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Supreme Court of India on Monday dismissed the anticipatory <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inx-media-case-cbi-court-orders-5-day-custody-for-chidambaram-244846">bail plea</a> of former finance minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/p-chidambaram-sent-to-cbi-custody-till-26-august-244935">P Chidambaram</a> in the INX Media money laundering case.&nbsp;

He was arrested by CBI officials amidst high drama last week from his residence in New Delhi.

A bench of Justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna said the petition has become 'infructuous' as he was arrested on August 21.

Watch: Former finance minister P Chidambaram arrested

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The apex court, however, asked him to move a regular bail plea before the appropriate court.

The Delhi High Court had on August 20 rejected Chidambaram`s anticipatory bail plea in the INX media case.

On August 21, he moved the Supreme Court and challenged Delhi High Court order but could not get an urgent hearing on the plea.

Chidambaram was arrested on August 21 and presented before a trial court, which remanded him to CBI custody till August 26.

The Enforcement Directorate and the CBI are probing how Chidambaram`s son Karti Chidambaram got the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance in 2007 when his father was the Finance Minister.

Karti Chidambaram was arrested on February 28, 2018, by the CBI for allegedly accepting money to facilitate the FIPB clearance to INX Media. He was later granted bail.

(With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court of India on Monday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of former finance minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media money laundering case. He was arrested by CBI officials amidst high drama last week from his residence in New Delhi.

Supreme Court of India on Monday dismissed the anticipatory bail plea of former finance minister P Chidambaram in the INX Media money laundering case. He was arrested by CBI officials amidst high drama last week from his residence in New Delhi. A bench of Justices R Banumathi and A S Bopanna said the petition has become 'infructuous' as he was arrested on August 21. Watch: Former finance minister P Chidambaram arrested × The apex court, however, asked him to move a regular bail plea before the appropriate court. The Delhi High Court had on August 20 rejected Chidambaram`s anticipatory bail plea in the INX media case. On August 21, he moved the Supreme Court and challenged Delhi High Court order but could not get an urgent hearing on the plea. Chidambaram was arrested on August 21 and presented before a trial court, which remanded him to CBI custody till August 26. The Enforcement Directorate and the CBI are probing how Chidambaram`s son Karti Chidambaram got the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) clearance in 2007 when his father was the Finance Minister. Karti Chidambaram was arrested on February 28, 2018, by the CBI for allegedly accepting money to facilitate the FIPB clearance to INX Media. He was later granted bail. (With inputs from agencies)

INX Media case: Supreme Court dismisses Chidambaram's plea against CBI arrest

Indian PM Narendra Modi will meet US President Donald Trump at 3:45 PM IST today. PM Modi is set to hold 4 bilaterals on the sidelines of the G7 Summit today. Watch this video to know more.

India at G7 Summit after a gap of 10 years

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Leh and Ladakh on August 29.

It will be Singh's first visit after the abrogation of Article 370.

During the visit, the Defence Minister is expected to hold discussion with both locals and military officials deployed in the area, Defence officials said.

The Minister is expected to be briefed by the local military commanders about the security situation in both China as well as Pakistan border in Leh.

Rajnath Singh had visited Ladakh soon after taking over as the Defence Minister and also laid a wreath at the Siachen war memorial.

On August 5, the Central government had announced the move to abrogate Article 370 and also the bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Leh and Ladakh on August 29. It will be Singh's first visit after the abrogation of Article 370. During the visit, the Defence Minister is expected to hold discussion with both locals and military officials deployed in the area, Defence officials said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will visit Leh and Ladakh on August 29. It will be Singh's first visit after the abrogation of Article 370. During the visit, the Defence Minister is expected to hold discussion with both locals and military officials deployed in the area, Defence officials said. The Minister is expected to be briefed by the local military commanders about the security situation in both China as well as Pakistan border in Leh. Rajnath Singh had visited Ladakh soon after taking over as the Defence Minister and also laid a wreath at the Siachen war memorial. On August 5, the Central government had announced the move to abrogate Article 370 and also the bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories. (With inputs from agencies)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to visit Ladakh on August 29

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is holding an inter-state meeting on security issues with the chief ministers of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected states on Monday.

Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy and Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla are also present.

Chief Ministers of BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand Yogi Adityanath and Raghubar Das are present at the meeting along with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is also attending the meet along with his Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh counterpart Bhupesh Baghel and Kamal Nath.

According to reports, Shah is likely to share his views and plans on mitigating the Naxalite problem in the affected areas.

Officials from security agencies namely Border Security Force (BSF), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Sashastra Seema Bal(SSB) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) among others are also attending the meeting chaired by Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is holding an inter-state meeting on security issues with the chief ministers of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected states on Monday.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is holding an inter-state meeting on security issues with the chief ministers of Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected states on Monday. Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy and Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla are also present. Chief Ministers of BJP-ruled Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand Yogi Adityanath and Raghubar Das are present at the meeting along with Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is also attending the meet along with his Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh counterpart Bhupesh Baghel and Kamal Nath. According to reports, Shah is likely to share his views and plans on mitigating the Naxalite problem in the affected areas. Officials from security agencies namely Border Security Force (BSF), National Investigation Agency (NIA), Sashastra Seema Bal(SSB) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) among others are also attending the meeting chaired by Shah

How to tackle Naxalite problem: Home Minister Amit Shah holds meeting with chief ministers

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-departs-for-france-to-attend-g7-summit-245430">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Sunday offered prayers at the Shreenathji Temple in Manama, shortly before his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mann-ki-baat-pm-modi-issues-a-clarion-call-to-make-india-plastic-free-245433">departure for France</a> to attend the G7 summit.

While in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Modi had made a "special purchase" using his RuPay card to offer as Prasad in the Shreenathji Temple.

The purchase was made from what appeared to be an Indian Sweets shop in the country.

"Thank you Bahrain for the warmth and affection PM @narendramodi concludes his historic visit with prayers at the 200 years old Shreenathji Temple in #Manama, the oldest temple in the region. The temple reflects the pluralism of Bahraini society," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar wrote on Twitter.

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Thank you Bahrain for the warmth and affection 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> concludes his historic visit with prayers at the 200 years old Shreenathji Temple in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Manama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Manama</a>, the oldest temple in the region. The temple reflects the pluralism of Bahraini society. <a href="https://t.co/no1fei2UPs">pic.twitter.com/no1fei2UPs</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1165497785069834240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Prime Minister was on the last leg of his three-nation tour.&nbsp;His visit to Bahrain marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the country.

During his stay, Modi held a bilateral meeting with his Bahraini counterpart, Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, following which a string of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged in the fields of culture, space, solar energy and on the roll-out of RuPay card.

The visit to the Shreenathji Temple was the last planned engagement by the Prime Minister in Bahrain and marked the successful completion of his three nation-tour. The tour came ahead of the G7 summit in Biarritz, where India has been invited as a partner country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday offered prayers at the Shreenathji Temple in Manama, shortly before his departure for France to attend the G7 summit. While in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Modi had made a "special purchase" using his RuPay card to offer as Prasad in the Shreenathji Temple.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday offered prayers at the Shreenathji Temple in Manama, shortly before his departure for France to attend the G7 summit. While in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Modi had made a "special purchase" using his RuPay card to offer as Prasad in the Shreenathji Temple. The purchase was made from what appeared to be an Indian Sweets shop in the country. "Thank you Bahrain for the warmth and affection PM @narendramodi concludes his historic visit with prayers at the 200 years old Shreenathji Temple in #Manama, the oldest temple in the region. The temple reflects the pluralism of Bahraini society," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar wrote on Twitter. Thank you Bahrain for the warmth and affection PM @narendramodi concludes his historic visit with prayers at the 200 years old Shreenathji Temple in #Manama, the oldest temple in the region. The temple reflects the pluralism of Bahraini society. pic.twitter.com/no1fei2UPs — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) August 25, 2019 × The Prime Minister was on the last leg of his three-nation tour. His visit to Bahrain marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. During his stay, Modi held a bilateral meeting with his Bahraini counterpart, Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, following which a string of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged in the fields of culture, space, solar energy and on the roll-out of RuPay card. The visit to the Shreenathji Temple was the last planned engagement by the Prime Minister in Bahrain and marked the successful completion of his three nation-tour. The tour came ahead of the G7 summit in Biarritz, where India has been invited as a partner country.

