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Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday announced 50,000 jobs were available in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-provide-75-subsidy-for-setting-mega-food-parks-in-jammu-and-kashmir-mos-rameshwar-teli-246050">J&amp;K administration</a> as he appealed to the youth to get involved.

"We appeal to the youth to get involved with full vigor, in the coming two or three months we will fill these positions," Governor&nbsp;Satya Pal Malik declared.

The governor said mobiles will go live in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/20-nri-businessmen-keen-to-participate-in-jammu-and-kashmir-investment-meet-india-245388">ten districts in J&amp;K</a> while it will be made available in two districts in Ladakh.

"The medium of phone and Internet is used less by us and mostly by terrorists and Pakistanis as well as for mobilisation and indoctrination. It is a kind of weapon used against us so we have stopped it. The services will be resumed gradually," the governor maintained.

"We are opening mobile phone connectivity in Kupwara and Handwara districts(of Kashmir), soon we will open connectivity in other districts as well," Governor Satya Pal Malik said.&nbsp;

The governor while outlining his economic agenda&nbsp;added that five new medical colleges will be opened in J&amp;K.

The governor said: "Every Kashmiri life is valuable to us, we don't want loss of even a single life. There have&nbsp;been no civilian casualties, only a&nbsp;few who turned violent were&nbsp;injured." &nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday announced 50,000 jobs were available in the J&K administration as he appealed to the youth to get involved.

Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) Governor Satya Pal Malik on Wednesday announced 50,000 jobs were available in the J&K administration as he appealed to the youth to get involved. "We appeal to the youth to get involved with full vigor, in the coming two or three months we will fill these positions," Governor Satya Pal Malik declared. The governor said mobiles will go live in ten districts in J&K while it will be made available in two districts in Ladakh. "The medium of phone and Internet is used less by us and mostly by terrorists and Pakistanis as well as for mobilisation and indoctrination. It is a kind of weapon used against us so we have stopped it. The services will be resumed gradually," the governor maintained. "We are opening mobile phone connectivity in Kupwara and Handwara districts(of Kashmir), soon we will open connectivity in other districts as well," Governor Satya Pal Malik said. The governor while outlining his economic agenda added that five new medical colleges will be opened in J&K. The governor said: "Every Kashmiri life is valuable to us, we don't want loss of even a single life. There have been no civilian casualties, only a few who turned violent were injured."

Governor Satya Pal Malik outlines J&K's economic plan; announces 50,000 government jobs for youth

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday apprised the Supreme Court that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) cannot share details of the investigation till the chargesheet is filed against former finance minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media money laundering case.&nbsp;

"The money laundering case is very sensitive. We cannot share details of the investigation till the chargesheet is filed. I request the court to examine the report given in sealed cover," Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said in the court.&nbsp;

He said laundering was the global phenomenon, which affects the integrity and economy of a country.

"In the money laundering case, we would be dealing with very intelligent people, stupid men cannot do laundering. For the investigation, you have to go with information which can get among the offenders of laundering. These offences are not committed in heat of the moment, they are cleverly crafted. Most of the laundering is a digital operation," Mehta said.&nbsp;

He said that money laundering is "not like rape where forensics can collect bloodstains", adding that it becomes very difficult to unravel how actually money laundering took place.&nbsp;

Emphasising that the probe agency has a statutory right to arrest, "Whether custodial interrogation is necessary or not, it has to be decided by the Special Court. An arrest is done by people of higher rank, a Director, on the basis of materials we have in possession, recorded reasons, and after the accused must be informed about the reason of arrest."

The Solicitor General said the ED has the material in its possession against Chidambaram, which gives them the power to arrest.&nbsp;

"The ED received the material, like records from banks all over the world. In this case, the statute provides that probe report should be sent to neutral adjudicatory authority, in a sealed cover, to avoid investigating agency tampering with them. These are statutory checks and balances provided in Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002."

In 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister.

Following the FIR filed by CBI, ED had filed a case of money laundering against him. The top court was hearing a Special Leave Petition (SLP) moved by Chidambaram against the Delhi High Court order denying him anticipatory bail in the ED case.&nbsp;

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday apprised the Supreme Court that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) cannot share details of the investigation till the chargesheet is filed against former finance minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media money laundering case.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday apprised the Supreme Court that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) cannot share details of the investigation till the chargesheet is filed against former finance minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media money laundering case. "The money laundering case is very sensitive. We cannot share details of the investigation till the chargesheet is filed. I request the court to examine the report given in sealed cover," Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said in the court. He said laundering was the global phenomenon, which affects the integrity and economy of a country. "In the money laundering case, we would be dealing with very intelligent people, stupid men cannot do laundering. For the investigation, you have to go with information which can get among the offenders of laundering. These offences are not committed in heat of the moment, they are cleverly crafted. Most of the laundering is a digital operation," Mehta said. He said that money laundering is "not like rape where forensics can collect bloodstains", adding that it becomes very difficult to unravel how actually money laundering took place. Emphasising that the probe agency has a statutory right to arrest, "Whether custodial interrogation is necessary or not, it has to be decided by the Special Court. An arrest is done by people of higher rank, a Director, on the basis of materials we have in possession, recorded reasons, and after the accused must be informed about the reason of arrest." The Solicitor General said the ED has the material in its possession against Chidambaram, which gives them the power to arrest. "The ED received the material, like records from banks all over the world. In this case, the statute provides that probe report should be sent to neutral adjudicatory authority, in a sealed cover, to avoid investigating agency tampering with them. These are statutory checks and balances provided in Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002." In 2017, the CBI had registered an FIR alleging irregularities in the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance given to INX Media to the tune of Rs 305 crore in 2007 when Chidambaram was the Union finance minister. Following the FIR filed by CBI, ED had filed a case of money laundering against him. The top court was hearing a Special Leave Petition (SLP) moved by Chidambaram against the Delhi High Court order denying him anticipatory bail in the ED case.

ED can't share probe details till chargesheet is filed against Chidambaram in INX Media case: Solicitor General tells Supreme Court

The third lunar bound orbit maneuver for Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was performed successfully on Wednesday using the onboard propulsion system, ISRO stated.

The lunar bound orbit maneuver began at 9:04 hours (India Standard Time).

The orbit achieved is 179 km x 1412 km, ISRO added.

The space agency stated that all spacecraft parameters are normal and the next lunar bound orbit maneuver is scheduled on August 30 between 6-7 pm.

Chandrayaan-2 will explore a region of the moon where no mission has ever set foot.

The spacecraft consists of an orbiter, a lander, and a rover together referred to as "composite body".

ISRO chief K Sivan had on August 20 announced Chandrayaan-2's successful completion of lunar orbit insertion while stating that the mission would carry out a soft landing on the moon on September 7.

The spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to attempt a soft landing on the lunar surface.

This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to carry out a soft landing on the moon.

After revolving around the Earth's orbit for nearly 23 days, the craft began its journey to the moon on August 14.

The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The third lunar bound orbit maneuver for Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was performed successfully on Wednesday using the onboard propulsion system, ISRO stated. The lunar bound orbit maneuver began at 9:04 hours (India Standard Time).

The third lunar bound orbit maneuver for Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was performed successfully on Wednesday using the onboard propulsion system, ISRO stated. The lunar bound orbit maneuver began at 9:04 hours (India Standard Time). The orbit achieved is 179 km x 1412 km, ISRO added. The space agency stated that all spacecraft parameters are normal and the next lunar bound orbit maneuver is scheduled on August 30 between 6-7 pm. Chandrayaan-2 will explore a region of the moon where no mission has ever set foot. The spacecraft consists of an orbiter, a lander, and a rover together referred to as "composite body". ISRO chief K Sivan had on August 20 announced Chandrayaan-2's successful completion of lunar orbit insertion while stating that the mission would carry out a soft landing on the moon on September 7. The spacecraft will be the first Indian expedition to attempt a soft landing on the lunar surface. This mission will make India the fourth country after the US, Russia, and China to carry out a soft landing on the moon. After revolving around the Earth's orbit for nearly 23 days, the craft began its journey to the moon on August 14. The mission took off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 22.

