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The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-internationalised-the-kashmir-issue-says-imran-khan-in-pok-assembly-242960">Kashmir Valley</a> will have "some restrictions" tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day, Principal Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir administration Rohit Kansal said on Wednesday.

"The o<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/removal-of-article-370-heralds-an-era-of-progress-for-jammu-and-kashmir-242889">verall security situation continues to be calm</a>. There has been no major report of any untoward incident. There will be some restrictions tomorrow," Rohit Kansal told reporters.

On reported detention of former IAS officer and J and K Peoples' Movement leader Shah Faesal, Kansal said, "Any detention or arrest is based on local assessment of law and order requirement and taken accordingly. We will not comment on individuals."

J-K Additional Director General of Police SJM Gillani said, "There have been detentions under the Public Safety Act. There have been preventive arrests as well. Some people have also been shifted out of the state."

Gillani said, "As of now there are only 2 persons who are in hospital with some injuries, rest were discharged after first-aid."

Watch:&nbsp;Kashmir gears up for Independence day 2019

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kashmir-gears-up-for-independence-day-2019-242973/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Kansal said the government is ready with the arrangements for the main Independence Day function which will be held tomorrow at S K Stadium where Governor Satya Pal Malik will hoist the national flag.

In Jammu, the celebrations would be led by the Advisor to the Governor, he said, adding celebrations would be held at divisional, district and sub-district levels as well.

The Kashmir Valley will have "some restrictions" tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day, Principal Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir administration Rohit Kansal said on Wednesday.

The Kashmir Valley will have "some restrictions" tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day, Principal Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir administration Rohit Kansal said on Wednesday. "The overall security situation continues to be calm. There has been no major report of any untoward incident. There will be some restrictions tomorrow," Rohit Kansal told reporters. On reported detention of former IAS officer and J and K Peoples' Movement leader Shah Faesal, Kansal said, "Any detention or arrest is based on local assessment of law and order requirement and taken accordingly. We will not comment on individuals." J-K Additional Director General of Police SJM Gillani said, "There have been detentions under the Public Safety Act. There have been preventive arrests as well. Some people have also been shifted out of the state." Gillani said, "As of now there are only 2 persons who are in hospital with some injuries, rest were discharged after first-aid." Watch: Kashmir gears up for Independence day 2019 Kansal said the government is ready with the arrangements for the main Independence Day function which will be held tomorrow at S K Stadium where Governor Satya Pal Malik will hoist the national flag. In Jammu, the celebrations would be led by the Advisor to the Governor, he said, adding celebrations would be held at divisional, district and sub-district levels as well.

Some restrictions in Kashmir Valley on Independence Day: J&K principle secretary

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-resumes-flights-after-clashes-mass-protests-242850">Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests</a>

Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/facebook-paid-contractors-to-transcribe-users-audio-report-242853">Facebook paid contractors to transcribe users' audio: Report</a>

Facebook Inc&nbsp;has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-asks-un-security-council-to-meet-over-india-moves-in-kashmir-242852">Pakistan asks UN Security Council to meet over India moves in Kashmir</a>

Pakistan&nbsp;on Tuesday asked the&nbsp;United Nations Security Council&nbsp;to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan region that has long been a flashpoint in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/free-balochistan-movement-marks-independence-day-of-balochistan-242873">Free Balochistan movement marks Independence Day of Balochistan</a>

Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-2-successfully-enters-lunar-transfer-trajectory-242851">Chandrayaan-2 successfully enters Lunar Transfer Trajectory</a>

Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city.

Hong Kong airport resumes flights after clashes, mass protests Hong Kong's airport resumed operations on Wednesday, rescheduling hundreds of flights that had been disrupted over the past two days as protesters clashed with riot police in a deepening crisis in the Chinese-controlled city. Facebook paid contractors to transcribe users' audio: Report Facebook Inc has been paying outside contractors to transcribe audio clips from users of its services, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The company confirmed that it had been transcribing users' audio and said it was no longer doing so, Bloomberg reported. Pakistan asks UN Security Council to meet over India moves in Kashmir Pakistan on Tuesday asked the United Nations Security Council to meet over India's decision to revoke the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan region that has long been a flashpoint in ties between the nuclear-armed neighbours. Free Balochistan movement marks Independence Day of Balochistan Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) organised a seminar in London to mark the Independence Day of Baloch. It was attended by members of several Baloch and non-Baloch political parties including Baloch Republican Party (BRP), Balochistan National Movement (Zrombesh), Balochistan People Party, Nation without States, Arab Front for The liberation of ALahwaz, Campaign against Criminalizing Communities and 15 April Movement for Liberation of Al- Ahwaz. Chandrayaan-2 successfully enters Lunar Transfer Trajectory Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Election Commission on Tuesday held "internal discussion" on various to aspects of delimitation of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and the process will roll out after a formal communication from Home Ministry, sources said.

The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisaiton Act 2019 provides that the number of seats in the legislative assembly of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir shall be increased from 107 to 114, and delimitation of the constituencies will be determined by the Election Commission.

Sources said that internal discussions were held on the issue.&nbsp;

They said a delimitation commission is set up to fix limits or boundaries of constituencies and the process regarding delimitation will start after receiving formal communication from the Ministry.

The Act, which was notified by the government on August 9, provides for the creation of two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir, which will have a legislature and Ladakh, without it.

The Act provides that the poll panel will determine the number of seats to be reserved for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes in the Legislative Assembly with regard to the relevant provisions of the Constitution.

It says that constituencies in which seats are reserved for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes shall, as far as practicable, be located in areas where the proportion of their population to the total population is the largest.

The Act provides that the poll panel will publish its proposals for the delimitation of constituencies together with the dissenting proposals, if any, in the Official Gazette together with a notice inviting objections and suggestions concerning the proposals and specifying a date by which the proposals will be further considered by it.

It will consider all objections and suggestions and determine the delimitation of constituencies.

Upon published in the Official Gazette, the orders shall have the full force of law and shall not be called in question in any court.&nbsp;

The orders relating to assembly constituencies shall be laid before the Legislative Assembly of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

In India, Delimitation Commissions have been constituted 4 times - in 1952 under the Delimitation Commission Act, 1952, in 1963 under Delimitation Commission Act, 1962, in 1973 under Delimitation Act, 1972 and in 2002 under Delimitation Act, 2002.&nbsp;

Election Commission on Tuesday held "internal discussion" on various to aspects of delimitation of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and the process will roll out after a formal communication from Home Ministry, sources said.

Election Commission on Tuesday held "internal discussion" on various to aspects of delimitation of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly and the process will roll out after a formal communication from Home Ministry, sources said. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisaiton Act 2019 provides that the number of seats in the legislative assembly of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir shall be increased from 107 to 114, and delimitation of the constituencies will be determined by the Election Commission. Sources said that internal discussions were held on the issue. They said a delimitation commission is set up to fix limits or boundaries of constituencies and the process regarding delimitation will start after receiving formal communication from the Ministry. The Act, which was notified by the government on August 9, provides for the creation of two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir, which will have a legislature and Ladakh, without it. The Act provides that the poll panel will determine the number of seats to be reserved for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes in the Legislative Assembly with regard to the relevant provisions of the Constitution. It says that constituencies in which seats are reserved for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes shall, as far as practicable, be located in areas where the proportion of their population to the total population is the largest. The Act provides that the poll panel will publish its proposals for the delimitation of constituencies together with the dissenting proposals, if any, in the Official Gazette together with a notice inviting objections and suggestions concerning the proposals and specifying a date by which the proposals will be further considered by it. It will consider all objections and suggestions and determine the delimitation of constituencies. Upon published in the Official Gazette, the orders shall have the full force of law and shall not be called in question in any court. The orders relating to assembly constituencies shall be laid before the Legislative Assembly of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. In India, Delimitation Commissions have been constituted 4 times - in 1952 under the Delimitation Commission Act, 1952, in 1963 under Delimitation Commission Act, 1962, in 1973 under Delimitation Act, 1972 and in 2002 under Delimitation Act, 2002.

