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Indian Army, in coordination with the Navy and Air Force, has stepped up its relief and rescue operations by deploying a total of 123 rescue teams in 16 districts spread across four rain-battered states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

A total of around 6,000 persons have been rescued and more than 15,000 persons have been evacuated from flood-affected areas and have been provided medical aid. Security personnel also distributed food packets to the victims.

On Friday, a total of nine relief teams, 12 Engineer Task Forces teams were deployed in Maharashtra's Sirol and Sangli districts to carry out rescue operations.

In flood-hit areas, 24 relief teams, eight Engineer Task Force teams are working day and night to save the lives of people residing in Allepy, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala.

In Tamil Nadu's Nilgiri, six relief teams are working on a war footing to carry out rescue and relief operations.

Several states of the country are witnessing relentless rains from the past few days. Many isolated pockets of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu have already submerged due to swelling of&nbsp;rivers.

Indian Army, in coordination with the Navy and Air Force, has stepped up its relief and rescue operations by deploying a total of 123 rescue teams in 16 districts spread across four rain-battered states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Indian Army, in coordination with the Navy and Air Force, has stepped up its relief and rescue operations by deploying a total of 123 rescue teams in 16 districts spread across four rain-battered states - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. A total of around 6,000 persons have been rescued and more than 15,000 persons have been evacuated from flood-affected areas and have been provided medical aid. Security personnel also distributed food packets to the victims. On Friday, a total of nine relief teams, 12 Engineer Task Forces teams were deployed in Maharashtra's Sirol and Sangli districts to carry out rescue operations. In flood-hit areas, 24 relief teams, eight Engineer Task Force teams are working day and night to save the lives of people residing in Allepy, Ernakulam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur and Kozhikode districts of Kerala. In Tamil Nadu's Nilgiri, six relief teams are working on a war footing to carry out rescue and relief operations. Several states of the country are witnessing relentless rains from the past few days. Many isolated pockets of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu have already submerged due to swelling of rivers.

Rescue and relief operations beefed up in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala

Forty-two people have lost their lives as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-28-dead-27-injured-7-missing-following-heavy-rains-241904">incessant rains continue to wreak havoc</a> in Kerala, and as many as 19 trains have been cancelled on Saturday.

Officials said 'Red Alert'&nbsp;has been issued in Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, were denoting that the regions will receive very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.

On Friday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had said as many as 24 incidents of landslides were reported in the state. In Malappuram, rescue efforts were hampered at Kavalappara where more than 30 people are feared dead after a landslide on August 8.

National Disaster Response Force, Indian Army and local police are currently carrying out rescue efforts in flood-affected areas.

The situation may take a turn for worse as the India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated places over the next five days.

In addition, the weather forecasting agency predicted strong winds with speeds reaching 40-50 kmph over the coastal areas.

Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea.&nbsp;

Forty-two people have lost their lives as incessant rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala, and as many as 19 trains have been cancelled on Saturday. Officials said 'Red Alert' has been issued in Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, were denoting that the regions will receive very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.

Forty-two people have lost their lives as incessant rains continue to wreak havoc in Kerala, and as many as 19 trains have been cancelled on Saturday. Officials said 'Red Alert' has been issued in Ernakulam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kannur districts, were denoting that the regions will receive very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. On Friday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had said as many as 24 incidents of landslides were reported in the state. In Malappuram, rescue efforts were hampered at Kavalappara where more than 30 people are feared dead after a landslide on August 8. National Disaster Response Force, Indian Army and local police are currently carrying out rescue efforts in flood-affected areas. The situation may take a turn for worse as the India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated places over the next five days. In addition, the weather forecasting agency predicted strong winds with speeds reaching 40-50 kmph over the coastal areas. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea.

42 dead in rain-battered Kerala, 19 trains cancelled

Section 144 to be eased in parts of Kashmir for the Friday Eid prayers. However, restrictions will remain in some sensitive areas. Watch this video to know more.

Breaking News: Section 144 to be eased in Kashmir for Friday prayers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-president-pranab-mukherjee-awarded-bharat-ratna-241554">Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award</a>, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday.

Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister thanked Mukherjee for his contribution towards making India more developed.

"Dear Pranab Mukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed," Modi tweeted.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/CitiznMukherjee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CitiznMukherjee</a>, 
 
It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. 
 
Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed. <a href="https://t.co/R6YNVDtjPF">pic.twitter.com/R6YNVDtjPF</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1159661789493071872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Yesterday, Mukherjee, who is popularly known as `Pranab Da`, expressed his gratitude to Rashtrapati Bhawan and people of the nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on him.

"My heartfelt gratitude to Rashtrapatiji and the people of our nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on me. This honour is more for the people of our country from whom I have received much more than I have been able to give," Mukherjee tweeted.

He said in another tweet, "The Bharat Ratna for me is also indeed an acknowledgement of the millions who strive every day to make Bharat - the diverse, plural, compassionate and inclusive idea that it is."

Many dignitaries in the central government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, attended the grand event where Pranab Mukherjee received the Bharat Ratna from his successor, President Ram Nath Kovind.

However, the ones who skipped the event were UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was also not seen at the event.

It is learned that Rahul was invited for the function by Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, the reason as to why he skipped the ceremony is yet to be known.

Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel, Bhupender Singh Hooda, Janardan Dwivedi, RPN Singh, Sushmita Dev, and Shashi Tharoor attended the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday. Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister thanked Mukherjee for his contribution towards making India more developed. "Dear Pranab Mukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed," Modi tweeted. Dear @CitiznMukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed. pic.twitter.com/R6YNVDtjPF — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 9, 2019 × Yesterday, Mukherjee, who is popularly known as `Pranab Da`, expressed his gratitude to Rashtrapati Bhawan and people of the nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on him. "My heartfelt gratitude to Rashtrapatiji and the people of our nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on me. This honour is more for the people of our country from whom I have received much more than I have been able to give," Mukherjee tweeted. He said in another tweet, "The Bharat Ratna for me is also indeed an acknowledgement of the millions who strive every day to make Bharat - the diverse, plural, compassionate and inclusive idea that it is." Many dignitaries in the central government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, attended the grand event where Pranab Mukherjee received the Bharat Ratna from his successor, President Ram Nath Kovind. However, the ones who skipped the event were UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was also not seen at the event. It is learned that Rahul was invited for the function by Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, the reason as to why he skipped the ceremony is yet to be known. Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel, Bhupender Singh Hooda, Janardan Dwivedi, RPN Singh, Sushmita Dev, and Shashi Tharoor attended the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

It was an honour to witness you receive Bharat Ratna: PM Modi to Pranab Mukherjee

Watch Key takeaways from PM Modi's address to the nation on Jammu and Kashmir.