Third lunar-bound orbit maneuver for Chandrayaan-2 performed successfully: ISRO

India's long-time ally Russia today came out strongly in support of India on the issue of abrogation of article 370 by the NDA government. Russian ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev said that abrogation of article 370 is an internal matter of India and is also India's sovereign decision.

India's long-time ally Russia today came out strongly in support of India on the issue of abrogation of article 370 by the NDA government. Russian ambassador to India, Nikolay Kudashev said that abrogation of article 370 is an internal matter of India and is also India's sovereign decision. "All disputes between India and Pakistan can be resolved through the Shimla and Lahore agreement and our view is exactly as that of India,” he said. India has always maintained that issues between India and Pakistan are bilateral innature and does not require mediation from any international power. Russia's views comes in the wake of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's high profile visit to Vladivostok, Russia’s pacific capital next week. The Indian prime minister will be the chief guest at the Eastern Economic Forum(EEF) being hosted by Russia. PM Modi is expected to hold a bilateral talks with President Putin during his visit. Kudashev’s deputy, Roman Babushki said that India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's comments on ‘no-first use’ of nuclear weapons is India’s internal matter. Russia's clear support to India on Jammu and Kashmir has once again proved that Pakistan hasn't been succuessful in internationalising the Kashmir issue and has failed to convince major powers on the issue. Pakistan's chief ally China has remained the sole exception in the case. The Russian ambassador said that the EEF in Vladivostok has become another promising platform for Russia-India business interaction like the Saint Petersburg Economic Forum or Vibrant Gujarat. Kudashev added that the summit will witness high level engagement and will lay the foundation of India-Russia relationship in trade, investment, energy, tourism and people-to-people interaction. “We do expect that this highly anticipated meeting between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi will extract new quality of bilateral special and privileged strategic partnership talking it to new heights.” Recently, India's commerce minister Piyush Goel visited Russia with a high level delegation which included 140 Indian businessmen. Russia’s Far East is sparsely populated but India has not taken the lead which Chinese have done in the area. There is a small diaspora in Vladivostok, but it is limited to diamond and tea sector. Lot of Indian students also go to Russia for medical degrees and Vladivostok also has a share of them. Russia wants trade with India to reach 30 billion dollars by 2025 which pales in front of China-India trade volume. Both nations trade volume is around 60 billion dollars. Russia was once closest strategic partner of India but over a period India diversified itself in both trade and defence with other countries. Russia wants to provide a new impetus to new forms of collaboration in military and military-technical cooperation, nuclear, hydrocarbon and alternative technology. To deliver S-400 in 2023 India will receive S-400 in 2023, Roman Babushek, Depyty Ambassador to India said and added that the delivery is on time despite intense American pressure on the Indian government to not to go ahead with the deal.

Russia backs India on abrogation of Article 370, says it's an internal matter

India is set to impose a nationwide ban on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-bid-to-curb-plastic-pollution-pepsi-and-coca-cola-sever-ties-with-plastics-industry-association-239706">plastic </a>bags, cups and straws on October 2, officials said, in its most sweeping measure yet to stamp out single-use plastics from cities and villages that rank among the world's most polluted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-highlights-indias-efforts-for-sustainable-future-at-g-7-summit-245808">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, who is leading efforts to scrap such plastics by 2022, is set to launch the campaign with a ban on as many as six items on October 2, the birth anniversary of independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, two officials said.

These include plastic bags, cups, plates, small bottles, straws and certain types of sachets, said the officials, who asked not to be identified, in line with government policy.

"The ban will be comprehensive and will cover manufacturing, usage and import of such items," one official said.

India's environment and housing ministries, the two main ministries leading the drive, did not respond to emails from Reuters to seek comment.

In an Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi had urged people and government agencies to "take the first big step" on October 2 towards freeing India of single-use plastic.

Concerns are growing worldwide about plastic pollution, with a particular focus on the oceans, where nearly 50 per cent&nbsp;of single-use plastic products end up, killing marine life and entering the human food chain, studies show.

The European Union plans to ban single-use plastic items such as straws, forks, knives and cotton buds by 2021.

China's commercial hub of Shanghai is gradually reining in use of single-use plastics in catering, and its island province of Hainan has already vowed to completely eliminate single-use plastic by 2025.

India lacks an organised system for management of plastic waste, leading to widespread littering across its towns and cities.

The ban on the first six items of single-use plastics will clip 5 per cent&nbsp;to 10 per cent&nbsp;from India's annual consumption of about 14 million tonnes of plastic, the first official said.

Penalties for violations of the ban will probably take effect after an initial six-month period to allow people time to adopt alternatives, officials said.

Some Indian states have already outlawed polythene bags.

The federal government also plans tougher environmental standards for plastic products and will insist on the use of recyclable plastic only, the first source said.

It will also ask e-commerce companies to cut back on plastic packaging that makes up nearly 40 per cent&nbsp;of India's annual plastic consumption, officials say.

Cheap smartphones and a surge in the number of internet users have boosted orders for e-commerce companies, such as Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Inc's Flipkart, which wrap their wares - from books and medicines to cigarettes and cosmetics - in plastic, pushing up consumption.

India is set to impose a nationwide ban on plastic bags, cups and straws on October 2, officials said, in its most sweeping measure yet to stamp out single-use plastics from cities and villages that rank among the world's most polluted.

India is set to impose a nationwide ban on plastic bags, cups and straws on October 2, officials said, in its most sweeping measure yet to stamp out single-use plastics from cities and villages that rank among the world's most polluted. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is leading efforts to scrap such plastics by 2022, is set to launch the campaign with a ban on as many as six items on October 2, the birth anniversary of independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, two officials said. These include plastic bags, cups, plates, small bottles, straws and certain types of sachets, said the officials, who asked not to be identified, in line with government policy. "The ban will be comprehensive and will cover manufacturing, usage and import of such items," one official said. India's environment and housing ministries, the two main ministries leading the drive, did not respond to emails from Reuters to seek comment. In an Independence Day speech on August 15, Modi had urged people and government agencies to "take the first big step" on October 2 towards freeing India of single-use plastic. Concerns are growing worldwide about plastic pollution, with a particular focus on the oceans, where nearly 50 per cent of single-use plastic products end up, killing marine life and entering the human food chain, studies show. The European Union plans to ban single-use plastic items such as straws, forks, knives and cotton buds by 2021. China's commercial hub of Shanghai is gradually reining in use of single-use plastics in catering, and its island province of Hainan has already vowed to completely eliminate single-use plastic by 2025. India lacks an organised system for management of plastic waste, leading to widespread littering across its towns and cities. The ban on the first six items of single-use plastics will clip 5 per cent to 10 per cent from India's annual consumption of about 14 million tonnes of plastic, the first official said. Penalties for violations of the ban will probably take effect after an initial six-month period to allow people time to adopt alternatives, officials said. Some Indian states have already outlawed polythene bags. The federal government also plans tougher environmental standards for plastic products and will insist on the use of recyclable plastic only, the first source said. It will also ask e-commerce companies to cut back on plastic packaging that makes up nearly 40 per cent of India's annual plastic consumption, officials say. Cheap smartphones and a surge in the number of internet users have boosted orders for e-commerce companies, such as Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Inc's Flipkart, which wrap their wares - from books and medicines to cigarettes and cosmetics - in plastic, pushing up consumption.

