US sanctions Cuban state-owned bank BICSA over alleged financial links to Iran

Majid Majidi's new film Midday Meal takes top prize at Asia's biggest film festival

US considering use of ‘mother of all bombs’ in its war with Iran: Report

Russian woman and Bihar boy's love story goes viral after she reaches India to marry him

Arijit Singh 9-city India stadium tour to start from January: Check venue and ticket prices

PM Modi to visit Canada on December 11-12 with focus on trade, energy and strategic ties

Mumbai gears up for Marco Rubio’s visit as US Secretary of State prepares for India trip

Turkey Floods: Heavy rains flood homes and submerge vehicles in Istanbul 

Saudi Arabia executes two Bangladeshi nationals over ‘immoral acts’ inside Mecca mosque

Katie Zacharia, White House Press Secretary admits she never passed bar exam amid credentials controversy

Ukraine blinded: Musk deflects blame on Trump, Putin sharpens attack | Gravitas

Oregon school shooting: 16-year-old identified as suspect after at least four killed, including three children

‘False accusations’: Maduro, wife plead not guilty to new US torture charges

Who is Abu Dhabi royal Mahrah Al Nahyan, found unconscious on London street with toddler after cocaine use

US-Iran War: Trump eyes mother of all bombs; Iran in crosshairs 

Ukraine running out of patriot missiles as Russian ballistic attacks intensify: Report

Russia-Ukraine War: Putin vows retaliation against Ukraine 

'Turns out the future does have flying cars': Musk's Tesla unveils 'flying' sports car with SpaceX technology | Watch

'Turn approver, resign, we'll forgive you': Rahul Gandhi claims receiving messages from CEC Gyanesh Kumar

Australian woman charged for adding snail poison to lover's curry at work

Central Park in Delhi shut on October 16, 17 amid CJP's protest call

Inside the Peshawar school tragedy: 34 dead, building's condition under scrutiny and owner arrested. Here's what all happened

‘My president, I mean my husband’: Trump's new press secretary Katie Zacharia's first briefing goes off the rails in 14 minutes

Kashmir scholars oppose Waqf Board’s common 'khutbah' proposal, allege political interference in mosques

World's 7 most innovative countries in 2026 REVEALED: Did India make the list? | In Pics

NASA captures strange structure with tentacle-like formation from space

Trump says Zelensky 'not a good guy' amid fresh Russia-Ukraine tensions | Watch video

Trump's tariff strategy faces new test: India wants preferential access and tariff stability 

Was Trump in danger at Alaska rally? Viral video shows Secret Service agents reacting

'Will stand with Pakistan in case of war with US': Rajasthan BJP chief's remark sparks row

Girl 'dead' for 8 hours wakes up at her own funeral, dad insists she wasn't breathing

US midterms 2026: FBI investigates suspicious mailings containing 'unknown substance' sent to election offices

Abhishek Sharma sets all-time record for most T20I sixes in a year

India’s naval priorities: Ex-Navy Chief calls for third aircraft carrier, more warships and submarines

Netanyahu defies Trump, blocks Gaza military base for Board of Peace | Gravitas

Nine former FBI employees fired over investigation into Trump's classified records sue Kash Patel, DOJ over alleged unlawful dismissal

'White supremacist' terror plot against Illinois Hindu temple foiled by jammed gun: Who is Alexandros Paporakis?

'Ukraine must get all it needs to protect civilians and infrastructure': Macron

Is America trying to ‘destabilise’ India or change its regime? How influence operations became a recurring theme in political rhetoric

Portland stabbing: Multiple people reportedly stabbed hours after deadly Bend school shooting

After Monsoon showers in states like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday predicted that districts in Uttarakhand are expected to receive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rainfall-expected-in-delhi-ncr-in-the-next-24-hours-india-meteorological-department-233890">heavy rainfall</a> from July 9 to July 13.

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rainfall-in-mumbai-leads-to-water-logging-slow-traffic-233946">Heavy to very heavy rainfall</a> likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal &amp; Dehradun Districts on July 9 and July 10, 2019," read a statement from the IMD.

IMD also issued a warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun and Haridwar districts for July 11 to 13.

After Monsoon showers in states like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday predicted that districts in Uttarakhand are expected to receive heavy rainfall from July 9 to July 13.

After Monsoon showers in states like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday predicted that districts in Uttarakhand are expected to receive heavy rainfall from July 9 to July 13. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely to occur at isolated places especially in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal & Dehradun Districts on July 9 and July 10, 2019," read a statement from the IMD. IMD also issued a warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall in Nainital, Champawat, Pithoragarh, Chamoli, Tehri Garhwal, Pauri Garhwal, Dehradun and Haridwar districts for July 11 to 13.

India Meteorological Department predicts heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday was adjourned for over two hours at a stretch following Opposition's uproar over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-kumaraswamy-has-lost-confidence-of-house-should-resign-says-bs-yeddyurappa-234106">political situation in Karnataka</a>.

Congress members stormed into the well of the Upper House and shouted slogans against the ruling BJP, accusing the party of instigating a revolt within the Congress-JDS government in Karnataka. As a result, the House was adjourned till 2 pm.

The over 13-month-old Congress-JD(S) coalition in Karnataka is on the verge of collapse after a wave of resignations by over 10 disgruntled MLAs who are in Mumbai at an undisclosed location.

The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113.

The Congress-JD(S) coalition is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority.

Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has also claimed that they will overcome the current bout of crisis. All the ministers from the two parties have resigned paving way for the restructuring of the state cabinet in a bid to accommodate the dissident MLAs.

Congress leader in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday accused the BJP of conspiring to topple Congress-JDS coalition government in Karnataka.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in reply, asserted that his party is committed to parliamentary democracy and has no relation with the developments in Karnataka.

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday was adjourned for over two hours at a stretch following Opposition's uproar over the political situation in Karnataka. Congress members stormed into the well of the Upper House and shouted slogans against the ruling BJP, accusing the party of instigating a revolt within the Congress-JDS government in Karnataka.

The Rajya Sabha on Tuesday was adjourned for over two hours at a stretch following Opposition's uproar over the political situation in Karnataka. Congress members stormed into the well of the Upper House and shouted slogans against the ruling BJP, accusing the party of instigating a revolt within the Congress-JDS government in Karnataka. As a result, the House was adjourned till 2 pm. The over 13-month-old Congress-JD(S) coalition in Karnataka is on the verge of collapse after a wave of resignations by over 10 disgruntled MLAs who are in Mumbai at an undisclosed location. The state Assembly has 225 members, including one nominated MLA. The halfway mark in the 225-member Assembly is 113. The Congress-JD(S) coalition is making all efforts to protect its government which seems to have fallen short of a majority. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy has also claimed that they will overcome the current bout of crisis. All the ministers from the two parties have resigned paving way for the restructuring of the state cabinet in a bid to accommodate the dissident MLAs. Congress leader in the Lok Sabha Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday accused the BJP of conspiring to topple Congress-JDS coalition government in Karnataka. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in reply, asserted that his party is committed to parliamentary democracy and has no relation with the developments in Karnataka.

Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2pm after Opposition uproar over Karnataka crisis

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to grant relief to P Rajagopal, founder of Saravana Bhavan restaurant group, who had sought more time to surrender in a 2001 murder case. 
 
The apex court had, on March 29, convicted and sentenced him to rigorous life imprisonment for murdering one of his employees. He was directed to surrender by July 7. 
 
Rajagopal had moved the court seeking more time to surrender citing medical grounds. His plea was, however, dismissed by a bench headed by Justice N V Ramana, today. 
 
