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Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Friday address a grand public rally in Haryana`s Jind district.

The "Astha Rally" assumes significance as it is happening following the announcement of dates for the Haryana assembly elections.

Shah, through the rally, will set the tone for the party`s election campaign.

Elections to the 90-member Assembly are due in the state later this year.

The rally will be attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Dinesh Sharma.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Friday address a grand public rally in Haryana`s Jind district. The "Astha Rally" assumes significance as it is happening following the announcement of dates for the Haryana assembly elections.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will on Friday address a grand public rally in Haryana`s Jind district. The "Astha Rally" assumes significance as it is happening following the announcement of dates for the Haryana assembly elections. Shah, through the rally, will set the tone for the party`s election campaign. Elections to the 90-member Assembly are due in the state later this year. The rally will be attended by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Dinesh Sharma.

Amit Shah to address 'Astha Rally' in Haryana's Jind today

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year.

He also attacked the Congress party for not removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.Addressing the BJP's 'Aastha rally'&nbsp;in the presence of a galaxy of party leaders including Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Shah said,&nbsp;"Five years ago when I came here, then with 45 seats BJP formed the government in the state."

"This time we are looking to get 75 seats with the support of people of the state. This is BJP's 'Mission 75'&nbsp;which needs support from the state's people," he said.

Speaking about the revocation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said, "Article 370 was a hurdle in the way of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's dream of 'one India'. The work that the Congress governments couldn't do in 70 years for the sake of vote bank, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did in just 75 days."

"It is a milestone for the unity of India. Now the roadblocks against the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are removed. The region will move on the path of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Shah said.

"Our Prime Minister never got indulged in the politics of vote bank and made decisions for the sake of the country. Now Article 370 has become a part of history."

Praising Haryana Chief Minister Khattar, Shah said, "Under the leadership of Khattar, corruption has become a passe.

"Speaking about women's security, the Union Minister said, "As many as 32 women police stations are running in the state. There are 181 buses in the state for women. The sex ratio has increased from 871 to 918."

"In eight districts and 4,000 villages of the state, 24-hour electricity is provided," he said.

The Home Minister further said, "There is an investment of Rs 200 crore to make an airport at Hisar. There will be a development of highway from Jind to Sonipat. The electrification of the railway line from Jind to New Delhi has started."

Shah also paid tributes to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/leaders-family-members-pay-tribute-to-atal-bihari-vajpayee-on-first-death-anniversary-243239">former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee</a> on his first death anniversary.

"Vajpayee's soul must be praising Prime Minister Modi for removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," he said.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the BJP has a target to win 75 seats in Haryana Assembly polls, which are scheduled to be held in October this year. He also attacked the Congress party for not removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir.Addressing the BJP's 'Aastha rally' in the presence of a galaxy of party leaders including Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Shah said, "Five years ago when I came here, then with 45 seats BJP formed the government in the state." "This time we are looking to get 75 seats with the support of people of the state. This is BJP's 'Mission 75' which needs support from the state's people," he said. Speaking about the revocation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said, "Article 370 was a hurdle in the way of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's dream of 'one India'. The work that the Congress governments couldn't do in 70 years for the sake of vote bank, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did in just 75 days." "It is a milestone for the unity of India. Now the roadblocks against the development of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are removed. The region will move on the path of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Shah said. "Our Prime Minister never got indulged in the politics of vote bank and made decisions for the sake of the country. Now Article 370 has become a part of history." Praising Haryana Chief Minister Khattar, Shah said, "Under the leadership of Khattar, corruption has become a passe. "Speaking about women's security, the Union Minister said, "As many as 32 women police stations are running in the state. There are 181 buses in the state for women. The sex ratio has increased from 871 to 918." "In eight districts and 4,000 villages of the state, 24-hour electricity is provided," he said. The Home Minister further said, "There is an investment of Rs 200 crore to make an airport at Hisar. There will be a development of highway from Jind to Sonipat. The electrification of the railway line from Jind to New Delhi has started." Shah also paid tributes to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his first death anniversary. "Vajpayee's soul must be praising Prime Minister Modi for removing Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

At Jind rally, Amit Shah talks of 'Mission 75', slams Congress for not revoking Article 370

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-denies-giving-gibraltar-assurances-for-release-of-tanker-243388">Iran denies giving Gibraltar assurances for release of tanker</a>

Iranian officials on Friday denied that any assurances were given to Gibraltar to release an Iranian tanker now sailing on into the Mediterranean, calling it a "victory" for Tehran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thar-express-train-service-with-pakistan-cancelled-until-further-notice-indian-railways-243413">Thar Express train service with Pakistan cancelled until further notice: Indian Railways</a>

Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-scripts-history-flies-first-indian-commercial-flight-over-north-pole-243443">Watch: Glimpses of first Indian commercial flight over North Pole</a>

In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/overwhelmingly-peaceful-says-british-high-commission-on-protests-outside-indian-high-commission-in-london-243434">'Overwhelmingly peaceful,' says British High Commission on protests outside Indian High Commission in London</a>

The United Kingdom on Friday reacted on protests that took place outside the Indian High Commission on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-killed-in-blast-at-pakistan-mosque-over-20-injured-243408">Four killed in blast at Pakistan mosque; over 20 injured</a>

A blast at a mosque in southwest Pakistan killed four people on Friday and wounded more than 20, police said, adding the death toll could rise.