Bahrain: PM Modi offers prayers at Shreenathji Temple in Manama

Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a clarion call to make India plastic-free as the country gears up for ''mega festival'' on October 2, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a clarion call to make India plastic-free as the country gears up for ''mega festival'' on October 2, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Addressing the nation through his monthly radio programme ''Mann Ki Baat'', Modi said the spirit of service has been an inseparable part of Mahatma Gandhi's life and added, as ''we celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's 150th anniversary we'll not only be dedicating to him an open defecation free India but also kick-starting a mass movement for making India plastic-free,'' he said. The prime minister appealed to the Indians to celebrate ''this year's Gandhi Jayanti by freeing Mother India of plastic''. As India is preparing for the mega festival on October 2 the world is talking about it, he said. Clearing the air on how Bear Grylls understood his Hindi during Man vs Wild episode, Modi said technology acted as a bridge between him and the survival instructor. ''A lot of people wanted to know how Bear Grylls understood my Hindi. People asked whether it was edited or shot multiple times,'' Modi said and added ''Technology acted as a bridge between me and him (Grylls) as a cordless device attached to his ear translated Hindi into English simultaneously''. On Aug 29, on the occasion of National Sports Day, the government will launch 'Fit India Movement' in the country, Modi said. ''I want to see you fit and make you fitness conscious,'' Modi noted.

Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi issues a clarion call to make India plastic-free

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-honours-pm-modi-with-king-hamad-order-of-the-renaissance-245393">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Sunday departed from Bahrain to France's Biarritz to attend the G7 summit.

PM Modi will participate in the G7 summit as Biarritz partner in sessions on the environment, climate, oceans and on digital transformation on August 25 and 26.

Earlier on August 22, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/climate-change-defence-and-kashmir-in-the-spotlight-as-modi-meets-macron-ahead-of-g7-summit-244916">PM Modi visited France</a> and held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron.

On the bilateral side, Modi and Macron discussed a gamut of issues.

PM&nbsp;Modi is also expected to interact with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-trump-set-to-meet-at-g7-summit-on-august-26-244877">US President Donald Trump</a> and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at G7.

It's after a gap of more than 10 years that India has been invited at the G7 summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday departed from Bahrain to France's Biarritz to attend the G7 summit. PM Modi will participate in the G7 summit as Biarritz partner in sessions on the environment, climate, oceans and on digital transformation on August 25 and 26.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday departed from Bahrain to France's Biarritz to attend the G7 summit. PM Modi will participate in the G7 summit as Biarritz partner in sessions on the environment, climate, oceans and on digital transformation on August 25 and 26. Earlier on August 22, PM Modi visited France and held bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. On the bilateral side, Modi and Macron discussed a gamut of issues. PM Modi is also expected to interact with US President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at G7. It's after a gap of more than 10 years that India has been invited at the G7 summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for France to attend G7 summit

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-passes-away-at-66-245276">Arun Jaitley's mortal remains</a> were brought to the BJP's headquarters on Sunday.

Jaitley's remains were&nbsp;brought to the BJP headquarters in Rouse Avenue from his South Delhi house in a vehicle adorned with white flowers with huge life-size portraits of the leader both at the front and back.

Several political leaders arrived at the BJP headquarters to pay their respects to the former union minister.

BJP veteran leader's mortal remains would be kept at the BJP headquarters for people to pay homage and will be cremated at Nigambodh Ghat later in the day.&nbsp;

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/last-rites-to-be-performed-today-as-arun-jaitley-aged-66-passes-away-on-saturday-245419/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-here-so-far-and-my-friend-has-gone-pm-modis-emotional-tribute-to-jaitley-in-bahrain-245387">Modi described him as a "political giant</a>, towering intellectual and legal luminary".

He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains were brought to the BJP's headquarters on Sunday. Jaitley's remains were brought to the BJP headquarters in Rouse Avenue from his South Delhi house in a vehicle adorned with white flowers with huge life-size portraits of the leader both at the front and back.

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains were brought to the BJP's headquarters on Sunday. Jaitley's remains were brought to the BJP headquarters in Rouse Avenue from his South Delhi house in a vehicle adorned with white flowers with huge life-size portraits of the leader both at the front and back. Several political leaders arrived at the BJP headquarters to pay their respects to the former union minister. BJP veteran leader's mortal remains would be kept at the BJP headquarters for people to pay homage and will be cremated at Nigambodh Ghat later in the day. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister. Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a "political giant, towering intellectual and legal luminary". He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley's mortal remains moved to BJP headquarters, several leaders arrive to pay respects

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-modi-trump-meeting-to-take-place-on-monday-in-france-245571">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> held bilateral talks with Britain's new Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-told-tusk-we-leave-european-union-on-october-31-whatever-the-circumstances-245585">Boris Johnson</a> on the sidelines of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-agree-trade-deal-in-principle-245579">G7 Summit</a> in France on Sunday. This is the first engagement between the two leaders ever since Boris Johnson took charge as the British PM. The meeting lasted for 30 minutes.

Both the leaders had a conversation last week during which PM Modi congratulated Johnson for assuming charge as the British PM.

During the same conversation, PM Modi had&nbsp;raised the issue of violent protests that took place outside the Indian Mission by Pak and Khalistani groups on India's Independence Day with the British Prime Minister.

A government readout said that Prime Minister Modi "drew attention to the challenges posed by vested interests pursuing their motivated agenda, including by violent means."

Adding, "In this context, he referred to the violence and vandalism perpetrated by a large mob against the High Commission of India in London on the last Independence Day of India."

The British Prime Minister had regretted the incident and assured the safety of the Indian Mission.

The UK also made clear that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.

A UK government release on the same read, "The Prime Minister and Prime Minister Modi discussed the current situation in Kashmir. The Prime Minister made clear that the UK views the issue of Kashmir is one for India and Pakistan to resolve bilaterally. He underlined the importance&nbsp;of resolving issues through dialogue."

The United Kingdom has also stated that it did&nbsp;not support any statement from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) during the consultative meet which was called at the behest of China on August 16 in the backdrop of India removing the special status for Jammu and Kashmir.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Britain's new Prime Minister Boris Johnson on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France on Sunday. This is the first engagement between the two leaders ever since Boris Johnson took charge as the British PM.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Britain's new Prime Minister Boris Johnson on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France on Sunday. This is the first engagement between the two leaders ever since Boris Johnson took charge as the British PM. The meeting lasted for 30 minutes. Both the leaders had a conversation last week during which PM Modi congratulated Johnson for assuming charge as the British PM. During the same conversation, PM Modi had raised the issue of violent protests that took place outside the Indian Mission by Pak and Khalistani groups on India's Independence Day with the British Prime Minister. A government readout said that Prime Minister Modi "drew attention to the challenges posed by vested interests pursuing their motivated agenda, including by violent means." Adding, "In this context, he referred to the violence and vandalism perpetrated by a large mob against the High Commission of India in London on the last Independence Day of India." The British Prime Minister had regretted the incident and assured the safety of the Indian Mission. The UK also made clear that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. A UK government release on the same read, "The Prime Minister and Prime Minister Modi discussed the current situation in Kashmir. The Prime Minister made clear that the UK views the issue of Kashmir is one for India and Pakistan to resolve bilaterally. He underlined the importance of resolving issues through dialogue." The United Kingdom has also stated that it did not support any statement from the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) during the consultative meet which was called at the behest of China on August 16 in the backdrop of India removing the special status for Jammu and Kashmir.

PM Modi meets British counterpart Boris Johnson on sidelines of G7 Summit in France

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-finance-minister-arun-jaitley-passes-away-at-66-245276">Arun Jaitley's mortal remains</a> is being taken to BJP headquarters on Sunday.

Several BJP leaders accompanied the convoy carrying Jaitley's mortal remains in a military vehicle decked with flowers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-politicians-arrive-at-jaitleys-residence-to-pay-tribute-last-rites-to-take-place-tomorrow-at-nigambodh-ghat-245311">Jaitley's last rites</a> will be held later today with full state honours at Delhi's Nigambodth Ghat.