India set to outlaw six single-use plastic products on October 2: Sources

In a tacit deterrence to Pakistan against any misadventure or war, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu while speaking at an event in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday said that India will not attack anybody but if someone attacks India, it will give a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime.

"Why is the acquisition of all these weapons and technologies? Why DRDO? Why Navy, Army and other Defence forces. It`s because others attack us. All Tom, Dick and Harry attack us. We will not attack anybody, I can assure you but if anybody attacks us, we will give them a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime," said Venkaiah Naidu.

"We are not war-mongers but are peace-loving citizens. We know peace is the prerequisite for progress. If there is tension you cannot have the attention. We are aware of it but if somebody wants to create tension and one of our neighbour is aiding, abetting, funding, training terrorists continuously without realising the damage they are doing to humanity and damage they are doing to themselves in the coming future. We do not want to interfere in anybody`s internal affairs we also want others to not interfere in our internal matter," said Naidu in reference to Jammu and Kashmir.

"What is there to discuss about Kashmir. Kashmir is an integral part of India. From 1954 onwards elections are held, Chief Ministers are elected, there is elected governments at the state, Member of Parliaments are elected. What remains to be discussed is PoK that they should handover," said Naidu.

While speaking in Islamabad on Monday, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan is ready for every kind of war, in the wake of simmering tensions in the region over India`s historic move to withdraw the special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

In a tacit deterrence to Pakistan against any misadventure or war, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu while speaking at an event in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday said that India will not attack anybody but if someone attacks India, it will give a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime.

In a tacit deterrence to Pakistan against any misadventure or war, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu while speaking at an event in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday said that India will not attack anybody but if someone attacks India, it will give a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime. "Why is the acquisition of all these weapons and technologies? Why DRDO? Why Navy, Army and other Defence forces. It`s because others attack us. All Tom, Dick and Harry attack us. We will not attack anybody, I can assure you but if anybody attacks us, we will give them a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime," said Venkaiah Naidu. "We are not war-mongers but are peace-loving citizens. We know peace is the prerequisite for progress. If there is tension you cannot have the attention. We are aware of it but if somebody wants to create tension and one of our neighbour is aiding, abetting, funding, training terrorists continuously without realising the damage they are doing to humanity and damage they are doing to themselves in the coming future. We do not want to interfere in anybody`s internal affairs we also want others to not interfere in our internal matter," said Naidu in reference to Jammu and Kashmir. "What is there to discuss about Kashmir. Kashmir is an integral part of India. From 1954 onwards elections are held, Chief Ministers are elected, there is elected governments at the state, Member of Parliaments are elected. What remains to be discussed is PoK that they should handover," said Naidu. While speaking in Islamabad on Monday, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan is ready for every kind of war, in the wake of simmering tensions in the region over India`s historic move to withdraw the special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

If anybody attacks us, we will give them reply they won't forget in lifetime: Venkaiah Naidu

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mayawati-bats-for-strong-laws-to-curb-mob-lynching-246180">BSP chief Mayawati </a>was on Wednesday unanimously re-elected as the national president of the party at a special meeting in Lucknow.

Senior office-bearers of the party`s central executive committee, state party units and party representatives from all over the country were present at the meeting.

The main agenda of the meeting, held at the BSP office in Lucknow, was the election of party chief in accordance with the party constitution.&nbsp;

After completion of various formalities, it was announced that Mayawati has been unanimously re-elected as party chief.&nbsp;

Mayawati has been a four-time Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and a member of both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.

BSP chief Mayawati was on Wednesday unanimously re-elected as the national president of the party at a special meeting in Lucknow. Senior office-bearers of the party`s central executive committee, state party units and party representatives from all over the country were present at the meeting.

BSP chief Mayawati was on Wednesday unanimously re-elected as the national president of the party at a special meeting in Lucknow. Senior office-bearers of the party`s central executive committee, state party units and party representatives from all over the country were present at the meeting. The main agenda of the meeting, held at the BSP office in Lucknow, was the election of party chief in accordance with the party constitution. After completion of various formalities, it was announced that Mayawati has been unanimously re-elected as party chief. Mayawati has been a four-time Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and a member of both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.

Mayawati re-elected as Bahujan Samaj Party chief

<div class="content" itemprop="articleBody">
Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday called for redrawing the Indian map which shows not only <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-has-been-changing-demography-of-pok-gilgit-baltistan-activists-240014">Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK)</a> as its territory but also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gilgit-baltistan-in-open-letter-says-pakistan-only-an-assumed-supervisor-236089">Gilgit-Baltistan</a>.

"When we speak of our boundaries, they are not our boundaries. We have boundaries far beyond them. I say when we redraw Indian map, we should include not just PoK but also Gilgit-Baltistan," he said during an event in Delhi.

Listing out schemes and infrastructure projects implemented by the Centre in the border villages of Jammu and Kashmir, the minister said that he would want to bring in people of 'opposite ideology' and debate with them.

"It is a matter of research why these people curse the Army that protects them. Today, we are in a position to question them... Why should we waste our resources on protection of those who are enemies of the nation," asked Singh.

Giving a blueprint of how to ensure that local residents of the border areas who are considered the first line of defence stay intact, RSS Sah Sarkaryavah Krishna Gopal said the onus of this lies on those living in the cities.

"The onus to ensure that the first line of defence of boundaries -- the locals -- remain intact lies on the rest of India. You need to ensure you visit them and provide your services. The government cannot do it alone," said the senior RSS functionary.

The RSS is rooting for a strong bond with the bordering regions of the country, asking citizens to visit these areas regularly and be vigilant as the government alone cannot be tasked with protecting national sovereignty.

Gopal said the people from the rest of the country need to provide their services to them even if they do not ask for. "Treat these 11,000 villages as pilgrimages, donate and serve, they will be yours," he said.
</div>

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday called for redrawing the Indian map which shows not only Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) as its territory but also Gilgit-Baltistan.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday called for redrawing the Indian map which shows not only Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) as its territory but also Gilgit-Baltistan. "When we speak of our boundaries, they are not our boundaries. We have boundaries far beyond them. I say when we redraw Indian map, we should include not just PoK but also Gilgit-Baltistan," he said during an event in Delhi. Listing out schemes and infrastructure projects implemented by the Centre in the border villages of Jammu and Kashmir, the minister said that he would want to bring in people of 'opposite ideology' and debate with them. "It is a matter of research why these people curse the Army that protects them. Today, we are in a position to question them... Why should we waste our resources on protection of those who are enemies of the nation," asked Singh. Giving a blueprint of how to ensure that local residents of the border areas who are considered the first line of defence stay intact, RSS Sah Sarkaryavah Krishna Gopal said the onus of this lies on those living in the cities. "The onus to ensure that the first line of defence of boundaries -- the locals -- remain intact lies on the rest of India. You need to ensure you visit them and provide your services. The government cannot do it alone," said the senior RSS functionary. The RSS is rooting for a strong bond with the bordering regions of the country, asking citizens to visit these areas regularly and be vigilant as the government alone cannot be tasked with protecting national sovereignty. Gopal said the people from the rest of the country need to provide their services to them even if they do not ask for. "Treat these 11,000 villages as pilgrimages, donate and serve, they will be yours," he said.

Redraw Indian map with PoK, Gilgit-Baltistan: Union Minister Jitendra Singh

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the aim of making India a 5 trillion dollar economy would only be achieved if country's national security remains intact.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to make 5 trillion economy. For this, the security of the country is very important. There is a need to maintain internal and external security of the country," he said while addressing the 49th foundation day celebrations of BPR&amp;D in New Delhi.

He continued, "More than 34 thousand police personnel have sacrificed their lives for maintaining internal security, Now it is important to move forward."

Speaking about police reforms, he said, "We need to bring reforms in the police force in accordance with the changing challenges. But police reform is a huge concept and therefore it needs to be redesigned by the BPR&amp;D."