&nbsp;

Iran denies giving Gibraltar assurances for release of tanker Iranian officials on Friday denied that any assurances were given to Gibraltar to release an Iranian tanker now sailing on into the Mediterranean, calling it a "victory" for Tehran.

Iran denies giving Gibraltar assurances for release of tanker Iranian officials on Friday denied that any assurances were given to Gibraltar to release an Iranian tanker now sailing on into the Mediterranean, calling it a "victory" for Tehran. Thar Express train service with Pakistan cancelled until further notice: Indian Railways Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported. Watch: Glimpses of first Indian commercial flight over North Pole In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday. 'Overwhelmingly peaceful,' says British High Commission on protests outside Indian High Commission in London The United Kingdom on Friday reacted on protests that took place outside the Indian High Commission on Thursday. Four killed in blast at Pakistan mosque; over 20 injured A blast at a mosque in southwest Pakistan killed four people on Friday and wounded more than 20, police said, adding the death toll could rise.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Addressing a press conference on Friday, Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary BVR Subrahmanyam reassured that Kashmir is returning to normalcy. Schools offices to open from tomorrow. Medical facilities and hospitals continue to function. Phone lines expected to resume from tomorrow.

WION Dispatch: Kashmir returning to normalcy, says J&K chief secretary

Jammu and Kashmir chief secretary BVR Subrahmanyam reassured that Kashmir is returning to normalcy. Schools offices to open from tomorrow. Medical facilities and hospitals continue to function. Phone lines expected to resume from tomorrow. Watch this video to know more.

Normalcy in Kashmir only a matter of time: J&K chief secretary BVR Subrahmanyam to WION

In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday.&nbsp;

The feat was achieved on the occasion of India's 73rd Independence Day on Thursday. Air&nbsp;India's spokesperson tweeted out glimpses from the historic moment, he was aboard the airplane.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Historic moment captured by phone. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AI73?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AI73</a> (Del-SFO) 1st Indian Comercial flight flown over Polar. <a href="https://t.co/fT2Do6nbI5">pic.twitter.com/fT2Do6nbI5</a>
— Dhananjay kumar (@dhananjaypro) <a href="https://twitter.com/dhananjaypro/status/1162059057634525186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Historic moment captured by phone. #AI73 (Del-SFO) 1st Indian commercial flight flown over Polar," Dhananjay Kumar tweeted out.&nbsp;

"Another feather by Air India flying over magnetic sensitive North Pole #Proud Air Indian," his tweet read.&nbsp;

Kumar also posted a nearly one-minute-long video which captured the scintillating view of the Polar region from the Air India flight.&nbsp;

The video exhibited a vast expanse of ice running to the horizon while AI73 flew over the Polar region.&nbsp;

Over 200 passengers were aboard the Air India flight which flew over Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Russia before flying over North Pole and crossing over to the other side of the planet.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday.

In a historic first, national carrier Air India scripted history as its flight AI73, from Delhi bound to San Francisco, United States, became the first Indian commercial flight to fly over the Polar region on Thursday. The feat was achieved on the occasion of India's 73rd Independence Day on Thursday. Air India's spokesperson tweeted out glimpses from the historic moment, he was aboard the airplane. Historic moment captured by phone. #AI73 (Del-SFO) 1st Indian Comercial flight flown over Polar. pic.twitter.com/fT2Do6nbI5 — Dhananjay kumar (@dhananjaypro) August 15, 2019 × "Historic moment captured by phone. #AI73 (Del-SFO) 1st Indian commercial flight flown over Polar," Dhananjay Kumar tweeted out. "Another feather by Air India flying over magnetic sensitive North Pole #Proud Air Indian," his tweet read. Kumar also posted a nearly one-minute-long video which captured the scintillating view of the Polar region from the Air India flight. The video exhibited a vast expanse of ice running to the horizon while AI73 flew over the Polar region. Over 200 passengers were aboard the Air India flight which flew over Pakistan, Afghanistan, Kazakhstan and Russia before flying over North Pole and crossing over to the other side of the planet.

Watch: Glimpses of first Indian commercial flight over North Pole

Revisiting Pokhran nuclear tests that gave India 'no first use' nuclear policy

Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The development comes just a week after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-samjhauta-pakistan-shuts-down-thar-link-express-241745">Pakistan suspended Samjhauta Express</a> - a bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, had announced last week that Thar Express services will be stopped.

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Indian Railways: Thar Express train(Jodhpur to Karachi) stands cancelled till further orders <a href="https://t.co/ZFeKwVaFqF">pic.twitter.com/ZFeKwVaFqF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1162320829146947584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/despite-pakistans-suspension-thar-express-operating-on-schedule-railway-242023">Thar Express</a> is a weekly passenger train that connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with&nbsp;Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan&nbsp;and was started in 2006.

Every Saturday, the Thar Link Express departs from Bhagat Ki Kothi railway station on the outskirts of Jodhpur and makes a 320km journey to Munabao in Barmer on the international border. The train then crosses over to Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad has rejected India's request to review the decision of&nbsp;closing down the operations of the Samjhauta Express, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post.

"Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters on Saturday.

In sharp retaliation to India's move of scrapping Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Imran Khan-led Pakistan government suspended Samjhauta Express train service, partially closed its airspace and called off trade with India.&nbsp;

Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported. The development comes just a week after Pakistan suspended Samjhauta Express - a bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan.