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister.

Jaitley's mortal remains were taken to his Kailash Colony residence in Delhi from AIIMS, Delhi.

Leaders, politicians thronged the BJP's veteran's residence to pay their last respects.&nbsp;

Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-here-so-far-and-my-friend-has-gone-pm-modis-emotional-tribute-to-jaitley-in-bahrain-245387">Modi described him as a "political giant</a>, towering intellectual and legal luminary".

Jaitley held important portfolios during the first tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/last-rites-to-be-performed-today-as-arun-jaitley-aged-66-passes-away-on-saturday-245419/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

&nbsp;

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains is being taken to BJP headquarters on Sunday. Several BJP leaders accompanied the convoy carrying Jaitley's mortal remains in a military vehicle decked with flowers.

Former finance minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Arun Jaitley's mortal remains is being taken to BJP headquarters on Sunday. Several BJP leaders accompanied the convoy carrying Jaitley's mortal remains in a military vehicle decked with flowers. Jaitley's last rites will be held later today with full state honours at Delhi's Nigambodth Ghat. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) released an official statement on Saturday to confirm the sad demise of the former union minister. Jaitley's mortal remains were taken to his Kailash Colony residence in Delhi from AIIMS, Delhi. Leaders, politicians thronged the BJP's veteran's residence to pay their last respects. Condoling the demise of Jaitley, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a "political giant, towering intellectual and legal luminary". Jaitley held important portfolios during the first tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government. He was not keeping well for some time. After Modi government retained power in 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Jaitley wrote to Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not take up any responsibility in the government due to his deteriorating health condition.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley's mortal remains being taken to BJP headquarters

Former Finance Minister and Veteran BJP leader Arun Jaitley passed away on Saturday at the age of 66. Jaitley's mortal remains to be taken to BJP HQ. His last rites to be performed roughly around 2 PM today at Delhi's Nigam Bodh Ghat.

Last rites to be performed today as Arun Jaitley aged 66 passes away on Saturday

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that heavy rainfall is likely to occur at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh and East Rajasthan on Sunday.

The organisation in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin also stated that states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Telangana, Coastal Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu and Kerala are also likely to witness heavy rainfall throughout the day.

Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning very likely at isolated places over Jharkhand and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim.

Strong winds, speed reaching 45-55 kmph, are very likely to prevail over southwest Arabian Sea, southeast and central Bay of Bengal and the north Andaman Sea.

Squally weather is likely to prevail along and off Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coasts. The organisation has also advised fishermen not to venture in these areas for the next few days.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that heavy rainfall is likely to occur at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh and East Rajasthan on Sunday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that heavy rainfall is likely to occur at isolated places over West Madhya Pradesh and East Rajasthan on Sunday. The organisation in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin also stated that states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Telangana, Coastal Karnataka, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu and Kerala are also likely to witness heavy rainfall throughout the day. Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning very likely at isolated places over Jharkhand and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. Strong winds, speed reaching 45-55 kmph, are very likely to prevail over southwest Arabian Sea, southeast and central Bay of Bengal and the north Andaman Sea. Squally weather is likely to prevail along and off Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coasts. The organisation has also advised fishermen not to venture in these areas for the next few days.

Heavy rainfall alert for Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan

India and Bahrain have sent a stern message to countries supporting terrorism with the joint statement calling out countries who support terror. The statement urged countries to dismantle terror bases and reject use of it as a state policy.&nbsp;

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-pm-modi-offers-prayers-at-shreenathji-temple-in-manama-245442">Narendra Modi</a> was in Bahrain during his ongoing 3-nation tour and met the King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and PM Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

The Joint statement said, "Both sides called on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures where they happen to exist and to cut off any kind of support and financing to the terrorists perpetrating terrorism from all territories against other states and bring perpetrators of acts of terrorism to justice."

Though no names have been mentioned, the focus is clearly on Pakistan who has been supporting terrorist camps responsible for attacks in India including the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 that killed around 40 Indian security personnel.

"Both sides reaffirmed their condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of the identity of the perpetrators and their motives," the joint statement also stated.

Manama and New Delhi also agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism and the exchange of intelligence and information. They also agreed to work in the field of&nbsp;cybersecurity to restrict the use of cyberspace for terrorism and radicalisation.

On August 9, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan called Bahrain's king to brief him about India's internal decision to remove a special status for Jammu and Kashmir but he only got a muted response.

"King of Bahrain..hoped that all issues would be resolved through dialogue", a release from Pakistani PMO said. 
&nbsp; 
During PM Modi's short visit, the groundwork for RuPay card, India's answer to visa was launched with Memorandum of Understanding being signed between BENEFIT and NPCI. 
&nbsp;

India and Bahrain have sent a stern message to countries supporting terrorism with the joint statement calling out countries who support terror. The statement urged countries to dismantle terror bases and reject use of it as a state policy.

India and Bahrain have sent a stern message to countries supporting terrorism with the joint statement calling out countries who support terror. The statement urged countries to dismantle terror bases and reject use of it as a state policy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Bahrain during his ongoing 3-nation tour and met the King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and PM Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. The Joint statement said, "Both sides called on all states to reject the use of terrorism against other countries; dismantle terrorism infrastructures where they happen to exist and to cut off any kind of support and financing to the terrorists perpetrating terrorism from all territories against other states and bring perpetrators of acts of terrorism to justice." Though no names have been mentioned, the focus is clearly on Pakistan who has been supporting terrorist camps responsible for attacks in India including the Pulwama terror attack on February 14 that killed around 40 Indian security personnel. "Both sides reaffirmed their condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, regardless of the identity of the perpetrators and their motives," the joint statement also stated. Manama and New Delhi also agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of counter-terrorism and the exchange of intelligence and information. They also agreed to work in the field of cybersecurity to restrict the use of cyberspace for terrorism and radicalisation. On August 9, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan called Bahrain's king to brief him about India's internal decision to remove a special status for Jammu and Kashmir but he only got a muted response. "King of Bahrain..hoped that all issues would be resolved through dialogue", a release from Pakistani PMO said. During PM Modi's short visit, the groundwork for RuPay card, India's answer to visa was launched with Memorandum of Understanding being signed between BENEFIT and NPCI.

Bahrain, India send stern message to terror-sponsoring states

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-honours-pm-modi-with-king-hamad-order-of-the-renaissance-245393">Bahrain honours PM Modi with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance (or for Development by the King of Bahrain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bahrain-sign-4-mous-after-delegation-level-talks-245398">India, Bahrain sign four MoUs after delegation-level talks</a>

India and Bahrain on Saturday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the field of culture, space, solar energy, and on the roll-out of RuPay card, following the delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bahraini counterpart Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-police-fire-tear-gas-water-cannons-at-anti-g7-protesters-245391">French police fire tear gas, water cannons at anti-G7 protesters</a>

French riot police used water cannons and tear gas on Saturday to disperse anti-capitalism protesters in Bayonne, near the resort of Biarritz where President Emmanuel Macron and G7 nation allies were meeting for a three-day summit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-boris-johnson-to-tell-trump-to-de-escalate-trade-tensions-245399">Boris Johnson urges Trump to remove 'considerable barriers' for UK trade</a>

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday urged US President Donald Trump to remove the "considerable barriers" for UK companies seeking to export to the American market, saying they risked impeding a free-trade deal after Brexit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-new-fires-in-brazil-as-outrage-over-amazon-grows-245400">Hundreds of new fires in Brazil as outrage over Amazon grows</a>

Hundreds of new fires are raging in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, official data showed Saturday, as thousands of troops were made available to help fight the worst blazes in years following a global outcry.&nbsp;

Bahrain honours PM Modi with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance (or for Development by the King of Bahrain.