Election Commission holds discussion on delimitation in Jammu and Kashmir

Police on Tuesday arrested the close aide of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim`s brother for allegedly threatening a businessman, police said on Tuesday.

Mohammed Altaf Abdul alias Lateef Saeed, an associate of Dawood`s brother Anees Ibrahim, was arrested from Kannur airport in Kerala, reported news agency ANI.

The accused had threatened a hotelier on directions of Anees Ibrahim, besides involving in hawala transaction, according to&nbsp;police.

Police also informed that two Indian passports were recovered from Lateef`s possession which he used to travel to Dubai.&nbsp;

The Crime Branch is further investigating the case to ascertain Lateef`s activities.

A court has sent him to police custody till August 16.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Police on Tuesday arrested the close aide of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim`s brother for allegedly threatening a businessman, police said on Tuesday. Mohammed Altaf Abdul alias Lateef Saeed, an associate of Dawood`s brother Anees Ibrahim, was arrested from Kannur airport in Kerala, reported news agency ANI.

Police on Tuesday arrested the close aide of underworld don Dawood Ibrahim`s brother for allegedly threatening a businessman, police said on Tuesday. Mohammed Altaf Abdul alias Lateef Saeed, an associate of Dawood`s brother Anees Ibrahim, was arrested from Kannur airport in Kerala, reported news agency ANI. The accused had threatened a hotelier on directions of Anees Ibrahim, besides involving in hawala transaction, according to police. Police also informed that two Indian passports were recovered from Lateef`s possession which he used to travel to Dubai. The Crime Branch is further investigating the case to ascertain Lateef`s activities. A court has sent him to police custody till August 16.

Close aide of Dawood Ibrahim's brother arrested in Kerala

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday said that any purchase which exceeds Rs 1 crore would be displayed on public domain for transparency and corruption-free governance.

During a review meeting, Reddy said that there have been scams in the previous government from school uniforms to automobiles but the current government will have to ensure that all deals are done in a fair and transparent manner, read an official statement.

"We have to stem the rot and guide the governance in a proper way which will be acceptable to all," Reddy stated.

All purchases should be done only by bidding and the contractor's name should be displayed only after the finalisation, he said while adding that the next round of review meeting would be held on August 28.

The Chief Minister also asked officials to suggest ways and means to carry out the purchases in the most effective and transparent manner.

Panchayat Raj Minister Peddireddy Ramchandra Reddy, Finance Minister Buggana Rajendernath and other officials were also present in the meeting.

In another review meeting of the Cabinet sub-committee that is probing into the irregularities by the previous government, the Chief Minister said that they should carry forward the probe without any fear or favour and not to succumb to any pressure.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday said that any purchase which exceeds Rs 1 crore would be displayed on public domain for transparency and corruption-free governance.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday said that any purchase which exceeds Rs 1 crore would be displayed on public domain for transparency and corruption-free governance. During a review meeting, Reddy said that there have been scams in the previous government from school uniforms to automobiles but the current government will have to ensure that all deals are done in a fair and transparent manner, read an official statement. "We have to stem the rot and guide the governance in a proper way which will be acceptable to all," Reddy stated. All purchases should be done only by bidding and the contractor's name should be displayed only after the finalisation, he said while adding that the next round of review meeting would be held on August 28. The Chief Minister also asked officials to suggest ways and means to carry out the purchases in the most effective and transparent manner. Panchayat Raj Minister Peddireddy Ramchandra Reddy, Finance Minister Buggana Rajendernath and other officials were also present in the meeting. In another review meeting of the Cabinet sub-committee that is probing into the irregularities by the previous government, the Chief Minister said that they should carry forward the probe without any fear or favour and not to succumb to any pressure.

Purchase over 1 crore to display on public domain for transparency, corruption-free governance: Andhra CM Jagan Mohan Reddy

On the eve of India's Independence Day, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/repeal-of-art-370-not-communal-was-need-of-the-hour-vice-president-naidu-242922">President Kovind addressed</a> the nation today asserting that recent changes in Jammu &amp; Kashmir including Ladakh would be of immense benefit to the region.

"The changes will enable the people to access and enjoy the same rights, same privileges and same facilities as their fellow citizens in the rest of the country," President Kovind said.

The Parliament had earlier this month adopted a resolution to repeal Article 370, which provided special powers to Jammu and Kashmir. It also passed a bill to reorganise Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir (with legislature) and Ladakh without a legislature.

The reorganization bill was signed by the President after it was passed by the two Houses of Parliament and it was notified by the government on August 9.

"We are at a special juncture," the president said adding that the government was enabling all basic provisions including progressive, egalitarian laws and provisions related to RTE, accessing public information through RTI, reservations in education and employment and other facilities for deprived communities.

It also includes justice for our daughters by abolishing unequal practices such as instant Triple Talaq, the President added.

"This year also marks the 550th birth anniversary of one of the greatest, wisest and most influential Indians of all time Guru Nanak Devji. He was the founder of Sikhism but the reverence &amp; respect he commands go far beyond just our Sikh brothers and sisters."

"We complete 72 years as a free nation at a very special juncture. In a few weeks from now, on October 2, we will celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of the father of our nation Mahatma Gandhi, the guiding light of our successful effort to liberate our nation," President Kovind said while addressing the nation.

"India's tradition has been live and let live," he said, adding," small towns are being connected by air."

"When we design and deliver welfare programmes for our disadvantaged fellow citizens and families when we seek to harness the power of the Sun as renewable energy, we put Gandhian philosophy into action," he said.

The President thanked the people for taking part in the 17th general election and congratulated the voters for turning up at polling stations enthusiastically in large numbers.

President Kovind also recalled the sacrifices of freedom fighters and revolutionaries who made sacrifices for the country's freedom from colonial rule.

On the eve of India's Independence Day, President Kovind addressed the nation today asserting that recent changes in Jammu & Kashmir including Ladakh would be of immense benefit to the region.