According to the prosecution, an astrologer advised Rajagopal to marry Jeevajothi, the daughter of a Saravana Bhavan employee, in order to become rich, following which he tried to woo her.&nbsp;

Watch: How lust and money led to spectacular fall of India’s ‘Dosa King’&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/how-lust-and-money-led-to-spectacular-fall-of-indias-dosa-king-232807/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As he could not succeed in his plan, he hatched a criminal conspiracy to eliminate the employee of Saravana hotel, Prince Shantakumar, who was married to Jeevajothi. 
 
Shantakumar was murdered in October 2001 and his dead body was found in Kodaikanal city of Tamil Nadu. 
 
A Sessions Court had convicted Rajagopal and four others to ten years of imprisonment, but later the Madras high court set aside the Sessions court`s order and increased the jail term to life term under section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). 
 
Rajagopal then challenged the high court`s order before the apex court, which was rejected. Upholding the Madras HC&nbsp;judgement, the top court convicted and sentenced Rajagopal to life imprisonment.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to grant relief to P Rajagopal, founder of Saravana Bhavan restaurant group, who had sought more time to surrender in a 2001 murder case.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to grant relief to P Rajagopal, founder of Saravana Bhavan restaurant group, who had sought more time to surrender in a 2001 murder case. The apex court had, on March 29, convicted and sentenced him to rigorous life imprisonment for murdering one of his employees. He was directed to surrender by July 7. Rajagopal had moved the court seeking more time to surrender citing medical grounds. His plea was, however, dismissed by a bench headed by Justice N V Ramana, today. According to the prosecution, an astrologer advised Rajagopal to marry Jeevajothi, the daughter of a Saravana Bhavan employee, in order to become rich, following which he tried to woo her. Watch: How lust and money led to spectacular fall of India’s ‘Dosa King’ × As he could not succeed in his plan, he hatched a criminal conspiracy to eliminate the employee of Saravana hotel, Prince Shantakumar, who was married to Jeevajothi. Shantakumar was murdered in October 2001 and his dead body was found in Kodaikanal city of Tamil Nadu. A Sessions Court had convicted Rajagopal and four others to ten years of imprisonment, but later the Madras high court set aside the Sessions court`s order and increased the jail term to life term under section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Rajagopal then challenged the high court`s order before the apex court, which was rejected. Upholding the Madras HC judgement, the top court convicted and sentenced Rajagopal to life imprisonment.

Supreme Court rejects Saravana Bhavan founder's plea seeking time to surrender in murder case

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday took oath as a member of the Upper House after winning in by-polls from Gujarat.

On Friday, Jaishankar and party colleague Jugal Ji Thakor were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-s-jaishankar-another-candidate-win-rajya-sabha-polls-in-gujarat-bjp-233401">declared winners in the by-polls</a> conducted for two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

The two seats fell vacant following the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, who were elected to Lok Sabha in the general elections.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
External Affairs Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP <a href="https://t.co/jLHSxnEVu2">https://t.co/jLHSxnEVu2</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/YouTube?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@YouTube</a>
— Rajya Sabha TV (@rajyasabhatv) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajyasabhatv/status/1148107904978808832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Union Minister bagged 104 votes, while his Congress rival Gaurav Pandya got 70 votes.

Speaking at the press conference, Jaishankar thanked legislators for their support to him.

"I want to thank everyone for the support. Like I said during my nomination, External Affairs Minister and Gujarat have a natural partnership. There is no such country where there is no Gujarati. If the prestige of India has increased internationally, Gujarat has a role in it," Jaishankar said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday took oath as a member of the Upper House after winning in by-polls from Gujarat. On Friday, Jaishankar and party colleague Jugal Ji Thakor were declared winners in the by-polls conducted for two Rajya Sabha seats in the state.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday took oath as a member of the Upper House after winning in by-polls from Gujarat. On Friday, Jaishankar and party colleague Jugal Ji Thakor were declared winners in the by-polls conducted for two Rajya Sabha seats in the state. The two seats fell vacant following the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani, who were elected to Lok Sabha in the general elections. External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP https://t.co/jLHSxnEVu2 via @YouTube — Rajya Sabha TV (@rajyasabhatv) July 8, 2019 × The Union Minister bagged 104 votes, while his Congress rival Gaurav Pandya got 70 votes. Speaking at the press conference, Jaishankar thanked legislators for their support to him. "I want to thank everyone for the support. Like I said during my nomination, External Affairs Minister and Gujarat have a natural partnership. There is no such country where there is no Gujarati. If the prestige of India has increased internationally, Gujarat has a role in it," Jaishankar said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar takes oath as Rajya Sabha member

Members of Parliament (MPs) from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-will-support-extension-of-presidents-rule-in-jammu-kashmir-ram-gopal-yadav-232008">Trinamool Congress (TMC)</a> on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ram-vilas-paswan-takes-oath-as-rajya-sabha-member-232001">Rajya Sabha</a> over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units.

The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament.

&nbsp;During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice.

&nbsp;The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Monday gave Zero Hour notice in Rajya Sabha over two different issues about the Centre's recent proposals. TMC lawmaker Manish Gupta has given Zero Hour notice in the Upper House of Parliament over the government`s proposal to link data of three crore students to Facebook. Meanwhile, another MP Dola Sen from TMC has given the notice in Rajya Sabha over the Centre`s proposal to divest 42 public sector units. The Zero Hour refers to the time immediately following the Question Hour in both the Houses of Parliament. During this hour, parliamentarians can raise matters of great importance without the mandatory ten days advance notice. The first Session of the 17th Lok Sabha, which commenced on June 17, will culminate on July 26.

Trinamool Congress MPs give two Zero Hour notices in Rajya Sabha over Centre's proposals

As many as 95,923 pilgrims have performed the Amarnath Yatra since it started on July 1. However, no fresh batch of pilgrims was allowed to move towards the cave due to a protest called by locals to commemorate the death of Hizbul militant Burhan Wani.

Burhan Wani was killed in Kokernag area of Anantnag district on July 8, 2016 in a gunfight with the security forces.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti said that the arrangements made by the government are causing inconvenience to locals.

"Amarnath Yatra is taking place since years. But unfortunately, the arrangements done this year are against the people of Kashmir. It's causing a lot of trouble in the day-to-day lives of local people. I would like to request the Governor to intervene in this," news agency ANI quoted the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister.

She further said that restriction on the use of Jammu and Kashmir highway by the locals is excesses against people by the Central government.&nbsp;

However, Governor Satyapal Malik asked people to bear with the curbs imposed on civilian traffic on the national highway for two hours daily as it concerns the safety and the security of the pilgrims. 
 
Authorities have made tight security arrangements for the safety of pilgrims. Last month, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a review meeting on security arrangements for the yatra. State Governor Satyapal Malik also was also present in the review meeting.

Before the Home Minister's visit, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh visited units deployed for security of Amarnath yatra and reviewed the security arrangements on both the axis of Baltal and Pahalgam.&nbsp;

The 46-day long Amarnath Yatra kicked off on July 1 and will conclude on the 15th of next month coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As many as 95,923 pilgrims have performed the Amarnath Yatra since it started on July 1. However, no fresh batch of pilgrims was allowed to move towards the cave due to a protest called by locals to commemorate the death of Hizbul militant Burhan Wani.