Bahrain honours PM Modi with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance (or for Development by the King of Bahrain. India, Bahrain sign four MoUs after delegation-level talks India and Bahrain on Saturday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the field of culture, space, solar energy, and on the roll-out of RuPay card, following the delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bahraini counterpart Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa. French police fire tear gas, water cannons at anti-G7 protesters French riot police used water cannons and tear gas on Saturday to disperse anti-capitalism protesters in Bayonne, near the resort of Biarritz where President Emmanuel Macron and G7 nation allies were meeting for a three-day summit. Boris Johnson urges Trump to remove 'considerable barriers' for UK trade British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Saturday urged US President Donald Trump to remove the "considerable barriers" for UK companies seeking to export to the American market, saying they risked impeding a free-trade deal after Brexit. Hundreds of new fires in Brazil as outrage over Amazon grows Hundreds of new fires are raging in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, official data showed Saturday, as thousands of troops were made available to help fight the worst blazes in years following a global outcry.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Over the weekend, two countries of the Islamic world - the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain - honoured PM Modi with their top honours. While UAE's Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred his country's highest civilian award - The Zayed Medal, Bahrain's king honoured PM Modi with '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-honours-pm-modi-with-king-hamad-order-of-the-renaissance-245393">King Hamad Order of the Renaissance</a>'.

While accepting Bahrain's award PM said, "I feel very honoured and fortunate to be awarded 'The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance'. I am equally honoured by your majesty's friendship for me and for my country. I humbly accept this prestigious honour on behalf of 1.3 billion Indians."

In all, six times countries from the Islamic world have had honoured PM Modi with their top honours.&nbsp;

The first Islamic country was Saudi Arabia in April 2016 which awarded 'King Abdulaziz Sash' award' to PM Modi. Afghanistan in June 2016 honoured PM Modi with 'Amir Amanullah Khan' award which was followed by Palestine, which conferred the 'Grand Collar of the State of Palestine' award in February 2018.

Earlier this year, the Maldives conferred ‘Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen’ to PM Modi in June 2019 which was the first foreign visit of PM Modi after taking charge in the second term.

India and the Islamic world has seen a growing engagement and strengthing of ties.&nbsp;Responding to WION on a question on ties with the&nbsp;Islamic&nbsp;world,&nbsp;TS Tirumurti, secretary economic relations, Ministry of External Affairs said,&nbsp;"Our engagement has been extremely robust and our relations with the&nbsp;Arab countries and many of the other countries are at an all-time high. There is absolutely no doubt about it, our relations with the Gulf are at an all-time high. And there is absolutely no question of the fact that we enjoy excellent relations with the&nbsp;Islamic&nbsp;world."

Two-way investment between West Asia and India has been increasing. Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia backed Saudi&nbsp;Aramco - one of the&nbsp;world's largest company by revenue and announced that it will acquire 20 per cent stake in Reliance's oil, making it India's largest foreign direct investment.&nbsp;

PM Modi has also been honoured with UN's highest environmental honour, 'Champions of the Earth' award (2018), the '2018 Seoul Peace Prize' and Russia's highest civilian award the 'Order of St Andrew the Apostle'.

Meanwhile, there has been outrage in Pakistan over PM Modi being conferred the top civilian award of the UAE. Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani, along with the parliamentary delegation, has cancelled his scheduled UAE visit in light of PM Modi visit to the UAE.

Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi reacted to the cancellation of the visit and said, while "we should respect his decision, he became too&nbsp;sentimental".

He explained,&nbsp;"the UAE is our friend and they have supported us," adding, "just one year ago they bailed us out".

Over the weekend, two countries of the Islamic world - the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain - honoured PM Modi with their top honours. While UAE's Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred his country's highest civilian award - The Zayed Medal, Bahrain's king honoured PM Modi with 'King Hamad Order of the Renaissance'.

Over the weekend, two countries of the Islamic world - the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain - honoured PM Modi with their top honours. While UAE's Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan conferred his country's highest civilian award - The Zayed Medal, Bahrain's king honoured PM Modi with 'King Hamad Order of the Renaissance'. While accepting Bahrain's award PM said, "I feel very honoured and fortunate to be awarded 'The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance'. I am equally honoured by your majesty's friendship for me and for my country. I humbly accept this prestigious honour on behalf of 1.3 billion Indians." In all, six times countries from the Islamic world have had honoured PM Modi with their top honours. The first Islamic country was Saudi Arabia in April 2016 which awarded 'King Abdulaziz Sash' award' to PM Modi. Afghanistan in June 2016 honoured PM Modi with 'Amir Amanullah Khan' award which was followed by Palestine, which conferred the 'Grand Collar of the State of Palestine' award in February 2018. Earlier this year, the Maldives conferred ‘Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen’ to PM Modi in June 2019 which was the first foreign visit of PM Modi after taking charge in the second term. India and the Islamic world has seen a growing engagement and strengthing of ties. Responding to WION on a question on ties with the Islamic world, TS Tirumurti, secretary economic relations, Ministry of External Affairs said, "Our engagement has been extremely robust and our relations with the Arab countries and many of the other countries are at an all-time high. There is absolutely no doubt about it, our relations with the Gulf are at an all-time high. And there is absolutely no question of the fact that we enjoy excellent relations with the Islamic world." Two-way investment between West Asia and India has been increasing. Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia backed Saudi Aramco - one of the world's largest company by revenue and announced that it will acquire 20 per cent stake in Reliance's oil, making it India's largest foreign direct investment. PM Modi has also been honoured with UN's highest environmental honour, 'Champions of the Earth' award (2018), the '2018 Seoul Peace Prize' and Russia's highest civilian award the 'Order of St Andrew the Apostle'. Meanwhile, there has been outrage in Pakistan over PM Modi being conferred the top civilian award of the UAE. Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani, along with the parliamentary delegation, has cancelled his scheduled UAE visit in light of PM Modi visit to the UAE. Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi reacted to the cancellation of the visit and said, while "we should respect his decision, he became too sentimental". He explained, "the UAE is our friend and they have supported us," adding, "just one year ago they bailed us out".

6 times Islamic countries honoured PM Modi with their highest awards 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/6-times-islamic-countries-honoured-pm-modi-with-their-highest-awards-245560">PM Modi</a> is all set to meet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-big-trade-deal-after-brexit-bigger-than-weve-ever-had-trumps-promise-to-uk-pm-boris-johnson-at-g7-245514">US President Donald Trump</a> on Monday at around 3.45 pm in France. The meeting is expected to last around 45 minutes till 4.30 pm.

The engagement will take place on the sidelines of the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beneath-show-of-bonhomie-rifts-emerge-between-trump-and-western-allies-at-the-g7-summit-245543">G7 Summit</a> in Biarritz. This will be the second time when both world leaders will meet this year. They last met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan a couple of months back.

Both the leaders will come face to face for the first time at the G7 Summit during Cultural Program and Leaders’ Dinner on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

The ongoing India-Pak situation in the backdrop of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir is bound to be discussed.&nbsp;

"India’s decision to rescind Article 370 in Kashmir is an internal decision, but certainly with regional implications.&nbsp;And President Trump will likely want to hear how Prime Minister Modi intends to calm regional tensions in light of this significant move", a senior Trump administration official said during a teleconference on Trumps's G7 Summit.

Donald Trump has offered to mediate on Kashmir three times, something that has irked New Delhi which has made it clear that India, Pakistan ties follow Simla and Lahore agreements according to which no third party mediation is acceptable. Trade, defence ties and the Afghan peace process will also be discussed.&nbsp;

Senior Trump administration official said, "They will look for solutions on the trade front. The US is looking at India to reduce tariffs and open its markets."

Last week both the leaders spoke during which India had raised the rhetoric coming from Islamabad since August 5 that impacts regional stability.&nbsp;

All in all, PM Modi will have 4 bilaterals on the sidelines of the G7 Summit.

India is "Biarritz partner" country along with Australia, Chile, South Africa, Rwanda, Senegal, Egypt and Burkina Faso. Climate, biodiversity will be the main focuses of the 45th G7 Summit whose theme is "combating inequality".

It is after a gap of more than 10 years that India has been invited at the G7 Summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles Summit.

On Thursday PM was in France on a state visit and met with French President Emmanuel Macron for the 5th time.

PM Modi visited France in 2017 followed by the visit of the French President in 2018 and then meetings on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Argentina and Japan in December 2018 and June 2019, respectively. After his France visit, the prime minister went to the UAE and Bahrain where he met with the top leadership and launched RuPay card.