"A consultation process must also start across the country for making necessary changes within the CrPC and IPC. Everyone must send their suggestions to the Home Ministry. We need to move forward in bringing changes in CrPc and IPC," he added.

He also stressed upon promoting Forensic Science universities and colleges so that culprits can be booked expeditiously.

"This will help us to provide speedy justice to victims and will also reduce the mindset of committing crimes among masses," he added.

In his concluding remark, Shah stressed that the forces must adopt scientific methods for investigations and modernisation should be carried out in a proper manner.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the aim of making India a 5 trillion dollar economy would only be achieved if country's national security remains intact.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday said that the aim of making India a 5 trillion dollar economy would only be achieved if country's national security remains intact. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to make 5 trillion economy. For this, the security of the country is very important. There is a need to maintain internal and external security of the country," he said while addressing the 49th foundation day celebrations of BPR&D in New Delhi. He continued, "More than 34 thousand police personnel have sacrificed their lives for maintaining internal security, Now it is important to move forward." Speaking about police reforms, he said, "We need to bring reforms in the police force in accordance with the changing challenges. But police reform is a huge concept and therefore it needs to be redesigned by the BPR&D." "A consultation process must also start across the country for making necessary changes within the CrPC and IPC. Everyone must send their suggestions to the Home Ministry. We need to move forward in bringing changes in CrPc and IPC," he added. He also stressed upon promoting Forensic Science universities and colleges so that culprits can be booked expeditiously. "This will help us to provide speedy justice to victims and will also reduce the mindset of committing crimes among masses," he added. In his concluding remark, Shah stressed that the forces must adopt scientific methods for investigations and modernisation should be carried out in a proper manner.

National security important to make India $5-trillion economy: Amit Shah

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) called an urgent meeting with GoAir and IndiGo airlines on Wednesday to review the performance of Airbus Neo aircraft in their fleet.

Time and again incidences of glitches have been reported, both in-air and on-ground, in the Airbus Neo aircraft used by both these budget carriers.In the meeting with the aviation watchdog, issues related to the Neo aircraft's Pratt &amp; Whitney (P&amp;W) engine are likely to be discussed. &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) called an urgent meeting with GoAir and IndiGo airlines on Wednesday to review the performance of Airbus Neo aircraft in their fleet.

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) called an urgent meeting with GoAir and IndiGo airlines on Wednesday to review the performance of Airbus Neo aircraft in their fleet. Time and again incidences of glitches have been reported, both in-air and on-ground, in the Airbus Neo aircraft used by both these budget carriers.In the meeting with the aviation watchdog, issues related to the Neo aircraft's Pratt & Whitney (P&W) engine are likely to be discussed.

DGCA meeting with GoAir and IndiGo to review performance of Airbus Neo aircraft

The Supreme Court on Wednesday decided that a Constitution Bench will hear the pleas on the issue of abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. A five-judge Constitution Bench will hear the pleas and the hearing will commence in the first week of October.

Supreme Court: J&K matter to be heard in October

After 'Statue of Unity'&nbsp;in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019'&nbsp;list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot."

"Excellent news vis-a-vis the 'Statue of Unity'- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

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Excellent news vis-à-vis the ‘Statue of Unity’- it finds a spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/TIME?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TIME</a> 100 greatest places 2019 list. 
 
And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. 
 
Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot!<a href="https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc">https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc</a> <a href="https://t.co/7xmjWCz9xo">pic.twitter.com/7xmjWCz9xo</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1166551420180545536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi had in October last year inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 'Statue of Unity'&nbsp;on the occasion his 143rd birth anniversary.

Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue occupies over 20,000 square meters and is surrounded by a 12 square km artificial lake.Besides 'Statue of Unity', Soho House Mumbai has also been included in the list.&nbsp;

Another entry from India that made to the coveted list was Soho House Mumbai. Soho House was rated one of the best spots to stay this year according to TIME Magazine. It is Asia’s first Soho House.

After 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019' list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot.

After 'Statue of Unity' in Gujarat was included in TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places of 2019' list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he is glad that it is emerging as a "popular tourist spot." "Excellent news vis-a-vis the 'Statue of Unity'- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot," Prime Minister Modi tweeted. Excellent news vis-à-vis the ‘Statue of Unity’- it finds a spot in the @TIME 100 greatest places 2019 list. And, a few days back, a record 34,000 people visited the site in a single day. Glad that it is emerging as a popular tourist spot!https://t.co/zLSNmwCKyc pic.twitter.com/7xmjWCz9xo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 28, 2019 × PM Modi had in October last year inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 'Statue of Unity' on the occasion his 143rd birth anniversary. Located on Sadhu-Bet Island, Gujarat, the 182-metre tall statue occupies over 20,000 square meters and is surrounded by a 12 square km artificial lake.Besides 'Statue of Unity', Soho House Mumbai has also been included in the list. Another entry from India that made to the coveted list was Soho House Mumbai. Soho House was rated one of the best spots to stay this year according to TIME Magazine. It is Asia’s first Soho House.

Statue of Unity finds spot on TIME magazine's 'World's 100 Greatest Places'; PM Modi elated

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Wednesday batted for strong laws to check mob lynchings and stringent actions against the accused.

Taking to Twitter, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said, "In Uttar Pradesh, mob lynching has taken a new form. Now innocent women are being targeted by the mob. There is a panic among people as women are being beaten up and killed over suspicion of being child-lifters. The state government must take strict actions against such wrongdoings."

The statement from the BSP supremo came just hours after a, a woman was also thrashed by a mob in Loni area on suspicion of her being the child-lifter.

During preliminary investigation, it was found that the victim was doing shopping with her grandson when people attacked her.

The mob attacked the woman after a fake video of her lifting a child went viral on social media platforms.

A similar incident of mob violence took place in Shamli also.

A group of five women who had come to sell their products were beaten up by the locals on suspicion of being child-lifters.

"We belong to Gujarat and had come here for business purposes. But the locals started beating us. We are not child-lifters, " one of the five women had said while speaking to ANI. 
&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Wednesday batted for strong laws to check mob lynchings and stringent actions against the accused. Taking to Twitter, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said, "In Uttar Pradesh, mob lynching has taken a new form.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Wednesday batted for strong laws to check mob lynchings and stringent actions against the accused. Taking to Twitter, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister said, "In Uttar Pradesh, mob lynching has taken a new form. Now innocent women are being targeted by the mob. There is a panic among people as women are being beaten up and killed over suspicion of being child-lifters. The state government must take strict actions against such wrongdoings." The statement from the BSP supremo came just hours after a, a woman was also thrashed by a mob in Loni area on suspicion of her being the child-lifter. During preliminary investigation, it was found that the victim was doing shopping with her grandson when people attacked her. The mob attacked the woman after a fake video of her lifting a child went viral on social media platforms. A similar incident of mob violence took place in Shamli also. A group of five women who had come to sell their products were beaten up by the locals on suspicion of being child-lifters. "We belong to Gujarat and had come here for business purposes. But the locals started beating us. We are not child-lifters, " one of the five women had said while speaking to ANI.

Mayawati bats for strong laws to curb mob lynching

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the registrar will look into the urgent listing of the petition filed by 15 disqualified Congress-JD(S) MLAs against their ouster under the anti-defection law from the Karnataka Assembly.

Senior advocate V Giri mentioned the matter before a bench headed by Justice NV Ramana for the urgent listing.

In the petition, the legislators of the former JD(S)-Congress coalition government sought directions to quash the order passed by former Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar rejecting their resignation and disqualifying them from the Assembly.

In the petition, the legislators termed the then Speaker's decision as "wholly illegal, arbitrary and mala fide".