As many as 95,923 pilgrims have performed the Amarnath Yatra since it started on July 1. However, no fresh batch of pilgrims was allowed to move towards the cave due to a protest called by locals to commemorate the death of Hizbul militant Burhan Wani. Burhan Wani was killed in Kokernag area of Anantnag district on July 8, 2016 in a gunfight with the security forces. Meanwhile, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti said that the arrangements made by the government are causing inconvenience to locals. "Amarnath Yatra is taking place since years. But unfortunately, the arrangements done this year are against the people of Kashmir. It's causing a lot of trouble in the day-to-day lives of local people. I would like to request the Governor to intervene in this," news agency ANI quoted the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister. She further said that restriction on the use of Jammu and Kashmir highway by the locals is excesses against people by the Central government. However, Governor Satyapal Malik asked people to bear with the curbs imposed on civilian traffic on the national highway for two hours daily as it concerns the safety and the security of the pilgrims. Authorities have made tight security arrangements for the safety of pilgrims. Last month, Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a review meeting on security arrangements for the yatra. State Governor Satyapal Malik also was also present in the review meeting. Before the Home Minister's visit, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh visited units deployed for security of Amarnath yatra and reviewed the security arrangements on both the axis of Baltal and Pahalgam. The 46-day long Amarnath Yatra kicked off on July 1 and will conclude on the 15th of next month coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 95,000 visit Amarnath cave shrine; Mehbooba Mufti claims yatra arrangements irk locals

Moving closer toward the induction of the Nag anti-tank guided missiles into the Army, Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday carried out three successful test firings of the missiles in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-light-combat-helicopters-trail-underway-at-pokhran-30332">Pokhran firing ranges</a>.

"The missiles were test-fired during both day and night on Sunday during the trials. All three tests were successful," DRDO officials said. Government sources said the missile is in the final stages of being inducted into the Army which will use it by mounting them on the modified armored vehicles.&nbsp;

The Defence Acquisition Council has last year approved the procurement of DRDO`s designed and developed NAG Missile System (NAMIS) at the cost of Rs 524 crore.&nbsp;

The system includes a third generation Anti-Tank Guided Missile, the NAG, along with the Missile Carrier Vehicle (NAMICA).&nbsp;

The NAG missile is a third generation anti-tank guided missile, which has top attack capabilities that can effectively engage and destroy all known enemy tanks during day and night.&nbsp;

The successful induction of the NAG missile into the Army is expected to give a quantum boost to the Army`s capability against enemy armor.

The Army and DRDO are supposed to carry out more tests of the missiles on Monday also to further validate the missile`s capabilities.&nbsp;

Nag was one of the first five strategic missiles planned to be developed under the Integrated Missile Development Programme initiated in the 1980s.

&nbsp;The other missiles developed under the project include the Agni, Prithvi, and Akash and all three of them have been successfully developed and inducted into the armed forces.

The Trishul project was shut down after being developed as a technology demonstrator.

Moving closer toward the induction of the Nag anti-tank guided missiles into the Army, Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday carried out three successful test firings of the missiles in the Pokhran firing ranges.

Moving closer toward the induction of the Nag anti-tank guided missiles into the Army, Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday carried out three successful test firings of the missiles in the Pokhran firing ranges. "The missiles were test-fired during both day and night on Sunday during the trials. All three tests were successful," DRDO officials said. Government sources said the missile is in the final stages of being inducted into the Army which will use it by mounting them on the modified armored vehicles. The Defence Acquisition Council has last year approved the procurement of DRDO`s designed and developed NAG Missile System (NAMIS) at the cost of Rs 524 crore. The system includes a third generation Anti-Tank Guided Missile, the NAG, along with the Missile Carrier Vehicle (NAMICA). The NAG missile is a third generation anti-tank guided missile, which has top attack capabilities that can effectively engage and destroy all known enemy tanks during day and night. The successful induction of the NAG missile into the Army is expected to give a quantum boost to the Army`s capability against enemy armor. The Army and DRDO are supposed to carry out more tests of the missiles on Monday also to further validate the missile`s capabilities. Nag was one of the first five strategic missiles planned to be developed under the Integrated Missile Development Programme initiated in the 1980s. The other missiles developed under the project include the Agni, Prithvi, and Akash and all three of them have been successfully developed and inducted into the armed forces. The Trishul project was shut down after being developed as a technology demonstrator.

Defence Research and Development Organisation carries out three successful Nag missile tests in one day in Pokhran

Chennai is known as "Detroit of India" since it is the automobile hub of the country. But faced with a severe water crisis, the auto firms are now coming up with newer ways to cut down on water consumption.

Automobile service centres in the city are avoiding the use of water to wash the vehicles. But this doesn't mean that the job is shoddy - vehicles are returned spic and span. What these service centres are using is called the dry wash method.

"For water wash we spend a minimum 50 litres of water per vehicle. On an average, 35 vehicles are water washed resulting in wastage of 1500 liters of water. Whereas in dry wash, we use 700ml of water and 300ml of dry wash liquid. This mixture can be used to clean seven to eight vehicles," said Prabhu Jayaraj, service manager at a Royal Enfield outlet in Chennai.

Even car makers are adopting the new method to service customers’ vehicles. "The water crisis in Chennai needs to be proactively addressed and Nissan is doing its bit by temporarily stopping the water wash facility across our dealerships," said Atul Aggarwal, General Manager, after sales, Nissan India.

Watch: Auto industry in Chennai innovates to combat water crisis

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/auto-industry-innovates-to-combat-water-crisis-233899/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"> 
</iframe></div>

In dry wash, compressed air is blown on the vehicles at high speed which clears the dust away. Then the solution is sprayed, after which it can be wiped clean. The method requires less time and manpower.

"If I want to wash my bike at home I usually waste a lot of water. Dry washing is good, especially as we are suffering a water crisis in Chennai. I am really happy to give my bike here for a dry wash," said Deshvar, a Royal Enfield owner.

With hardly any summer rains, availability of water is getting scarce and all four reservoirs that supply Chennai have run virtually dry. But the government says it is taking all the measures necessary to resolve the issue.

"We have seen protests in some areas. Protesters should not disturb the public. Our government is taking steps to solve the water issue soon," Tamil Nadu Water Minister SP Velumani said on Wednesday.

The acute water shortage has forced some schools to shut, companies to ask employees to work from home and hotels to ration water for guests.

The Kancheepuram district to the southeast of the city, which includes the factories of many foreign automakers, saw groundwater levels deplete more than 6 ft (1.88 metres), or three times the state average, to about 20 ft during the year ended May 2019, the data showed.

Chennai is known as "Detroit of India" since it is the automobile hub of the country. But faced with a severe water crisis, the auto firms are now coming up with newer ways to cut down on water consumption.

Chennai is known as "Detroit of India" since it is the automobile hub of the country. But faced with a severe water crisis, the auto firms are now coming up with newer ways to cut down on water consumption. Automobile service centres in the city are avoiding the use of water to wash the vehicles. But this doesn't mean that the job is shoddy - vehicles are returned spic and span. What these service centres are using is called the dry wash method. "For water wash we spend a minimum 50 litres of water per vehicle. On an average, 35 vehicles are water washed resulting in wastage of 1500 liters of water. Whereas in dry wash, we use 700ml of water and 300ml of dry wash liquid. This mixture can be used to clean seven to eight vehicles," said Prabhu Jayaraj, service manager at a Royal Enfield outlet in Chennai. Even car makers are adopting the new method to service customers’ vehicles. "The water crisis in Chennai needs to be proactively addressed and Nissan is doing its bit by temporarily stopping the water wash facility across our dealerships," said Atul Aggarwal, General Manager, after sales, Nissan India. Watch: Auto industry in Chennai innovates to combat water crisis In dry wash, compressed air is blown on the vehicles at high speed which clears the dust away. Then the solution is sprayed, after which it can be wiped clean. The method requires less time and manpower. "If I want to wash my bike at home I usually waste a lot of water. Dry washing is good, especially as we are suffering a water crisis in Chennai. I am really happy to give my bike here for a dry wash," said Deshvar, a Royal Enfield owner. With hardly any summer rains, availability of water is getting scarce and all four reservoirs that supply Chennai have run virtually dry. But the government says it is taking all the measures necessary to resolve the issue. "We have seen protests in some areas. Protesters should not disturb the public. Our government is taking steps to solve the water issue soon," Tamil Nadu Water Minister SP Velumani said on Wednesday. The acute water shortage has forced some schools to shut, companies to ask employees to work from home and hotels to ration water for guests. The Kancheepuram district to the southeast of the city, which includes the factories of many foreign automakers, saw groundwater levels deplete more than 6 ft (1.88 metres), or three times the state average, to about 20 ft during the year ended May 2019, the data showed.