WION Edit: Key takeaways from PM Modi's address to the nation on Jammu and Kashmir

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley, who was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Friday morning, is ''haemodynamically stable'', said a statement from AIIMS.&nbsp;

Jaitley is currently undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team of doctors, the statement added.

<img alt="AIIMS statement " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5101a771-f84d-4578-bf68-eadd2b34e078" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/photo_2019-08-09_20-49-30.jpg" />

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah,&nbsp;Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, BJP working president JP Nadda and several other BJP leaders visited Jaitley in the hospital. &nbsp;

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Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where Former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has been admitted <a href="https://t.co/nW91PEEl25">pic.twitter.com/nW91PEEl25</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159839045536497667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Arun Jaitley has been unwell for a large part of the last two years. Last year, he underwent a kidney transplant.

Jaitley had stepped down as finance minister over health troubles earlier this year.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley, who was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Friday morning, is ''haemodynamically stable'', said a statement from AIIMS.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley, who was admitted to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Friday morning, is ''haemodynamically stable'', said a statement from AIIMS. Jaitley is currently undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team of doctors, the statement added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, BJP working president JP Nadda and several other BJP leaders visited Jaitley in the hospital. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) where Former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has been admitted pic.twitter.com/nW91PEEl25 — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × Arun Jaitley has been unwell for a large part of the last two years. Last year, he underwent a kidney transplant. Jaitley had stepped down as finance minister over health troubles earlier this year.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley 'haemodynamically stable', says statement from AIIMS

Here's How Things Are Changing On The Ground In J&K After The Abrogation Of Article 370. Indian government is likely to introduce sweeping reforms to end the misuse of public funds in Jammu and Kashmir. For instance, the privileges of former CMs are all set to go, they may lose their bungalows. Wion's Ieshan Wani filed this report.

WION Gravitas: Jammu & Kashmir: Former CMs privileges all set to go

Highlights From Prime Minister Modi's Address To The Nation On Jammu & Kashmir. PM Modi's address to the nation on Jammu & Kashmir allayed fears, spread positivity and gave a vision for the growth and development of Jammu and Kashmir. Palki gets you the key takeaways from PM's address

WION Gravitas: Modi's Kashmir address: Key Takeaways

How To Interpret PM's Address To The Nation On Jammu & Kashmir. It was an address that aimed at bringing in positivity to Jammu and Kashmir. Modi's speech demonstrated his statesmanship and focussed heavily on the developmental issues. It also brought down the temperature and pessimism as it was inclusive. Palki assesses the address and sums up the major talking points.

WION Gravitas: Assessing Prime Minister Modi's Kashmir address

Hailing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-medical-association-calls-for-aggressive-public-campaign-on-national-medical-commission-bill-241445">National Medical Commission</a> (NMC) Act, 2019, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday termed it as a huge and visionary reform which will provide wider access to people for quality healthcare.

The Health Minister told reporters here that there will now be a health professional who can counsel the population, provide early warnings, treat elementary ailments, and provide an early referral to a higher facility.

"A provision has been made in the NMC Act to register some Community Health Providers (CHPs) who shall be modern medicine professionals; they shall not be dealing with any alternative system of medicine. Also, they will have limited powers for providing primary and preventive healthcare at the mid-level," he said.

"The eminent doctors in NMC shall decide their qualifications through regulations which shall be finalised after extensive public consultation and debate," he added.

Dispelling rumours, fears and apprehensions about this provision giving a fillip to "quackery" in the country, he said that a false impression is being created that the provision for CHPs has been made to legalise quacks.

"Nothing can be farther from the truth. On the contrary, the punishment for quackery has been enhanced to up to one-year imprisonment and up to Rs 5 lakhs fine. The so-called quacks in the country do not possess any qualifications and would not be able to meet the conditions that will be set by NMC for becoming a CHP," he said.

"The National Medical Commission Act 2019 passed by both Houses of Parliament is historic and path-breaking. It is a huge and visionary reform in the medical education sector by the NDA Government under the leadership of our visionary Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, and will prove to be a milestone in the years to come," Vardhan said.

The Minister said the NMC Act is progressive legislation which will reduce the burden on students, ensure probity in medical education, bring down costs of medical education, simplify procedures, help to enhance the number of medical seats in India, ensure quality education, and provide wider access to people for quality healthcare.

Speaking on the members in commission, Harsh Vardhan said the NMC will be representative, inclusive and respect the federal structure of Indian polity.

"There will be 10 Vice-Chancellors of State Health Universities and 9 elected members of State Medical Councils in the NMC. Thus 19 out of 33 members, which is more than half of the total strength, would be from the States and only a minority of members will be appointed by the central government thereby ensuring that the NMC is representative, inclusive and respecting the federal structure of Indian polity," he said.

"To ensure probity and integrity of the highest order, the members will have to declare their assets at the time of being appointed and again while demitting office. The members will also have to declare their professional and commercial engagement or involvement which will be published on the website of the Commission. It has been further provided that Chairperson/member on ceasing to hold office will not accept for a period of two years any employment in any capacity in a private medical institution whose matter has been dealt with them either directly or indirectly," he said.

The Health Minister said that the NMC will be an overarching body, which will frame policies and co-ordinate the activities of four Autonomous Boards.