On the eve of India's Independence Day, President Kovind addressed the nation today asserting that recent changes in Jammu & Kashmir including Ladakh would be of immense benefit to the region. "The changes will enable the people to access and enjoy the same rights, same privileges and same facilities as their fellow citizens in the rest of the country," President Kovind said. The Parliament had earlier this month adopted a resolution to repeal Article 370, which provided special powers to Jammu and Kashmir. It also passed a bill to reorganise Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir (with legislature) and Ladakh without a legislature. The reorganization bill was signed by the President after it was passed by the two Houses of Parliament and it was notified by the government on August 9. "We are at a special juncture," the president said adding that the government was enabling all basic provisions including progressive, egalitarian laws and provisions related to RTE, accessing public information through RTI, reservations in education and employment and other facilities for deprived communities. It also includes justice for our daughters by abolishing unequal practices such as instant Triple Talaq, the President added. "This year also marks the 550th birth anniversary of one of the greatest, wisest and most influential Indians of all time Guru Nanak Devji. He was the founder of Sikhism but the reverence & respect he commands go far beyond just our Sikh brothers and sisters." "We complete 72 years as a free nation at a very special juncture. In a few weeks from now, on October 2, we will celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of the father of our nation Mahatma Gandhi, the guiding light of our successful effort to liberate our nation," President Kovind said while addressing the nation. "India's tradition has been live and let live," he said, adding," small towns are being connected by air." "When we design and deliver welfare programmes for our disadvantaged fellow citizens and families when we seek to harness the power of the Sun as renewable energy, we put Gandhian philosophy into action," he said. The President thanked the people for taking part in the 17th general election and congratulated the voters for turning up at polling stations enthusiastically in large numbers. President Kovind also recalled the sacrifices of freedom fighters and revolutionaries who made sacrifices for the country's freedom from colonial rule.

Changes in J&K will enable people to enjoy similar rights as others in India: President Kovind

Glimpses of PM Narendra Modi's from previous Independence Day speeches. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Glimpses of PM Narendra Modi's from previous Independence Day speeches

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that there cannot be a bigger inspiration for the young Bharatiya Janata Party workers than the late Sushma Swaraj.

Modi was speaking at a condolence meeting in memory of the late Union Minister Swaraj who passed away on August 6.

"She gave her all in whatever work she was assigned despite having accomplished so much in her personal life. There cannot be a bigger inspiration in life for the young BJP workers," Modi said.

Praising her work as the External Affairs Minister, PM Modi said that Swaraj transformed the Ministry`s protocols into "people`s call".

"She showed how "Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam" can be actualised by the External Affairs Ministry. She considered problems of Indians in foreign countries as her own. She brought a complete change in the character of the foreign ministry," he said.&nbsp;

"In the last 70 years, we had 77 passport offices in the country. And in her 5 years as EAM, we now have 505 passport offices, which shows the magnitude of her work," Modi added.

The Prime Minister also said that though he was older to Swaraj, he learnt a great deal from her.

Recounting an anecdote from the time he had just taken up as Prime Minister, Modi revealed how Swaraj did not let him speak extempore at the United Nations.

He said, "Before I was about to give my first speech at the UN, she asked me where my speech was and I said I`ll speak without writing it down. She strongly opposed the idea!"&nbsp;

"We prepared the speech overnight with her and the team. Later, she told me that no matter how great an orator you are, there are forums that have some decorums and practices which are important. This was the first lesson I learnt from her," Prime Minister Modi added.

Concluding his speech, Modi said, "We are all with her at this moment, may God give us the strength to walk on the same ideals that she did."

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid his condolence to Swaraj, saying, "We will never forget her contribution till the day we die. Her voice will continue to reverberate inside the Parliament."

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP working President Jagat Prakash Nadda and other senior BJP leaders also paid their tributes to Swaraj at the condolence meet. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that there cannot be a bigger inspiration for the young Bharatiya Janata Party workers than the late Sushma Swaraj. Modi was speaking at a condolence meeting in memory of the late Union Minister Swaraj who passed away on August 6.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that there cannot be a bigger inspiration for the young Bharatiya Janata Party workers than the late Sushma Swaraj. Modi was speaking at a condolence meeting in memory of the late Union Minister Swaraj who passed away on August 6. "She gave her all in whatever work she was assigned despite having accomplished so much in her personal life. There cannot be a bigger inspiration in life for the young BJP workers," Modi said. Praising her work as the External Affairs Minister, PM Modi said that Swaraj transformed the Ministry`s protocols into "people`s call". "She showed how "Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam" can be actualised by the External Affairs Ministry. She considered problems of Indians in foreign countries as her own. She brought a complete change in the character of the foreign ministry," he said. "In the last 70 years, we had 77 passport offices in the country. And in her 5 years as EAM, we now have 505 passport offices, which shows the magnitude of her work," Modi added. The Prime Minister also said that though he was older to Swaraj, he learnt a great deal from her. Recounting an anecdote from the time he had just taken up as Prime Minister, Modi revealed how Swaraj did not let him speak extempore at the United Nations. He said, "Before I was about to give my first speech at the UN, she asked me where my speech was and I said I`ll speak without writing it down. She strongly opposed the idea!" "We prepared the speech overnight with her and the team. Later, she told me that no matter how great an orator you are, there are forums that have some decorums and practices which are important. This was the first lesson I learnt from her," Prime Minister Modi added. Concluding his speech, Modi said, "We are all with her at this moment, may God give us the strength to walk on the same ideals that she did." Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid his condolence to Swaraj, saying, "We will never forget her contribution till the day we die. Her voice will continue to reverberate inside the Parliament." Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP working President Jagat Prakash Nadda and other senior BJP leaders also paid their tributes to Swaraj at the condolence meet.

No bigger inspiration than Sushma Swaraj for young party workers: PM Modi

Poland's ambassador to India Adam Burakowski on Tuesday said that India and Pakistan have to resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally. 
&nbsp; 
"We express concern over present tension between India and Pakistan resulting from the proposed change in the status of Jammu and Kashmir. Poland believes that this issue can be resolved only through peaceful means," Burakowski said. 
&nbsp; 
He also said that the strained relationship between India and Pakistan will impact the political and economic scenario of the South Asian region. 
&nbsp; 
"Like the whole European Union, we are in favour to sort out this issue with dialogue," he added. 
&nbsp; 
Burakowski further said that Poland will stand ready to engage in preventing actions if needed.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistans-desperation-grows-poland-backs-bilateral-solution-on-jk-242639/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Polish diplomat also said that India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is in China at present, had briefed the Polish side about the implications of scrapping Kashmir's special status on August 8. 
&nbsp; 
"On August 7, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called our minister of foreign affairs Jacek Czaputowicz to discuss the issue of scrapping Kashmir's special status and the discussion was very open and cordial," said Polish envoy. 
&nbsp; 
Last week, in a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) did not take up Pakistani finance minister's letter of August 6 at several meetings written in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. 
&nbsp; 
Pakistan has been trying to internationalise Article 370 issue of Jammu &amp; Kashmir but United Nations security council asked Pakistan to address the issue bilaterally. 
&nbsp; 
This is the first time that Poland has spoken out on the heightened diplomatic tension between India and Pakistan. Poland currently holds the UNSC presidency for August. 
&nbsp; 
Poland's backing of a bilateral solution to the Kashmir dispute comes after Russia underscored that India's move was carried out “within the framework of the constitution of the Republic of India.

