongoing bitter and contemptuous politics of Andhra Pradesh. It`s quite unfortunate," he added.

Former Andhra Pradesh speaker Kodela Siva Prasad Rao allegedly commits suicide: BJP chief spokesperson

india-news

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

india news