"These Boards will look after the work of UG and PG education, Medical Assessment and Rating and Ethics and Medical Registration. The purpose of having these four independent Boards is to ensure separation of functions between them", he said.

Elaborating on its salient features, Vardhan stated that the NMC is a student-friendly initiative.

"Even in the current system, every student has to appear for a final year examination. Under the NMC Act, this final year examination has been converted into a nationwide exit test called NEXT. This single examination will grant -- a license to practice medicine, an MBBS degree, and entrance to postgraduate courses," he said.

"Students will be able to concentrate on an internship instead of spending all their time preparing for entry into PG courses and thus the burden on students will be greatly reduced. The same examination will also serve as a licentiate exam for foreign graduates," he added.

The Health Minister further said that there is a provision for common counselling for entrance to PG courses also.

"Students will be able to get admission to seats in all medical colleges and to Institutes of National Importance like AIIMS, PGI Chandigarh and JIPMER through a single counselling process. The Act does not impose any restriction on the number of attempts at NEXT examination," he said.

Harsh Vardhan said that the NMC provides for the regulation of fees and all other charges in 50 per cent seats in private colleges as well as deemed to be Universities.

"Nearly 50 per cent of the total MBBS seats in the country are in government colleges, which have nominal fees. Of the remaining seats, 50 per cent would be regulated by NMC. This means that almost 75 per cent of total seats in the country would be available at reasonable fees. It must be stressed again at this point that not only fees but fees and all other charges are being regulated," he said.

Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha had passed the NMC Bill which seeks to create National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India. Since the Bill was passed in the Parliament, the Indian Medical Association has been raising apprehensions regarding its certain provisions.

The Bill provides for the repeal of the Indian Medical Council Act 1956.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Hailing the National Medical Commission (NMC) Act, 2019, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday termed it as a huge and visionary reform which will provide wider access to people for quality healthcare.

Hailing the National Medical Commission (NMC) Act, 2019, Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan on Thursday termed it as a huge and visionary reform which will provide wider access to people for quality healthcare. The Health Minister told reporters here that there will now be a health professional who can counsel the population, provide early warnings, treat elementary ailments, and provide an early referral to a higher facility. "A provision has been made in the NMC Act to register some Community Health Providers (CHPs) who shall be modern medicine professionals; they shall not be dealing with any alternative system of medicine. Also, they will have limited powers for providing primary and preventive healthcare at the mid-level," he said. "The eminent doctors in NMC shall decide their qualifications through regulations which shall be finalised after extensive public consultation and debate," he added. Dispelling rumours, fears and apprehensions about this provision giving a fillip to "quackery" in the country, he said that a false impression is being created that the provision for CHPs has been made to legalise quacks. "Nothing can be farther from the truth. On the contrary, the punishment for quackery has been enhanced to up to one-year imprisonment and up to Rs 5 lakhs fine. The so-called quacks in the country do not possess any qualifications and would not be able to meet the conditions that will be set by NMC for becoming a CHP," he said. "The National Medical Commission Act 2019 passed by both Houses of Parliament is historic and path-breaking. It is a huge and visionary reform in the medical education sector by the NDA Government under the leadership of our visionary Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, and will prove to be a milestone in the years to come," Vardhan said. The Minister said the NMC Act is progressive legislation which will reduce the burden on students, ensure probity in medical education, bring down costs of medical education, simplify procedures, help to enhance the number of medical seats in India, ensure quality education, and provide wider access to people for quality healthcare. Speaking on the members in commission, Harsh Vardhan said the NMC will be representative, inclusive and respect the federal structure of Indian polity. "There will be 10 Vice-Chancellors of State Health Universities and 9 elected members of State Medical Councils in the NMC. Thus 19 out of 33 members, which is more than half of the total strength, would be from the States and only a minority of members will be appointed by the central government thereby ensuring that the NMC is representative, inclusive and respecting the federal structure of Indian polity," he said. "To ensure probity and integrity of the highest order, the members will have to declare their assets at the time of being appointed and again while demitting office. The members will also have to declare their professional and commercial engagement or involvement which will be published on the website of the Commission. It has been further provided that Chairperson/member on ceasing to hold office will not accept for a period of two years any employment in any capacity in a private medical institution whose matter has been dealt with them either directly or indirectly," he said. The Health Minister said that the NMC will be an overarching body, which will frame policies and co-ordinate the activities of four Autonomous Boards. "These Boards will look after the work of UG and PG education, Medical Assessment and Rating and Ethics and Medical Registration. The purpose of having these four independent Boards is to ensure separation of functions between them", he said. Elaborating on its salient features, Vardhan stated that the NMC is a student-friendly initiative. "Even in the current system, every student has to appear for a final year examination. Under the NMC Act, this final year examination has been converted into a nationwide exit test called NEXT. This single examination will grant -- a license to practice medicine, an MBBS degree, and entrance to postgraduate courses," he said. "Students will be able to concentrate on an internship instead of spending all their time preparing for entry into PG courses and thus the burden on students will be greatly reduced. The same examination will also serve as a licentiate exam for foreign graduates," he added. The Health Minister further said that there is a provision for common counselling for entrance to PG courses also. "Students will be able to get admission to seats in all medical colleges and to Institutes of National Importance like AIIMS, PGI Chandigarh and JIPMER through a single counselling process. The Act does not impose any restriction on the number of attempts at NEXT examination," he said. Harsh Vardhan said that the NMC provides for the regulation of fees and all other charges in 50 per cent seats in private colleges as well as deemed to be Universities. "Nearly 50 per cent of the total MBBS seats in the country are in government colleges, which have nominal fees. Of the remaining seats, 50 per cent would be regulated by NMC. This means that almost 75 per cent of total seats in the country would be available at reasonable fees. It must be stressed again at this point that not only fees but fees and all other charges are being regulated," he said. Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha had passed the NMC Bill which seeks to create National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India. Since the Bill was passed in the Parliament, the Indian Medical Association has been raising apprehensions regarding its certain provisions. The Bill provides for the repeal of the Indian Medical Council Act 1956.