&nbsp;

Poland's ambassador to India Adam Burakowski on Tuesday said that India and Pakistan have to resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally. "We express concern over present tension between India and Pakistan resulting from the proposed change in the status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Poland's ambassador to India Adam Burakowski on Tuesday said that India and Pakistan have to resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally. "We express concern over present tension between India and Pakistan resulting from the proposed change in the status of Jammu and Kashmir. Poland believes that this issue can be resolved only through peaceful means," Burakowski said. He also said that the strained relationship between India and Pakistan will impact the political and economic scenario of the South Asian region. "Like the whole European Union, we are in favour to sort out this issue with dialogue," he added. Burakowski further said that Poland will stand ready to engage in preventing actions if needed. Watch Video: The Polish diplomat also said that India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who is in China at present, had briefed the Polish side about the implications of scrapping Kashmir's special status on August 8. "On August 7, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar called our minister of foreign affairs Jacek Czaputowicz to discuss the issue of scrapping Kashmir's special status and the discussion was very open and cordial," said Polish envoy. Last week, in a big snub to Pakistan, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) did not take up Pakistani finance minister's letter of August 6 at several meetings written in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan has been trying to internationalise Article 370 issue of Jammu & Kashmir but United Nations security council asked Pakistan to address the issue bilaterally. This is the first time that Poland has spoken out on the heightened diplomatic tension between India and Pakistan. Poland currently holds the UNSC presidency for August. Poland's backing of a bilateral solution to the Kashmir dispute comes after Russia underscored that India's move was carried out “within the framework of the constitution of the Republic of India.

'Concerned’ Poland hopes India, Pakistan resolve Kashmir issue through dialogue

Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.&nbsp;

The space agency said as planned it carried out the manoeuvre called Trans Lunar Insertion (TLI) at 2.21 am today.&nbsp;

"The final orbit raising manoeuvre of Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was successfully carried out today at 02:21 am IST. During this manoeuvre, the spacecraft`s liquid engine was fired for about 1203 seconds. With this, Chandrayaan-2 entered the Lunar Transfer Trajectory," ISRO said in a statement.

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Today (August 14, 2019) after the Trans Lunar Insertion (TLI) maneuver operation, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chandrayaan2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chandrayaan2</a> will depart from Earth's orbit and move towards the Moon. <a href="https://t.co/k2zjvOBUE6">pic.twitter.com/k2zjvOBUE6</a>
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After it was launched on July 22, the spacecraft`s orbit was progressively increased five times from July 23 to August 6.&nbsp;

The Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft is expected to reach the moon's orbit on August 20The spacecraft's liquid engine will be fired again to insert the spacecraft into a lunar orbit.

"Following this, there will be further four-orbit manoeuvres to make the spacecraft enter into its final orbit passing over the lunar poles at a distance of about 100 km from the Moon`s surface," the space agency said.&nbsp;

On September 7, the spacecraft's lander, Vikram, is expected to soft-land on the south pole of the moon and unleash the rover to explore the surface.

"The health of the spacecraft is being continuously monitored from the Mission Operations Complex (MOX) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru with support from Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) antennas at Byalalu, near Bengaluru," ISRO said.&nbsp;

Since its launch by GSLV MkIII-M1 vehicle, all systems onboard Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft are performing normal, the space agency said.

Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit.

Chandrayaan-2 headed onwards on its path to the moon after the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) early Wednesday successfully carried out a crucial process to manoeuvre India's second lunar probe out of the earth's orbit. The space agency said as planned it carried out the manoeuvre called Trans Lunar Insertion (TLI) at 2.21 am today. "The final orbit raising manoeuvre of Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft was successfully carried out today at 02:21 am IST. During this manoeuvre, the spacecraft`s liquid engine was fired for about 1203 seconds. With this, Chandrayaan-2 entered the Lunar Transfer Trajectory," ISRO said in a statement. #ISRO Today (August 14, 2019) after the Trans Lunar Insertion (TLI) maneuver operation, #Chandrayaan2 will depart from Earth's orbit and move towards the Moon. pic.twitter.com/k2zjvOBUE6 — ISRO (@isro) August 13, 2019 × After it was launched on July 22, the spacecraft`s orbit was progressively increased five times from July 23 to August 6. The Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft is expected to reach the moon's orbit on August 20The spacecraft's liquid engine will be fired again to insert the spacecraft into a lunar orbit. "Following this, there will be further four-orbit manoeuvres to make the spacecraft enter into its final orbit passing over the lunar poles at a distance of about 100 km from the Moon`s surface," the space agency said. On September 7, the spacecraft's lander, Vikram, is expected to soft-land on the south pole of the moon and unleash the rover to explore the surface. "The health of the spacecraft is being continuously monitored from the Mission Operations Complex (MOX) at ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru with support from Indian Deep Space Network (IDSN) antennas at Byalalu, near Bengaluru," ISRO said. Since its launch by GSLV MkIII-M1 vehicle, all systems onboard Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft are performing normal, the space agency said.

Chandrayaan-2 successfully enters Lunar Transfer Trajectory

'Palani panchamirtham', the holy offering at the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapaniswamy temple in Tamil Nadu's Palani hill town, is well known for being one of the oldest forms of jam or fruit mix, but making it sweeter is the successful registration of the geographical indications (GI) tag for the same.&nbsp;

The application for the same was filed by the joint commissioner/executive officer of the temple on June 15, 2016.&nbsp;

While the GI has been registered successfully and it reflects on the intellectual property India website, it could take a couple of days more until the certificate is available, said officials.

According to the GI application, the panchamirtham is classified under foodstuff and its ingredients include- banana, jaggery, cow ghee, honey, and cardamom.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/puri-beach-becomes-first-in-asia-to-get-blue-flag-tag-224888">Also read:&nbsp;Puri beach becomes first in Asia to get Blue Flag tag</a>

For additional flavour diamond sugar candy and dates are added. It also mentions that the holy offering is prepared under the guidance given by the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), the government of India undertaking.

Interestingly, panchamirtham finds mention in the ancient Tamil texts and this offering is said to be dating back to the 9th-century AD. In Tamil, ‘Pancha’ means five and 'amirtham' refers to divine nectar.

While the whole process of producing Palani panchamirtham in Palani is automated to cater to the increasing demand, it is also doubly ensured that hygienic aspects are highly maintained.&nbsp;

Despite the Palani panchamirtham being prepared in huge quantities, it is prepared in a natural method without the addition of any preservatives or artificial ingredients.

Speaking to WION, a senior examiner of trademarks and GI Prashanth Kumar Bhirappanavar, said, ''The concerned people register their products so that others do not misuse its name for profit-making and other purposes. To get a GI certificate there is a long procedure ranging from application, evaluation, notification in the gazette etc. In this case it has taken a little over three years for the registration to be successful, but there are also cases where it has taken longer due to the submission of all necessary documents and other procedures.''&nbsp;

The Palani panchamirtham is first produced in large quantities and a part of it taken to the perform ‘abhishegam’ (anointing) to the idol of lord Dhandayuthapani.&nbsp;

This is then later mixed with the larger portion and served to the public.&nbsp;

Even a single drop of water is not added during the preparation process of the Palani panchamirtham. This gives the Palani panchamirtham the semisolid state and makes it possible for the person who tastes to get the actual taste of the raw materials used.&nbsp;

According to historical accounts, the idol of lord Dhandayuthapani on which the abhishegam of the panchamirtham is performed is a ‘navapashana’ constitution of herbs that are of high medicinal value.&nbsp;

When the Palani panchamirtham runs over the medicinal idol, it attains curing effects.&nbsp;

It is also believed to cure the diseases of the devotees when consumed.&nbsp;

'Palani panchamirtham', the holy offering at the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapaniswamy temple in Tamil Nadu's Palani hill town, is well known for being one of the oldest forms of jam or fruit mix, but making it sweeter is the successful registration of the geographical indications (GI) tag for the same.