PM Modi is back in France for the G7 Summit.

PM Modi is all set to meet US President Donald Trump on Monday at around 3.45 pm in France. The meeting is expected to last around 45 minutes till 4.30 pm. The engagement will take place on the sidelines of the ongoing G7 Summit in Biarritz.

PM Modi is all set to meet US President Donald Trump on Monday at around 3.45 pm in France. The meeting is expected to last around 45 minutes till 4.30 pm. The engagement will take place on the sidelines of the ongoing G7 Summit in Biarritz. This will be the second time when both world leaders will meet this year. They last met on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan a couple of months back. Both the leaders will come face to face for the first time at the G7 Summit during Cultural Program and Leaders’ Dinner on Sunday evening. The ongoing India-Pak situation in the backdrop of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir is bound to be discussed. "India’s decision to rescind Article 370 in Kashmir is an internal decision, but certainly with regional implications. And President Trump will likely want to hear how Prime Minister Modi intends to calm regional tensions in light of this significant move", a senior Trump administration official said during a teleconference on Trumps's G7 Summit. Donald Trump has offered to mediate on Kashmir three times, something that has irked New Delhi which has made it clear that India, Pakistan ties follow Simla and Lahore agreements according to which no third party mediation is acceptable. Trade, defence ties and the Afghan peace process will also be discussed. Senior Trump administration official said, "They will look for solutions on the trade front. The US is looking at India to reduce tariffs and open its markets." Last week both the leaders spoke during which India had raised the rhetoric coming from Islamabad since August 5 that impacts regional stability. All in all, PM Modi will have 4 bilaterals on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. India is "Biarritz partner" country along with Australia, Chile, South Africa, Rwanda, Senegal, Egypt and Burkina Faso. Climate, biodiversity will be the main focuses of the 45th G7 Summit whose theme is "combating inequality". It is after a gap of more than 10 years that India has been invited at the G7 Summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles Summit. On Thursday PM was in France on a state visit and met with French President Emmanuel Macron for the 5th time. PM Modi visited France in 2017 followed by the visit of the French President in 2018 and then meetings on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Argentina and Japan in December 2018 and June 2019, respectively. After his France visit, the prime minister went to the UAE and Bahrain where he met with the top leadership and launched RuPay card. PM Modi is back in France for the G7 Summit.

Second Modi-Trump meeting to take place on Monday in France

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-honours-pm-modi-with-king-hamad-order-of-the-renaissance-245393">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>'s monthly radio broadcast "Mann Ki Baat" will be aired today at 11 am. This will be his third radio programme since he was re-elected for a second term in May.

The radio address can be heard live on All India Radio, DD National, DD News and DD Bharti.

In his first episode of "Mann Ki Baat" programme, after Lok Sabha elections, on June 30, Modi discussed various topics like emergency, water crisis and International Yoga Day. He had also urged people to inculcate a habit of reading books regularly.

He had said that he felt "empty" without addressing countrymen on the last Sunday of every month.

In the second episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' which was aired a week before the abrogation of Article 370, the Prime Minister had discussed Kashmir, saying that "those who spread hatred will never succeed in their nefarious plans".

He had also asserted that the power of development was stronger than the might of "bullets and bombs".

Modi had spoken in the last episode of the radio programme in February this year. He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said that the programme will return after the polls.

The programme is broadcast on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio broadcast "Mann Ki Baat" will be aired today at 11 am. This will be his third radio programme since he was re-elected for a second term in May.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio broadcast "Mann Ki Baat" will be aired today at 11 am. This will be his third radio programme since he was re-elected for a second term in May. The radio address can be heard live on All India Radio, DD National, DD News and DD Bharti. In his first episode of "Mann Ki Baat" programme, after Lok Sabha elections, on June 30, Modi discussed various topics like emergency, water crisis and International Yoga Day. He had also urged people to inculcate a habit of reading books regularly. He had said that he felt "empty" without addressing countrymen on the last Sunday of every month. In the second episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' which was aired a week before the abrogation of Article 370, the Prime Minister had discussed Kashmir, saying that "those who spread hatred will never succeed in their nefarious plans". He had also asserted that the power of development was stronger than the might of "bullets and bombs". Modi had spoken in the last episode of the radio programme in February this year. He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said that the programme will return after the polls. The programme is broadcast on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' to air today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bahrain-sign-4-mous-after-delegation-level-talks-245398">King Hamad Order of the Renaissance</a> (or for Development by the King of Bahrain.

While accepting the award PM said, "I feel very honoured and fortunate to be awarded The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance. I am equally honoured by your majesty's friendship for me and my country. I humbly accept this prestigious honour on behalf of 1.3 billion Indians."

Bahrain is the second country in the Gulf region to confer an award to Modi. On Saturday, UAE also conferred the Zayed Medal, the highest civilian award of the country to PM Modi.

The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance or for Development was founded by King Hamad II on 17th&nbsp;April 2008. The award is to recognises services towards the development of the nation. It is awarded in fives classes with the First Class being awarded to foreign leaders, prime ministers, crown princes, parliamentary chiefs, ministers or those of equal rank.&nbsp;

The Second Class goes to civil servants and military personnel and the Third Class to those who have helped in the development of women's rights and human rights

Meanwhile, during the press statements, the king of Bahrain&nbsp;Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa lauded the cultural and civilisational ties between India and his country and the contribution made by the Indian community.

He said, "the establishment of the Hindu temple more than two hundred years ago in Manama, as the oldest in the region, is a clear testament to the depth of the ties that link us together and the civilised qualities of peaceful coexistence and freedom of belief and religion that have characterized Bahrain throughout its history"

Lauding New Delhi's global role, he said," Bahrain is fully convinced of the pioneering role of India at the international level, given its strategic weight and appreciated stances on many core issues. We, therefore, continue to work with you to protect trade and oil routes and to strengthen our cooperation in the areas of cybersecurity, space technology and energy"

This is Modi's first visit to Bahrain.&nbsp;

Modi is currently on a three-nation tour of France, UAE and Bahrain.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance (or for Development by the King of Bahrain. While accepting the award PM said, "I feel very honoured and fortunate to be awarded The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance (or for Development by the King of Bahrain. While accepting the award PM said, "I feel very honoured and fortunate to be awarded The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance. I am equally honoured by your majesty's friendship for me and my country. I humbly accept this prestigious honour on behalf of 1.3 billion Indians." Bahrain is the second country in the Gulf region to confer an award to Modi. On Saturday, UAE also conferred the Zayed Medal, the highest civilian award of the country to PM Modi. The King Hamad Order of the Renaissance or for Development was founded by King Hamad II on 17th April 2008. The award is to recognises services towards the development of the nation. It is awarded in fives classes with the First Class being awarded to foreign leaders, prime ministers, crown princes, parliamentary chiefs, ministers or those of equal rank. The Second Class goes to civil servants and military personnel and the Third Class to those who have helped in the development of women's rights and human rights Meanwhile, during the press statements, the king of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa lauded the cultural and civilisational ties between India and his country and the contribution made by the Indian community. He said, "the establishment of the Hindu temple more than two hundred years ago in Manama, as the oldest in the region, is a clear testament to the depth of the ties that link us together and the civilised qualities of peaceful coexistence and freedom of belief and religion that have characterized Bahrain throughout its history" Lauding New Delhi's global role, he said," Bahrain is fully convinced of the pioneering role of India at the international level, given its strategic weight and appreciated stances on many core issues. We, therefore, continue to work with you to protect trade and oil routes and to strengthen our cooperation in the areas of cybersecurity, space technology and energy" This is Modi's first visit to Bahrain. Modi is currently on a three-nation tour of France, UAE and Bahrain.

Bahrain honours PM Modi with King Hamad Order of the Renaissance

India and Bahrain on Saturday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the field of culture, space, solar energy, and on the roll-out of RuPay card, following the delegation-level talks between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-honours-pm-modi-with-king-hamad-order-of-the-renaissance-245393">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and his Bahraini counterpart Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa.