The petitioners also asserted that their resignations were "voluntary and genuine".

"Not only had they themselves submitted their resignations on July 6, but also appeared in person before the Speaker and submitted their resignation afresh on July 11 in accordance with the directions of the apex court passed on the same day," the plea submitted.

The ousted legislators further contended that the former Speaker rejected their resignation on "wholly extraneous grounds".

"The Speakers'&nbsp;insistence on them attending the proceedings before him on the date of the trust vote clearly speaks volumes of the manner in which the disqualification proceedings have been conducted against them," the petition said.

They also urged the court to call for the records of the proceedings before the then Speaker pertaining to the resignation and disqualification.

Kumar had disqualified 17 rebel MLAs, days after the Congress-JD(S) government collapsed after losing the confidence motion in the Assembly.

The leaders were disqualified by the Speaker, stating that they have "incurred disqualification under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution (anti-defection law) and the disqualification would last till the end of the term of the Assembly May 23, 2023."&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the registrar will look into the urgent listing of the petition filed by 15 disqualified Congress-JD(S) MLAs against their ouster under the anti-defection law from the Karnataka Assembly.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said that the registrar will look into the urgent listing of the petition filed by 15 disqualified Congress-JD(S) MLAs against their ouster under the anti-defection law from the Karnataka Assembly. Senior advocate V Giri mentioned the matter before a bench headed by Justice NV Ramana for the urgent listing. In the petition, the legislators of the former JD(S)-Congress coalition government sought directions to quash the order passed by former Karnataka Assembly Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar rejecting their resignation and disqualifying them from the Assembly. In the petition, the legislators termed the then Speaker's decision as "wholly illegal, arbitrary and mala fide". The petitioners also asserted that their resignations were "voluntary and genuine". "Not only had they themselves submitted their resignations on July 6, but also appeared in person before the Speaker and submitted their resignation afresh on July 11 in accordance with the directions of the apex court passed on the same day," the plea submitted. The ousted legislators further contended that the former Speaker rejected their resignation on "wholly extraneous grounds". "The Speakers' insistence on them attending the proceedings before him on the date of the trust vote clearly speaks volumes of the manner in which the disqualification proceedings have been conducted against them," the petition said. They also urged the court to call for the records of the proceedings before the then Speaker pertaining to the resignation and disqualification. Kumar had disqualified 17 rebel MLAs, days after the Congress-JD(S) government collapsed after losing the confidence motion in the Assembly. The leaders were disqualified by the Speaker, stating that they have "incurred disqualification under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution (anti-defection law) and the disqualification would last till the end of the term of the Assembly May 23, 2023."

Supreme Court to look into plea filed by disqualified Karnataka MLAs against their ouster

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday visited the residence of late Arun Jaitley to pay tribute to the former Finance Minister and meet his family.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah was also present.

Here, the Prime Minister met Jaitley's wife Sangeeta Jaitley and their children.

The Prime Minister could not attend the funeral of the former finance minister as he was away from the country on a three-nation visit to France-UAE-Bahrain.

He had, however, spoken to Jaitley's family following the news of his demise and expressed his condolences.

Jaitley passed away in New Delhi at the AIIMS hospital on August 24. He was 66.

A four-time member of Rajya Sabha, he became a Cabinet minister in the government of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000.

He was Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from June 2009 to 2014.

Jaitley was Finance and Corporate Affairs minister in the first term of Modi government and also held portfolios of Defence and Information and Broadcasting.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday visited the residence of late Arun Jaitley to pay tribute to the former Finance Minister and meet his family. Union Home Minister Amit Shah was also present.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday visited the residence of late Arun Jaitley to pay tribute to the former Finance Minister and meet his family. Union Home Minister Amit Shah was also present. Here, the Prime Minister met Jaitley's wife Sangeeta Jaitley and their children. The Prime Minister could not attend the funeral of the former finance minister as he was away from the country on a three-nation visit to France-UAE-Bahrain. He had, however, spoken to Jaitley's family following the news of his demise and expressed his condolences. Jaitley passed away in New Delhi at the AIIMS hospital on August 24. He was 66. A four-time member of Rajya Sabha, he became a Cabinet minister in the government of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2000. He was Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from June 2009 to 2014. Jaitley was Finance and Corporate Affairs minister in the first term of Modi government and also held portfolios of Defence and Information and Broadcasting.

PM Modi pays tribute to Arun Jaitley at his residence

Heavy ceasefire violation was reported from two locations in Poonch on Monday, Indian Army sources said.

In general area of Delina Chowk, a terrorist was apprehended after a joint check-post manned by police and Army drew fire from a truck.

Another terrorist entered a nearby locality, sources added.One AK 47 and one pistol were recovered.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have stated that one of the two persons who were abducted by terrorists in Tral, yesterday, has been shot dead.

Search for the other person is underway.

Moreover, sources said that one truck driver was targeted and killed in Bijbehara in Anantnag district by stone-pelting criminals.

Two individuals also injured in Pampore and Hawal, Srinagar by similar mob.&nbsp;

Heavy ceasefire violation was reported from two locations in Poonch on Monday, Indian Army sources said. In general area of Delina Chowk, a terrorist was apprehended after a joint check-post manned by police and Army drew fire from a truck.

Heavy ceasefire violation was reported from two locations in Poonch on Monday, Indian Army sources said. In general area of Delina Chowk, a terrorist was apprehended after a joint check-post manned by police and Army drew fire from a truck. Another terrorist entered a nearby locality, sources added.One AK 47 and one pistol were recovered. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have stated that one of the two persons who were abducted by terrorists in Tral, yesterday, has been shot dead. Search for the other person is underway. Moreover, sources said that one truck driver was targeted and killed in Bijbehara in Anantnag district by stone-pelting criminals. Two individuals also injured in Pampore and Hawal, Srinagar by similar mob.

Heavy ceasefire violation at two locations in Poonch: Army sources

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf.&nbsp;

Both sides after holding talks starting 1:00pm on Wednesday and will hold a press conference in which important things are likely to be announced especially in convergences on regional developments.

"They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Persian Gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of Russian foreign ministry said.

The visit comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum.

"They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment, military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added.

Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was&nbsp;the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations Security Council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status&nbsp;for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The&nbsp;Russia&nbsp;ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said, "Change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the&nbsp;framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India."

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be in Moscow for a two-day visit and will hold talks with his counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday on the developing situation in Afghanistan and Iran and situation in the Gulf. Both sides after holding talks starting 1:00pm on Wednesday and will hold a press conference in which important things are likely to be announced especially in convergences on regional developments. "They will discuss... efforts to preserve the joint comprehensive plan of action on Iranian nuclear programme, developments in the Persian Gulf area and situation in Afghanistan", Maria Zakharova, spokesperson of Russian foreign ministry said. The visit comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Russia in the first week of September to participate in the Eastern Economic Forum. "They will focus on the preparations for the Indian delegation's participation in the 5th eastern economic forum and the annual summit. Important thematic sections include trade, investment, military, science and technology cooperation, the use of national currencies for mutual payments and prospective projects in space exploration and energy", Zakharova added. Moscow has supported India on Kashmir. It was the first member of the permanent five of the United Nations Security Council to back New Delhi's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Russia ministry of foreign affairs, in response to a question, said, "Change in the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and its division into two union territories are carried out within the framework of the Constitution of the Republic of India."

Foreign minister Jaishankar on two-day visit to Russia from today

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to reopen high schools from Wednesday in the areas of Kashmir where restrictions have already been lifted, an official release said.

At a joint press briefing here by Director Information and Public Relations, Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar, Director School Education Kashmir, Muhammad Younis Malik and Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar, Haseeb Mughal said that the government has decided to reopen high schools in the areas where restrictions have been removed.