'Palani panchamirtham', the holy offering at the Arulmigu Dhandayuthapaniswamy temple in Tamil Nadu's Palani hill town, is well known for being one of the oldest forms of jam or fruit mix, but making it sweeter is the successful registration of the geographical indications (GI) tag for the same. The application for the same was filed by the joint commissioner/executive officer of the temple on June 15, 2016. While the GI has been registered successfully and it reflects on the intellectual property India website, it could take a couple of days more until the certificate is available, said officials. According to the GI application, the panchamirtham is classified under foodstuff and its ingredients include- banana, jaggery, cow ghee, honey, and cardamom. Also read: Puri beach becomes first in Asia to get Blue Flag tag For additional flavour diamond sugar candy and dates are added. It also mentions that the holy offering is prepared under the guidance given by the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), the government of India undertaking. Interestingly, panchamirtham finds mention in the ancient Tamil texts and this offering is said to be dating back to the 9th-century AD. In Tamil, ‘Pancha’ means five and 'amirtham' refers to divine nectar. While the whole process of producing Palani panchamirtham in Palani is automated to cater to the increasing demand, it is also doubly ensured that hygienic aspects are highly maintained. Despite the Palani panchamirtham being prepared in huge quantities, it is prepared in a natural method without the addition of any preservatives or artificial ingredients. Speaking to WION, a senior examiner of trademarks and GI Prashanth Kumar Bhirappanavar, said, ''The concerned people register their products so that others do not misuse its name for profit-making and other purposes. To get a GI certificate there is a long procedure ranging from application, evaluation, notification in the gazette etc. In this case it has taken a little over three years for the registration to be successful, but there are also cases where it has taken longer due to the submission of all necessary documents and other procedures.'' The Palani panchamirtham is first produced in large quantities and a part of it taken to the perform ‘abhishegam’ (anointing) to the idol of lord Dhandayuthapani. This is then later mixed with the larger portion and served to the public. Even a single drop of water is not added during the preparation process of the Palani panchamirtham. This gives the Palani panchamirtham the semisolid state and makes it possible for the person who tastes to get the actual taste of the raw materials used. According to historical accounts, the idol of lord Dhandayuthapani on which the abhishegam of the panchamirtham is performed is a ‘navapashana’ constitution of herbs that are of high medicinal value. When the Palani panchamirtham runs over the medicinal idol, it attains curing effects. It is also believed to cure the diseases of the devotees when consumed.

'Panchamirtham' the holy offering of Tamil Nadu's Palani temple gets GI tag

The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to release 73 prisoners from various district jails tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day.

A direction to this effect was given by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, an official statement said on Wednesday.

The prisoners have completed their jail term but were unable to pay the penalties imposed on them, it said.

Principal Secretary (Home) Awanish Kumar Awasthi issued the orders for their release to the prison authorities and police.

The 73 prisoners are lodged in jails at Meerut, Kanpur, Aligarh, Bareilly, Hamirpur, Chitrakoot, Sultanpur, Mirzapur, Kannauj, Ayodhya, Agra, Hardoi, Jhansi and Ghaziabad.&nbsp;

The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to release 73 prisoners from various district jails tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day. A direction to this effect was given by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, an official statement said on Wednesday.

The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to release 73 prisoners from various district jails tomorrow on the occasion of Independence Day. A direction to this effect was given by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, an official statement said on Wednesday. The prisoners have completed their jail term but were unable to pay the penalties imposed on them, it said. Principal Secretary (Home) Awanish Kumar Awasthi issued the orders for their release to the prison authorities and police. The 73 prisoners are lodged in jails at Meerut, Kanpur, Aligarh, Bareilly, Hamirpur, Chitrakoot, Sultanpur, Mirzapur, Kannauj, Ayodhya, Agra, Hardoi, Jhansi and Ghaziabad.

Uttar Pradesh government to release 73 prisoners as Independence Day gesture

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-internationalised-the-kashmir-issue-says-imran-khan-in-pok-assembly-242960">India internationalised the Kashmir issue, says Imran Khan in PoK Assembly</a>

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a speech to PoK Assembly on the occasion of Pakistan's Independence Day said India internationalised the Kashmir issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-accuses-india-china-of-taking-advantage-of-developing-nations-tag-from-wto-242930">Trump accuses India, China of taking advantage of 'developing nations' tag in WTO</a>

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that countries like India and China take advantage of the 'developing nations' tag from the WTO.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-manager-sunil-subramaniam-called-back-from-west-indies-for-alleged-misbehaviour-242969">Team India manager Sunil Subramaniam called back from West Indies for alleged misbehaviour</a>

Team India manager Sunil Subramaniam on Wednesday was asked by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to return from the ongoing tour of the West Indies for allegedly misbehaving with the senior officials in the Caribbean Islands.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-rises-to-270-due-to-floods-in-india-over-one-million-displaced-242958">Death toll rises to 270 due to floods in India, over one million displaced</a>

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kongs-cathay-pacific-sacks-two-pilots-amid-protests-242991">Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific sacks two pilots amid protests</a>

Cathay Pacific on Wednesday said two pilots had been sacked, as the Hong Kong carrier comes under huge pressure from Beijing to clamp down on staff supportive of anti-government rallies.

India internationalised the Kashmir issue, says Imran Khan in PoK Assembly Prime Minister Imran Khan in a speech to PoK Assembly on the occasion of Pakistan's Independence Day said India internationalised the Kashmir issue.

India internationalised the Kashmir issue, says Imran Khan in PoK Assembly Prime Minister Imran Khan in a speech to PoK Assembly on the occasion of Pakistan's Independence Day said India internationalised the Kashmir issue. Trump accuses India, China of taking advantage of 'developing nations' tag in WTO US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that countries like India and China take advantage of the 'developing nations' tag from the WTO. Team India manager Sunil Subramaniam called back from West Indies for alleged misbehaviour Team India manager Sunil Subramaniam on Wednesday was asked by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to return from the ongoing tour of the West Indies for allegedly misbehaving with the senior officials in the Caribbean Islands. Death toll rises to 270 due to floods in India, over one million displaced Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains. Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific sacks two pilots amid protests Cathay Pacific on Wednesday said two pilots had been sacked, as the Hong Kong carrier comes under huge pressure from Beijing to clamp down on staff supportive of anti-government rallies.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sovan Chatterjee on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at party headquarters in New Delhi in presence of party leader Mukul Roy and its&nbsp; General Secretary Arun Singh.

He later met BJP Working President J P Nadda after joining the party.&nbsp; 
 
Mukul Roy welcomed Chatterjee to the party and claimed that the Trinamool Congress would not win more than 30 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections&nbsp;to be held in 2021.

Chatterjee, once one of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's most trusted lieutenants, slammed her for doing negative politics and hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking several bold steps.

Chatterjee had resigned as the state minister and Kolkata mayor in November last year following some differences with&nbsp;Mamata Banerjee.

The BJP won 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha polls which was only four less than the Trinamool Congress's 22. 
 