"Defining new areas of cooperation. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-took-too-long-for-indian-pm-to-visit-this-country-pm-modi-addresses-indian-diaspora-in-bahrain-245375">Expanding our bilateral partnership</a>, PM @narendramodi &amp; HH Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa witnessed the exchange of MoUs in areas of culture, space, collaboration with ISA &amp; Rupay Card," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar wrote on Twitter.

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Defining new areas of cooperation 
 
Expanding our bilateral partnership, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; HH Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa witnessed exchange of MoUs in areas of culture, space, collaboration with ISA &amp; Rupay Card. <a href="https://t.co/ng05qB4x75">https://t.co/ng05qB4x75</a> <a href="https://t.co/W3xF8hLmxq">pic.twitter.com/W3xF8hLmxq</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1165274525493268481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to an agreement, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will collaborate with Bahrain's National Space Science Agency in the field of space technology.&nbsp;

In addition, the two sides agreed to collaborate with the Kingdom with the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

India and Bahrain on Saturday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the field of culture, space, solar energy, and on the roll-out of RuPay card, following the delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bahraini counterpart Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa.

India and Bahrain on Saturday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the field of culture, space, solar energy, and on the roll-out of RuPay card, following the delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bahraini counterpart Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa. "Defining new areas of cooperation. Expanding our bilateral partnership, PM @narendramodi & HH Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa witnessed the exchange of MoUs in areas of culture, space, collaboration with ISA & Rupay Card," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar wrote on Twitter. Defining new areas of cooperation Expanding our bilateral partnership, PM @narendramodi & HH Prince Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa witnessed exchange of MoUs in areas of culture, space, collaboration with ISA & Rupay Card. https://t.co/ng05qB4x75 pic.twitter.com/W3xF8hLmxq — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) August 24, 2019 × According to an agreement, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will collaborate with Bahrain's National Space Science Agency in the field of space technology. In addition, the two sides agreed to collaborate with the Kingdom with the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

India, Bahrain sign four MoUs after delegation-level talks

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-championships-2019-indias-pv-sindhu-wins-maiden-gold-medal-245549">World Championships 2019: PV Sindhu wins India's maiden gold medal</a>

India's star shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to win her maiden BWF World Championships title on Sunday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-economic-crisis-countrys-debts-liabilities-exceed-the-size-of-its-gdp-245554">Pakistan economic crisis: Country's debts, liabilities exceed the size of its GDP</a>

A report by the State Bank of Pakistan has thrown up some very worrying numbers for the Imran khan government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-big-trade-deal-after-brexit-bigger-than-weve-ever-had-trumps-promise-to-uk-pm-boris-johnson-at-g7-245514">Very big trade deal after Brexit, bigger than we've ever had: Trump's promise to UK PM Boris Johnson at G7</a>

US President Donald Trump on Sunday backed British Prime Minister Boris Johnson as the "right man" for Brexit and sent mixed signals about his trade war with China at a G7 summit dominated by worries about the global economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-abe-refutes-trump-says-north-korea-missile-launches-violate-un-resolutions-245508">Japan's Abe refutes Trump, says North Korea missile launches violate UN resolutions</a>

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe displayed their differences over the seriousness of North Korea's series of short-range missile launches on Sunday while maintaining that they would remain in sync on the issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-cremated-at-delhis-nigambodh-ghat-last-rites-performed-by-son-rohan-245500">Arun Jaitley cremated with state honours at Delhi's Nigambodh Ghat, last rites performed by son Rohan</a>

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley was cremated at Delhi's Nigambodh Ghat on Sunday as political leaders from all spectrums paid tribute to the leader.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

World Championships 2019: PV Sindhu wins India's maiden gold medal India's star shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to win her maiden BWF World Championships title on Sunday.

World Championships 2019: PV Sindhu wins India's maiden gold medal India's star shuttler PV Sindhu scripted history after defeating Nozomi Okuhara of Japan 21-7, 21-7 to win her maiden BWF World Championships title on Sunday. Pakistan economic crisis: Country's debts, liabilities exceed the size of its GDP A report by the State Bank of Pakistan has thrown up some very worrying numbers for the Imran khan government. Very big trade deal after Brexit, bigger than we've ever had: Trump's promise to UK PM Boris Johnson at G7 US President Donald Trump on Sunday backed British Prime Minister Boris Johnson as the "right man" for Brexit and sent mixed signals about his trade war with China at a G7 summit dominated by worries about the global economy. Japan's Abe refutes Trump, says North Korea missile launches violate UN resolutions US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe displayed their differences over the seriousness of North Korea's series of short-range missile launches on Sunday while maintaining that they would remain in sync on the issue. Arun Jaitley cremated with state honours at Delhi's Nigambodh Ghat, last rites performed by son Rohan Former finance minister Arun Jaitley was cremated at Delhi's Nigambodh Ghat on Sunday as political leaders from all spectrums paid tribute to the leader.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-becomes-first-indian-prime-minister-to-visit-bahrain-245360">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora shortly after reaching Bahrain. He is the first Indian prime minister to visit the country.&nbsp;

"The welcome Bahrain has given me made me feel that I am in some part of India," the prime minister said. &nbsp;

"There is an old relationship between Gujarat and Bahrain.I'll be going to the temple and will pray for your well being. I will launch the redevelopment of the temple. This temple is a reflection of your faith and tribute to Bahrain's multiculturalism".

"India has decided to multiply the size of our economy by twice in the upcoming 5 years. 5 trillion dollars economy in the target in front of us," he said.&nbsp;

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PM Modi to Indian community in Bahrain: I will visit Shrinathji Temple tomorrow and will pray for peace &amp; prosperity in this country. It is also a matter of happiness that renovation of this temple will also officially begin tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/UDFsf3oo1u">pic.twitter.com/UDFsf3oo1u</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1165291956244635648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi said that it could too long for an Indian prime minister to visit Bahrain.&nbsp;

PM Modi said India is one of the most digitally connected countries and this has made banking available to many in India.&nbsp;"The cheapest mobile data in the world is available in India," the prime minister said.&nbsp;

He said, "BHIM app, UPI and Jan Dhan have made banking in reach of the common man".

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PM Narendra Modi addressing Indian community in Bahrain: I realise that it took quite a long time for an Indian Prime Minister to visit Bahrain. However, I have been fortunate enough to be the 1st Indian PM to visit Bahrain <a href="https://t.co/zvoLYq5oq6">pic.twitter.com/zvoLYq5oq6</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1165288413588623360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He announced that RuPay card will soon be launched in Bahrain and an MoU was signed regarding this on Saturday. Soon will say, "Pay with RuPay to your friends in Bahrain", PM said.

There are around 350,000 Indian nationals living in the west Asian country. Bahrain launched ‘Little India in Bahrain’ project in November 2015 to acknowledge and mark the contribution of the Indian community to the history and progress of Bahrain.

The prime minister broke down during his address and remembered former finance minister Arun Jaitley who passed away on Saturday in New Delhi.&nbsp;

"Few days ago sister Sushma left us, today my friend Arun left me," he said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bahrain on Saturday on the third leg of this three-nation tour, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country.

Modi was received by Prime Minister of Bahrain Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa at the airport.

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Addressing a huge community programme in Bahrain. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/w9V3steCGa">https://t.co/w9V3steCGa</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1165287377616531458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister is scheduled to hold a bilateral with Al Khalifa, during which the two leaders are expected to discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.