NMC Bill is huge and visionary reform in medical education sector: Harsh Vardhan

India's first underwater train project in Kolkata is almost complete. The metro will soon be operational soon, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-railways-minister-piyush-goyal-says-no-privatisation-of-railways-targets-congress-235451">Union Railways Minister, Piyush Goyal</a> announced.

"India's first underwater train will soon get started in Kolkata under the Hubli river. An example of impeccable engineering, this train is proof of the progress made by Indian Railways. This train will bring ease to the people of Kolkata and pride to the people of India." tweeted Piyush Goyal in Hindi.

The 16-kilometre long Kolkata Metro project will connect Salt Sector 5 with Howrah Maidan.

The phase I of the project connecting Salt Lake Sector-5 to Salt Lake Stadium will soon be operational.

The tunnel is provided with four-layers of protection to shield the tunnel from the water of Hubli river.&nbsp;

Goyal, last month, had said that there is "no question and no meaning" of privatising Railways, but the public-private partnership will be encouraged and there will be corporatisation of some units.

Replying to the debate on the demands for grants of his ministry, in which 99 members participated, Goyal outlined the plans of the government to boost safety and technology and said its performance has been far better compared to that of the UPA government.&nbsp;

India's first underwater train project in Kolkata is almost complete. The metro will soon be operational soon, Union Railways Minister, Piyush Goyal announced. "India's first underwater train will soon get started in Kolkata under the Hubli river.

India's first underwater train project in Kolkata is almost complete. The metro will soon be operational soon, Union Railways Minister, Piyush Goyal announced. "India's first underwater train will soon get started in Kolkata under the Hubli river. An example of impeccable engineering, this train is proof of the progress made by Indian Railways. This train will bring ease to the people of Kolkata and pride to the people of India." tweeted Piyush Goyal in Hindi. The 16-kilometre long Kolkata Metro project will connect Salt Sector 5 with Howrah Maidan. The phase I of the project connecting Salt Lake Sector-5 to Salt Lake Stadium will soon be operational. The tunnel is provided with four-layers of protection to shield the tunnel from the water of Hubli river. Goyal, last month, had said that there is "no question and no meaning" of privatising Railways, but the public-private partnership will be encouraged and there will be corporatisation of some units. Replying to the debate on the demands for grants of his ministry, in which 99 members participated, Goyal outlined the plans of the government to boost safety and technology and said its performance has been far better compared to that of the UPA government.

India's first underwater train to be launched in Kolkata soon

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates.

The state is now grappling with a severe <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-operations-at-kochi-airport-suspended-till-sunday-afternoon-in-wake-of-heavy-rainfall-241608">flood situation following incessant rains</a>.

A total of 2,03,168 people have been saved in the rescue operations till Thursday evening, Chief Minister's Office said.

28,199 animals have been shifted to safer locations and 267 temporary camps were set up.

A total of 43 teams from multiple agencies including NDRF, SDRF and Indian Navy teams have been deployed in the state125 boats have been deployed in flood-affected Sangli and Kolhapur districts. NDRF rescued over 3,500 people from Kolhapur.

As many as 27 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had conducted an aerial survey of Sangli and Kolhapur to take the stock of the situation.&nbsp;

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates. The state is now grappling with a severe flood situation following incessant rains.

Over two lakh people have been rescued and evacuated to safer places in Maharashtra, according to official estimates. The state is now grappling with a severe flood situation following incessant rains. A total of 2,03,168 people have been saved in the rescue operations till Thursday evening, Chief Minister's Office said. 28,199 animals have been shifted to safer locations and 267 temporary camps were set up. A total of 43 teams from multiple agencies including NDRF, SDRF and Indian Navy teams have been deployed in the state125 boats have been deployed in flood-affected Sangli and Kolhapur districts. NDRF rescued over 3,500 people from Kolhapur. As many as 27 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara. On Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had conducted an aerial survey of Sangli and Kolhapur to take the stock of the situation.

Maharashtra flood: Over 2 lakh people rescued, 43 teams of multiple agencies deployed

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas.

"Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread inundation in affected areas, a total of 14 rescue teams of the Western Naval Command, including five teams from Goa Naval Area, have been operating in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar Kannada districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively since August 5," read a press release of Indian Navy dated August 8.

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Karnataka: 9 people have died in the flood-affected state, till date. 16875 people and 3010 animals have been shifted to 272 relief camps opened in the state.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159669528399364096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The teams have been deployed using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft and ALH helicopters as well as the Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. Some teams had even proceeded by road when flying operations could not be undertaken. The naval rescue teams are equipped with Gemini rubber boats, loud hailers, first aid kits, life jackets and lifebuoys," the release read.

Some rescue teams also include specialist Naval Divers and diving equipment. Several hundreds of people more have been rescued from Chikhli to safer areas at Sontali and Kolhapur.

"In Karnataka, the rescue team proceeded to Hinduwada in Malapur area and evacuated many more people giving priority to women, children and critically ill patients to safer areas. Another team was deployed to Kovadu village in Belgaum district. A total of 869 people have been moved to safety in Karnataka," the release said.&nbsp;

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas.

With large parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka reeling under extensive flooding due to incessant rains, the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to state and district administrations of affected areas. "Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread inundation in affected areas, a total of 14 rescue teams of the Western Naval Command, including five teams from Goa Naval Area, have been operating in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar Kannada districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively since August 5," read a press release of Indian Navy dated August 8. Karnataka: 9 people have died in the flood-affected state, till date. 16875 people and 3010 animals have been shifted to 272 relief camps opened in the state. — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × "The teams have been deployed using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft and ALH helicopters as well as the Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. Some teams had even proceeded by road when flying operations could not be undertaken. The naval rescue teams are equipped with Gemini rubber boats, loud hailers, first aid kits, life jackets and lifebuoys," the release read. Some rescue teams also include specialist Naval Divers and diving equipment. Several hundreds of people more have been rescued from Chikhli to safer areas at Sontali and Kolhapur. "In Karnataka, the rescue team proceeded to Hinduwada in Malapur area and evacuated many more people giving priority to women, children and critically ill patients to safer areas. Another team was deployed to Kovadu village in Belgaum district. A total of 869 people have been moved to safety in Karnataka," the release said.