Automobile service centres use dry wash to cut down on water use in parched Chennai

In a jolt to fragile Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition in Karnataka, independent legislator Nagesh has withdrawn his support to the HD Kumaraswamy government. Nagesh was a serving minister in the state government. He skipped the meeting called at the house of deputy chief minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-in-talks-with-disgruntled-leaders-says-deputy-cm-parameshwara-amid-political-crisis-233764">G Parameshwara</a> and instead went to the Governor's House to submit his resignation.

Nagesh said in his resignation letter that he supports the BJP. Nagesh, the MLA from Mulbgal, was inducted into the state Cabinet in the June 12 expansion.

Nagesh's resignation, if accepted, is going to put further stress on the wafer-thin margin of the ruling coalition. The strength of Karnataka Assembly is going to be reduced to 210 - the ruling coalition will have 104 members. With the bench strength of 105, the opposition BJP will be just one short of the majority mark.

However, Karnataka BJP chief BS Yeddyurappa has said that the party has nothing to do with the current crisis. "We (BJP) have nothing to do with the crisis in the coalition but it is a cause of concern for people of Karnataka," he said on Sunday.

Today's breakfast meeting has been called by the state government to try and placate the rebel MLAs by asking the sitting ministers to resign and giving the ministerial berths to those who have revolted against the government. Thirteen of the 22 Congress ministers are present in the meeting, and sources say all of them have been asked to resign.

Parameshwara has been the first one to offer resignation to save the coalition. "The party will take a decision. If the party says you have to resign I will resign," he said before the meeting.

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has, meanwhile, blamed Siddaramaiah for te current crisis. "The Congress party is leaderless now and their internal party problems have spiralled out of their hands. We totally condemn the way our party leaders are being dragged into this matter. This act is not acceptable, the root cause of this crisis is Siddaramaiah," Joshi said.

The Congress-JD (S) government in Karnataka plunged into crisis on Saturday following the resignation of at least 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly. Later in the day, 10 Congress MLAs left for Mumbai where they are said to be lodged in a hotel. JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath claimed that 14 MLAs have jointly tendered resignations to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and requested him to accept them.

The Speaker, however, has not yet accepted the resignations.

Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who was in the USA, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-crisis-kumaraswamy-reaches-bengaluru-will-hold-meet-with-jds-congress-leaders-233825">reached Bengaluru on Sunday</a> and immediately took stock of the situation. He is involved in a series of meetings to defuse the crisis.

In a jolt to fragile Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition in Karnataka, independent legislator Nagesh has withdrawn his support to the HD Kumaraswamy government.

In a jolt to fragile Janata Dal (Secular)-Congress coalition in Karnataka, independent legislator Nagesh has withdrawn his support to the HD Kumaraswamy government. Nagesh was a serving minister in the state government. He skipped the meeting called at the house of deputy chief minister G Parameshwara and instead went to the Governor's House to submit his resignation. Nagesh said in his resignation letter that he supports the BJP. Nagesh, the MLA from Mulbgal, was inducted into the state Cabinet in the June 12 expansion. Nagesh's resignation, if accepted, is going to put further stress on the wafer-thin margin of the ruling coalition. The strength of Karnataka Assembly is going to be reduced to 210 - the ruling coalition will have 104 members. With the bench strength of 105, the opposition BJP will be just one short of the majority mark. However, Karnataka BJP chief BS Yeddyurappa has said that the party has nothing to do with the current crisis. "We (BJP) have nothing to do with the crisis in the coalition but it is a cause of concern for people of Karnataka," he said on Sunday. Today's breakfast meeting has been called by the state government to try and placate the rebel MLAs by asking the sitting ministers to resign and giving the ministerial berths to those who have revolted against the government. Thirteen of the 22 Congress ministers are present in the meeting, and sources say all of them have been asked to resign. Parameshwara has been the first one to offer resignation to save the coalition. "The party will take a decision. If the party says you have to resign I will resign," he said before the meeting. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi has, meanwhile, blamed Siddaramaiah for te current crisis. "The Congress party is leaderless now and their internal party problems have spiralled out of their hands. We totally condemn the way our party leaders are being dragged into this matter. This act is not acceptable, the root cause of this crisis is Siddaramaiah," Joshi said. The Congress-JD (S) government in Karnataka plunged into crisis on Saturday following the resignation of at least 11 MLAs from the membership of the state Assembly. Later in the day, 10 Congress MLAs left for Mumbai where they are said to be lodged in a hotel. JD(S) MLA H Vishwanath claimed that 14 MLAs have jointly tendered resignations to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar and requested him to accept them. The Speaker, however, has not yet accepted the resignations. Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, who was in the USA, reached Bengaluru on Sunday and immediately took stock of the situation. He is involved in a series of meetings to defuse the crisis.

Kumaraswamy government inching towards minority as another legislator pulls support

Heavy rains caused <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-rains-54-flights-diverted-52-cancelled-5-trains-short-terminated-232218">poor visibility and delay in flight operations</a> at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport here on Monday morning.

An airport spokesperson said, "Due to heavy rains, the visibility is changing every minute. Since 9:15am today, the visibility at the airport has been fluctuating. There is a delay due to the weather. There has been no flight cancellation. However, three diversions have taken place."

Earlier, the spokesperson had said, "Due to heavy rains, there was no movement of flights at the airport."Rains have wreaked havoc in Mumbai with 24&nbsp;people dying in a wall collapse incident in Malad on July 5.

A compound wall collapsed on the hutments built on a hill slope in Kurar Village in area of Malad East due to heavy downpour last week.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Minister of State for Urban Development Yogesh Sagar visited Shatabdi Hospital to meet the injured. He has also announced Rs 5 lakh to be given to the kin of the deceased while the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has also pledged to pitch in a similar amount.

Heavy rains caused poor visibility and delay in flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport here on Monday morning. An airport spokesperson said, "Due to heavy rains, the visibility is changing every minute.

Heavy rains caused poor visibility and delay in flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport here on Monday morning. An airport spokesperson said, "Due to heavy rains, the visibility is changing every minute. Since 9:15am today, the visibility at the airport has been fluctuating. There is a delay due to the weather. There has been no flight cancellation. However, three diversions have taken place." Earlier, the spokesperson had said, "Due to heavy rains, there was no movement of flights at the airport."Rains have wreaked havoc in Mumbai with 24 people dying in a wall collapse incident in Malad on July 5. A compound wall collapsed on the hutments built on a hill slope in Kurar Village in area of Malad East due to heavy downpour last week. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Minister of State for Urban Development Yogesh Sagar visited Shatabdi Hospital to meet the injured. He has also announced Rs 5 lakh to be given to the kin of the deceased while the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has also pledged to pitch in a similar amount.