PM Modi reached Bahrain after winding-up his UAE visit where he held delegation-level talks and received the UAE's highest civilian award, '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uae-honours-pm-modi-with-highest-civilian-award-order-of-zayed-245309">Order of Zayed</a>'.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora shortly after reaching Bahrain. He is the first Indian prime minister to visit the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the Indian diaspora shortly after reaching Bahrain. He is the first Indian prime minister to visit the country. "The welcome Bahrain has given me made me feel that I am in some part of India," the prime minister said. "There is an old relationship between Gujarat and Bahrain.I'll be going to the temple and will pray for your well being. I will launch the redevelopment of the temple. This temple is a reflection of your faith and tribute to Bahrain's multiculturalism". "India has decided to multiply the size of our economy by twice in the upcoming 5 years. 5 trillion dollars economy in the target in front of us," he said. PM Modi to Indian community in Bahrain: I will visit Shrinathji Temple tomorrow and will pray for peace & prosperity in this country. It is also a matter of happiness that renovation of this temple will also officially begin tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/UDFsf3oo1u — ANI (@ANI) August 24, 2019 × PM Modi said that it could too long for an Indian prime minister to visit Bahrain. PM Modi said India is one of the most digitally connected countries and this has made banking available to many in India. "The cheapest mobile data in the world is available in India," the prime minister said. He said, "BHIM app, UPI and Jan Dhan have made banking in reach of the common man". PM Narendra Modi addressing Indian community in Bahrain: I realise that it took quite a long time for an Indian Prime Minister to visit Bahrain. However, I have been fortunate enough to be the 1st Indian PM to visit Bahrain pic.twitter.com/zvoLYq5oq6 — ANI (@ANI) August 24, 2019 × He announced that RuPay card will soon be launched in Bahrain and an MoU was signed regarding this on Saturday. Soon will say, "Pay with RuPay to your friends in Bahrain", PM said. There are around 350,000 Indian nationals living in the west Asian country. Bahrain launched ‘Little India in Bahrain’ project in November 2015 to acknowledge and mark the contribution of the Indian community to the history and progress of Bahrain. The prime minister broke down during his address and remembered former finance minister Arun Jaitley who passed away on Saturday in New Delhi. "Few days ago sister Sushma left us, today my friend Arun left me," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Bahrain on Saturday on the third leg of this three-nation tour, marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. Modi was received by Prime Minister of Bahrain Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa at the airport. Addressing a huge community programme in Bahrain. Watch. https://t.co/w9V3steCGa — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 24, 2019 × The prime minister is scheduled to hold a bilateral with Al Khalifa, during which the two leaders are expected to discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. PM Modi reached Bahrain after winding-up his UAE visit where he held delegation-level talks and received the UAE's highest civilian award, 'Order of Zayed'.

It took too long for an Indian PM to visit this country: PM Modi addresses Indian diaspora in Bahrain 

The Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), General Bipin Rawat, visited the Eastern Command Headquarters in Kolkata on August 24 and 25.

On August 24, the CoAS was briefed by Lieutenant General MM Naravane, General Officer Commanding in Chief (GoC-in-C) Eastern Command on the operational readiness of the formations in Eastern Command theatre.

The CoAS appreciated the high standards of operational readiness of the Eastern Command and also expressed his utmost confidence over the capability of the formations of the Eastern Command theatre.

General Rawat during his visit also interacted with officers and soldiers and praised them for their professionalism and exhorted the troops to continue to work with zeal and dedication to overcome all challenges in the future.

The CoAS also visited the Palliative Care Centre 'Sparsh'&nbsp;in Barrackpore Cantonment which was established on April 4 earlier this year to provide succour to terminally ill patients and their families who are beyond active medical treatment and suffering from cancer, neurological disorders and other critical ailments.

 
&nbsp;

The Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), General Bipin Rawat, visited the Eastern Command Headquarters in Kolkata on August 24 and 25. On August 24, the CoAS was briefed by Lieutenant General MM Naravane, General Officer Commanding in Chief (GoC-in-C) Eastern Command on the operational readiness of the formations in Eastern Command theatre.

The Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), General Bipin Rawat, visited the Eastern Command Headquarters in Kolkata on August 24 and 25. On August 24, the CoAS was briefed by Lieutenant General MM Naravane, General Officer Commanding in Chief (GoC-in-C) Eastern Command on the operational readiness of the formations in Eastern Command theatre. The CoAS appreciated the high standards of operational readiness of the Eastern Command and also expressed his utmost confidence over the capability of the formations of the Eastern Command theatre. General Rawat during his visit also interacted with officers and soldiers and praised them for their professionalism and exhorted the troops to continue to work with zeal and dedication to overcome all challenges in the future. The CoAS also visited the Palliative Care Centre 'Sparsh' in Barrackpore Cantonment which was established on April 4 earlier this year to provide succour to terminally ill patients and their families who are beyond active medical treatment and suffering from cancer, neurological disorders and other critical ailments.

General Bipin Rawat visits Eastern Command Headquarters

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-meet-russian-counterpart-sergey-lavrov-in-moscow-on-august-27-244865">two-day visit to Moscow</a> beginning August 27 where he will meet his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum scheduled to be held next month.

This will be Jaishankar's first visit to the Russian capital after assuming office in May.

"External Affairs Minister and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will take stock of preparations for the forthcoming visit of Prime Minister to Vladivostok to participate in the 5th Annual Eastern Economic Forum as the Chief Guest and the 20th Annual Bilateral Summit between the two countries," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

The two foreign ministers will also discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest.

The External Affairs Minister will meet Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov. Both of them will co-chair the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission - Technical and Economic Cooperation, according to the statement.

"During his visit, External Affairs Minister will also participate in Valdai Discussion Club interaction on the theme of India`s perspective of the Indo-Pacific," the statement said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Moscow beginning August 27 where he will meet his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum scheduled to be held next month.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a two-day visit to Moscow beginning August 27 where he will meet his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov and prepare the ground for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Vladivostok for the Eastern Economic Forum scheduled to be held next month. This will be Jaishankar's first visit to the Russian capital after assuming office in May. "External Affairs Minister and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will take stock of preparations for the forthcoming visit of Prime Minister to Vladivostok to participate in the 5th Annual Eastern Economic Forum as the Chief Guest and the 20th Annual Bilateral Summit between the two countries," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. The two foreign ministers will also discuss regional and international issues of mutual interest. The External Affairs Minister will meet Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov. Both of them will co-chair the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission - Technical and Economic Cooperation, according to the statement. "During his visit, External Affairs Minister will also participate in Valdai Discussion Club interaction on the theme of India`s perspective of the Indo-Pacific," the statement said.

Foreign minister Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Russia next week

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday mourned the demise of former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-cremated-at-delhis-nigambodh-ghat-last-rites-performed-by-son-rohan-245500">Union Minister Arun Jaitley</a> and recalled an interesting remark that the BJP leader made that 'India has the same place in International Cricket Council (ICC) as the United States has in United Nations Security Council (UNSC)'.

"I never forgot one of his best lines to me talking about cricket when I was still at UN - India has the same place in ICC as the US has in UNSC. As a minister, he was very impressive. I thought that asking questions to him in Parliament was always rewarding as he gave you serious answers, precisely expressed," he said while talking to ANI.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend from Delhi University days, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/arun-jaitleys-final-journey-countless-tearful-goodbyes-for-the-bjp-stalwart-245497">Arun Jaitley</a>. We have known each other since we were students. He was the president of DUSU when I was the president of St Stephens College Student`s Union. We were not on the same page politically. In fact, my union was not political whereas DUSU at that time was under the control of ABVP of which Arun Jaitley was a leading light," he added.

Tharoor said they had mutual regard for each other.

"To my surprise, he supported my candidacy for the academic council as student representative even though we didn`t agree politically about certain issues. He said we need people of your kind of quality to represent the student body in the council," he said.

Stressing that Jaitley was somebody he kept in touch with after leaving for United Nations, he said, "When I came back to India, he was one of the people already in politics who became once again somebody I could maintain very friendly relations with. It was not a political friendship. It was a very pleasant relationship."

The Congress leader said he will remember Jaitley in many ways as a consummate Delhi insider, somebody who was completely at home in Lutyen's Delhi.

Fondly recalling crossing swords with him in Parliament, Tharoor said, "In debates, in the Budget session for example, I had the privilege of representing my party's views. I was very pleased that I was able to cross swords with him."

"He and I spoke quite often. I spoke to him on the phone just a little while before he passed away. He said don't come now - I am not feeling well now to receive a lot of visitors. He said I am fine," he added.

The Congress leader said he felt a terrible sense of loss at the veteran politician`s demise.