Indian Railways on Friday cancelled Thar Express train service between Jodhpur, India to Karachi, Pakistan until further notice, news agency ANI reported. The development comes just a week after Pakistan suspended Samjhauta Express - a bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan. Pakistan Minister for Railways, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, had announced last week that Thar Express services will be stopped. Indian Railways: Thar Express train(Jodhpur to Karachi) stands cancelled till further orders pic.twitter.com/ZFeKwVaFqF — ANI (@ANI) August 16, 2019 × Thar Express is a weekly passenger train that connects Khokhrapar in Pakistan with Munabao in Barmer district of Rajasthan and was started in 2006. Every Saturday, the Thar Link Express departs from Bhagat Ki Kothi railway station on the outskirts of Jodhpur and makes a 320km journey to Munabao in Barmer on the international border. The train then crosses over to Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistan Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad has rejected India's request to review the decision of closing down the operations of the Samjhauta Express, saying that the services will not resume till the time he holds the post. "Though a final decision will be taken by the Foreign Office over the request to review the closure of the trains, I reject India's request. And till the time I remain the minister for railways, there would be no operation of the Samjhauta and Thar Express trains," he said at a press conference at the Pakistan Railways headquarters on Saturday. In sharp retaliation to India's move of scrapping Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, Imran Khan-led Pakistan government suspended Samjhauta Express train service, partially closed its airspace and called off trade with India.

Thar Express train service with Pakistan cancelled until further notice: Indian Railways

Congress President Sonia Gandhi is said to be mulling the possibilities of overhauling different state units and naming new party chiefs for them.

After Gandhi's meeting with the party leaders from Maharashtra on Friday, sources said that she may be set to overhaul the state units.

President's of Jharkhand, Karnataka and Goa are going to be announced soon by the party, they said.

There is a lot of infighting in Haryana and some solutions have been worked out as a truce between warring factions, the sources said.

The Congress top brass has also expressed serious concerns over desertions of MLAs in Karnataka and Goa.Gearing up for the coming Assembly polls in Jharkhand and Haryana, the party is prepping to strengthen its state units.

Having taken over as interim Congress chief, Gandhi has started holding meetings to review party's preparations in states expected to go to the polls later this year and held a meeting on Jharkhand on Wednesday.

Congress sources said Gandhi is expected to meet party in-charges of Haryana and Maharashtra in the next few days.

Gandhi was recently chosen as interim chief of Congress after a meeting of the party's Working Committee over two months after Rahul Gandhi offered to resign as party chief following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Congress President Sonia Gandhi is said to be mulling the possibilities of overhauling different state units and naming new party chiefs for them. After Gandhi's meeting with the party leaders from Maharashtra on Friday, sources said that she may be set to overhaul the state units.

Congress President Sonia Gandhi is said to be mulling the possibilities of overhauling different state units and naming new party chiefs for them. After Gandhi's meeting with the party leaders from Maharashtra on Friday, sources said that she may be set to overhaul the state units. President's of Jharkhand, Karnataka and Goa are going to be announced soon by the party, they said. There is a lot of infighting in Haryana and some solutions have been worked out as a truce between warring factions, the sources said. The Congress top brass has also expressed serious concerns over desertions of MLAs in Karnataka and Goa.Gearing up for the coming Assembly polls in Jharkhand and Haryana, the party is prepping to strengthen its state units. Having taken over as interim Congress chief, Gandhi has started holding meetings to review party's preparations in states expected to go to the polls later this year and held a meeting on Jharkhand on Wednesday. Congress sources said Gandhi is expected to meet party in-charges of Haryana and Maharashtra in the next few days. Gandhi was recently chosen as interim chief of Congress after a meeting of the party's Working Committee over two months after Rahul Gandhi offered to resign as party chief following the party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

Sonia mulling overhaul of state units, to name some chiefs

India's stated nuclear weapon policy of 'No First Use' is unlikely to continue in future if circumstances change, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Friday in Pokhran, Rajasthan.

India's 'No First Use' nuclear weapon policy depends on future circumstances: Rajnath Singh

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday confirmed that the punishment of dismissal has been awarded to a Major General from service in connection with a sexual harassment case.

"Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has confirmed the sentence awarded to the officer. The decision of the Chief of Army Staff was intimated to the Major General by the 2 Corps Commander Lt Gen MJS Kahlon today in Ambala," Army officials told ANI.

As per the orders issued in this regard, the confirmation of the sentence was signed by the Army Chief in July itself.

An Army General Court Martial (GCM) on December 23 last year had recommended dismissal of the Major General from service in a more than two-year-old sexual harassment.

Reacting on the decision of the Army Chief, the Major General's lawyer Anand Kumar said, "The confirmation of the sentence and its promulgation is illegal as the Major General has not been supplied a copy of court-martial proceedings till date to enable him to file a pre-confirmation petition despite the orders passed by AFT Delhi."

"His Review Application is also pending and despite that, the sentence has been confirmed by General Rawat who was also made aware of the order of AFT through a legal notice sent by us. We will challenge this confirmation order," he added.

The court-martial had recommended the dismissal of the officer from service after he was charged under section 354A of the IPC and Army Act 45 which is related to unbecoming conduct of officers in the force. As per the Army rules, the recommendation of the GCM is sent to higher authorities for confirmation.

The higher authority has the powers to even change the sentence.

The Major General was posted in the Northeast when the alleged incident took place in late 2016 and was attached to Chandimandir under Army's Western Command for the disciplinary proceedings.