(With inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sovan Chatterjee on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at party headquarters in New Delhi in presence of party leader Mukul Roy and its General Secretary Arun Singh.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Sovan Chatterjee on Wednesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at party headquarters in New Delhi in presence of party leader Mukul Roy and its General Secretary Arun Singh. He later met BJP Working President J P Nadda after joining the party. Mukul Roy welcomed Chatterjee to the party and claimed that the Trinamool Congress would not win more than 30 seats in the upcoming West Bengal Assembly elections to be held in 2021. Chatterjee, once one of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's most trusted lieutenants, slammed her for doing negative politics and hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking several bold steps. Chatterjee had resigned as the state minister and Kolkata mayor in November last year following some differences with Mamata Banerjee. The BJP won 18 of the 42 Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal in the Lok Sabha polls which was only four less than the Trinamool Congress's 22. (With inputs from ANI)

Trinamool Congress MLA Sovan Chatterjee joins BJP

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.

The rains from June to September are a lifeline for rural India, delivering some 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also cause death and destruction each year.

The southern states of Kerala and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/40-dead-14-missing-in-flood-hit-karnataka-since-august-1-242332">Karnataka</a>, and Maharashtra and Gujarat in the west, were among the hardest hit by floods that washed away thousands of hectares of summer-sown crops and damaged roads and rail lines.

At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-reaches-91-with-59-missing-as-rains-wreak-havoc-in-kerala-242809">95 people were killed</a> and more than 50 are missing in Kerala, where heavy rainfall triggered dozens of landslides last week and trapped more than 100 people.

About 190,000 people are still living in relief camps in the state, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but he added some people are returning home as floodwaters recede.

In neighbouring Karnataka, home to the technology hub Bengaluru, 54 people died and 15 are missing after rivers burst their banks when authorities released water from dams.

Nearly 700,000 people have been evacuated in the state.

Video:&nbsp;Over 160 killed as floods wreak havoc across 3 states in India

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Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat, as well as the central state of Madhya Pradesh, in the next two days, weather officials said.

In Maharashtra, which includes the financial capital Mumbai, 48 people died but floodwaters are receding, said a state official.

"We are now trying to restore electricity and drinking water supplies," he said.

In Madhya Pradesh, the biggest producer of soybeans, heavy rains killed 32 people and damaged crops, authorities said.

In Gujarat, 31 people died in rain-related incidents, while landslides killed nearly a dozen people in the northern hilly state of Uttarakhand.

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains.

Floods and landslides have killed more than 270 people in India this month, displaced one million and inundated thousands of homes across six states, authorities said on Wednesday after two weeks of heavy monsoon rains. The rains from June to September are a lifeline for rural India, delivering some 70% of the country's rainfall, but they also cause death and destruction each year. The southern states of Kerala and Karnataka, and Maharashtra and Gujarat in the west, were among the hardest hit by floods that washed away thousands of hectares of summer-sown crops and damaged roads and rail lines. At least 95 people were killed and more than 50 are missing in Kerala, where heavy rainfall triggered dozens of landslides last week and trapped more than 100 people. About 190,000 people are still living in relief camps in the state, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, but he added some people are returning home as floodwaters recede. In neighbouring Karnataka, home to the technology hub Bengaluru, 54 people died and 15 are missing after rivers burst their banks when authorities released water from dams. Nearly 700,000 people have been evacuated in the state. Video: Over 160 killed as floods wreak havoc across 3 states in India Heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat, as well as the central state of Madhya Pradesh, in the next two days, weather officials said. In Maharashtra, which includes the financial capital Mumbai, 48 people died but floodwaters are receding, said a state official. "We are now trying to restore electricity and drinking water supplies," he said. In Madhya Pradesh, the biggest producer of soybeans, heavy rains killed 32 people and damaged crops, authorities said. In Gujarat, 31 people died in rain-related incidents, while landslides killed nearly a dozen people in the northern hilly state of Uttarakhand.

Death toll rises to 270 due to floods in India, over one million displaced

As <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/death-toll-rises-to-270-due-to-floods-in-india-over-one-million-displaced-242958">rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala</a>, the death toll has gone up to 102, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) informed on Wednesday.

KSDMA has released a district-wise data between August 8 and August 14 till 3 pm in which it stated that 59 people were still missing across the rain-ravaged state while 35 injured due to flood-related incidents.&nbsp;

Earlier, chief minister office tweeted that forecasters predict heavy rainfall in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts.

''Forecasters predict that Moderate to Heavy rainfall with wind speed reaching 35 to 45 kmph is very likely to occur at one or two places in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts,'' CMO Kerala tweeted.

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Stay Weather Aware: Forecasters predict that Moderate to Heavy rainfall with wind speed reaching 35 to 45 kmph is very likely to occur at one or two places in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts.
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Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of people who lost their lives due to floods in the state.&nbsp;

As rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala, the death toll has gone up to 102, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) informed on Wednesday. KSDMA has released a district-wise data between August 8 and August 14 till 3 pm in which it stated that 59 people were still missing across the rain-ravaged state while 35 injured due to flood-related incidents.

As rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala, the death toll has gone up to 102, Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) informed on Wednesday. KSDMA has released a district-wise data between August 8 and August 14 till 3 pm in which it stated that 59 people were still missing across the rain-ravaged state while 35 injured due to flood-related incidents. Earlier, chief minister office tweeted that forecasters predict heavy rainfall in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts. ''Forecasters predict that Moderate to Heavy rainfall with wind speed reaching 35 to 45 kmph is very likely to occur at one or two places in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts,'' CMO Kerala tweeted. Stay Weather Aware: Forecasters predict that Moderate to Heavy rainfall with wind speed reaching 35 to 45 kmph is very likely to occur at one or two places in Malappuram, Kozhikode and Kannur districts. — CMO Kerala (@CMOKerala) August 14, 2019 × Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh for the families of people who lost their lives due to floods in the state.

Death toll mounts to 102 in flood-hit Kerala

Jammu and Kashmir is now preparing for the Independence day. Security has been tightened in Srinagar to avert any attack. I n this video watch WION's ground report from Srinagar.

Kashmir gears up for Independence day 2019

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rescued stranded tourists, including foreign nationals, in Hampi. Watch this video to know more.

Over 300 tourists rescued in Hampi

Terming the abrogation of Article 370 the need of the hour for the unity and integrity of the nation, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday said that the move is not "communal" but is a matter of the country`s security.

Terming the abrogation of Article 370 the need of the hour for the unity and integrity of the nation, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday said that the move is not "communal" but is a matter of the country`s security. "The scrapping of Article 370 was the need of the hour for the unity and integrity of the country. Article 370 was only a temporary provision. We will not allow anyone to interfere in the internal affairs of India," a tweet on the Vice President`s official Twitter account read. The Hindi tweets were quoting Naidu`s speech at the first Balramji Dass Tandon Memorial Lecture, at Panjab University, in Chandigarh. He said that the whole country is happy with the repeal of Article 370. "It is a matter of unity, integrity, and security of the country. The matter is not communal... Some sections of Western media are spreading misleading propaganda on Section 370," the Vice President said. He continued, "On the occasion of the Independence Day, we should take a resolution to free the country and society from social disorders like caste, gender discrimination, poverty, illiteracy with our common efforts." Naidu said that former Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had termed Article 370 as a "temporary provision" and asserted that it is not a permanent part of the Constitution." On 27 November 1963, while replying on the issue of repealing Section 370, then Prime Minister Pandit Nehru himself said that Article 370 is just a temporary provision. It is not a permanent part of the Constitution," the Vice President said. The government had withdrawn special status to Jammu and Kashmir and passed the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganization) Act 2019, reorganizing it into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir with legislature and Ladakh without it.