Heavy rains delay flight operations at Mumbai international airport

At least 29 people died on Monday morning after a Uttar Pradesh roadways bus skidded off the six-lane Yamuna Expressway and fell into a drain. Around 17 others were injured.

The bus, carrying around 50 people was going from Lucknow to New Delhi.

Agra District Magistrate NG Ravi Kumar said, ''The incident took place around 4:30 am. The driver probably dozed off and the speeding bus broke our barrier and fell in the drain. The search operation is underway.''

''One Sleeper Coach passenger bus travelling from Lucknow to Delhi met with an accident on Yamuna Expressway. It fell into the side fall about 15 feet deep. 20 passengers rescued so far. Efforts are on for the rest,''&nbsp;the Uttar Pradesh Police tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
One Sleeper Coach passenger bus travelling from Lucknow to Delhi met with an accident on Yamuna Expressway. It fell into the side fall about 15 feet deep. 
 
20 passengers rescued so far. Efforts are on for the rest. 
 
IG Agra
— UP POLICE (@Uppolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/Uppolice/status/1148044779487297536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed his grief and condolences to the families of the deceased. He also asked the authorities to give all help to the injured as well as the families of those killed in the accident.

The chief minister has also ordered an enquiry by a committee consisting of Transport Commissioner, Divisional Commissioner and Inspector General Of Police of Agra to investigate the incident in 24 hours and give a report on the cause of the incident and also report on long term recommendations to avoid such accidents.

Uttar Pradesh roadways have made an announcement of Rs 5 lakh to families of the deceased.

At least 29 people died on Monday morning after a Uttar Pradesh roadways bus skidded off the six-lane Yamuna Expressway and fell into a drain. Around 17 others were injured.

At least 29 people died on Monday morning after a Uttar Pradesh roadways bus skidded off the six-lane Yamuna Expressway and fell into a drain. Around 17 others were injured. The bus, carrying around 50 people was going from Lucknow to New Delhi. Agra District Magistrate NG Ravi Kumar said, ''The incident took place around 4:30 am. The driver probably dozed off and the speeding bus broke our barrier and fell in the drain. The search operation is underway.'' ''One Sleeper Coach passenger bus travelling from Lucknow to Delhi met with an accident on Yamuna Expressway. It fell into the side fall about 15 feet deep. 20 passengers rescued so far. Efforts are on for the rest,'' the Uttar Pradesh Police tweeted. One Sleeper Coach passenger bus travelling from Lucknow to Delhi met with an accident on Yamuna Expressway. It fell into the side fall about 15 feet deep. 20 passengers rescued so far. Efforts are on for the rest. IG Agra — UP POLICE (@Uppolice) July 8, 2019 × Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has expressed his grief and condolences to the families of the deceased. He also asked the authorities to give all help to the injured as well as the families of those killed in the accident. The chief minister has also ordered an enquiry by a committee consisting of Transport Commissioner, Divisional Commissioner and Inspector General Of Police of Agra to investigate the incident in 24 hours and give a report on the cause of the incident and also report on long term recommendations to avoid such accidents. Uttar Pradesh roadways have made an announcement of Rs 5 lakh to families of the deceased.

Uttar Pradesh: At least 29 dead after bus skids off Yamuna Expressway and falls into drain

Two junior Indian antitrust research associates and a law school student were behind a complaint that sparked a probe into Google's alleged anti-competitive practices in the country, in what has become another regulatory challenge for the US firm.

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) ordered a full-blown investigation into Alphabet Inc's Google in April for alleged abuse of its Android platform to hurt rivals, but the complainants'&nbsp;names came to light only when the order was made public last week.

The case was filed by Umar Javeed and Sukarma Thapar, who work as research associates at the CCI, and Umar's brother Aaqib, a law school student who interned with the CCI briefly in 2018, their LinkedIn profiles showed. All three declined interview requests for this article.

Though it's unusual for CCI researchers to file cases with the watchdog, antitrust lawyers said, there is nothing wrong with it. They acted in their personal capacity, a senior government official said, adding that all are aged in their 20s.

"They deserve appreciation, they have done a commendable job," SL Bunker, a former senior member of the CCI, told Reuters on Monday. "The developments will be watched eagerly as the case involves many intricacies and its implications will be the world over."&nbsp;

The CCI didn't respond to a request for comment.

A recent antitrust case in the country against Google involved a matchmaking firm backed by top lawyers. The US&nbsp;company was fined $20 million in that case last year, though it is under appeal.

In the latest case, the three young informants relied on the European Commission's order from last year in which Google was fined $5 billion for forcing manufacturers to pre-install its apps on Android devices. Their complaint is against both Google LLC and the company's India unit.

The CCI's preliminary finding was that Google appeared to be dominant on the basis of the material brought forward by the informants, who were identified in the order as Android users.

Google didn't respond to an email seeking comment, but has previously said it would work with the CCI "to demonstrate how Android has led to more competition and innovation, not less".

The amount of any fine that could be imposed on Google if the CCI rules against it was not clear. Google's Indian unit posted revenue of more than $1.3 billion for the 2018 fiscal year, according to Indian media.&nbsp;

Umar has been working at the CCI since 2017 and obtained his law degree in 2014 from the University of Kashmir, while Aaqib is due to graduate from the Kashmir university this year. Thapar, who graduated from an Indian law school in 2015, joined the CCI last year, according to their LinkedIn profiles.

When one Indian antitrust lawyer asked Umar on LinkedIn whether it wasn't strange that CCI's research associates were filing cases at the watchdog, he replied, "I don't think so ... you can`t tell a police officer to not report an illegal activity because of him being an officer."

Two junior Indian antitrust research associates and a law school student were behind a complaint that sparked a probe into Google's alleged anti-competitive practices in the country, in what has become another regulatory challenge for the US firm.

Two junior Indian antitrust research associates and a law school student were behind a complaint that sparked a probe into Google's alleged anti-competitive practices in the country, in what has become another regulatory challenge for the US firm. The Competition Commission of India (CCI) ordered a full-blown investigation into Alphabet Inc's Google in April for alleged abuse of its Android platform to hurt rivals, but the complainants' names came to light only when the order was made public last week. The case was filed by Umar Javeed and Sukarma Thapar, who work as research associates at the CCI, and Umar's brother Aaqib, a law school student who interned with the CCI briefly in 2018, their LinkedIn profiles showed. All three declined interview requests for this article. Though it's unusual for CCI researchers to file cases with the watchdog, antitrust lawyers said, there is nothing wrong with it. They acted in their personal capacity, a senior government official said, adding that all are aged in their 20s. "They deserve appreciation, they have done a commendable job," SL Bunker, a former senior member of the CCI, told Reuters on Monday. "The developments will be watched eagerly as the case involves many intricacies and its implications will be the world over." The CCI didn't respond to a request for comment. A recent antitrust case in the country against Google involved a matchmaking firm backed by top lawyers. The US company was fined $20 million in that case last year, though it is under appeal. In the latest case, the three young informants relied on the European Commission's order from last year in which Google was fined $5 billion for forcing manufacturers to pre-install its apps on Android devices. Their complaint is against both Google LLC and the company's India unit. The CCI's preliminary finding was that Google appeared to be dominant on the basis of the material brought forward by the informants, who were identified in the order as Android users. Google didn't respond to an email seeking comment, but has previously said it would work with the CCI "to demonstrate how Android has led to more competition and innovation, not less". The amount of any fine that could be imposed on Google if the CCI rules against it was not clear. Google's Indian unit posted revenue of more than $1.3 billion for the 2018 fiscal year, according to Indian media. Umar has been working at the CCI since 2017 and obtained his law degree in 2014 from the University of Kashmir, while Aaqib is due to graduate from the Kashmir university this year. Thapar, who graduated from an Indian law school in 2015, joined the CCI last year, according to their LinkedIn profiles. When one Indian antitrust lawyer asked Umar on LinkedIn whether it wasn't strange that CCI's research associates were filing cases at the watchdog, he replied, "I don't think so ... you can`t tell a police officer to not report an illegal activity because of him being an officer."