Indian Navy mobilises rescue teams for flood relief and evacuation in Maharastra, Karnataka

Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Kolkata on Friday.

O'Brien was summoned by the agency in connection on July 26, 2019, to join the investigation in connection with the TMC mouthpiece 'Jago Bangla'.

While he was asked to appear before the agency in the first week of August, O'Brien had sought time as the Parliament was in session till August 7, 2019.

''Since February, I have not received any intimation from CBI. Now, during the Parliament session, I was served a notice asking me to appear before CBI on August 1. I have sent them a letter stating that I would meet after this Parliament session is over on August 7,'' he had tweeted.

According to sources in the agency, O'Brien, who is the publisher of the party mouthpiece which appears in Bengali was questioned on the financial transactions of the bank accounts related to it.

While O'Brien refused to speak to media persons on Friday while appearing before the agency, he had taken to the social media on July 27 and shared his statement.

His statement read, ''Jago Bangla is TMC’s official newspaper. After summoning the All India General Secretary of Trinamool a few months ago, CBI has summoned the publisher of its official newspaper. I was served notice at 2pm on July 25. Discussions on Trinamool’s motion in Rajya Sabha, opposing Government amendments to the RTI Act, started in Parliament at 2pm on July 25.''

He further added, ''I will comply. Let me also add, I will not be intimidated. In February, I had agreed to appear before the CBI, after the session of Parliament, but the CBI chose not to call me. This time too, I am ready to meet them.''

Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Kolkata on Friday. O'Brien was summoned by the agency in connection on July 26, 2019, to join the investigation in connection with the TMC mouthpiece 'Jago Bangla'.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Kolkata on Friday. O'Brien was summoned by the agency in connection on July 26, 2019, to join the investigation in connection with the TMC mouthpiece 'Jago Bangla'. While he was asked to appear before the agency in the first week of August, O'Brien had sought time as the Parliament was in session till August 7, 2019. ''Since February, I have not received any intimation from CBI. Now, during the Parliament session, I was served a notice asking me to appear before CBI on August 1. I have sent them a letter stating that I would meet after this Parliament session is over on August 7,'' he had tweeted. According to sources in the agency, O'Brien, who is the publisher of the party mouthpiece which appears in Bengali was questioned on the financial transactions of the bank accounts related to it. While O'Brien refused to speak to media persons on Friday while appearing before the agency, he had taken to the social media on July 27 and shared his statement. His statement read, ''Jago Bangla is TMC’s official newspaper. After summoning the All India General Secretary of Trinamool a few months ago, CBI has summoned the publisher of its official newspaper. I was served notice at 2pm on July 25. Discussions on Trinamool’s motion in Rajya Sabha, opposing Government amendments to the RTI Act, started in Parliament at 2pm on July 25.'' He further added, ''I will comply. Let me also add, I will not be intimidated. In February, I had agreed to appear before the CBI, after the session of Parliament, but the CBI chose not to call me. This time too, I am ready to meet them.''

Saradha chit fund case: Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Derek O'Brien appears before CBI

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-operations-at-kochi-airport-suspended-till-sunday-afternoon-in-wake-of-heavy-rainfall-241608">Kerala rains: Over 20,000 evacuated, more than 300 camps set up across state for assistance</a>

Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport.&nbsp;

According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-given-mixed-signals-from-of-those-purporting-to-represent-us-including-macron-trump-241611">Iran given mixed signals from of those purporting to represent us, including Macron: Trump</a>

President Trump on Thursday hit out at French President Macron for giving "mixed signals" to Iran as the US president asserted that "no one is authorised in any way, shape or form to represent to the US."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-largest-immigration-raid-us-authorities-arrest-680-workers-at-mississippi-241598">In largest immigration raid, US authorities arrest 680 workers at Mississippi</a>

US immigration authorities arrested nearly 700 people at seven agricultural processing plants across Mississippi on Wednesday in what federal officials said could be the largest worksite enforcement operation in a single state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-us-slaps-duties-on-44-billion-in-imported-chinese-cabinets-vanities-241604">Now, US slaps duties on $4.4 billion in imported Chinese cabinets, vanities</a>

The United States hit China with new import duties Thursday on more than $4 billion in imported wooden cabinets and vanities, after finding manufacturers there benefit from unfair subsidies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uber-loses-5-billion-misses-wall-street-targets-despite-easing-price-war-241603">Uber loses $5 billion, misses Wall Street targets despite easing price war</a>

Uber Technologies Inc reported a record $5.2 billion loss and revenue that fell short of Wall Street targets on Thursday as growth in its core ride-hailing business slowed, sending its shares down 6%.

&nbsp;

Kerala rains: Over 20,000 evacuated, more than 300 camps set up across state for assistance Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport.

Kerala rains: Over 20,000 evacuated, more than 300 camps set up across state for assistance Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport. According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise. Iran given mixed signals from of those purporting to represent us, including Macron: Trump President Trump on Thursday hit out at French President Macron for giving "mixed signals" to Iran as the US president asserted that "no one is authorised in any way, shape or form to represent to the US." In largest immigration raid, US authorities arrest 680 workers at Mississippi US immigration authorities arrested nearly 700 people at seven agricultural processing plants across Mississippi on Wednesday in what federal officials said could be the largest worksite enforcement operation in a single state. Now, US slaps duties on $4.4 billion in imported Chinese cabinets, vanities The United States hit China with new import duties Thursday on more than $4 billion in imported wooden cabinets and vanities, after finding manufacturers there benefit from unfair subsidies. Uber loses $5 billion, misses Wall Street targets despite easing price war Uber Technologies Inc reported a record $5.2 billion loss and revenue that fell short of Wall Street targets on Thursday as growth in its core ride-hailing business slowed, sending its shares down 6%.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport.&nbsp;

According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise.&nbsp;

Kerala Government has declared a holiday today for all schools across the state. As per reports, more than 315 camps have been set up for assistance and over 20,000 people have been evacuated.