Repeal of Article 370 not communal, was need of the hour: Vice President Naidu 

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/americas/india-charging-us-over-100-per-cent-tariffs-on-many-products-donald-trump-208487">Donald Trump</a> on Tuesday said that countries like<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-trade-talks-to-restart-friday-amid-few-signs-of-compromise-234949"> India </a>and China take advantage of the 'developing nations' tag from the WTO.

Addressing a gathering at Pennsylvania on Tuesday, President Trump said "China, India, many countries -&nbsp;for a long time, they viewed them as “they’re growing.”&nbsp;Right?&nbsp;They’re “growing nations.”&nbsp;We’re a “mature nation.”&nbsp;They’re growing.&nbsp;These are “growing nations," said US president.

"Well, they’ve grown.&nbsp;And they had tremendous advantages.&nbsp;But we’re not letting that happen anymore, okay?&nbsp;We’re not letting that happen anymore," he added

Donald Trump told the conference that economic growth promoted by his policies would help the world, in an attempt to square his “America First” agenda with globalism.

Trump, championing his 'America First' policy, has been a vocal critic of India for levying "tremendously high" duties on US products and has described the country as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tariff-king-india-wants-trade-talks-us-immediately-says-trump-168847">"tariff king".</a>

Last February, India slashed the customs duty on imported motorcycles like Harley-Davidson to 50 per cent after Trump called it "unfair" and threatened to increase the tariff on import of Indian bikes to the US.

Trade between and India and the US was worth $142.1 billion in 2018, with India having a surplus of $24.2 billion.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that countries like India and China take advantage of the 'developing nations' tag from the WTO. Addressing a gathering at Pennsylvania on Tuesday, President Trump said "China, India, many countries - for a long time, they viewed them as “they’re growing.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that countries like India and China take advantage of the 'developing nations' tag from the WTO. Addressing a gathering at Pennsylvania on Tuesday, President Trump said "China, India, many countries - for a long time, they viewed them as “they’re growing.” Right? They’re “growing nations.” We’re a “mature nation.” They’re growing. These are “growing nations," said US president. "Well, they’ve grown. And they had tremendous advantages. But we’re not letting that happen anymore, okay? We’re not letting that happen anymore," he added Donald Trump told the conference that economic growth promoted by his policies would help the world, in an attempt to square his “America First” agenda with globalism. Trump, championing his 'America First' policy, has been a vocal critic of India for levying "tremendously high" duties on US products and has described the country as a "tariff king". Last February, India slashed the customs duty on imported motorcycles like Harley-Davidson to 50 per cent after Trump called it "unfair" and threatened to increase the tariff on import of Indian bikes to the US. Trade between and India and the US was worth $142.1 billion in 2018, with India having a surplus of $24.2 billion.

Trump accuses India, China of taking advantage of 'developing nations' tag in WTO

Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured by Pakistan for almost 60 hours after Balakot airstrike in February, will be conferred with Vir Chakra on the 73rd Independence Day

Abhinandan Varthaman to be awarded with Vir Chakra on Independence Day

No sweets were exchanged on Thursday between Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and Pakistani Rangers at Attari-Wagah border on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-warmongering-over-scrapping-of-article-370-president-alvi-calls-for-jihad-against-india-242906">Pakistan Independence Day</a>.

The relationship between India and Pakistan has further strained after the scrapping of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bringing-down-article-370-wall-the-battle-to-contain-jihad-in-jammu-kashmir-has-just-begun-242339">Article 370</a> which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The exchange of sweets between the two forces is a usual trend on special occasions, such as Eid, Diwali and on nationally important days like Independence Day and Republic Day. &nbsp; 
 
On Monday, BSF personnel were willing to exchange sweets with their Pakistani counterparts on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-scrapped-no-exchange-of-sweets-at-attari-wagah-border-on-eid-al-adha-242360">Eid-ul-Adha</a> but Pakistani Rangers did not revert in this regard.&nbsp;

Earlier, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that this year Pakistan will celebrate its Independence Day to express solidarity with Kashmiri people.

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.

In the wake of scrapping of Article 370 which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan had downgraded diplomatic ties and snapped bilateral trade with India, besides suspending Samjhauta and Thar Express.

Meanwhile, calling its steps in Jammu and Kashmir an 'entirely internal affair', India has rejected Pakistan's unilateral move to downgrade diplomatic ties and asked Islamabad to review the decision so that normal channels for diplomatic communications are preserved.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

No sweets were exchanged on Thursday between Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and Pakistani Rangers at Attari-Wagah border on the occasion of Pakistan Independence Day.

No sweets were exchanged on Thursday between Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and Pakistani Rangers at Attari-Wagah border on the occasion of Pakistan Independence Day. The relationship between India and Pakistan has further strained after the scrapping of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The exchange of sweets between the two forces is a usual trend on special occasions, such as Eid, Diwali and on nationally important days like Independence Day and Republic Day. On Monday, BSF personnel were willing to exchange sweets with their Pakistani counterparts on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha but Pakistani Rangers did not revert in this regard. Earlier, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that this year Pakistan will celebrate its Independence Day to express solidarity with Kashmiri people. 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. In the wake of scrapping of Article 370 which gives special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan had downgraded diplomatic ties and snapped bilateral trade with India, besides suspending Samjhauta and Thar Express. Meanwhile, calling its steps in Jammu and Kashmir an 'entirely internal affair', India has rejected Pakistan's unilateral move to downgrade diplomatic ties and asked Islamabad to review the decision so that normal channels for diplomatic communications are preserved. (With inputs from agencies)

No exchange of sweets at Attari-Wagah border on Pakistan's Independence Day

Eighty-eight people have died across 14 districts of flood-battered Kerala while 40 are missing, authorities said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

As per official data recorded till 9 am today, 34 people have sustained injuries in the natural calamity.

Torrential rains over the last few days in the state have led to many deaths and caused landslides in some districts. Malappuram is the worst hit with the highest death toll of 29.

As many as 1,332 relief camps are currently operational in the state.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has left from Thiruvananthapuram and will visit flood-affected areas of Wayanad and Malappuram later in the day.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted "cloudy sky with a few spells of rain or thundershowers" for the next five days in the state.

Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in several areas across the state in past few days with daily lives of residents taking a hit.&nbsp;

Eighty-eight people have died across 14 districts of flood-battered Kerala while 40 are missing, authorities said on Tuesday. As per official data recorded till 9 am today, 34 people have sustained injuries in the natural calamity.

Eighty-eight people have died across 14 districts of flood-battered Kerala while 40 are missing, authorities said on Tuesday. As per official data recorded till 9 am today, 34 people have sustained injuries in the natural calamity. Torrential rains over the last few days in the state have led to many deaths and caused landslides in some districts. Malappuram is the worst hit with the highest death toll of 29. As many as 1,332 relief camps are currently operational in the state. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has left from Thiruvananthapuram and will visit flood-affected areas of Wayanad and Malappuram later in the day. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted "cloudy sky with a few spells of rain or thundershowers" for the next five days in the state. Heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc in several areas across the state in past few days with daily lives of residents taking a hit.