India's latest Google probe sparked by junior antitrust researchers

The seventh meeting of the India-Nepal Oversight Mechanism on Monday reviewed the progress made in the implementation of bilateral economic and development projects.

The meeting was co-chaired by Nepal's Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi and Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri.

"The meeting reviewed the status of implementation of all ongoing bilateral projects between Nepal and India in the areas of cross-border rails, petroleum pipelines, roads, integrated check posts, bridges, energy, irrigation, inundation, agriculture, post-earthquake reconstruction, among others," a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry said.

"Both sides agreed to address the problems and obstacles for the smooth implementation of the projects," it said, adding they also agreed to expedite works for early completion.

The Nepal-India Oversight Mechanism was set up after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's state visit to India in September 2016, to oversee the implementation of bilateral projects and take necessary steps for their completion within the stipulated deadline."Ambassador Puri and Foreign Secretary Bairagi co-chaired the Oversight Mechanism meeting today and discussed the status of Government of India funded development projects.

They expressed satisfaction on the progress made and agreed to work closely to complete them at an early date," the Indian Embassy in Nepal tweeted after the meeting.

The two countries decided to hold another round of meeting on a mutually convenient date.

The sixth meeting of the mechanism had taken place on July 18 last year.

The seventh meeting of the India-Nepal Oversight Mechanism on Monday reviewed the progress made in the implementation of bilateral economic and development projects.

The seventh meeting of the India-Nepal Oversight Mechanism on Monday reviewed the progress made in the implementation of bilateral economic and development projects. The meeting was co-chaired by Nepal's Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi and Ambassador of India to Nepal Manjeev Singh Puri. "The meeting reviewed the status of implementation of all ongoing bilateral projects between Nepal and India in the areas of cross-border rails, petroleum pipelines, roads, integrated check posts, bridges, energy, irrigation, inundation, agriculture, post-earthquake reconstruction, among others," a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry said. "Both sides agreed to address the problems and obstacles for the smooth implementation of the projects," it said, adding they also agreed to expedite works for early completion. The Nepal-India Oversight Mechanism was set up after Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's state visit to India in September 2016, to oversee the implementation of bilateral projects and take necessary steps for their completion within the stipulated deadline."Ambassador Puri and Foreign Secretary Bairagi co-chaired the Oversight Mechanism meeting today and discussed the status of Government of India funded development projects. They expressed satisfaction on the progress made and agreed to work closely to complete them at an early date," the Indian Embassy in Nepal tweeted after the meeting. The two countries decided to hold another round of meeting on a mutually convenient date. The sixth meeting of the mechanism had taken place on July 18 last year.

India-Nepal Oversight Mechanism reviews progress in bilateral projects

Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019, with Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asserting that the incumbent government will soon bring a comprehensive law on the data protection.

"We will bring a comprehensive data protection law. Data sovereignty is integral to us and it will never be compromised," Prasad said.

The union minister said that the architecture of Aadhaar was not touched and just the concerned law was changed.

Prasad also contended that people like Bill Gates and Thomas Friedman appreciate Aadhaar.

The Bill seeks to amend the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

It allows voluntary use of Aadhaar as proof of identity for opening a bank account and procuring a mobile phone.

The Upper House has been adjourned till 11 am tomorrow (July 9).

Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019, with Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asserting that the incumbent government will soon bring a comprehensive law on the data protection.

Rajya Sabha on Monday passed the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2019, with Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asserting that the incumbent government will soon bring a comprehensive law on the data protection. "We will bring a comprehensive data protection law. Data sovereignty is integral to us and it will never be compromised," Prasad said. The union minister said that the architecture of Aadhaar was not touched and just the concerned law was changed. Prasad also contended that people like Bill Gates and Thomas Friedman appreciate Aadhaar. The Bill seeks to amend the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. It allows voluntary use of Aadhaar as proof of identity for opening a bank account and procuring a mobile phone. The Upper House has been adjourned till 11 am tomorrow (July 9).

Rajya Sabha passes Aadhaar Bill, government says will bring comprehensive law on data protection

Former Chief Minister and BJP's state unit president BS Yeddyurappa on Monday demanded the resignation of Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, saying the Congress-JDS government in the state has lost the majority.

"When they have lost the confidence of the House, they have no moral right to conduct the business. That is why we are demanding that he (CM) should resign immediately," he said while talking to reporters here.

"Now, we are having the BJP legislative party meeting. We are going to take appropriate decision there. Tomorrow all our workers will protest because the Congress-JDS lost the majority. So, the CM should resign immediately. That is the people's aspiration also," he said.

The BJP has made it clear that if a new government is formed in the state, Yeddyurappa will become the Chief Minister.

Congress leaders have repeatedly accused the BJP and the Central government of orchestrating the current crisis in the state, a charge the BJP has denied.

Former Chief Minister and BJP's state unit president BS Yeddyurappa on Monday demanded the resignation of Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, saying the Congress-JDS government in the state has lost the majority.

Former Chief Minister and BJP's state unit president BS Yeddyurappa on Monday demanded the resignation of Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy, saying the Congress-JDS government in the state has lost the majority. "When they have lost the confidence of the House, they have no moral right to conduct the business. That is why we are demanding that he (CM) should resign immediately," he said while talking to reporters here. "Now, we are having the BJP legislative party meeting. We are going to take appropriate decision there. Tomorrow all our workers will protest because the Congress-JDS lost the majority. So, the CM should resign immediately. That is the people's aspiration also," he said. The BJP has made it clear that if a new government is formed in the state, Yeddyurappa will become the Chief Minister. Congress leaders have repeatedly accused the BJP and the Central government of orchestrating the current crisis in the state, a charge the BJP has denied.

Karnataka crisis: Kumaraswamy has lost confidence of House, should resign says, BS Yeddyurappa

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear on Tuesday a petition filed by former Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal seeking quashing of the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against him.

Justice Vibhu Bakhru had recused himself from hearing Goyal's plea when the matter came up on July 5.

The circular was issued against Goyal by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) under the Corporate Affairs Ministry after it found several irregularities in the aviation company, which had halted operations in April this year due to acute cash crunch.

On May 25, Goyal and his wife Anita were denied permission to travel abroad.

The duo was flying out of India from Mumbai on an Emirates flight when they were restricted from leaving the country by the immigration authorities.

On March 25, Goyal, the then Jet Airways chairman, had stepped down from the post. He had set up the airline 25 years ago.

According to the lawyers, the SFIO had also summoned Goyal to join the probe on July 10.

The ministry had earlier asked the SFIO to investigate Jet Airways for alleged syphoning of funds and misappropriation of accounts and file its report within six months.

Goyal has also challenged the several office memoranda issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

Jet has been suffering bruising competition from low-cost airlines, fluctuating crude prices and a weak rupee.

The airline has over one billion dollars in debt and has to repay money to banks, lessors of planes and suppliers besides clearing pending salaries of pilots and other staff.&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear on Tuesday a petition filed by former Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal seeking quashing of the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against him.