The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KDSMA) has stated that 22,165 people have been evacuated to safety and are lodged in 315 camps across the state.&nbsp;

Kerala Disaster Management Authority on Wednesday&nbsp;issued a&nbsp;'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-red-alert-warning-issued-for-three-districts-on-predictions-of-heavy-rainfall-241456">Red Alert' warning</a> for Idukki, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts for 24 hours.

Thrissur, Palakkad, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts were issued 'Orange Alerts'&nbsp;for yesterday.&nbsp;

Schools and colleges were shut in Malappuram and Wayanad districts.&nbsp;

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Kerala: Operations suspended at the Cochin International Airport till 11th August (Sunday), 3 pm. <a href="https://t.co/eTueBv1500">pic.twitter.com/eTueBv1500</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159642832082264065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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An 'Orange Alert'&nbsp;was issued for Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kasargod districts for Friday.

Idukki and Kozhikode have been put on 'Orange Alert'&nbsp;for Saturday as well.

Meanwhile, a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), chaired by Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha was held on Thursday to review the prevailing flood situation in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Gujarat.

Last year's disastrous floods in Kerala claimed over 350 lives across the state.

The shutters of nearly 33 dangerously full dams and reservoirs were opened for the first time in the history of Kerala in nearly a century.&nbsp;

State authorities estimated a cumulative loss worth over Rs 21,000 crore in the catastrophe that was announced as 'calamity of severe nature' by the central government.&nbsp;

A 'Red Alert' spells out a warning for very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, whereas an 'Orange Alert'&nbsp;denotes that an area is likely to get heavy to very heavy rainfall.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport. According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise.

Operations at Cochin International Airport, Kerala have been suspended till August 11, 3 pm in the wake of heavy rains and flooding at the airport. According to reports, the water level in the Periyar river has been on the rise. Kerala Government has declared a holiday today for all schools across the state. As per reports, more than 315 camps have been set up for assistance and over 20,000 people have been evacuated. The Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KDSMA) has stated that 22,165 people have been evacuated to safety and are lodged in 315 camps across the state. Kerala Disaster Management Authority on Wednesday issued a 'Red Alert' warning for Idukki, Malappuram and Kozhikode districts for 24 hours. Thrissur, Palakkad, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod districts were issued 'Orange Alerts' for yesterday. Schools and colleges were shut in Malappuram and Wayanad districts. Kerala: Operations suspended at the Cochin International Airport till 11th August (Sunday), 3 pm. pic.twitter.com/eTueBv1500 — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2019 × An 'Orange Alert' was issued for Idukki, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad and Kasargod districts for Friday. Idukki and Kozhikode have been put on 'Orange Alert' for Saturday as well. Meanwhile, a meeting of the National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC), chaired by Cabinet Secretary PK Sinha was held on Thursday to review the prevailing flood situation in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala and Gujarat. Last year's disastrous floods in Kerala claimed over 350 lives across the state. The shutters of nearly 33 dangerously full dams and reservoirs were opened for the first time in the history of Kerala in nearly a century. State authorities estimated a cumulative loss worth over Rs 21,000 crore in the catastrophe that was announced as 'calamity of severe nature' by the central government. A 'Red Alert' spells out a warning for very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, whereas an 'Orange Alert' denotes that an area is likely to get heavy to very heavy rainfall. (With inputs from ANI)

Kerala rains: Over 20,000 evacuated, more than 300 camps set up across state for assistance

In the latest from Kashmir, Section 144 was eased for Friday prayers in parts of Kashmir today. Watch the full video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Section 144 eased in Kashmir for Friday prayers

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-flood-over-2-lakh-people-rescued-43-teams-of-multiple-agencies-deployed-241626">flood situation in the state</a>.

The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

"CM Fadnavis briefs Hon PM Narendra Modi on Maharashtra Floods situation. PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue &amp; relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India," tweeted CMO Maharashtra.

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CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a> briefs Hon PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraFloods</a> situation. 
Hon PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue &amp; relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>
— CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra/status/1159756000339091456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As many as 29&nbsp;people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara in the state.

"29&nbsp;people died due to floods in 5 districts of Pune division in Maharashtra. More than 2 lakh people have been evacuated to safe places till now from 3 districts including Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara," said Deepak Mhaisekar, Divisional Commissioner, Pune Division.

Amid flood-like situation in Maharashtra, 12 rescue teams of Indian Navy have been deployed today in Sangli district in addition to the teams already present in Kolhapur.

The rescue teams left for Sangli last night by road after airlift was aborted due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolhapur and Sangli districts.

Police escorts were also provided a green corridor till Sangli.

The Chief Minister had on Thursday also conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected districts of Sangli and Kolhapur to take stock of the situation. 
Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Girish Mahajan, and Eknath Shinde accompanied Fadnavis.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the flood situation in the state. The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the flood situation in the state. The Prime Minister, after taking stock of the situation, has assured all possible assistance from the Centre. "CM Fadnavis briefs Hon PM Narendra Modi on Maharashtra Floods situation. PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue & relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India," tweeted CMO Maharashtra. CM @Dev_Fadnavis briefs Hon PM @narendramodi on #MaharashtraFloods situation. Hon PM took detailed information on the situation, rescue & relief measures and assured all assistance from Government of India.@PMOIndia — CMO Maharashtra (@CMOMaharashtra) August 9, 2019 × As many as 29 people have died due to floods in five districts of Pune division while more than two lakh people have been evacuated to safer places from three districts of Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara in the state. "29 people died due to floods in 5 districts of Pune division in Maharashtra. More than 2 lakh people have been evacuated to safe places till now from 3 districts including Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara," said Deepak Mhaisekar, Divisional Commissioner, Pune Division. Amid flood-like situation in Maharashtra, 12 rescue teams of Indian Navy have been deployed today in Sangli district in addition to the teams already present in Kolhapur. The rescue teams left for Sangli last night by road after airlift was aborted due to unfavourable weather conditions in Kolhapur and Sangli districts. Police escorts were also provided a green corridor till Sangli. The Chief Minister had on Thursday also conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected districts of Sangli and Kolhapur to take stock of the situation. Ministers Chandrakant Patil, Girish Mahajan, and Eknath Shinde accompanied Fadnavis.