The officer had denied the charges against him levelled by the Captain-rank lady officer. In a plea filed before the Armed Forces Tribunal, the officer had claimed that he was a victim of factionalism within the Army which had allegedly arisen due to the appointment of Army Chief in that year.&nbsp;

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday confirmed that the punishment of dismissal has been awarded to a Major General from service in connection with a sexual harassment case.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday confirmed that the punishment of dismissal has been awarded to a Major General from service in connection with a sexual harassment case. "Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has confirmed the sentence awarded to the officer. The decision of the Chief of Army Staff was intimated to the Major General by the 2 Corps Commander Lt Gen MJS Kahlon today in Ambala," Army officials told ANI. As per the orders issued in this regard, the confirmation of the sentence was signed by the Army Chief in July itself. An Army General Court Martial (GCM) on December 23 last year had recommended dismissal of the Major General from service in a more than two-year-old sexual harassment. Reacting on the decision of the Army Chief, the Major General's lawyer Anand Kumar said, "The confirmation of the sentence and its promulgation is illegal as the Major General has not been supplied a copy of court-martial proceedings till date to enable him to file a pre-confirmation petition despite the orders passed by AFT Delhi." "His Review Application is also pending and despite that, the sentence has been confirmed by General Rawat who was also made aware of the order of AFT through a legal notice sent by us. We will challenge this confirmation order," he added. The court-martial had recommended the dismissal of the officer from service after he was charged under section 354A of the IPC and Army Act 45 which is related to unbecoming conduct of officers in the force. As per the Army rules, the recommendation of the GCM is sent to higher authorities for confirmation. The higher authority has the powers to even change the sentence. The Major General was posted in the Northeast when the alleged incident took place in late 2016 and was attached to Chandimandir under Army's Western Command for the disciplinary proceedings. The officer had denied the charges against him levelled by the Captain-rank lady officer. In a plea filed before the Armed Forces Tribunal, the officer had claimed that he was a victim of factionalism within the Army which had allegedly arisen due to the appointment of Army Chief in that year.

Army Chief confirms dismissal of Major General over sexual harassment case

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-no-first-use-nuclear-policy-in-future-will-depend-on-circumstances-rajnath-singh-243358">"no first use" nuclear policy</a> that India follows depends on the circumstances in the future.

"We have no first use policy regarding nuclear. It will depend on circumstances what will happen in the future," Singh said after paying homage to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his first death anniversary.

"In Pokhran, India emerged as a nuclear power. Despite all restraints, Atal ji gave permission for the nuclear test. India was listed among those countries which have nuclear power," he added.

Singh's comments came in the wake of the abrogation of Article 370 from Indian Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has protested India's decision and is trying to internationalise the issue, but has so far been unsuccessful.

India has been following the policy of no first use since the time of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who announced it after the Pokhran nuclear tests in 1998.

No first use means India would not be the first to use nuclear weapons in case of a conflict. But many experts say the policy is not in sync with the geo-strategic conditions.

Pakistan does not have a "no first use" policy and is building a nuclear weapons programme designed to counter India. It has even miniaturised warheads for use as tactical nuclear weapons in the battlefield.

Comparable arsenals

India has much stronger conventional armed forces than Pakistan, but both countries have comparable nuclear arsenals.

Pakistan has 140-150 nuclear warheads compared to India's 130-140 warheads, according to a 2018 report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

They are comparable in the sense that both have the capability to strike each other's territories and cause immense damage and massive loss of life.

India's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine "INS Arihant" became operational last year, giving the country a "nuclear triad" - the ability to launch nuclear strikes by land, air and sea.

Pakistan is working on sea-launched cruise missiles to complete its own triad.

Pakistan has longer-range nuclear weapons, such as the Shaheen 3 missile that can reach India’s Andaman Islands near Southeast Asia. India is developing long-range ballistic missiles able to strike targets across China.

India also has concerns about China, which has a bigger military and more advanced strategic weapons.

History

India and Pakistan have taken different paths to develop their nuclear arsenals.

India is believed to have sought nuclear capabilities after its defeat in a brief 1962 border war with China.

For Pakistan, weapons experts say it was the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 that led to the independence of Bangladesh and proved a turning point for Islamabad.

Since then, the countries have engaged in an arms race that has outpaced traditional nuclear rivals.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the "no first use" nuclear policy that India follows depends on the circumstances in the future. "We have no first use policy regarding nuclear.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that the "no first use" nuclear policy that India follows depends on the circumstances in the future. "We have no first use policy regarding nuclear. It will depend on circumstances what will happen in the future," Singh said after paying homage to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his first death anniversary. "In Pokhran, India emerged as a nuclear power. Despite all restraints, Atal ji gave permission for the nuclear test. India was listed among those countries which have nuclear power," he added. Singh's comments came in the wake of the abrogation of Article 370 from Indian Constitution which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has protested India's decision and is trying to internationalise the issue, but has so far been unsuccessful. India has been following the policy of no first use since the time of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who announced it after the Pokhran nuclear tests in 1998. No first use means India would not be the first to use nuclear weapons in case of a conflict. But many experts say the policy is not in sync with the geo-strategic conditions. Pakistan does not have a "no first use" policy and is building a nuclear weapons programme designed to counter India. It has even miniaturised warheads for use as tactical nuclear weapons in the battlefield. Comparable arsenals India has much stronger conventional armed forces than Pakistan, but both countries have comparable nuclear arsenals. Pakistan has 140-150 nuclear warheads compared to India's 130-140 warheads, according to a 2018 report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). They are comparable in the sense that both have the capability to strike each other's territories and cause immense damage and massive loss of life. India's nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine "INS Arihant" became operational last year, giving the country a "nuclear triad" - the ability to launch nuclear strikes by land, air and sea. Pakistan is working on sea-launched cruise missiles to complete its own triad. Pakistan has longer-range nuclear weapons, such as the Shaheen 3 missile that can reach India’s Andaman Islands near Southeast Asia. India is developing long-range ballistic missiles able to strike targets across China. India also has concerns about China, which has a bigger military and more advanced strategic weapons. History India and Pakistan have taken different paths to develop their nuclear arsenals. India is believed to have sought nuclear capabilities after its defeat in a brief 1962 border war with China. For Pakistan, weapons experts say it was the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 that led to the independence of Bangladesh and proved a turning point for Islamabad. Since then, the countries have engaged in an arms race that has outpaced traditional nuclear rivals. (With inputs from Reuters)