The Delhi High Court is scheduled to hear on Tuesday a petition filed by former Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal seeking quashing of the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against him. Justice Vibhu Bakhru had recused himself from hearing Goyal's plea when the matter came up on July 5. The circular was issued against Goyal by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) under the Corporate Affairs Ministry after it found several irregularities in the aviation company, which had halted operations in April this year due to acute cash crunch. On May 25, Goyal and his wife Anita were denied permission to travel abroad. The duo was flying out of India from Mumbai on an Emirates flight when they were restricted from leaving the country by the immigration authorities. On March 25, Goyal, the then Jet Airways chairman, had stepped down from the post. He had set up the airline 25 years ago. According to the lawyers, the SFIO had also summoned Goyal to join the probe on July 10. The ministry had earlier asked the SFIO to investigate Jet Airways for alleged syphoning of funds and misappropriation of accounts and file its report within six months. Goyal has also challenged the several office memoranda issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. Jet has been suffering bruising competition from low-cost airlines, fluctuating crude prices and a weak rupee. The airline has over one billion dollars in debt and has to repay money to banks, lessors of planes and suppliers besides clearing pending salaries of pilots and other staff.

Jet Airways row: Delhi High Court to hear tomorrow Naresh Goyal's plea seeking quashing of Look Out Circular

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar here on Monday and agreed to maintain "high-level exchanges" between the two countries.

"EAM S Jaishankar welcomes UAE Foreign Minister HH AB Zayed ahead of the delegation-level talks. In recent years, our age-old relationship has been nurtured to take it to a higher trajectory on the foundation of frequent high-level exchanges," the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson wrote on Twitter.

The visiting UAE Foreign Minister arrived here on a three-day bilateral visit to the country on Sunday evening.

On Tuesday, the UAE Foreign Minister is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and participate in a business roundtable interaction with CEOs of Indian companies.

The visit is aimed at providing the two sides with an opportunity to explore new areas of cooperation to further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

The UAE is India's third-largest trade partner and fourth largest energy supplier. It is also the first country to participate in India's 'Strategic Petroleum Reserves'&nbsp;programme.

Modi had visited the UAE in August 2015 during which the two countries decided to elevate their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

The Prime Minister had also paid a visit to the Gulf nation again in February last year.&nbsp;

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar here on Monday and agreed to maintain "high-level exchanges" between the two countries.

United Arab Emirates (UAE) Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar here on Monday and agreed to maintain "high-level exchanges" between the two countries. "EAM S Jaishankar welcomes UAE Foreign Minister HH AB Zayed ahead of the delegation-level talks. In recent years, our age-old relationship has been nurtured to take it to a higher trajectory on the foundation of frequent high-level exchanges," the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson wrote on Twitter. The visiting UAE Foreign Minister arrived here on a three-day bilateral visit to the country on Sunday evening. On Tuesday, the UAE Foreign Minister is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and participate in a business roundtable interaction with CEOs of Indian companies. The visit is aimed at providing the two sides with an opportunity to explore new areas of cooperation to further strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. The UAE is India's third-largest trade partner and fourth largest energy supplier. It is also the first country to participate in India's 'Strategic Petroleum Reserves' programme. Modi had visited the UAE in August 2015 during which the two countries decided to elevate their relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership. The Prime Minister had also paid a visit to the Gulf nation again in February last year.

UAE Foreign Minister meets Jaishankar, agree to maintain high-level exchanges

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirav-modi-aides-to-pay-rs-7300-crore-with-interest-to-pnb-debt-recovery-tribunal-233529">Punjab National Bank</a> (PNB) on Saturday said it had reported a borrowing fraud of 38.05 billion (3,800 crore) rupees ($556 million) in Bhushan Power &amp; Steel Ltd's account to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The fraud, "alleging diversion of funds from the banking system" was being reported to the RBI on the basis of the findings of forensic audit and the federal police filing a first information report, the PNB said in a statement to stock exchanges.

"It has been observed that the company has misappropriated bank funds, manipulated books of accounts to raise funds from consortium lender banks," PNB said, adding that it had already made provisions of 19.32 billion rupees in Bhushan's account.

PNB has been defrauded of over $2 billion in a separate scam that came to light last year.

Bhushan Power and Steel, one of India's most indebted companies, was among the first 12 companies referred by the RBI India to a bankruptcy court for a debt resolution process under India's new insolvency law.

The company could not be reached for comment on the PNB statement.

The Punjab National Bank (PNB) on Saturday said it had reported a borrowing fraud of 38.05 billion (3,800 crore) rupees ($556 million) in Bhushan Power & Steel Ltd's account to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

The Punjab National Bank (PNB) on Saturday said it had reported a borrowing fraud of 38.05 billion (3,800 crore) rupees ($556 million) in Bhushan Power & Steel Ltd's account to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The fraud, "alleging diversion of funds from the banking system" was being reported to the RBI on the basis of the findings of forensic audit and the federal police filing a first information report, the PNB said in a statement to stock exchanges. "It has been observed that the company has misappropriated bank funds, manipulated books of accounts to raise funds from consortium lender banks," PNB said, adding that it had already made provisions of 19.32 billion rupees in Bhushan's account. PNB has been defrauded of over $2 billion in a separate scam that came to light last year. Bhushan Power and Steel, one of India's most indebted companies, was among the first 12 companies referred by the RBI India to a bankruptcy court for a debt resolution process under India's new insolvency law. The company could not be reached for comment on the PNB statement.

Punjab National Bank says it has detected Rs 3,800 crore fraud

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical".

While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress'&nbsp;as a trustee of the Trust.

"The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long.

The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December.

It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust.

The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House".

In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party.

Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical.

The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel.

The Congress government on Monday vehemently opposed the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha after it was introduced by Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel. The bill seeks to remove the Congress president as a permanent member in a trust that runs the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial to make the body "apolitical". While moving the bill in the Parliament, Patel stated that it seeks to "delete" the mention of 'President of the Indian National Congress' as a trustee of the Trust. "The bill was passed in the 16th Lok Sabha but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. Today, we are again moving this bill and will answer to every questioned posed to us," he said. Meanwhile, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor urged the Centre not to take such step as it would betray the history since his party has been associated with the trust for so long. The Bill, which amends the Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, was approved by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year in December. It was approved to ensure representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust. The decisions aim to suitably amend the aforesaid act so as to secure representation as Trustees, "the Leader of Opposition recognized as such in the House of the People, or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then the Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in the House". In the existing Act, there is a provision for the representation of a single national political party. Deletion of the party-specific member from the Trust will make it apolitical. The proposed amendment ensures representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust and will empower the government to terminate and replace a Trustee to participate in the functioning of the Trust or for any other reason.

Jallianwala Bagh Amendment Bill introduced in Lok Sabha, Congress opposes

In what appears to be a last-ditch attempt to save the coalition government in the state, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwara, MB Patil, and Eshwara Khandre held a meeting at an undisclosed location with legal advisers on Monday.

The Congress leaders are believed to have discussed among other things further action against the party MLAs, who have resigned.

The Congress party has called the CLP meeting on Tuesday.

Earlier in the day, both Congress and JD(S) made their ministers resign from the Council of Ministers to "accommodate" the rebel MLAs, who are said to be unhappy.

BJP has, meanwhile, demanded the resignation of Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy for losing the confidence of the House.

The party's state unit president BS Yeddyurappa claimed that the government has lost the majority and hence has no moral right to continue.

Two independent MLAs -- H Nagesh and R Shankar, who were a part of the government, quit the Council of Ministers. Nagesh has also announced support to the BJP if it forms the government.

The Congress and JD(S) leader have held a series of meetings since Saturday to address the crisis.&nbsp;

In what appears to be a last-ditch attempt to save the coalition government in the state, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwara, MB Patil, and Eshwara Khandre held a meeting at an undisclosed location with legal advisers on Monday.