Flood fury in Kerala kills 88 people, 40 missing

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Columnist Shobhaa De on Monday rubbished the claims made by former Pakistan envoy to India Abdul Basit that he had influenced her to write the 2016 article where she "advocated plebiscite" in Kashmir in the aftermath of Burhan Wani's death.

Speaking to ANI, De said that the only time she ever met Basit was during the Jaipur Literature Festival in January 2019, when the former envoy attempted to make a conversation at a "publishing party" but was "almost as good as asked to leave".

"The only time I met him, or rather he came and imposed himself and intruded into a small group was in January of this year at the Jaipur lit fest at a publishing party. He came and joined a small group, attempted a conversation, was snubbed and almost as good as asked to leave," said De.

"In those three minutes, yes, he tried to bring in various issues but the only issue that actually chased him away was China. That was the first and last time I ever encountered this man," she added.

In an interview with a Pakistani blogger Farhan Virk, Basit had said that he had managed to influence "prominent" columnist Shobhaa De to write the 2016 article titled "Burhan Wani is dead but he'll live on till we find out what Kashmir really wants".

Watch video

Abdul Basit: Influenced Shobhaa de to write against India

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De called Basit's statement "dangerous, malicious, and unfair to anybody who believes in the truth", adding that she is "deeply insulted and upset that he could dare to say something like that about a person who has built her career on credibility and positive good journalism for over 40 years."&nbsp;
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Columnist Shobhaa De on Monday rubbished the claims made by former Pakistan envoy to India Abdul Basit that he had influenced her to write the 2016 article where she "advocated plebiscite" in Kashmir in the aftermath of Burhan Wani's death.

Columnist Shobhaa De on Monday rubbished the claims made by former Pakistan envoy to India Abdul Basit that he had influenced her to write the 2016 article where she "advocated plebiscite" in Kashmir in the aftermath of Burhan Wani's death. Speaking to ANI, De said that the only time she ever met Basit was during the Jaipur Literature Festival in January 2019, when the former envoy attempted to make a conversation at a "publishing party" but was "almost as good as asked to leave". "The only time I met him, or rather he came and imposed himself and intruded into a small group was in January of this year at the Jaipur lit fest at a publishing party. He came and joined a small group, attempted a conversation, was snubbed and almost as good as asked to leave," said De. "In those three minutes, yes, he tried to bring in various issues but the only issue that actually chased him away was China. That was the first and last time I ever encountered this man," she added. In an interview with a Pakistani blogger Farhan Virk, Basit had said that he had managed to influence "prominent" columnist Shobhaa De to write the 2016 article titled "Burhan Wani is dead but he'll live on till we find out what Kashmir really wants". Watch video Abdul Basit: Influenced Shobhaa de to write against India × De called Basit's statement "dangerous, malicious, and unfair to anybody who believes in the truth", adding that she is "deeply insulted and upset that he could dare to say something like that about a person who has built her career on credibility and positive good journalism for over 40 years."

Shobhaa De rubbishes Basit's claims that he influenced her to write Kashmir article

G Vivekananda, who recently joined BJP, has compared Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao with Muhammad bin Tughlaq and accused him of demolishing the state Secretariat.

"BJP is a national party led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the path of prosperity. The state of Telangana was formed on the basis of a democratic Telangana for the benefit of its people. The way KCR is performing as the Chief Minister with the sole intention of his family`s progress, there is a family rule in Telangana. There is a dictatorship in Telangana," Vivekananda told ANI in Hyderabad.

"It is opposed by the people. In the last Parliament elections, TRS lost seven seats of MP, because of the dictatorial behaviour of KCR. The Cabinet was not formed for two months. He is demolishing the Secretariat, which is an asset of the state and built for 100 years just because KCR wants to be like Tughlaq (Sultan of Delhi from 1325 to 1351). We are all opposing it," he added.

Vivekananda went on to add that Rao is "diverting all the money to an irrigational project, which was only worth Rs 30,000 crore and in the name of redesigning he increased the amount to Rs 1 lakh crore. There is a need for the BJP and the leaders who have worked for getting Telangana to see that KCR is out of his job... He has distributed the money from the commissions of Kaleshwaram project across the country thinking that he can form a federal front and become the Deputy Prime Minister."

Vivekananda joined the BJP on August 9. He was elected to the 15th Lok Sabha from Peddapalli constituency.

K Laxman, Telangana BJP unit president, told ANI, "Vivekananda, who hails from a strong political family of Congress, was instrumental in the Congress` performance in the state. He has joined the BJP along with his followers from Karimnagar district."

"It clearly shows that the trend is in favor of the BJP. People have seen all the parties. TRS, in the name of Telangana, came to power but it has now become a family rule -- totally corrupt and dictatorial. People want a change, which can only be delivered by the BJP."

Laxman said, "When people like Vivekananda join BJP, it is a clear indication of Congress losing its hope. People do not vote for the Congress because after winning, they all join TRS ... Telangana wants a democratic rule. The family rule must be put to an end. That can only be done by the BJP."&nbsp;

G Vivekananda, who recently joined BJP, has compared Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao with Muhammad bin Tughlaq and accused him of demolishing the state Secretariat.

G Vivekananda, who recently joined BJP, has compared Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao with Muhammad bin Tughlaq and accused him of demolishing the state Secretariat. "BJP is a national party led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the path of prosperity. The state of Telangana was formed on the basis of a democratic Telangana for the benefit of its people. The way KCR is performing as the Chief Minister with the sole intention of his family`s progress, there is a family rule in Telangana. There is a dictatorship in Telangana," Vivekananda told ANI in Hyderabad. "It is opposed by the people. In the last Parliament elections, TRS lost seven seats of MP, because of the dictatorial behaviour of KCR. The Cabinet was not formed for two months. He is demolishing the Secretariat, which is an asset of the state and built for 100 years just because KCR wants to be like Tughlaq (Sultan of Delhi from 1325 to 1351). We are all opposing it," he added. Vivekananda went on to add that Rao is "diverting all the money to an irrigational project, which was only worth Rs 30,000 crore and in the name of redesigning he increased the amount to Rs 1 lakh crore. There is a need for the BJP and the leaders who have worked for getting Telangana to see that KCR is out of his job... He has distributed the money from the commissions of Kaleshwaram project across the country thinking that he can form a federal front and become the Deputy Prime Minister." Vivekananda joined the BJP on August 9. He was elected to the 15th Lok Sabha from Peddapalli constituency. K Laxman, Telangana BJP unit president, told ANI, "Vivekananda, who hails from a strong political family of Congress, was instrumental in the Congress` performance in the state. He has joined the BJP along with his followers from Karimnagar district." "It clearly shows that the trend is in favor of the BJP. People have seen all the parties. TRS, in the name of Telangana, came to power but it has now become a family rule -- totally corrupt and dictatorial. People want a change, which can only be delivered by the BJP." Laxman said, "When people like Vivekananda join BJP, it is a clear indication of Congress losing its hope. People do not vote for the Congress because after winning, they all join TRS ... Telangana wants a democratic rule. The family rule must be put to an end. That can only be done by the BJP."

BJP leader accuses KCR of destroying Secretariat, compares him with Tughlaq

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