'No first use' policy: History and comparison of nuclear arsenals of India, Pakistan

Kashmir returning to normalcy, schools offices to open from tomorrow: J&K chief secretary

Following a request from China, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold closed-door talks on Kashmir on Friday. All 15 members of the UNSC will be present when the issue is taken up.

Following a request from China, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold closed-door talks on Kashmir on Friday. All 15 members of the UNSC will be present when the issue is taken up. China asked for informal closed-door consultations on Friday following Pakistan's letter to the UNSC in New York. The informal consultations, scheduled at 10am local time (7.30pm IST), will see the exchange of views among the UNSC members on Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's letter to UNSC President & Polish envoy Joanna Wronecka on Kashmir in the aftermath of new Delhi's decision to remove special status to erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The UNSC will discuss how to react to Pakistan's letter, according to reports. Pakistan had called for the letter to be circulated as quickly as possible and is reportedly keen on a meeting of the permanent members. Equatorial Guinea, who is a non-permanent member of the UNSC has said that they have received no instructions on the way forward... Poland---the current chair of the security council had however asked India and Pakistan to resolve the dispute bilaterally. The Pakistan FM asked the letter to be disseminated at the earliest and that a meeting of UNSC should be called but so far no such call has been taken. Pakistan is keen to have a meeting in which it gets right to speak and record of discussion takes place. The consultations will happen without India and Pakistan, both not being present and since it is a consultation process it will not be part of the UNSC record. Meanwhile, Russia has said there is no information on any initiative on Pakistan's letter. Dmitry Polyanskiy, first deputy permanent representative of Russia to the UN said, "There is no direct information that there will be some meeting, no initiative to my knowledge". "Russia will not object if it is a closed meeting since Kashmir issue has not been taken up at UNSC for long time. We need to compare notes and reload this file," he said. When asked if Moscow is doing anything behind the scenes, Polyanskiy said, "Everybody is doing something behind the scenes because we are all worried including Moscow".

Pakistan's letter on Kashmir: United Nations Security Council to hold closed-door talks today

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that India follows "no first use" policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances".

"On the question of nuclear policy, till today, we have a policy of no-first-use. What happens in future, will depend on circumstances," he said after paying homage to late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Pokhran in Rajasthan where the country conducted its second nuclear tests during the regime of the NDA government in 1998.

"In Pokhran, India emerged as a nuclear power. Despite all restraints, Atalji gave permission for the nuclear test. India was listed among those countries which have nuclear power. I paid homage to Atalji on his first death anniversary here," Singh said.

He also posted a tweet reiterating his statement.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pokhran is the area which witnessed Atal Ji’s firm resolve to make India a nuclear power and yet remain firmly committed to the doctrine of ‘No First Use’. India has strictly adhered to this doctrine. What happens in future depends on the circumstances.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1162276901055893504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The nuclear test was conducted in May, 1998, in Pokhran during the Vajpayee government and the "no first use" policy was enunicated by him. The policy in India's nuclear doctrine meant the country will not to use its nuclear weapon as a means of warfare unless attacked by an adversary using nuclear weapons.

Singh's statement comes in the wake of abrogation of Article 370. Pakistan has shown its hostility towards India's action, raising it with the United Nations (UN) on the international level. It has, however, dealt a diplomatic setback with the UN Security Council declining to hold a formal session on Kashmir with its participation.

The UNSC has, instead, scheduled a closed-door consultation at China's insistence. The consultation will take place on Friday evening.

Pakistan does not have a "no first use" policy. The country also went nuclear immediately after India conducted its tests. Pakistan in fact has used its nuclear assets as a blackmail tool that any aggression on part of India would lead to full scale war.

India, on past two occasions, has been able to call off its neighbour's nuclear bluff by organising two surgical strikes inside Pakistan. The Balakot involved use of Air Force which was first by India after 1971 war. The only time India used Air Force was during the Kargil War, but that too, in a limited capacity. Singh's statement is full of significance and any move of India in the context is akin to completely re-calibrating the nuclear doctrine.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that India follows "no first use" policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said that India follows "no first use" policy regarding nuclear weapons but said what would happen in future will depend on "circumstances". "On the question of nuclear policy, till today, we have a policy of no-first-use. What happens in future, will depend on circumstances," he said after paying homage to late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Pokhran in Rajasthan where the country conducted its second nuclear tests during the regime of the NDA government in 1998. "In Pokhran, India emerged as a nuclear power. Despite all restraints, Atalji gave permission for the nuclear test. India was listed among those countries which have nuclear power. I paid homage to Atalji on his first death anniversary here," Singh said. He also posted a tweet reiterating his statement. Pokhran is the area which witnessed Atal Ji’s firm resolve to make India a nuclear power and yet remain firmly committed to the doctrine of ‘No First Use’. India has strictly adhered to this doctrine. What happens in future depends on the circumstances. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) August 16, 2019 × The nuclear test was conducted in May, 1998, in Pokhran during the Vajpayee government and the "no first use" policy was enunicated by him. The policy in India's nuclear doctrine meant the country will not to use its nuclear weapon as a means of warfare unless attacked by an adversary using nuclear weapons. Singh's statement comes in the wake of abrogation of Article 370. Pakistan has shown its hostility towards India's action, raising it with the United Nations (UN) on the international level. It has, however, dealt a diplomatic setback with the UN Security Council declining to hold a formal session on Kashmir with its participation. The UNSC has, instead, scheduled a closed-door consultation at China's insistence. The consultation will take place on Friday evening. Pakistan does not have a "no first use" policy. The country also went nuclear immediately after India conducted its tests. Pakistan in fact has used its nuclear assets as a blackmail tool that any aggression on part of India would lead to full scale war. India, on past two occasions, has been able to call off its neighbour's nuclear bluff by organising two surgical strikes inside Pakistan. The Balakot involved use of Air Force which was first by India after 1971 war. The only time India used Air Force was during the Kargil War, but that too, in a limited capacity. Singh's statement is full of significance and any move of India in the context is akin to completely re-calibrating the nuclear doctrine.

India's 'no first use' nuclear policy in future will depend on circumstances: Rajnath Singh

The government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi had removed Article 370 and Article 35A from Jammu and Kashmir which ended its special status. Now after a while, Life back on track in J&K; Schools, offices to open from Monday.

Life back on track in J&K; Schools, offices to open from Monday

Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Friday will review the situation of the areas where restrictions were not lifted after the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people at a time, government sources said.

This comes in wake of the heightened security situation in Jammu and Kashmir after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganization) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it.

On August 14, the government had said that law and order was under control in the region and barring some "localised incidents" which led to a few pellet injuries that were treated, no major violence has been reported in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking to media here, Jammu and Kashmir`s Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), Munir Khan, had said the security forces and the administration were ensuring that there is no civilian casualty.

"Law order situation is totally under control. There have been localised incidents in various parts of Srinagar and other districts, which have been contained. There have been no major injuries. There have been a few pellet injuries, they were treated. Our biggest endeavour is that no civil casualty should take place," Khan had said.

Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal had said that authorities are assessing the situation on an area-to-area basis to decide on the restrictions that are in place.&nbsp;

"Local authorities are keeping a close watch on the situations and offering relaxation wherever the situation warrants," he had said.

Kansal had also said that "hospitals, medical facilities, civil supplies, national highways and airport continue to function normally".&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Friday will review the situation of the areas where restrictions were not lifted after the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people at a time, government sources said.

Jammu and Kashmir authorities on Friday will review the situation of the areas where restrictions were not lifted after the imposition of Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people at a time, government sources said. This comes in wake of the heightened security situation in Jammu and Kashmir after the Centre withdrew the special status and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganization) Act, 2019, bifurcating it into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it. On August 14, the government had said that law and order was under control in the region and barring some "localised incidents" which led to a few pellet injuries that were treated, no major violence has been reported in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking to media here, Jammu and Kashmir`s Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), Munir Khan, had said the security forces and the administration were ensuring that there is no civilian casualty. "Law order situation is totally under control. There have been localised incidents in various parts of Srinagar and other districts, which have been contained. There have been no major injuries. There have been a few pellet injuries, they were treated. Our biggest endeavour is that no civil casualty should take place," Khan had said. Jammu and Kashmir Principal Secretary Rohit Kansal had said that authorities are assessing the situation on an area-to-area basis to decide on the restrictions that are in place. "Local authorities are keeping a close watch on the situations and offering relaxation wherever the situation warrants," he had said. Kansal had also said that "hospitals, medical facilities, civil supplies, national highways and airport continue to function normally".

Situation under control in Jammu and Kashmir, authorities to review restrictions

US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Delhi on Friday and discussed the deep convergences of the strategic relationship shared between the two countries.

"Glad to receive Deputy Secretary @StateDept John Sullivan. Discussing the deep convergences of our strategic relationship," Jaishankar tweeted.

Sullivan is currently on the second leg of his two-nation visit to Bhutan and India from August 11 to 17 to advance Washington`s partnership with both countries that are critical to preserving the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

Apart from meeting Jaishankar, the Deputy State Secretary is also scheduled to address the India-US forum.

Sullivan`s visit to India comes amid rising tensions in the region following New Delhi`s move to abrogate of Article 370 which granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcating the border state into two Union Territories.

The international community has urged both countries to exercise restraint and to ensure that peace and stability prevail along the Line of Control (LoC).&nbsp;

US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Delhi on Friday and discussed the deep convergences of the strategic relationship shared between the two countries.

US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Delhi on Friday and discussed the deep convergences of the strategic relationship shared between the two countries. "Glad to receive Deputy Secretary @StateDept John Sullivan. Discussing the deep convergences of our strategic relationship," Jaishankar tweeted. Sullivan is currently on the second leg of his two-nation visit to Bhutan and India from August 11 to 17 to advance Washington`s partnership with both countries that are critical to preserving the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. Apart from meeting Jaishankar, the Deputy State Secretary is also scheduled to address the India-US forum. Sullivan`s visit to India comes amid rising tensions in the region following New Delhi`s move to abrogate of Article 370 which granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcating the border state into two Union Territories. The international community has urged both countries to exercise restraint and to ensure that peace and stability prevail along the Line of Control (LoC).