Several restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir as a "precautionary measure" earlier this month when the Centre scrapped the state`s special status under Article 370 and bifurcated it into two union territories.

The government said that day time restrictions have been lifted from 81 police station areas and it would be eased out in ten more police station areas by Thursday.

"The police stations where restrictions were lifted include north Kashmir`s Hajin, Kreeri, Dangiwacha and Vilgam. In south Kashmir, the police stations include Anantnag, Kulgam, Tral and Shopian. Similarly, in central Kashmir, the police stations where restrictions have been removed include Nishat, Shergari, Beerwah and Chrar-e-Sharief," read the statement."

No major law and order incident was reported from anywhere across the Valley," it said.

The government said that the landlines are being restored in the areas where restrictions have been lifted with 15 more exchanges having been operationalised across the Valley.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to reopen high schools from Wednesday in the areas of Kashmir where restrictions have already been lifted, an official release said.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has decided to reopen high schools from Wednesday in the areas of Kashmir where restrictions have already been lifted, an official release said. At a joint press briefing here by Director Information and Public Relations, Dr Syed Sehrish Asgar, Director School Education Kashmir, Muhammad Younis Malik and Senior Superintendent of Police Srinagar, Haseeb Mughal said that the government has decided to reopen high schools in the areas where restrictions have been removed. Several restrictions were imposed in Jammu and Kashmir as a "precautionary measure" earlier this month when the Centre scrapped the state`s special status under Article 370 and bifurcated it into two union territories. The government said that day time restrictions have been lifted from 81 police station areas and it would be eased out in ten more police station areas by Thursday. "The police stations where restrictions were lifted include north Kashmir`s Hajin, Kreeri, Dangiwacha and Vilgam. In south Kashmir, the police stations include Anantnag, Kulgam, Tral and Shopian. Similarly, in central Kashmir, the police stations where restrictions have been removed include Nishat, Shergari, Beerwah and Chrar-e-Sharief," read the statement." No major law and order incident was reported from anywhere across the Valley," it said. The government said that the landlines are being restored in the areas where restrictions have been lifted with 15 more exchanges having been operationalised across the Valley.

High schools to reopen in areas where restrictions have been lifted: J&K administration

Nations can leverage India`s demographic dividend for strengthening their respective economies, said Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Mahendra Nath Pandey on Tuesday at a Ministers` Summit held during WorldSkills Competition 2019 in Kazan.

"The nations of the world can leverage from India`s demographic dividend and India`s youth can contribute to their growth and development," Union Minister Pandey said.

He also commented that it was critical for governments and industry to come together to turn skilling into a ladder for economic growth for all countries.

The Union Minister was addressing an audience comprising government representatives of 40 other countries at a Ministers` Summit organised along the sidelines of the competition.&nbsp;

"India is a young nation with a median age of 27.6 years. We will have the largest working population during 2022-2034. We have adapted global standards of skilling to strengthen the young workforce with competent skills," he said.

"We have undertaken several initiatives to provide opportunities for the workforce, including prominent international recruitments to enhance their skill level," Pandey added.

Making a strong case for India as the next skilling hub, the minister said that India has adopted accelerated modular competency-based programs aimed at enhancing the employability of youth.

"We are also laying emphasis on industry-led apprenticeship programs so youth directly entering the labour market are trained on in-house bridge courses by industry," he said.

He further stressed that a fruitful partnership between Government, industry and academia is essential to synergize the skills and zeal of the youth.&nbsp;

Nations can leverage India`s demographic dividend for strengthening their respective economies, said Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Mahendra Nath Pandey on Tuesday at a Ministers` Summit held during WorldSkills Competition 2019 in Kazan.

Nations can leverage India`s demographic dividend for strengthening their respective economies, said Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Mahendra Nath Pandey on Tuesday at a Ministers` Summit held during WorldSkills Competition 2019 in Kazan. "The nations of the world can leverage from India`s demographic dividend and India`s youth can contribute to their growth and development," Union Minister Pandey said. He also commented that it was critical for governments and industry to come together to turn skilling into a ladder for economic growth for all countries. The Union Minister was addressing an audience comprising government representatives of 40 other countries at a Ministers` Summit organised along the sidelines of the competition. "India is a young nation with a median age of 27.6 years. We will have the largest working population during 2022-2034. We have adapted global standards of skilling to strengthen the young workforce with competent skills," he said. "We have undertaken several initiatives to provide opportunities for the workforce, including prominent international recruitments to enhance their skill level," Pandey added. Making a strong case for India as the next skilling hub, the minister said that India has adopted accelerated modular competency-based programs aimed at enhancing the employability of youth. "We are also laying emphasis on industry-led apprenticeship programs so youth directly entering the labour market are trained on in-house bridge courses by industry," he said. He further stressed that a fruitful partnership between Government, industry and academia is essential to synergize the skills and zeal of the youth.

World can leverage from India's demographic dividend: Union Minister Mahendra Nath Pandey

With curtains down on the G7 Summit where PM Modi held 6 bilaterals, the focus now shifts to Russia where he will visit next week for annual India-Russia Summit and the Eastern Economic Forum. Speaking to our principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Moscow, Indian envoy to Russia&nbsp;DB Venkatesh Varma said, New Delhi sees a&nbsp;reliable and a long term partner in Russia. He spoke at length on EAM Jaishankar and PM Modi's upcoming Russia visits.&nbsp;

WION: How do u see the ties between the two countries?

Varma: The special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia is now poised for a new leap forward. Today we start the visit of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for talks with his counterpart Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. There have been a series of high-level contacts between India and Russia &nbsp;- visits of two deputy Prime Ministers of Russia to India and the visit of NSA Doval to Moscow. Oil minister&nbsp;Dharmendra Pradhan will also visit by the end of the month. Huge delegations, probably the largest Indian delegations visited Russia under the leadership of Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and visits of four chief ministers to Vladivostok to prepare for the visit of PM Modi in early September. This has been a summer of intense activity in India-Russia relationship.

WION: What will be the focus of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit?

Varma: The primary purpose of Dr Jaishankar's visit is to finalise the preparations for PM Modi's visit to Vladivostok where we will also have the 20th annual summit between PM Modi and President of Russia Vladimir Putin. Our PM will be the chief guest at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on September 5.

Our EAM's visit is intended to tie up preparations for the visit. This is the first visit of our EAM after taking charge and we will, therefore, have the opportunity to go through the entire gamut of bilateral, regional and international regions. We have a long tradition of talking to Russia, discussing the issue which is of interest to us. Russia increasingly looks at India as a partner not just in regional context but also as a global player. Russia has traditionally been a global player and that will be the focus of our discussions. Naturally, our cooperation in BRICS and SCO, both of which will be led by Russia next year and the RIC, is a matter of high priority for the Russian side.&nbsp;When India and Russia talk, common ground generally expand much more than we had in the past and we expect the same result from Dr Jaishankar's visit to Moscow.

WION: Will Afghanistan be discussed?

Varma:&nbsp;&nbsp;In the regional context, in terms of Afghanistan, it is a matter that will be addressed in considerable detail between India and Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;As you know, talks in Doha are coming to a near conclusion and the outcome is of interest to India and Russia. We will exchange notes, we have a common interest, we would like Afghanistan to be a country, stable, peaceful and meet the interest of the Afghan people. We would like a peace process, that is Afghan-led and Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled and we do hope gains that have been made in last 18 years will be preserved and we look forward to consolidating our relationship with Afghanistan, keeping this mind.

WION: How does New Delhi see Moscow?