PM Modi assures assistance to flood-hit Maharashtra

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-samjhauta-pakistan-shuts-down-thar-link-express-241745">After Samjhauta, Pakistan shuts down Thar Link Express</a>

A day after shutting down Samjhauta Express--the bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan -- ''forever'', Pakistan on Friday suspended Thar Link Express - a weekly train that runs between Jodhpur to Munabao in India and Khokhrapar to Karachi in Pakistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-chief-warns-of-economic-fall-rules-out-concessions-241809">Hong Kong chief Carrie Lam warns of economic fall, rules out concessions</a>

Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-territory-status-for-jammu-and-kashmir-not-a-demotion-but-an-effort-to-align-it-with-rest-of-india-more-intensely-sources-241849">Union Territory status for Jammu and Kashmir not a demotion, but an effort to align it with rest of India more intensely: Sources</a>

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources.&nbsp;

Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-wants-to-present-an-alarming-picture-says-external-affairs-spokesperson-raveesh-kumar-241769">Pakistan wants to present an 'alarming picture', says External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar</a>

It's time for Pakistan to accept the reality and stop interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-roll-out-rupay-cards-in-bhutan-during-state-visit-on-17-18-august-241781">PM Modi to roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during state visit on August 17-18</a>

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during his state visit on 17-18 August.

Bhutan will be the second country after Singapore to roll out the services.

After Samjhauta, Pakistan shuts down Thar Link Express A day after shutting down Samjhauta Express--the bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan -- ''forever'', Pakistan on Friday suspended Thar Link Express - a weekly train that runs between Jodhpur to Munabao in India and Khokhrapar to Karachi in Pakistan.

After Samjhauta, Pakistan shuts down Thar Link Express A day after shutting down Samjhauta Express--the bi-weekly train that connects Delhi in India to Lahore in Pakistan -- ''forever'', Pakistan on Friday suspended Thar Link Express - a weekly train that runs between Jodhpur to Munabao in India and Khokhrapar to Karachi in Pakistan. Hong Kong chief Carrie Lam warns of economic fall, rules out concessions Hong Kong's leader Carrie Lam warned Friday that two months of pro-democracy demonstrations were causing economic chaos in the city but ruled out making concessions to "silence the violent protesters." Union Territory status for Jammu and Kashmir not a demotion, but an effort to align it with rest of India more intensely: Sources Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources. Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year. Pakistan wants to present an 'alarming picture', says External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar It's time for Pakistan to accept the reality and stop interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Friday. PM Modi to roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during state visit on August 17-18 Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during his state visit on 17-18 August. Bhutan will be the second country after Singapore to roll out the services.

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources.&nbsp;

Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year.&nbsp;

Sources also told WION that Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories for a purpose.

“If a state would have been created then it would have become business as usual. UT was created is to ensure that Kashmir gets properly aligned with the Indian Constitution. UT is not a demotion but an effort by the government to make required changes which wouldn’t have been possible otherwise,” a highly placed source informed WION.

Sources also told WION that government wants to send out the message that the country tried to attain peace with Article 370 for 70 years and now at least 10 years can be invested in a new set of laws.&nbsp;

The plan also includes new townships in the valley and job opportunities for Kashmiri Pandits so that their relocation can gain momentum. The government understands that relocation can never take place without proper job opportunities and a safe environment.

A slow trickle of migration has already happened in Jammu and Kashmir but the government does not want to speed up the process lest it creates distrust in the mind of the people. For example, new temples are a reality in the valley as it happened slowly and organically.

The government is also expected to set up a proper Delimitation Commission so that Jammu gets its due in the state assembly.&nbsp;

It would be accompanied by creation of a new set of political leadership in the valley which RSS-BJP believes can flow from those who contested&nbsp;panchayat polls recently.&nbsp;

The idea is to remove the existing layer of political leadership which RSS feels is tied to the idea of Article 370. Sources say that new leaders would be able to circumvent powerful families in Jammu and Kashmir. More than that, the idea is to assert the sacred geography of Kashmir which existed before the medieval age. The idea is not to force a demographic change but make the rest of India engage with Jammu and Kashmir more intensely.

The other idea on the wishlist is to repopulate Ladakh which RSS feels is very sparsely populated. Most ideas are on the drawing table of the ideologues of Sangh Parivar as they feel that it is their only chance.

Lastly, RSS feels that there could not have been any other way for the Narendra Modi-led government to implement the decision to revoke Article 370 as the existing leaders would have compromised the process and wouldn’t have allowed the government to go ahead with it.

&nbsp;

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources. Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT).

Centre is unlikely to hold assembly elections in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least a year, said sources. Centre has prepared a detailed plan and wants to use this time to completely overhaul the administration in the Union Territory (UT). Sources have indicated that massive financial and administrative reforms are on anvil starting with a business summit which might take place by end of the year. Sources also told WION that Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories for a purpose. “If a state would have been created then it would have become business as usual. UT was created is to ensure that Kashmir gets properly aligned with the Indian Constitution. UT is not a demotion but an effort by the government to make required changes which wouldn’t have been possible otherwise,” a highly placed source informed WION. Sources also told WION that government wants to send out the message that the country tried to attain peace with Article 370 for 70 years and now at least 10 years can be invested in a new set of laws. The plan also includes new townships in the valley and job opportunities for Kashmiri Pandits so that their relocation can gain momentum. The government understands that relocation can never take place without proper job opportunities and a safe environment. A slow trickle of migration has already happened in Jammu and Kashmir but the government does not want to speed up the process lest it creates distrust in the mind of the people. For example, new temples are a reality in the valley as it happened slowly and organically. The government is also expected to set up a proper Delimitation Commission so that Jammu gets its due in the state assembly. It would be accompanied by creation of a new set of political leadership in the valley which RSS-BJP believes can flow from those who contested panchayat polls recently. The idea is to remove the existing layer of political leadership which RSS feels is tied to the idea of Article 370. Sources say that new leaders would be able to circumvent powerful families in Jammu and Kashmir. More than that, the idea is to assert the sacred geography of Kashmir which existed before the medieval age. The idea is not to force a demographic change but make the rest of India engage with Jammu and Kashmir more intensely. The other idea on the wishlist is to repopulate Ladakh which RSS feels is very sparsely populated. Most ideas are on the drawing table of the ideologues of Sangh Parivar as they feel that it is their only chance. Lastly, RSS feels that there could not have been any other way for the Narendra Modi-led government to implement the decision to revoke Article 370 as the existing leaders would have compromised the process and wouldn’t have allowed the government to go ahead with it.