US Deputy Secy of State meets External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in Delhi

The Centre on Friday sought one more week to decide on the implementation of Supreme Court Collegium`s recommendation to appoint Bombay High Court`s Justice Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that the issue will be considered and Centre needs one week time.

"The decision of the Centre will be informed to the Collegium," Tushar Mehta told the bench.&nbsp;

The Bench indicated that the date will be fixed on the administrative side for a hearing next week.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the Supreme Court had asked the Centre to take a decision by August 14 on the recommendation of the Court`s Collegium to appoint Akil Kureshi as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court.&nbsp;

The Solicitor General had said that the matter was under consideration and sought two weeks.&nbsp;

The plea was filed by the Gujarat High Court Advocates` Association seeking a direction to the Centre to implement the Supreme Court collegium`s recommendation to appoint Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court.

The Advocates` Association said that Kureshi was appointed as a judge of Gujarat High Court in 2004 and was functioning as acting Chief Justice of High Court when he was transferred to Bombay High Court on November 2018

 
&nbsp;

The Centre on Friday sought one more week to decide on the implementation of Supreme Court Collegium`s recommendation to appoint Bombay High Court`s Justice Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court.

The Centre on Friday sought one more week to decide on the implementation of Supreme Court Collegium`s recommendation to appoint Bombay High Court`s Justice Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi that the issue will be considered and Centre needs one week time. "The decision of the Centre will be informed to the Collegium," Tushar Mehta told the bench. The Bench indicated that the date will be fixed on the administrative side for a hearing next week. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court had asked the Centre to take a decision by August 14 on the recommendation of the Court`s Collegium to appoint Akil Kureshi as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The Solicitor General had said that the matter was under consideration and sought two weeks. The plea was filed by the Gujarat High Court Advocates` Association seeking a direction to the Centre to implement the Supreme Court collegium`s recommendation to appoint Akil Kureshi as Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court. The Advocates` Association said that Kureshi was appointed as a judge of Gujarat High Court in 2004 and was functioning as acting Chief Justice of High Court when he was transferred to Bombay High Court on November 2018

Centre seeks one week's time to take decision on Justice Akil Kureshi's elevation

Expressing concern over the incidents of judiciary stepping into the executive domain, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday sought the creation of an "in-house corrective mechanism" for judicial accountability.

"I am seeing a new trend happening. Some judges, two days before their retirement, give judgement of the questionable legal validity and sit on television for three days to justify it. I don`t think it is fair. The way PIL has been detained in some states, it seems as if they are parallel to the state government`s governance," he said speaking at the Independence Day celebrations organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).

Calling in-house a corrective mechanism, the Law Minister said that the role of the judiciary today has become a matter of trust for the country.&nbsp;

"It is equally important that in-house corrective mechanism must exist with the Supreme Court at the apex to ensure discipline, propriety and in some way judicial accountability," he added.

Prasad highlighted that several crores of rupees were allocated for the judicial infrastructure in the last five years of the Modi government.

"As far as the government is concerned, our job is to provide infrastructure. The government, centre or state should have no business in interfering as far as the adjudication process of the judiciary is concerned. That`s entirely the domain of the judiciary. We need to respect that," he said.

Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, who was also present there on the occasion, in a veiled attack at some judges said that the judiciary has witnessed a surge in instances of "indecorous acts".

"Indian judiciary has, since some time past, witnessed an unprecedented rise in instances of indecorous acts which don`t align with the charter of our institution. Such instances of inappropriate behaviour have raised their ugly head in all courts, including the Supreme Court," he said.

Calling for urgent steps to end immoral behaviour, Gogoi said that stakeholders must quickly identify, isolate such animals and put them to quarantine.

"Graceful, pleasing and pleasant discourses and deliberations are increasingly being replaced by loud and motivated conduct. It is important that stakeholders quickly identify and isolate such animals and put them to quarantine," he added.

"It is time for all of us to introspect and redraw the lines that ought to bind each of the stakeholders to ensure that decorum and dignity of this great institution is not lost so that the meritorious enjoy space and are able to contribute to the good of the institution and steer it to new standards of excellence," CJI Gogoi said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Expressing concern over the incidents of judiciary stepping into the executive domain, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday sought the creation of an "in-house corrective mechanism" for judicial accountability.

Expressing concern over the incidents of judiciary stepping into the executive domain, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday sought the creation of an "in-house corrective mechanism" for judicial accountability. "I am seeing a new trend happening. Some judges, two days before their retirement, give judgement of the questionable legal validity and sit on television for three days to justify it. I don`t think it is fair. The way PIL has been detained in some states, it seems as if they are parallel to the state government`s governance," he said speaking at the Independence Day celebrations organised by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA). Calling in-house a corrective mechanism, the Law Minister said that the role of the judiciary today has become a matter of trust for the country. "It is equally important that in-house corrective mechanism must exist with the Supreme Court at the apex to ensure discipline, propriety and in some way judicial accountability," he added. Prasad highlighted that several crores of rupees were allocated for the judicial infrastructure in the last five years of the Modi government. "As far as the government is concerned, our job is to provide infrastructure. The government, centre or state should have no business in interfering as far as the adjudication process of the judiciary is concerned. That`s entirely the domain of the judiciary. We need to respect that," he said. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, who was also present there on the occasion, in a veiled attack at some judges said that the judiciary has witnessed a surge in instances of "indecorous acts". "Indian judiciary has, since some time past, witnessed an unprecedented rise in instances of indecorous acts which don`t align with the charter of our institution. Such instances of inappropriate behaviour have raised their ugly head in all courts, including the Supreme Court," he said. Calling for urgent steps to end immoral behaviour, Gogoi said that stakeholders must quickly identify, isolate such animals and put them to quarantine. "Graceful, pleasing and pleasant discourses and deliberations are increasingly being replaced by loud and motivated conduct. It is important that stakeholders quickly identify and isolate such animals and put them to quarantine," he added. "It is time for all of us to introspect and redraw the lines that ought to bind each of the stakeholders to ensure that decorum and dignity of this great institution is not lost so that the meritorious enjoy space and are able to contribute to the good of the institution and steer it to new standards of excellence," CJI Gogoi said.