Varma: New Delhi's view of Moscow is that our relationship with Russia remains one of the most important relationships in a fast-changing world. We see Russia as a partner, a very reliable partner, a long term partner and that is also reflected in the relationship between PM Modi and President Putin.&nbsp;

The two leaders have met on several occasions. This will be the bilateral summit in Vladivostok but they met in Osaka and Bishkek and on each occasion, our agenda for bilateral cooperation on regional and international cooperation has only expanded. Therefore, India and Russia are poised on a new trajectory of growth and we are very confident that Vladivostok bilateral summit will not only result in consolidating traditional pillars of cooperation between India and Russia &nbsp;- which is in the field of defence, nuclear, space and energy - but add to these traditional pillars. We will add new pillars of cooperation which will give a boosted momentum to our relations by including interregional cooperation.&nbsp;

We see commonalities in terms of economic cooperation, in terms of investments. You can expect some major announcements on how India-Russia relations will be diversified and cooperation in Russian far east will be a major component of that diversification.&nbsp; 
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With curtains down on the G7 Summit where PM Modi held 6 bilaterals, the focus now shifts to Russia where he will visit next week for annual India-Russia Summit and the Eastern Economic Forum.

With curtains down on the G7 Summit where PM Modi held 6 bilaterals, the focus now shifts to Russia where he will visit next week for annual India-Russia Summit and the Eastern Economic Forum. Speaking to our principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Moscow, Indian envoy to Russia DB Venkatesh Varma said, New Delhi sees a reliable and a long term partner in Russia. He spoke at length on EAM Jaishankar and PM Modi's upcoming Russia visits. WION: How do u see the ties between the two countries? Varma: The special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia is now poised for a new leap forward. Today we start the visit of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for talks with his counterpart Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov. There have been a series of high-level contacts between India and Russia - visits of two deputy Prime Ministers of Russia to India and the visit of NSA Doval to Moscow. Oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan will also visit by the end of the month. Huge delegations, probably the largest Indian delegations visited Russia under the leadership of Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and visits of four chief ministers to Vladivostok to prepare for the visit of PM Modi in early September. This has been a summer of intense activity in India-Russia relationship. WION: What will be the focus of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit? Varma: The primary purpose of Dr Jaishankar's visit is to finalise the preparations for PM Modi's visit to Vladivostok where we will also have the 20th annual summit between PM Modi and President of Russia Vladimir Putin. Our PM will be the chief guest at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on September 5. Our EAM's visit is intended to tie up preparations for the visit. This is the first visit of our EAM after taking charge and we will, therefore, have the opportunity to go through the entire gamut of bilateral, regional and international regions. We have a long tradition of talking to Russia, discussing the issue which is of interest to us. Russia increasingly looks at India as a partner not just in regional context but also as a global player. Russia has traditionally been a global player and that will be the focus of our discussions. Naturally, our cooperation in BRICS and SCO, both of which will be led by Russia next year and the RIC, is a matter of high priority for the Russian side. When India and Russia talk, common ground generally expand much more than we had in the past and we expect the same result from Dr Jaishankar's visit to Moscow. WION: Will Afghanistan be discussed? Varma: In the regional context, in terms of Afghanistan, it is a matter that will be addressed in considerable detail between India and Russia. As you know, talks in Doha are coming to a near conclusion and the outcome is of interest to India and Russia. We will exchange notes, we have a common interest, we would like Afghanistan to be a country, stable, peaceful and meet the interest of the Afghan people. We would like a peace process, that is Afghan-led and Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled and we do hope gains that have been made in last 18 years will be preserved and we look forward to consolidating our relationship with Afghanistan, keeping this mind. WION: How does New Delhi see Moscow? Varma: New Delhi's view of Moscow is that our relationship with Russia remains one of the most important relationships in a fast-changing world. We see Russia as a partner, a very reliable partner, a long term partner and that is also reflected in the relationship between PM Modi and President Putin. The two leaders have met on several occasions. This will be the bilateral summit in Vladivostok but they met in Osaka and Bishkek and on each occasion, our agenda for bilateral cooperation on regional and international cooperation has only expanded. Therefore, India and Russia are poised on a new trajectory of growth and we are very confident that Vladivostok bilateral summit will not only result in consolidating traditional pillars of cooperation between India and Russia - which is in the field of defence, nuclear, space and energy - but add to these traditional pillars. We will add new pillars of cooperation which will give a boosted momentum to our relations by including interregional cooperation. We see commonalities in terms of economic cooperation, in terms of investments. You can expect some major announcements on how India-Russia relations will be diversified and cooperation in Russian far east will be a major component of that diversification.

Russia is a long-term reliable partner: India

Underlining that desertification is a worldwide problem, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that India will aim to convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land by 2030.

The minister made the comments ahead of the 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) which is slated to be held from September 2-13 in Greater Noida.

"Desertification is a worldwide problem directly affecting 250 million people and a third of the earth`s land surface. To fight this menace, India will convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land in the next 10 years. It will implement provisions of New Delhi Declaration which is to be adopted at the end of the conference," Javadekar told reporters in Delhi.

He said that a Centre for Excellence will be established at Dehradun.The minister also expressed India`s continued commitment to stay on track on a sustainable path to land use and land management.

"It is our collective responsibility to do our duty towards protecting the environment and ensuring that there is no harmful impact on it," Javadekar said.

Elaborating further on India`s key role as the President of UNCCD COP for the next two years, the minister said, "It is the common resolve of the world to combat desertification and India will lead from the front and move the world in a positive direction, taking into cognisance the support of other countries."

Delegates from 196 countries comprising of scientists and representatives of national and local governments, global business leaders, NGOs, gender-based organisations, youth groups, journalists, and faith and community groups will present and share their expertise and give an overview to achieve their goals at the 12-day event. 
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Underlining that desertification is a worldwide problem, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that India will aim to convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land by 2030.

Underlining that desertification is a worldwide problem, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday said that India will aim to convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land by 2030. The minister made the comments ahead of the 14th Conference of Parties (COP14) to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) which is slated to be held from September 2-13 in Greater Noida. "Desertification is a worldwide problem directly affecting 250 million people and a third of the earth`s land surface. To fight this menace, India will convert degraded land of nearly 50 lakh hectares to fertile land in the next 10 years. It will implement provisions of New Delhi Declaration which is to be adopted at the end of the conference," Javadekar told reporters in Delhi. He said that a Centre for Excellence will be established at Dehradun.The minister also expressed India`s continued commitment to stay on track on a sustainable path to land use and land management. "It is our collective responsibility to do our duty towards protecting the environment and ensuring that there is no harmful impact on it," Javadekar said. Elaborating further on India`s key role as the President of UNCCD COP for the next two years, the minister said, "It is the common resolve of the world to combat desertification and India will lead from the front and move the world in a positive direction, taking into cognisance the support of other countries." Delegates from 196 countries comprising of scientists and representatives of national and local governments, global business leaders, NGOs, gender-based organisations, youth groups, journalists, and faith and community groups will present and share their expertise and give an overview to achieve their goals at the 12-day event.

India pledges to restore 50 lakh hectares of degraded land by 2030: Javadekar

In order to help entrepreneurs to carry out their business, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said she has directed the tax administrators to be restraint in the tax collection process and also asked them to understand the businesses.

"Deadlines regarding tax collection, which have been given in consultation with all authorities, are all not impossible but are achievable deadlines. Therefore, my request was not to overreach, not to overstate themselves in the collection process. It is achievable if they are able to go with a bit of restraint," she told reporters here.

The minister said that tax administrators should facilitate businesses, which essentially create jobs.

"Whatever be the size small, medium, micro, nano or large entrepreneurs of this country, we want them to carry out their business without a worry... So that everyone carries on with their business, which essentially creates jobs," she said.

"It is important that tax administrators do their job of tax collection and enforcement of tax rules. They also need to understand businesses and ways to facilitate these as well," she said.&nbsp; 
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In order to help entrepreneurs to carry out their business, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said she has directed the tax administrators to be restraint in the tax collection process and also asked them to understand the businesses.