In what appears to be a last-ditch attempt to save the coalition government in the state, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Dinesh Gundu Rao, Siddaramaiah, G Parameshwara, MB Patil, and Eshwara Khandre held a meeting at an undisclosed location with legal advisers on Monday. The Congress leaders are believed to have discussed among other things further action against the party MLAs, who have resigned. The Congress party has called the CLP meeting on Tuesday. Earlier in the day, both Congress and JD(S) made their ministers resign from the Council of Ministers to "accommodate" the rebel MLAs, who are said to be unhappy. BJP has, meanwhile, demanded the resignation of Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy for losing the confidence of the House. The party's state unit president BS Yeddyurappa claimed that the government has lost the majority and hence has no moral right to continue. Two independent MLAs -- H Nagesh and R Shankar, who were a part of the government, quit the Council of Ministers. Nagesh has also announced support to the BJP if it forms the government. The Congress and JD(S) leader have held a series of meetings since Saturday to address the crisis.

Karnataka crisis: Senior Congress leaders hold meeting with legal advisers, discuss further action against rebels

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party.

"I strongly urge the Working Committee to meet without delay, perhaps under the chairmanship of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and take necessary decisions. These would include an interim Congress party president until the next party elections," he said in a statement on Monday.

"In my view, four Working Presidents/Vice Presidents, one each for the four zones - North, South, East, and West. This would enable the introduction of younger people into positions of authority," he added in the statement.

"The longer the present uncertainty remains, the more will our workers and voters around the country be demoralised. The negative cycle must be reversed before it is too late," Singh further said the in the statement.

Speaking to ANI exclusively, Singh said he has not suggested any names for the posts.

"I have not suggested any names. I did not want to mention any names as it will be a decision of the party as a whole," he said.

"The Congress party seems to be in disarray after Rahul Gandhi's resignation. Instead of moving forward, we wasted over month pleading him not to resign. He is an intelligent man. If he wants to resign, let him do so," he said.

He said that a lot of people genuinely want Rahul to carry forward the party but one must honour his desire.

Responding to the argument that many people claim the Congress will disintegrate if Rahul steps down from the post of president, he said,&nbsp;"That is a self-fulfilling prophecy. I say the reverse. If you do not do something soon, then the party will disintegrate."

Singh further stressed that there would be no opposition if the Congress party gets disintegrated.

"It is a fact that we are in a difficult situation. It is important the Congress should revive not only for the party itself, which has a very old and distinguished background but also for democracy. In a democracy, you need a strong opposition."

"If the Congress party disintegrates, which party is going to provide strong opposition? If something like this happens, then there will be only regional parties. So, it is important for the Congress to get its act together and move forward," he said.

Replying to a question if the Congress party would move ahead without Gandhi scion, he firmly said,&nbsp;"Why not, I see no reason. We need to bring younger people to the party. It should be a judicious mix."

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party.

Warning that the Congress party will disintegrate if no action is taken soon, Karan Singh on Monday pitched for the appointment of an interim president until the next election of the party. "I strongly urge the Working Committee to meet without delay, perhaps under the chairmanship of former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and take necessary decisions. These would include an interim Congress party president until the next party elections," he said in a statement on Monday. "In my view, four Working Presidents/Vice Presidents, one each for the four zones - North, South, East, and West. This would enable the introduction of younger people into positions of authority," he added in the statement. "The longer the present uncertainty remains, the more will our workers and voters around the country be demoralised. The negative cycle must be reversed before it is too late," Singh further said the in the statement. Speaking to ANI exclusively, Singh said he has not suggested any names for the posts. "I have not suggested any names. I did not want to mention any names as it will be a decision of the party as a whole," he said. "The Congress party seems to be in disarray after Rahul Gandhi's resignation. Instead of moving forward, we wasted over month pleading him not to resign. He is an intelligent man. If he wants to resign, let him do so," he said. He said that a lot of people genuinely want Rahul to carry forward the party but one must honour his desire. Responding to the argument that many people claim the Congress will disintegrate if Rahul steps down from the post of president, he said, "That is a self-fulfilling prophecy. I say the reverse. If you do not do something soon, then the party will disintegrate." Singh further stressed that there would be no opposition if the Congress party gets disintegrated. "It is a fact that we are in a difficult situation. It is important the Congress should revive not only for the party itself, which has a very old and distinguished background but also for democracy. In a democracy, you need a strong opposition." "If the Congress party disintegrates, which party is going to provide strong opposition? If something like this happens, then there will be only regional parties. So, it is important for the Congress to get its act together and move forward," he said. Replying to a question if the Congress party would move ahead without Gandhi scion, he firmly said, "Why not, I see no reason. We need to bring younger people to the party. It should be a judicious mix."

Appoint interim Congress president until next party elections: Karan Singh

The national capital and adjoining states are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday.

"Widespread rainfall to widespread with isolated heavy to very heavy falls likely over northern plains. Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan.&nbsp;

Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Jharkhand, Gujarat region, Coastal and South Interior Karnataka and Lakshadweep," said IMD.

The weather forecaster also said conditions are becoming favourable for further advance of Southwest Monsoon into remaining parts of Haryana, Punjab and some more parts of Rajasthan during the next 24 hours.

However, there will be no respite from the heat as maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to remain at 36 degree Celsius and 27 degree Celsius, respectively.

"No significant change in maximum temperatures likely over major parts of the country during next 4-5 days," the IMD stated.

Rainfall in the region will bring respite to locals, who have been reeling under severe heat wave conditions in the past few days, with temperatures in Delhi and surrounding regions constantly above 40 degrees Celsius.

The national capital and adjoining states are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday.

The national capital and adjoining states are likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday. "Widespread rainfall to widespread with isolated heavy to very heavy falls likely over northern plains. Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan. Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Jharkhand, Gujarat region, Coastal and South Interior Karnataka and Lakshadweep," said IMD. The weather forecaster also said conditions are becoming favourable for further advance of Southwest Monsoon into remaining parts of Haryana, Punjab and some more parts of Rajasthan during the next 24 hours. However, there will be no respite from the heat as maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to remain at 36 degree Celsius and 27 degree Celsius, respectively. "No significant change in maximum temperatures likely over major parts of the country during next 4-5 days," the IMD stated. Rainfall in the region will bring respite to locals, who have been reeling under severe heat wave conditions in the past few days, with temperatures in Delhi and surrounding regions constantly above 40 degrees Celsius.

Heavy rainfall expected in Delhi, NCR in next 24 hours: India Meteorological Department

Memorable lines from the Union Budget 2019. Sangam literature, life principles and more; here are some of the quotable quotes from Nirmala Sitharaman's maiden budget.

Gravitas: Nirmala Sitharaman's maiden Budget: Quotable quotes

Nirmala Sitharaman's maiden budget has not brought in any changes in income tax limits; but there are crucial changes. Surcharge on the super-rich rises while commodities like Gold & fuel get dearer. Palki summarises.

Gravitas: Budget 2019: The taxation picture

All you need to know about Union Budget 2019. It was not a populist budget, but Nirmala Sitharaman covered a host of areas in her maiden budget. Palki sums up the key areas of focus in Budget 2019.

Gravitas: Budget 2019: Key areas of focus

From harnessing India's space prowess to setting up social stock exchange to incentivising the transition to electric vehicles to making availability credit easier for MSMEs, here's Palki summing up some of the unique elements in Nirmala Sitharaman's maiden budget.

Gravitas: What's unique about Budget 2019

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news