Ravi Shankar Prasad seeks in-house corrective mechanism for judicial accountability

Indian Air Force Squadron Leader Minty Agarwal, the first woman who has been awarded the Yudh Seva Medal, on Thursday said that she witnessed Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shooting down a Pakistani F-16 fighter aircraft during a dogfight on 27 February, a day after the Balakot airstrike.

IAF Squadron Leader Minty Agarwal honoured with Yudh Seva medal

Remembering Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his first death anniversary

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places likely over East Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Central Madhya Pradesh are likely to receive heavy rainfall throughout the day.

The weather organisation also predicted heavy downpour in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Konkan, Goa and Gujarat Region.

Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is very likely at isolated places over Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, and Odisha.

"Strong winds, speed reaching 45-55 kmph, are likely to prevail over central and southwest Arabian Sea. Squally weather likely to prevail over south Tamil Nadu coast and Comorin area," the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

The organisation has adviced fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days. &nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places likely over East Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Central Madhya Pradesh are likely to receive heavy rainfall throughout the day.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said that isolated places likely over East Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttrakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Central Madhya Pradesh are likely to receive heavy rainfall throughout the day. The weather organisation also predicted heavy downpour in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Konkan, Goa and Gujarat Region. Thunderstorm accompanied by lightning is very likely at isolated places over Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, and Odisha. "Strong winds, speed reaching 45-55 kmph, are likely to prevail over central and southwest Arabian Sea. Squally weather likely to prevail over south Tamil Nadu coast and Comorin area," the IMD stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. The organisation has adviced fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

Heavy rain alert in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal, Madhya Pradesh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chief-justice-of-india-gogoi-stops-short-of-fining-petitioner-challenging-article-370-adjourns-hearing-243274">Jammu and Kashmir </a>Governor, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-incomplete-without-kashmiri-pandits-governor-satya-pal-malik-243141">Satya Pal Mal</a>ik directed the Civil Secretariat Srinagar and government offices to resume normal functioning in the state from Friday.

Schools and other educational institutions are scheduled to reopen in Kashmir valley from August 19, News agency ANI reported citing government sources.

The decision to lift the restrictions in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-letter-on-kashmir-united-nations-security-council-to-hold-closed-door-talks-on-kashmir-today-243241">J&amp;K</a> comes three days after the Supreme Court&nbsp;said it will wait for the normalcy to return in the valley.

The court had earlier on Tuesday refused to ease restrictions in the state after the abrogation of Article 370. The petition, filed by social activist Tehseen Poonawala, sought lifting of curfew and other restrictions including blocking of phone lines, internet and news channels.

The Ministry of Home Affairs said on Tuesday that the restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were being "eased out in a phased manner in the Valley".

Restrictions were eased out from Jammu&nbsp;division on Tuesday after assessment by relevant local authorities.

Centre last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Governor, Satya Pal Malik directed the Civil Secretariat Srinagar and government offices to resume normal functioning in the state from Friday.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor, Satya Pal Malik directed the Civil Secretariat Srinagar and government offices to resume normal functioning in the state from Friday. Schools and other educational institutions are scheduled to reopen in Kashmir valley from August 19, News agency ANI reported citing government sources. The decision to lift the restrictions in J&K comes three days after the Supreme Court said it will wait for the normalcy to return in the valley. The court had earlier on Tuesday refused to ease restrictions in the state after the abrogation of Article 370. The petition, filed by social activist Tehseen Poonawala, sought lifting of curfew and other restrictions including blocking of phone lines, internet and news channels. The Ministry of Home Affairs said on Tuesday that the restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir were being "eased out in a phased manner in the Valley". Restrictions were eased out from Jammu division on Tuesday after assessment by relevant local authorities. Centre last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Since then, the state had been under lockdown and security forces were put on maximum alert to "pre-empt" and "prevent" any breach of security. (With inputs from agencies)

Governor Satya Pal Malik directs government officers to resume normal functioning in Jammu and Kashmir from today

73rd Independence Day: PM Modi address nation for 92 minutes; Here are the top points of his speech. Watch video to know more.

73rd Independence Day: PM Modi address nation for 92 minutes; Here are the top points of his speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun his address from the ramparts of the Red Fort by conveying Independence Day greetings. Then he says 'We do not believe in creating problems or dragging them. In less than 70 days of our new Government, Article 370 was revoked, and in both Houses of Parliament, 2/3rd of the members supported this move. The old system in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh led to corruption, nepotism but there was injustice when it came to rights of women, children, Dalits, tribal communities.

PM Modi addresses nation on its 73rd Independence day celebration from the ramparts of the Red Fort

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