In order to help entrepreneurs to carry out their business, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday said she has directed the tax administrators to be restraint in the tax collection process and also asked them to understand the businesses. "Deadlines regarding tax collection, which have been given in consultation with all authorities, are all not impossible but are achievable deadlines. Therefore, my request was not to overreach, not to overstate themselves in the collection process. It is achievable if they are able to go with a bit of restraint," she told reporters here. The minister said that tax administrators should facilitate businesses, which essentially create jobs. "Whatever be the size small, medium, micro, nano or large entrepreneurs of this country, we want them to carry out their business without a worry... So that everyone carries on with their business, which essentially creates jobs," she said. "It is important that tax administrators do their job of tax collection and enforcement of tax rules. They also need to understand businesses and ways to facilitate these as well," she said.

Sitharaman gives mantra of restraint to tax collectors but says deadlines are realistic

How China, Pak arms deal is changing military dynamics in South Asia

1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the surplus transfer of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the central government. Out of the total sum, Rs 1,23,414 crore was the surplus from the year 2018-2019 and Rs 52, 637 was from the surplus reserves, identified by the committee as per the revised Economic Capital Framework (ECF).

2. The amount is more than 300 per cent of what was transferred last year. The central bank had transferred Rs 50,000 crore in 2017-18

3.&nbsp;Rs 28,000 crore has already been paid as an interim dividend in the previous financial year. Thus, Rs 95000 crore remains to be transferred this fiscal.

4. In simple terms, RBI is sharing a one-time profit with the Indian government. The RBI earns profits through various means including interest on securities held and currency swaps i.e when one nation's currency is used in place of the dollar by another country. Here the RBI provides the Indian Rupee to be used as swap against foreign currencies

5. The top bank's decision is in line with the recommendations of the Bimal Jalan Committee. The committee, in December 2018, tried to find out if the central bank has excess reserves that can be transferred to the Indian government. The committee made observation that economic capital should be between 20 to 24.5 per cent of RBI balance sheet. It was 23.3 per cent in June 2019 proving that RBI was one of the most resilient central banks when it comes to the economic capital or keeping reserves

6. According to the RBI Act, the central government may give such directions to the central bank in the public interest, after consultation with the Governor of the bank. Subject to any such directions, the general superintendence and direction of the affairs and business of the Bank shall be entrusted to a Central Board of Directors which may exercise all powers and do all acts and things which may be exercised or done by the Bank

7. The Indian government can use this surplus money in many ways including maintaining a fiscal deficit target of 3 per cent of GDP. The 'windfall' can also be used to solve the liquidity crisis behind the current slowdown. Also, the government can increase public investments on welfare schemes and infrastructure development. Government-owned banks can be recapitalised and the excess money can also compensate the government for the low GST collections this year. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the surplus transfer of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the central government. Out of the total sum, Rs 1,23,414 crore was the surplus from the year 2018-2019 and Rs 52, 637 was from the surplus reserves, identified by the committee as per the revised Economic Capital Framework (ECF).

1. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the surplus transfer of Rs 1,76,051 crore to the central government. Out of the total sum, Rs 1,23,414 crore was the surplus from the year 2018-2019 and Rs 52, 637 was from the surplus reserves, identified by the committee as per the revised Economic Capital Framework (ECF). 2. The amount is more than 300 per cent of what was transferred last year. The central bank had transferred Rs 50,000 crore in 2017-18 3. Rs 28,000 crore has already been paid as an interim dividend in the previous financial year. Thus, Rs 95000 crore remains to be transferred this fiscal. 4. In simple terms, RBI is sharing a one-time profit with the Indian government. The RBI earns profits through various means including interest on securities held and currency swaps i.e when one nation's currency is used in place of the dollar by another country. Here the RBI provides the Indian Rupee to be used as swap against foreign currencies 5. The top bank's decision is in line with the recommendations of the Bimal Jalan Committee. The committee, in December 2018, tried to find out if the central bank has excess reserves that can be transferred to the Indian government. The committee made observation that economic capital should be between 20 to 24.5 per cent of RBI balance sheet. It was 23.3 per cent in June 2019 proving that RBI was one of the most resilient central banks when it comes to the economic capital or keeping reserves 6. According to the RBI Act, the central government may give such directions to the central bank in the public interest, after consultation with the Governor of the bank. Subject to any such directions, the general superintendence and direction of the affairs and business of the Bank shall be entrusted to a Central Board of Directors which may exercise all powers and do all acts and things which may be exercised or done by the Bank 7. The Indian government can use this surplus money in many ways including maintaining a fiscal deficit target of 3 per cent of GDP. The 'windfall' can also be used to solve the liquidity crisis behind the current slowdown. Also, the government can increase public investments on welfare schemes and infrastructure development. Government-owned banks can be recapitalised and the excess money can also compensate the government for the low GST collections this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Reserve Bank of India to transfer surplus of Rs 1.76 lakh crore to government: Key points

India and the US discussed regional maritime security issues during the fourth round of the India-US Maritime Security Dialogue held on August 23, the External Affairs Ministry said on Tuesday.

A ministry release said that the meeting was held in Monterey, California.

The Indian delegation was led by Indra Mani Pandey, Additional Secretary (Disarmament and International Security Affairs) in the External Affairs Ministry, and Richa Misra, Joint Secretary (Navy), Ministry of Defence.

Ambassador Alice Wells, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Department of State, and Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs led the US delegation.

"During the dialogue, the two sides discussed regional maritime security issues and exchanged views on ways to further strengthen bilateral maritime security cooperation," the release said.

The two sides also reviewed the implementation of the decisions taken during the earlier three rounds of maritime security dialogue.

It was agreed to hold the next round of the dialogue in India on a mutually convenient date.&nbsp;

India and the US discussed regional maritime security issues during the fourth round of the India-US Maritime Security Dialogue held on August 23, the External Affairs Ministry said on Tuesday.

India and the US discussed regional maritime security issues during the fourth round of the India-US Maritime Security Dialogue held on August 23, the External Affairs Ministry said on Tuesday. A ministry release said that the meeting was held in Monterey, California. The Indian delegation was led by Indra Mani Pandey, Additional Secretary (Disarmament and International Security Affairs) in the External Affairs Ministry, and Richa Misra, Joint Secretary (Navy), Ministry of Defence. Ambassador Alice Wells, Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Department of State, and Randall Schriver, Assistant Secretary of Defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs led the US delegation. "During the dialogue, the two sides discussed regional maritime security issues and exchanged views on ways to further strengthen bilateral maritime security cooperation," the release said. The two sides also reviewed the implementation of the decisions taken during the earlier three rounds of maritime security dialogue. It was agreed to hold the next round of the dialogue in India on a mutually convenient date.

India, US discuss regional maritime security issues

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday moved into the residence of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at 6A, Krishna Menon Marg in the national capital.

Shah was earlier staying at 11, Akbar Road residence.

The Home Minister was allotted Vajpayee`s bungalow after the BJP stormed back into power for a second successive time in the Lok Sabha elections.

The Krishna Menon Marg residence was lying vacant following Vajpayee`s demise last year. The house-warming ceremony had been conducted on August 15.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday moved into the residence of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at 6A, Krishna Menon Marg in the national capital.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday moved into the residence of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at 6A, Krishna Menon Marg in the national capital. Shah was earlier staying at 11, Akbar Road residence. The Home Minister was allotted Vajpayee`s bungalow after the BJP stormed back into power for a second successive time in the Lok Sabha elections. The Krishna Menon Marg residence was lying vacant following Vajpayee`s demise last year. The house-warming ceremony had been conducted on August 15.

Amit Shah shifts to late prime minister Vajpayee's residence

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