"It's a great sense of loss for India, for the spirit of mutual respect across political divides that is so important in a democracy. My profound condolences to his family. My thoughts are very much with his loved ones," Tharoor said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday mourned the demise of former Union Minister Arun Jaitley and recalled an interesting remark that the BJP leader made that 'India has the same place in International Cricket Council (ICC) as the United States has in United Nations Security Council (UNSC)'.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Sunday mourned the demise of former Union Minister Arun Jaitley and recalled an interesting remark that the BJP leader made that 'India has the same place in International Cricket Council (ICC) as the United States has in United Nations Security Council (UNSC)'. "I never forgot one of his best lines to me talking about cricket when I was still at UN - India has the same place in ICC as the US has in UNSC. As a minister, he was very impressive. I thought that asking questions to him in Parliament was always rewarding as he gave you serious answers, precisely expressed," he said while talking to ANI. "I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend from Delhi University days, Arun Jaitley. We have known each other since we were students. He was the president of DUSU when I was the president of St Stephens College Student`s Union. We were not on the same page politically. In fact, my union was not political whereas DUSU at that time was under the control of ABVP of which Arun Jaitley was a leading light," he added. Tharoor said they had mutual regard for each other. "To my surprise, he supported my candidacy for the academic council as student representative even though we didn`t agree politically about certain issues. He said we need people of your kind of quality to represent the student body in the council," he said. Stressing that Jaitley was somebody he kept in touch with after leaving for United Nations, he said, "When I came back to India, he was one of the people already in politics who became once again somebody I could maintain very friendly relations with. It was not a political friendship. It was a very pleasant relationship." The Congress leader said he will remember Jaitley in many ways as a consummate Delhi insider, somebody who was completely at home in Lutyen's Delhi. Fondly recalling crossing swords with him in Parliament, Tharoor said, "In debates, in the Budget session for example, I had the privilege of representing my party's views. I was very pleased that I was able to cross swords with him." "He and I spoke quite often. I spoke to him on the phone just a little while before he passed away. He said don't come now - I am not feeling well now to receive a lot of visitors. He said I am fine," he added. The Congress leader said he felt a terrible sense of loss at the veteran politician`s demise. "It's a great sense of loss for India, for the spirit of mutual respect across political divides that is so important in a democracy. My profound condolences to his family. My thoughts are very much with his loved ones," Tharoor said.

India has same place in ICC as US has in UNSC: Tharoor recalls Jaitley's 'best' remark

As a stream of visitors paid last respects to the former finance minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arun-jaitley-cremated-at-delhis-nigambodh-ghat-last-rites-performed-by-son-rohan-245500">BJP strongman Arun Jaitley</a>, it was a moment of contemplation for many, who fondly remembered their association with the stalwart.

As the who's who of the nation paid obeisance to the late leader they remembered how Jaitley touched their lives, changing them forever through his sensitive and personal approach.

Being a close associate of Jaitley for over four decades, Dr Harsh Vardhan was faced with a particular dilemma. Being the health minister he regularly visited Jaitley in the hospital.

"I met him three times while he was at AIIMS over the last two weeks and he was always smiling. Five years, he struggled with health issues but never once showed it on his face," he said.

Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala fondly remembered Jaitley's commitment to work and recalled, "Even on his daughter's wedding day, while he kept meeting guests he was also clearing files side by side. How important work was for him, he set an example for us."

Senior journalist, Rajat Sharma, who has one of the oldest friendships with the departed leader shared another insight about Jaitley.

"I met him in the hospital recently. For the first time, I realised that he may not live longer. He said I have no regrets, my kids are settled. He told me what he will do - I will retire from public life if I get better. He wanted to chat with friends and watch movies," Sharma added.

The senior leader was always available for his colleagues.

"His personality was affable and approachable. We just had to ask him for help and he was always ready. I learnt a lot from him," former Union Minister of State, Rajyavardhan Rathore who served under Jaitley said while trying to control his tears.

While some were forthcoming with their memories of Jaitley, there were few who wished to keep the memories under wraps.

"I wish I could tell you the most impressionable moment with him but it is sort of personal," said a senior minister in the government when asked about his best memory of Jaitley.

The former finance minister passed away at the age of 66 at the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, New Delhi on Saturday. He was admitted to AIIMS earlier this month after he complained of restlessness. He was placed under observation at the hospital`s Cardio-Neuro-Centre.&nbsp;

As a stream of visitors paid last respects to the former finance minister and BJP strongman Arun Jaitley, it was a moment of contemplation for many, who fondly remembered their association with the stalwart.

As a stream of visitors paid last respects to the former finance minister and BJP strongman Arun Jaitley, it was a moment of contemplation for many, who fondly remembered their association with the stalwart. As the who's who of the nation paid obeisance to the late leader they remembered how Jaitley touched their lives, changing them forever through his sensitive and personal approach. Being a close associate of Jaitley for over four decades, Dr Harsh Vardhan was faced with a particular dilemma. Being the health minister he regularly visited Jaitley in the hospital. "I met him three times while he was at AIIMS over the last two weeks and he was always smiling. Five years, he struggled with health issues but never once showed it on his face," he said. Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala fondly remembered Jaitley's commitment to work and recalled, "Even on his daughter's wedding day, while he kept meeting guests he was also clearing files side by side. How important work was for him, he set an example for us." Senior journalist, Rajat Sharma, who has one of the oldest friendships with the departed leader shared another insight about Jaitley. "I met him in the hospital recently. For the first time, I realised that he may not live longer. He said I have no regrets, my kids are settled. He told me what he will do - I will retire from public life if I get better. He wanted to chat with friends and watch movies," Sharma added. The senior leader was always available for his colleagues. "His personality was affable and approachable. We just had to ask him for help and he was always ready. I learnt a lot from him," former Union Minister of State, Rajyavardhan Rathore who served under Jaitley said while trying to control his tears. While some were forthcoming with their memories of Jaitley, there were few who wished to keep the memories under wraps. "I wish I could tell you the most impressionable moment with him but it is sort of personal," said a senior minister in the government when asked about his best memory of Jaitley. The former finance minister passed away at the age of 66 at the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, New Delhi on Saturday. He was admitted to AIIMS earlier this month after he complained of restlessness. He was placed under observation at the hospital`s Cardio-Neuro-Centre.

Cleared files on daughter's wedding, always smiled: Friends, colleagues remember Jaitley

Congress Member of Parliament (MP) from Wayanad Rahul Gandhi on Friday wrote a letter to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urging him to help flood-affected families who have lost their essential documents due to floods in his constituency.

The MP has requested the Chief Minister to designate a nodal officer in the district who can ensure the door-step delivery of duplicate documents to the flood-affected families.

"Instead of expecting the flood victims to approach many offices, you may like to designate a nodal officer at the office of District Collector, to receive a consolidated application from the affected families, with details of the lost documents. The nodal officer may coordinate with the respective departments, collect the duplicate copies of the documents and door deliver to the families," the letter stated.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will also take stock of flood relief operations in his parliamentary constituency, Wayanad during a three-day visit starting from Monday.

Gandhi had visited his constituency earlier this month to review the flood relief measures.

Twelve people lost their lives in Wayanad while seven were missing after heavy rains and floods battered the region.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Congress Member of Parliament (MP) from Wayanad Rahul Gandhi on Friday wrote a letter to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urging him to help flood-affected families who have lost their essential documents due to floods in his constituency.

Congress Member of Parliament (MP) from Wayanad Rahul Gandhi on Friday wrote a letter to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan urging him to help flood-affected families who have lost their essential documents due to floods in his constituency. The MP has requested the Chief Minister to designate a nodal officer in the district who can ensure the door-step delivery of duplicate documents to the flood-affected families. "Instead of expecting the flood victims to approach many offices, you may like to designate a nodal officer at the office of District Collector, to receive a consolidated application from the affected families, with details of the lost documents. The nodal officer may coordinate with the respective departments, collect the duplicate copies of the documents and door deliver to the families," the letter stated. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will also take stock of flood relief operations in his parliamentary constituency, Wayanad during a three-day visit starting from Monday. Gandhi had visited his constituency earlier this month to review the flood relief measures. Twelve people lost their lives in Wayanad while seven were missing after heavy rains and floods battered the region.

Arrange delivery of duplicate copy of documents lost in rain: Rahul Gandhi urges Kerala CM

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