Union Territory status for Jammu and Kashmir not a demotion, but an effort to align it with rest of India more intensely: Sources

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Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will&nbsp;roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during his state visit on 17-18 August.

Bhutan will be the second country after Singapore to roll out the services.

RuPay card trials in Bhutan had begun in March, 2019.

Besides RuPay Cards, PM will also inagurate a ground station built by ISRO and a hydropower plant, &nbsp;Gokhale said.

According to Gokhale, India will review defence and security matters with Bhutan that include India-Bhutan boundary during Modi's visit.

On being asked if there will be a review of the Doklam incident during PM Modi's visit to Bhutan, Gokhale said ''Obviously we will review the defence and security matters with Bhutan that include situation along the India-Bhutan boundary''.

On being asked about Bhutan's stand on Article 370, he said Bhutan has shown understanding that this is a matter which is India's internal affair.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during his state visit on 17-18 August. Bhutan will be the second country after Singapore to roll out the services.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi will roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during his state visit on 17-18 August. Bhutan will be the second country after Singapore to roll out the services. RuPay card trials in Bhutan had begun in March, 2019. Besides RuPay Cards, PM will also inagurate a ground station built by ISRO and a hydropower plant, Gokhale said. According to Gokhale, India will review defence and security matters with Bhutan that include India-Bhutan boundary during Modi's visit. On being asked if there will be a review of the Doklam incident during PM Modi's visit to Bhutan, Gokhale said ''Obviously we will review the defence and security matters with Bhutan that include situation along the India-Bhutan boundary''. On being asked about Bhutan's stand on Article 370, he said Bhutan has shown understanding that this is a matter which is India's internal affair.

PM Modi to roll out RuPay Cards in Bhutan during state visit on August 17-18

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Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Friday won the Lok Sabha bye-election in Vellore in Tamil Nadu.

DMK candidate Kathir Anand defeated AIADMK nominee AC Shanmugham in the bypoll, which was rescinded before the General Elections in May after unaccounted cash was allegedly recovered from an office said to be that of a close associate of Anand.

With this win, the DMK has bagged 38 of 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu, while one is with the AIADMK.&nbsp;

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Friday won the Lok Sabha bye-election in Vellore in Tamil Nadu. DMK candidate Kathir Anand defeated AIADMK nominee AC Shanmugham in the bypoll, which was rescinded before the General Elections in May after unaccounted cash was allegedly recovered from an office said to be that of a close associate of Anand.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Friday won the Lok Sabha bye-election in Vellore in Tamil Nadu. DMK candidate Kathir Anand defeated AIADMK nominee AC Shanmugham in the bypoll, which was rescinded before the General Elections in May after unaccounted cash was allegedly recovered from an office said to be that of a close associate of Anand. With this win, the DMK has bagged 38 of 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu, while one is with the AIADMK.

DMK wins Vellore Lok Sabha bypoll in Tamil Nadu

The spokesperson for the MEA, Raveesh Kumar is addressing media. Let's listen in to what he has to say.

MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar comments on downgrading of ties with Pakistan

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Friday said that there was no chance to bring back ballot papers in place of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/evm-hacking-row-sp-asks-ec-to-use-ballot-papers-for-2019-polls-192472">Electronic Voting Machines</a> (EVMs) in the elections.

Arora said that there was no question of going back to the old system and even the Supreme Court has repeatedly given verdicts against the return of ballot papers.

Earlier, Opposition parties had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of winning the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by tampering EVM machines.

Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had rejected Opposition's accusation, saying that EVMs are tamper-proof and can't be hacked.

On July 31, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mns-chief-raj-thackeray-meets-tmc-supremo-mamata-banerjee-calls-for-return-of-ballot-boxes-239783">Raj Thackeray</a> met Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata and called for the return of ballot boxes.&nbsp;

Mamata Banerjee, who was one of the earliest interlocutors of the united opposition, has been demanding the return of ballot papers for&nbsp;a long time.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Mamata had asked all the Opposition parties to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. "I ask all the 23 political parties in the opposition to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. We must raise our voices. Even a country like the US has banned EVMs," Banerjee said.&nbsp;

(With reports from agencies)

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Friday said that there was no chance to bring back ballot papers in place of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the elections.

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sunil Arora on Friday said that there was no chance to bring back ballot papers in place of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in the elections. Arora said that there was no question of going back to the old system and even the Supreme Court has repeatedly given verdicts against the return of ballot papers. Earlier, Opposition parties had accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of winning the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by tampering EVM machines. Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India (ECI) had rejected Opposition's accusation, saying that EVMs are tamper-proof and can't be hacked. On July 31, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray met Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata and called for the return of ballot boxes. Mamata Banerjee, who was one of the earliest interlocutors of the united opposition, has been demanding the return of ballot papers for a long time. Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Mamata had asked all the Opposition parties to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. "I ask all the 23 political parties in the opposition to come together and demand the return of ballot papers. We must raise our voices. Even a country like the US has banned EVMs," Banerjee said. (With reports from agencies)

We are not going back to the era of ballot papers: Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora

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We are not going back to the era of ballot papers: Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora