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This segment of WION brings to you latest updates on Indian Union Budget 2019-20 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Watch this video for more information. #Budget2019 #UnionBudget2019 #IndiaBudget2019 #Budget

Modi 2.0, Budget 1.0: Power to all by 2022

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said an additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess of one rupee will be imposed on petrol and diesel.&nbsp;

Presenting the Union Budget, she said crude prices have softened from their highs and it gives her room to review excise duty and cess on petrol and diesel.

"I propose to increase special additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess each by one rupee a litre on petrol and diesel," she said.

On Friday, petrol and diesel were being retailed for Rs 64.33 and Rs 70.51 a litre respectively in Delhi. In Mumbai, petrol and diesel were priced at Rs 67.40 a litre and Rs 76.15 a litre.&nbsp;

Domestic fuel prices have barely changed this year. Rates of petrol and diesel have risen merely Rs 1.67 and Rs 1.86 a litre respectively since January 1.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, crude oil rates have risen about $9 a barrel, or 17%, this year from a low of $53.8 at the beginning of the year to $63 a barrel now. Crude touched $75 in April.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said an additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess of one rupee will be imposed on petrol and diesel. Presenting the Union Budget, she said crude prices have softened from their highs and it gives her room to review excise duty and cess on petrol and diesel.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday said an additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess of one rupee will be imposed on petrol and diesel. Presenting the Union Budget, she said crude prices have softened from their highs and it gives her room to review excise duty and cess on petrol and diesel. "I propose to increase special additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess each by one rupee a litre on petrol and diesel," she said. On Friday, petrol and diesel were being retailed for Rs 64.33 and Rs 70.51 a litre respectively in Delhi. In Mumbai, petrol and diesel were priced at Rs 67.40 a litre and Rs 76.15 a litre. Domestic fuel prices have barely changed this year. Rates of petrol and diesel have risen merely Rs 1.67 and Rs 1.86 a litre respectively since January 1. Meanwhile, crude oil rates have risen about $9 a barrel, or 17%, this year from a low of $53.8 at the beginning of the year to $63 a barrel now. Crude touched $75 in April.

Budget 2019: Petrol, diesel get dearer with additional excise duty and road and infrastructure cess

In Budget 2019, Nirmala Sitharaman proposes tax rebate to buy electric vehicle. #Budget2019 #UnionBudget2019 #IndiaBudget2019 #Budget

Budget 2019: Nirmala Sitharaman proposes tax rebate to buy electric vehicle

In Budget 2019, Nirmala Sitharaman proposes Aadhaar cards for NRIs on arrival in India. #Budget2019 #UnionBudget2019 #IndiaBudget2019 #Budget

Budget 2019: Nirmala Sitharaman proposes Aadhaar cards for NRIs on arrival in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed the nation after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the newly-elected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-highlights-of-taxation-revenue-policy-announced-by-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-233200">government's budget for the first year</a>.&nbsp;

Opening his post-budget address, the prime minister said that the budget "has given hope to the country".

"It testifies that the path we are on is right and that we will reach our target," PM Modi said, adding that the budget will help facilitate the creation of 'New India'.&nbsp;

"The middle class will progress with this budget, development work will expedite even more. The tax structure will simply and infrastructure will modernise," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

"The budget for a 'New India' has a roadmap to transform the agriculture sector of the country, this budget is one of hope," he added.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi: Ye desh ko samridh aur jan jan ko samarth banane wala budget hai. Is budget se gareeb ko bal milega. yuva ko behtar kal milega <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2019</a> <a href="https://t.co/PllxCyqs4m">pic.twitter.com/PllxCyqs4m</a>
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Sitharaman's maiden budget is being largely seen as a "balanced one".&nbsp;

Ashok Jha, former finance secretary, called it a "pretty balanced budget".

"There are concessions given to various sectors, in fact, there is a simplification of taxation, trying to reduce tax payers' hassles," Jha told WION.&nbsp;

"There are indicators of growth in the budget. 70,000 crore push to public sectors banks, governance reforms in public sectors banks. All these are growth-inducing things," Gautam Chikermane, vice president, ORF told WION.&nbsp;

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Ashok Jha, former finance secretary, calls it a pretty balanced budget. 'There are concessions given to various sectors, in fact, there is a simplification of taxation, trying to reduce tax payers' hassles'<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Budget2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Budget2019</a> 
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Some of the key <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/budget-2019-key-takeaways-announced-by-nirmala-sitharaman-in-parliament-233179">highlights of Sitharaman's budget</a> speech today featured no taxation for those earning less than 5 lakh per annum. The government decided to hike the petrol price by Rs 1 per litre and customs duty on gold as well.&nbsp;

A slew of benefits was announced for startups. Going by Sitharaman's budget presentation, the Modi government 2.0 seems to have given a big push to infrastructure, technology, rural development, startups and has also promised to make housing affordable and hassle-free process to boost investment.&nbsp;

During the Budget speech, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said India's sovereign external debt to GDP was among the lowest globally at less than 5 per cent.

Budget 2019: India will become a $3-billion economy this year, says Nirmala Sitharaman

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/budget-2019-india-will-become-a-3-billion-economy-this-year-says-nirmala-sitharaman-233230/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The fiscal deficit this year is 3.3 per cent, brought down from 3.4 per cent," Sitharaman said.

"More than 120 crore Indians now have Aadhar card, therefore for ease of taxpayers I propose to make PAN card and Aadhar card interchangeable and allow those who don't have PAN to file returns by simply quoting Aadhar number and use it wherever they require to use PAN," the finance minister said.&nbsp;

Highlights of Tax policy:

- Direct tax revenue increased by 78 per cent.

- Excise hike on Rs 1 litre on petrol, diesel

- Customs duty on gold increased by 2 per cent

- Cheaper home loans for houses up to 45 lakhs

- Proposal to levy TDS of 2 per cent on cash withdrawal exceeding Rs 1 crore in a year from a bank account.

- Tax benefits for buying electric vehicles.

- Easing of Angel tax for startups.

- Additional income tax deduction on loans taken on e-vehicles.

- All companies with an annual turnover of Rs 400 crores to now come under the &nbsp;25 per cent bracket. It will cover 99.3 per cent of all the companies.

- Tax deduction for affordable housing.

- Interchangeability of PAN, Aadhar.

- Discourage making cash payments in business transactions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed the nation after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the newly-elected government's budget for the first year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed the nation after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the newly-elected government's budget for the first year. Opening his post-budget address, the prime minister said that the budget "has given hope to the country". "It testifies that the path we are on is right and that we will reach our target," PM Modi said, adding that the budget will help facilitate the creation of 'New India'. "The middle class will progress with this budget, development work will expedite even more. The tax structure will simply and infrastructure will modernise," PM Modi said. "The budget for a 'New India' has a roadmap to transform the agriculture sector of the country, this budget is one of hope," he added. PM Narendra Modi: Ye desh ko samridh aur jan jan ko samarth banane wala budget hai. Is budget se gareeb ko bal milega. yuva ko behtar kal milega #Budget2019 pic.twitter.com/PllxCyqs4m — ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2019 × Sitharaman's maiden budget is being largely seen as a "balanced one". Ashok Jha, former finance secretary, called it a "pretty balanced budget". "There are concessions given to various sectors, in fact, there is a simplification of taxation, trying to reduce tax payers' hassles," Jha told WION. "There are indicators of growth in the budget. 70,000 crore push to public sectors banks, governance reforms in public sectors banks. All these are growth-inducing things," Gautam Chikermane, vice president, ORF told WION. Ashok Jha, former finance secretary, calls it a pretty balanced budget. 'There are concessions given to various sectors, in fact, there is a simplification of taxation, trying to reduce tax payers' hassles'#Budget2019 Watch post budget analysis LIVE: https://t.co/iSR65rv97J pic.twitter.com/6dgSRNJyy3 — WION (@WIONews) July 5, 2019 × Some of the key highlights of Sitharaman's budget speech today featured no taxation for those earning less than 5 lakh per annum. The government decided to hike the petrol price by Rs 1 per litre and customs duty on gold as well. A slew of benefits was announced for startups. Going by Sitharaman's budget presentation, the Modi government 2.0 seems to have given a big push to infrastructure, technology, rural development, startups and has also promised to make housing affordable and hassle-free process to boost investment. During the Budget speech, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said India's sovereign external debt to GDP was among the lowest globally at less than 5 per cent. Budget 2019: India will become a $3-billion economy this year, says Nirmala Sitharaman "The fiscal deficit this year is 3.3 per cent, brought down from 3.4 per cent," Sitharaman said. "More than 120 crore Indians now have Aadhar card, therefore for ease of taxpayers I propose to make PAN card and Aadhar card interchangeable and allow those who don't have PAN to file returns by simply quoting Aadhar number and use it wherever they require to use PAN," the finance minister said. Highlights of Tax policy: - Direct tax revenue increased by 78 per cent. - Excise hike on Rs 1 litre on petrol, diesel - Customs duty on gold increased by 2 per cent - Cheaper home loans for houses up to 45 lakhs - Proposal to levy TDS of 2 per cent on cash withdrawal exceeding Rs 1 crore in a year from a bank account. - Tax benefits for buying electric vehicles. - Easing of Angel tax for startups. - Additional income tax deduction on loans taken on e-vehicles. - All companies with an annual turnover of Rs 400 crores to now come under the 25 per cent bracket. It will cover 99.3 per cent of all the companies. - Tax deduction for affordable housing. - Interchangeability of PAN, Aadhar. - Discourage making cash payments in business transactions.

Budget has given hope to country, shows we are on right track: PM Modi 

BJP MP Subramanian Swamy, the complainant in the National Herald case on Friday sought adjournment during the hearing at Rouse Avenue Court. 
 
The case will be next heard on August 30. Swamy, who was to be cross-examined by the lawyer of Congress leaders, sought adjournment as the BJP has issued whip in the Rajya Sabha for the Budget session till the Parliament is in session. 
 
On April 27, the court deferred the hearing in the National Herald case to July 5 after Swamy and counsel for Congress president Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other accused sought an adjournment. Sonia and Rahul Gandhi`s lawyer RS Cheema had put 18 questions to Swamy on February 4 in the partly held cross-examination in the court of the ACMM. 
 
The ACMM`s court was recently shifted from Patiala House to the newly constructed Rouse Avenue court complex. Swamy had filed the case in 2012 accusing the two Gandhis and others of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds. 
 
He had stated that the Congress party granted an interest-free loan of Rs 90.25 crore to Associated Journals Limited (AJL), owner of the National Herald newspaper. 
 
&nbsp;

BJP MP Subramanian Swamy, the complainant in the National Herald case on Friday sought adjournment during the hearing at Rouse Avenue Court. The case will be next heard on August 30.

BJP MP Subramanian Swamy, the complainant in the National Herald case on Friday sought adjournment during the hearing at Rouse Avenue Court. The case will be next heard on August 30. Swamy, who was to be cross-examined by the lawyer of Congress leaders, sought adjournment as the BJP has issued whip in the Rajya Sabha for the Budget session till the Parliament is in session. On April 27, the court deferred the hearing in the National Herald case to July 5 after Swamy and counsel for Congress president Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other accused sought an adjournment. Sonia and Rahul Gandhi`s lawyer RS Cheema had put 18 questions to Swamy on February 4 in the partly held cross-examination in the court of the ACMM. The ACMM`s court was recently shifted from Patiala House to the newly constructed Rouse Avenue court complex. Swamy had filed the case in 2012 accusing the two Gandhis and others of conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds. He had stated that the Congress party granted an interest-free loan of Rs 90.25 crore to Associated Journals Limited (AJL), owner of the National Herald newspaper.

National Herald case: Subramanian Swamy seeks adjournment, next hearing on August 30

The Supreme Court on Friday turned down a public interest litigation (PIL) which questioned the use of electronic voting machines (EVM) in Lok Sabha elections 2019.

The PIL filed by advocate Manohar Lal Sharma also sought cancellation of elections.

A Bench headed by Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman heard the PIL ."What are you asking for Mr Sharma? You want us to set aside the entire Lok Sabha elections?" said Justice Nariman refusing to interfere with the petition, terming it "devoid of merits".

In his petition, Sharma, citing provisions under 61 A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1951, contended that the Election Commission should not have replaced ballot papers with EVMs since the RPA specifically mentions ballot paper.

The apex court had earlier declined an urgent hearing to his plea on June 17.&nbsp;

The opposition has alleged irregularities in the working of electronic voting machine (EVM) during the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. However, maintaining that no substance was found in past complaints regarding the EVM, the Election Commission has asserted that they are tamper-proof and cannot be hacked.

In May, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed concern over the "needless controversy" created by the Opposition over EVMs. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Friday turned down a public interest litigation (PIL) which questioned the use of electronic voting machines (EVM) in Lok Sabha elections 2019.

The Supreme Court on Friday turned down a public interest litigation (PIL) which questioned the use of electronic voting machines (EVM) in Lok Sabha elections 2019. The PIL filed by advocate Manohar Lal Sharma also sought cancellation of elections. A Bench headed by Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman heard the PIL ."What are you asking for Mr Sharma? You want us to set aside the entire Lok Sabha elections?" said Justice Nariman refusing to interfere with the petition, terming it "devoid of merits". In his petition, Sharma, citing provisions under 61 A of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1951, contended that the Election Commission should not have replaced ballot papers with EVMs since the RPA specifically mentions ballot paper. The apex court had earlier declined an urgent hearing to his plea on June 17. The opposition has alleged irregularities in the working of electronic voting machine (EVM) during the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. However, maintaining that no substance was found in past complaints regarding the EVM, the Election Commission has asserted that they are tamper-proof and cannot be hacked. In May, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed concern over the "needless controversy" created by the Opposition over EVMs. (With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court refuses to entertain PIL seeking cancellation of Lok Sabha elections 2019

One terrorist was killed in an encounter which broke out on Friday morning between militants&nbsp;and security forces in Narwani area of Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; 
 
"Police have recovered arms &amp; ammunition from the site while&nbsp;identity &amp; affiliation of the terrorist is yet to be ascertained," said officials.

The encounter comes just under a week after the security forces gunned down a terrorist on Sunday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district.&nbsp;

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area, following information about the presence of terrorists there.&nbsp;

As the forces were conducting searches, the hiding terrorists fired upon them. The security forces retaliated the firing, triggering off a gunbattle.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-one-terrorist-killed-in-budgam-encounter-231618">Last Friday, a terrorist was killed</a> in the same district during an encounter. Later, the slain terrorist was identified as a Pakistani national name Zarar who was affiliated to Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.

On June 23, four terrorists were gunned down in Shopian district.

One terrorist was killed in an encounter which broke out on Friday morning between militants and security forces in Narwani area of Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir.

One terrorist was killed in an encounter which broke out on Friday morning between militants and security forces in Narwani area of Shopian district in Jammu and Kashmir. "Police have recovered arms & ammunition from the site while identity & affiliation of the terrorist is yet to be ascertained," said officials. The encounter comes just under a week after the security forces gunned down a terrorist on Sunday in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area, following information about the presence of terrorists there. As the forces were conducting searches, the hiding terrorists fired upon them. The security forces retaliated the firing, triggering off a gunbattle. Last Friday, a terrorist was killed in the same district during an encounter. Later, the slain terrorist was identified as a Pakistani national name Zarar who was affiliated to Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. On June 23, four terrorists were gunned down in Shopian district.

Jammu and Kashmir: One terrorist killed in encounter between security forces, militants in Shopian

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents Union Budget 2019-20 in Lok Sabha. Watch this video for more in details. #Budget2019 #UnionBudget2019 #IndiaBudget2019 #Budget

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presents Union Budget 2019-20 in Lok Sabha

Economic Survey 2018-19 has been tabled in the Rajya Sabha. The Survey predicts Indian GDP to grow at the rate of 7 per cent per annum. According to the Survey, India needs to sustain a real GDP growth rate of 8% to achieve the objective of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy by 2024-25, as laid down by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Economic Survey 2019 tabled in Rajya Sabha, 7% GDP growth predicted for FY20

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday pleaded not guilty in connection with a defamation case filed against him in 2017 for allegedly linking journalist Gauri Lankesh's murder with "BJP-RSS ideology".

Gandhi has been released on Rs 15,000 surety amount. Ex-MP Eknath Gaikwad has given surety for him.

Rahul Gandhi arrived in Mumbai on Thursday morning, accompanied by Mallikarjun Kharge and Milind Deora.

Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury was also present at the local Mumbai court.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Swayam Sevak Dhrutiman Joshi had filed a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) for defaming the RSS following the death of Gauri Lankesh.

In the complainant, Dhrutiman Joshi stated that Rahul Gandhi, within 24-hours of the murder of the journalist, criticised the RSS and alleged that "anybody who speaks against the ideology of the BJP, against the ideology of the RSS is pressured, beaten, attacked and even killed."

This is the second defamation case against Rahul Gandhi in Maharashtra.

Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party.''

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday pleaded not guilty in connection with a defamation case filed against him in 2017 for allegedly linking journalist Gauri Lankesh's murder with "BJP-RSS ideology".

Rahul Gandhi on Thursday pleaded not guilty in connection with a defamation case filed against him in 2017 for allegedly linking journalist Gauri Lankesh's murder with "BJP-RSS ideology". Gandhi has been released on Rs 15,000 surety amount. Ex-MP Eknath Gaikwad has given surety for him. Rahul Gandhi arrived in Mumbai on Thursday morning, accompanied by Mallikarjun Kharge and Milind Deora. Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary Sitaram Yechury was also present at the local Mumbai court. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Swayam Sevak Dhrutiman Joshi had filed a defamation case against Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) for defaming the RSS following the death of Gauri Lankesh. In the complainant, Dhrutiman Joshi stated that Rahul Gandhi, within 24-hours of the murder of the journalist, criticised the RSS and alleged that "anybody who speaks against the ideology of the BJP, against the ideology of the RSS is pressured, beaten, attacked and even killed." This is the second defamation case against Rahul Gandhi in Maharashtra. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party.''

RSS defamation case: Rahul Gandhi pleads not guilty

A day after Rahul Gandhi made&nbsp;his resignation letter public, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday took to Twitter extending her support to&nbsp;Rahul.

"Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision," tweeted Priyanka.

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Few have the courage that you do <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rahulgandhi</a>. Deepest respect for your decision. <a href="https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P">https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1146619515339444224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Wednesday, Rahul had tweeted his resignation letter as party president, asking Congress to decide on the new party chief without any further delay.

"It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind," he tweeted.&nbsp;

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It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. 
 
I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. 
 
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/WWGYt5YG4V">pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1146359704815194112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Rahul has also removed the tag of party president from his Twitter bio. He changed his bio from "President of Indian National Congress" to "Member of Indian National Congress." "This is the official account of Rahul Gandhi | Member of the Indian National Congress| Member of Parliament," his bio on Twitter now reads.

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed.

On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation.&nbsp;

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Rahul Gandhi made his resignation letter public, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday took to Twitter extending her support to Rahul. "Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi.

A day after Rahul Gandhi made his resignation letter public, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday took to Twitter extending her support to Rahul. "Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision," tweeted Priyanka. Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision. https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 4, 2019 × On Wednesday, Rahul had tweeted his resignation letter as party president, asking Congress to decide on the new party chief without any further delay. "It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind," he tweeted. It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/WWGYt5YG4V — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 3, 2019 × Rahul has also removed the tag of party president from his Twitter bio. He changed his bio from "President of Indian National Congress" to "Member of Indian National Congress." "This is the official account of Rahul Gandhi | Member of the Indian National Congress| Member of Parliament," his bio on Twitter now reads. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his decision to quit as the party chief, he remained unfazed. On Tuesday, party workers and leaders staged a sit-in outside Congress headquarters and urged an unrelenting Rahul Gandhi to withdraw his resignation. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha. (With inputs from agencies)

'Few have the courage': Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Rahul's resignation

Expectations of common man are high from the Narendra Modi government ahead of the Union Budget 2019 India. Middle-class income tax payers are hoping that like Interim Budget 2019, the upcoming Union Budget 2019 will also put a smile on their faces by providing Income Tax relief. In Interim Budget 2019 on February 1, the Modi government provided rebate relief to individuals earning up to Rs 5 lakh. Apart from that, with the income tax relief individuals with income up to Rs 6.5 lakh would not have to pay any tax provided they have investments in provident funds and prescribe equities.

India Watch: Govt May grant More Tax Relief To Middle Class

Mr Chetty's first words at the Budget presentation were, "I rise to present the first Budget of a free and independent India. This occasion may well be considered an historic one and I count it a rare privilege that it has fallen to me to be the Finance Minister to present this Budget."

India Watch: History Of Budget In India

Fancy riding a virtuous self-sustaining growth cycle under a clear blue sky with no worry in the world? That’s the rough imagery the Economic Survey wants to paint and the chief economic advisor (CEA) even tweeted about adopting so-called blue sky thinking to take India towards the goal of being a $5 trillion economy.

India Watch: What is blue sky thinking?

That’s the rough imagery the Economic Survey wants to paint and the chief economic advisor (CEA) even tweeted about adopting so-called blue sky thinking to take India towards the goal of being a $5 trillion economy.

India Watch: Big Ideas In The Economic Survey

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended their greetings to everyone on the occasion of Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra.

"Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives," the official account of Rashtrapati Bhavan tweeted.

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Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1146600566673403904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Best wishes to everyone on the special occasion of the Rath Yatra. We pray to Lord Jagannath and seek his blessings for the good health, happiness and prosperity of everyone. Jai Jagannath," PM Modi tweeted.

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Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij, the Kutchi New Year. May the coming year bring joy and prosperity. May everyone’s aspirations be fulfilled!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1146630124374130688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The nine-day annual chariot festival began today in Puri, Bhubaneshwar.

Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Chief minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitinbhai Patel offered prayers at the Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad.

In the Rath Yatra, three chariots for the deities- Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannatha and Devi Subhadra are constructed every year. These sacred carriers are prepared, decorated and assembled by the traditional artists.&nbsp;

The craftsmen follow strict rules to participate as servitors in preparing the chariots, which commence on the day of Akshay Tritiya.

Thousands of handcrafters work for several months and prepare everything from scratch. Starting from cutting the wood to painting it and putting different parts of Rath together, everything is done with complete authenticity.

The prime attractions of the Rath Yatra of Jagannatha are the elaborate chariots. The decorative wooden idols of the three deities are pulled and accompanied by chants and conches, which can be heard all around.

(With inputs from ANI)

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended their greetings to everyone on the occasion of Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. "Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended their greetings to everyone on the occasion of Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra. "Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives," the official account of Rashtrapati Bhavan tweeted. Greetings and good wishes to fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath bring peace, happiness and prosperity to everyone's lives #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 4, 2019 × "Best wishes to everyone on the special occasion of the Rath Yatra. We pray to Lord Jagannath and seek his blessings for the good health, happiness and prosperity of everyone. Jai Jagannath," PM Modi tweeted. Greetings on the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij, the Kutchi New Year. May the coming year bring joy and prosperity. May everyone’s aspirations be fulfilled! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 4, 2019 × The nine-day annual chariot festival began today in Puri, Bhubaneshwar. Home Minister Amit Shah, Gujarat Chief minister Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Nitinbhai Patel offered prayers at the Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad. In the Rath Yatra, three chariots for the deities- Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannatha and Devi Subhadra are constructed every year. These sacred carriers are prepared, decorated and assembled by the traditional artists. The craftsmen follow strict rules to participate as servitors in preparing the chariots, which commence on the day of Akshay Tritiya. Thousands of handcrafters work for several months and prepare everything from scratch. Starting from cutting the wood to painting it and putting different parts of Rath together, everything is done with complete authenticity. The prime attractions of the Rath Yatra of Jagannatha are the elaborate chariots. The decorative wooden idols of the three deities are pulled and accompanied by chants and conches, which can be heard all around. (With inputs from ANI)

President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi extend wishes on occasion of Jagannath Rath Yatra

Indian companies supplying US-origin technology to Chinese multinational technology company Huawei may face penal action under American regulations, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said in Parliament on Wednesday.&nbsp;

“Any Indian company which will act as a supplier of US-origin equipment, software, technology to Huawei and its affiliates in entity list could be subject to penal action/sanction under US regulations,” Telecom Minister Prasad said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

“Huawei’s inclusion in the entity list implies that US companies require a prior export licence for sale of any equipment/software/technology to Huawei,” Prasad said.

“So far six proposals have been received which include proposals from China’s ZTE and Huawei. Any field trial in respect of 5G is to be carried out only through licensed Telecom Service Providers in a restrictive, limited geographical area and for the specific use case,” Prasad said.

However, he said, no call on whether to bar the Chinese telecom equipment manufacturer had yet been taken by the government.

Indian companies supplying US-origin technology to Chinese multinational technology company Huawei may face penal action under American regulations, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said in Parliament on Wednesday.

Indian companies supplying US-origin technology to Chinese multinational technology company Huawei may face penal action under American regulations, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said in Parliament on Wednesday. “Any Indian company which will act as a supplier of US-origin equipment, software, technology to Huawei and its affiliates in entity list could be subject to penal action/sanction under US regulations,” Telecom Minister Prasad said in a written reply to the Lok Sabha. “Huawei’s inclusion in the entity list implies that US companies require a prior export licence for sale of any equipment/software/technology to Huawei,” Prasad said. “So far six proposals have been received which include proposals from China’s ZTE and Huawei. Any field trial in respect of 5G is to be carried out only through licensed Telecom Service Providers in a restrictive, limited geographical area and for the specific use case,” Prasad said. However, he said, no call on whether to bar the Chinese telecom equipment manufacturer had yet been taken by the government.

Indian companies supplying technology to China's Huawei may face US sanctions: Ravi Shankar Prasad

As soon as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/honour-for-me-to-serve-congress-party-rahul-gandhi-tweets-his-resignation-letter-232732">Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation</a> as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision.

Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind.''

The General Secretary of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tweeted in support of his brother saying, ''Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision.''

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Few have the courage that you do <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rahulgandhi</a>. Deepest respect for your decision. <a href="https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P">https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P</a>
— Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankagandhi/status/1146619515339444224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Soon after his tweet, Congress leaders urged Gandhi to rethink his decision.&nbsp;

Chief Minister of Rajasthan&nbsp;Ashok Gehlot tweeted, ''Sh.&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi ji’s resignation is very disappointing. He has been leading the party with a clear vision and positive energy. He became the strongest voice of opposition in the country and lead from the front, raising issues crucial for the nation. We all wish that he continues to lead the party as he has been doing, bringing vigour, dynamism and youthful energy at all levels of the party’s organization. We are very hopeful that soon he will return to lead us and take the party forward, to a new and robust future.''

''He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfil the role of a very able opposition leader. The defeat in Lok Sabha elections is a collective responsibility and Rahul ji alone cannot be held responsible for it. We all urge him not to hold himself responsible for the same,'' tweet further added.

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He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfill the role of a very able opposition leader. 
3/
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1146479764779094016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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BJP’s nationalist and communal agenda lead to the results that we saw. Very soon, the nation will realise that the policies espoused by Rahul ji – of peace, unity, harmony- those values will take this Nation to new heights. The Congress party firmly believes in the political acumen of Rahul ji, he had successfully lead party to the victory in the recently held state assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and that in the recent past also in Gujarat. &nbsp;Once again I am hopeful that Rahul ji will soon return to lead us with same zeal and spirit...We will bounce back and Congress Party would continue to defeat the fascist forces under Rahul ji’s dynamic leadership, tweet concluded.

Mumbai Congress president&nbsp;Milind Deora said, ''People are certainly disappointed, we respect his decision. Party will find the successor. Rahul Gandhi will continue to unite, guide the party and take the party forward. There is no shortage of talent in the Congress party. I am sure we will find a worthy replacement.''

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-rahul-gandhi-tweets-resignation-232874/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also showed his disappointment over the resignation and said, ''One electoral defeat could not be taken to define the sum total of the leadership of Rahul. It was not fair for Rahul to hold himself accountable for a collective defeat."

Congress leader Jitin Prasada also urged Gandhi to rethink his decision.&nbsp;

''We appeal to Rahul Gandhi that he should rethink his decision,'' Prasada said.

Rahul also removed his designation as Congress president from his official Twitter handle.

Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

As soon as Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision. Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation.

As soon as Rahul Gandhi tweeted his resignation as Congress president many leaders have expressed their disappointment over the decision. Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday tweeted his resignation saying, ''It is an honour for me to serve the Congress Party, whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation. I owe the country and my organisation a debt of tremendous gratitude and love. Jai Hind.'' The General Secretary of Congress Priyanka Gandhi Vadra tweeted in support of his brother saying, ''Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision.'' Few have the courage that you do @rahulgandhi. Deepest respect for your decision. https://t.co/dh5JMSB63P — Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) July 4, 2019 × Soon after his tweet, Congress leaders urged Gandhi to rethink his decision. Chief Minister of Rajasthan Ashok Gehlot tweeted, ''Sh. Rahul Gandhi ji’s resignation is very disappointing. He has been leading the party with a clear vision and positive energy. He became the strongest voice of opposition in the country and lead from the front, raising issues crucial for the nation. We all wish that he continues to lead the party as he has been doing, bringing vigour, dynamism and youthful energy at all levels of the party’s organization. We are very hopeful that soon he will return to lead us and take the party forward, to a new and robust future.'' ''He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfil the role of a very able opposition leader. The defeat in Lok Sabha elections is a collective responsibility and Rahul ji alone cannot be held responsible for it. We all urge him not to hold himself responsible for the same,'' tweet further added. He will certainly reconsider his decision as the party needs him, as the country needs him to fulfill the role of a very able opposition leader. 3/ — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) July 3, 2019 × BJP’s nationalist and communal agenda lead to the results that we saw. Very soon, the nation will realise that the policies espoused by Rahul ji – of peace, unity, harmony- those values will take this Nation to new heights. The Congress party firmly believes in the political acumen of Rahul ji, he had successfully lead party to the victory in the recently held state assembly election in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh and that in the recent past also in Gujarat. Once again I am hopeful that Rahul ji will soon return to lead us with same zeal and spirit...We will bounce back and Congress Party would continue to defeat the fascist forces under Rahul ji’s dynamic leadership, tweet concluded. Mumbai Congress president Milind Deora said, ''People are certainly disappointed, we respect his decision. Party will find the successor. Rahul Gandhi will continue to unite, guide the party and take the party forward. There is no shortage of talent in the Congress party. I am sure we will find a worthy replacement.'' Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh also showed his disappointment over the resignation and said, ''One electoral defeat could not be taken to define the sum total of the leadership of Rahul. It was not fair for Rahul to hold himself accountable for a collective defeat." Congress leader Jitin Prasada also urged Gandhi to rethink his decision. ''We appeal to Rahul Gandhi that he should rethink his decision,'' Prasada said. Rahul also removed his designation as Congress president from his official Twitter handle. Rahul Gandhi had offered to step down on May 25 at a meeting of the Congress Working Committee after party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. However, his offer of resignation was unanimously rejected by the CWC.

Congress leaders disappointed over Rahul Gandhi's resignation, urge to rethink his decision

The International court of justice (ICJ) based in The Hague, Netherlands will announce its final decision on India Vs Pakistan Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17 at 6.30 pm. 
 
The ICJ in a release said, "A public sitting will take place at 3 pm at the Peace Palace in The Hague, during which Judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf, President of the Court, will read the Court’s decision."

Both Indian and Pakistani government have been informed about the date by the ICJ.

The final oral hearing in the case took place from February 18 to 21, 2019 at the international court during which both India and Pakistan presented their arguments.

Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges.

India has been demanding consular access to Jadhav since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities.&nbsp;

Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging.

On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution.

The ICJ order said, "Pakistan shall take all measures at its disposal to ensure that Jadhav is not executed pending the final decision in these proceedings and shall inform the Court of all the measures taken in implementation of the present order."&nbsp;

India, in its application, has asked the ICJ for suspending Jadhav's death sentence.&nbsp;

On December 25, 2017, Pakistan allowed Kulbhushan's mother and wife to meet him in Islamabad, an event that became a media circus after Pakistani Foreign Ministry officials removed the footwear and 'mangalsutra' of Kulbhushan's wife.

Kulbhushan Jadhav timeline&nbsp;

March 25, 2016: India informed about the custody of Kulbhushan

April 10, 2017: Awarded death sentence by Pakistan Military Court

May 8, 2017: India approaches the International Court of Justice (ICJ)&nbsp;

May 9, 2017: ICJ Stays execution&nbsp;

&nbsp;May 15, 2017: Oral hearing&nbsp;

May 18, 2017: World Court delivered its Order&nbsp;

December 25, 2017: Mother &amp; wife visited Islamabad to meet him&nbsp;

December 28, 2017: Sushma Swaraj briefs the Parliament about the meet

February 18 to 21, 2019: 4 days of oral hearing of India &amp; Pakistan

The International court of justice (ICJ) based in The Hague, Netherlands will announce its final decision on India Vs Pakistan Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17 at 6.

The International court of justice (ICJ) based in The Hague, Netherlands will announce its final decision on India Vs Pakistan Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17 at 6.30 pm. The ICJ in a release said, "A public sitting will take place at 3 pm at the Peace Palace in The Hague, during which Judge Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf, President of the Court, will read the Court’s decision." Both Indian and Pakistani government have been informed about the date by the ICJ. The final oral hearing in the case took place from February 18 to 21, 2019 at the international court during which both India and Pakistan presented their arguments. Kulbhushan Jadhav is an Indian national who was abducted by Pakistani spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) from Iran and later a Pakistani military court awarded death sentence to him on alleged espionage charges. India has been demanding consular access to Jadhav since March 25, 2016, when the High Commission of India in Islamabad was first informed about his custody with the Pakistan authorities. Islamabad has so far refused to provide consular access to Jadhav. India went to the world court on May 8, 2017, and filed a case against Pakistan for “for egregious violations of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963” and got a stay on his hanging. On May 18, 2017, the ICJ delivered its order asking Pakistan not to go ahead with his execution. The ICJ order said, "Pakistan shall take all measures at its disposal to ensure that Jadhav is not executed pending the final decision in these proceedings and shall inform the Court of all the measures taken in implementation of the present order." India, in its application, has asked the ICJ for suspending Jadhav's death sentence. On December 25, 2017, Pakistan allowed Kulbhushan's mother and wife to meet him in Islamabad, an event that became a media circus after Pakistani Foreign Ministry officials removed the footwear and 'mangalsutra' of Kulbhushan's wife. Kulbhushan Jadhav timeline March 25, 2016: India informed about the custody of Kulbhushan April 10, 2017: Awarded death sentence by Pakistan Military Court May 8, 2017: India approaches the International Court of Justice (ICJ) May 9, 2017: ICJ Stays execution May 15, 2017: Oral hearing May 18, 2017: World Court delivered its Order December 25, 2017: Mother & wife visited Islamabad to meet him December 28, 2017: Sushma Swaraj briefs the Parliament about the meet February 18 to 21, 2019: 4 days of oral hearing of India & Pakistan

International Court of Justice to announce verdict in Kulbhushan Jadhav case on July 17

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-resolutely-pursue-protesters-for-violent-acts-at-parliament-hong-kong-police-232886">Will resolutely pursue protesters for violent acts at Parliament: Hong Kong police</a>

Hong Kong authorities vowed Wednesday to hunt down the protesters who stormed parliament in an unprecedented challenge to the Beijing-backed government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/be-careful-iran-threats-will-come-back-to-bite-you-warns-trump-232882">Be careful Iran, threats will 'come back to bite you', warns Trump</a>

After Iran President Rouhani said his country will enrich uranium to any amount the country needs after July 7, US President warned "Iran to be careful" as tensions between the two nations continued to boil over the 2015 nuclear deal issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boeing-to-give-100-million-to-families-affected-by-two-737-max-crashes-232883">Boeing to give $100 million to families affected by two 737 MAX crashes</a>

Boeing announced on Wednesday it would give $100 million to communities and families affected by two crashes on its 737 MAX planes that claimed 346 lives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hell-bent-on-hostile-acts-despite-wanting-to-talk-north-korea-232880">US 'hell-bent on hostile acts' despite wanting to talk: North Korea</a>

North Korea's mission to the United Nations accused the United States on Wednesday of being "more and more hell-bent on hostile acts" against Pyongyang, despite President Donald Trump wanting talks between the two countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-death-toll-rises-to-14-in-ratnagiris-tiware-dam-breach-232885">Maharashtra: Death toll rises to 14 in Ratnagiri's Tiware dam breach</a>

At least 14 were killed and 11 others were reported missing after Tiware dam in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri was breached on Wednesday following heavy rain over the last 48 hours.

Will resolutely pursue protesters for violent acts at Parliament: Hong Kong police Hong Kong authorities vowed Wednesday to hunt down the protesters who stormed parliament in an unprecedented challenge to the Beijing-backed government.

Will resolutely pursue protesters for violent acts at Parliament: Hong Kong police Hong Kong authorities vowed Wednesday to hunt down the protesters who stormed parliament in an unprecedented challenge to the Beijing-backed government. Be careful Iran, threats will 'come back to bite you', warns Trump After Iran President Rouhani said his country will enrich uranium to any amount the country needs after July 7, US President warned "Iran to be careful" as tensions between the two nations continued to boil over the 2015 nuclear deal issue. Boeing to give $100 million to families affected by two 737 MAX crashes Boeing announced on Wednesday it would give $100 million to communities and families affected by two crashes on its 737 MAX planes that claimed 346 lives. US 'hell-bent on hostile acts' despite wanting to talk: North Korea North Korea's mission to the United Nations accused the United States on Wednesday of being "more and more hell-bent on hostile acts" against Pyongyang, despite President Donald Trump wanting talks between the two countries. Maharashtra: Death toll rises to 14 in Ratnagiri's Tiware dam breach At least 14 were killed and 11 others were reported missing after Tiware dam in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri was breached on Wednesday following heavy rain over the last 48 hours.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and newly elected MP from Basirhat, Nusrat Jahan attended the Rath Yatra celebrations at ISKCON in Kolkata on Thursday.

Like every year, Banerjee inaugurated the Rath Yatra by offering prayers to Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Goddess Subhadra. Later, Banerjee and Jahan, flanked by her husband Nikhil Jain pulled the chariot.

In the backdrop of the controversy where Jahan was seen sporting the vermillion and ‘chooda’ after her wedding while she took oath in the Lok Sabha, Jahan attended the inauguration despite her reception in the city falling on the same evening.

Jahan said, “Bengal has been an example where all religion come together. Whichever religion we belong, we always celebrate it together. It speaks of unity, it speaks of peace. So I’m very happy to be here.”

Later, Banerjee also attended the Rath Yatra celebrations at Mahesh temple in Sreerampore in Hooghly district. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

At both the places – Kolkata and Hooghly, she reiterated the fact that religion is personal but festivals are universal. She wished for the victory of humanism and communal harmony over divisive forces.

Banerjee while inaugurating the Rath Yatra at Mahesh said, “This is the first time I have come to Mahesh’s temple for Rath Yatra. In the morning, I went to ISKCON for the Rath Yatra inauguration. After Puri, Mahesh’s Rath Yatra is most important.”

She further added that the area in and around the temple will be developed. “We are going to develop this area around Mahesh temple. We will set up guest houses too. People can smoothly come and pray to God. The govt has already sanctioned 10 crore, and we have decided to sanction 15 crores more. We have developed Tarakeshwar temple authority too. We have set up a skywalk at Dakshineswar temple, now we are going to set up a skywalk at Kalighat temple too.”&nbsp;

The West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and newly elected MP from Basirhat, Nusrat Jahan attended the Rath Yatra celebrations at ISKCON in Kolkata on Thursday.

The West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and newly elected MP from Basirhat, Nusrat Jahan attended the Rath Yatra celebrations at ISKCON in Kolkata on Thursday. Like every year, Banerjee inaugurated the Rath Yatra by offering prayers to Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Goddess Subhadra. Later, Banerjee and Jahan, flanked by her husband Nikhil Jain pulled the chariot. In the backdrop of the controversy where Jahan was seen sporting the vermillion and ‘chooda’ after her wedding while she took oath in the Lok Sabha, Jahan attended the inauguration despite her reception in the city falling on the same evening. Jahan said, “Bengal has been an example where all religion come together. Whichever religion we belong, we always celebrate it together. It speaks of unity, it speaks of peace. So I’m very happy to be here.” Later, Banerjee also attended the Rath Yatra celebrations at Mahesh temple in Sreerampore in Hooghly district. At both the places – Kolkata and Hooghly, she reiterated the fact that religion is personal but festivals are universal. She wished for the victory of humanism and communal harmony over divisive forces. Banerjee while inaugurating the Rath Yatra at Mahesh said, “This is the first time I have come to Mahesh’s temple for Rath Yatra. In the morning, I went to ISKCON for the Rath Yatra inauguration. After Puri, Mahesh’s Rath Yatra is most important.” She further added that the area in and around the temple will be developed. “We are going to develop this area around Mahesh temple. We will set up guest houses too. People can smoothly come and pray to God. The govt has already sanctioned 10 crore, and we have decided to sanction 15 crores more. We have developed Tarakeshwar temple authority too. We have set up a skywalk at Dakshineswar temple, now we are going to set up a skywalk at Kalighat temple too.”

Mamata Banerjee, Nusrat Jahan attend Rath Yatra celebrations in Kolkata

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/angoor-khatte-hai-yogi-hits-back-at-priyanka-gandhi-over-tweet-on-rising-crime-in-uttar-pradesh-231686">Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath</a> on Wednesday said that every household in the state will receive piped water within two years.

"Every rural household will receive piped water in the state within two years. This project will start from Bundelkhand region by the end of August," said Yogi while addressing district magistrates through a video conference here.

Adityanath said the state government has already begun work on the piped water program.

The chief minister also said that the clean Ganga is "his government's number one responsibility".

"To make Ganga clean, committees have been constituted in the district near the bank of the river," he added.

Yogi asserted that as many as 15 rivers, which have gone dry, will be rejuvenated in the coming months. "Ponds are an effective medium for the conservation of water and the Uttar Pradesh government is working to rejuvenate them, too," said Adityanath.

He also said that people will be educated about rainwater harvesting in the state.

&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said that every household in the state will receive piped water within two years. "Every rural household will receive piped water in the state within two years.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said that every household in the state will receive piped water within two years. "Every rural household will receive piped water in the state within two years. This project will start from Bundelkhand region by the end of August," said Yogi while addressing district magistrates through a video conference here. Adityanath said the state government has already begun work on the piped water program. The chief minister also said that the clean Ganga is "his government's number one responsibility". "To make Ganga clean, committees have been constituted in the district near the bank of the river," he added. Yogi asserted that as many as 15 rivers, which have gone dry, will be rejuvenated in the coming months. "Ponds are an effective medium for the conservation of water and the Uttar Pradesh government is working to rejuvenate them, too," said Adityanath. He also said that people will be educated about rainwater harvesting in the state.

Yogi Adityanath promises piped water to every household in Uttar Pradesh within two years

At least 14 were killed and 11 others were reported missing after Tiware dam in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri was breached on Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-high-tide-expected-in-mumbai-likely-to-aggravate-waterlogging-woes-232616">following heavy rain over the last 48 hours</a>.

The Nation Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said that the bodies of the 12 people have been identified.

The tide also swept away twelve houses near the dam.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a probe into the incident. He has also asked his Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Girish Mahajan to visit Ratnagiri and provide relief to affected families.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/6-killed-20-missing-after-dam-breach-in-maharashtras-ratnagiri-district-232633/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The local people have been helping the NDRF and police in the search operation.&nbsp;

Parts of Maharashtra are hit by worst monsoon rain with Mumbai, country's financial capital, recording the second highest rainfall in the last 45 years.

The heavy downpour has caused several accidents across Maharashtra while issues like waterlogging have brought the city to a standstill.

Meanwhile, more rains have been predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department for the next 48 hours.

At least 14 were killed and 11 others were reported missing after Tiware dam in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri was breached on Wednesday following heavy rain over the last 48 hours.

At least 14 were killed and 11 others were reported missing after Tiware dam in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri was breached on Wednesday following heavy rain over the last 48 hours. The Nation Disaster Response Force (NDRF) said that the bodies of the 12 people have been identified. The tide also swept away twelve houses near the dam. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered a probe into the incident. He has also asked his Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Girish Mahajan to visit Ratnagiri and provide relief to affected families. The local people have been helping the NDRF and police in the search operation. Parts of Maharashtra are hit by worst monsoon rain with Mumbai, country's financial capital, recording the second highest rainfall in the last 45 years. The heavy downpour has caused several accidents across Maharashtra while issues like waterlogging have brought the city to a standstill. Meanwhile, more rains have been predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department for the next 48 hours.

Maharashtra: Death toll rises to 14 in Ratnagiri's Tiware dam breach

Senior officials of India and the US are likely to meet in the next couple of weeks here to discuss differences on trade matters between the two countries.

"On trade, Foreign Secretary did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media at the weekly briefing.

A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) is expected to hold the meeting with senior officials of the commerce department very soon.

This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5.

The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers.

"The Broad trajectory of the relationship between India and the US remains positive. The discussion Prime Minister had with Donald Trump in Osaka was very open and productive. In any multi-dimensional relationship, there are bound to be a certain difference. What we agreed was to continue to talk on all issues," Kumar added in his briefing.

During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo`s visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them. Jaishankar asserted that India is committed to making business easier between the two countries.

Last year, India had announced tariffs in retaliation to higher US import duties on steel and aluminium.

Asserting that great friends are bound to have disagreements, Pompeo, in his remarks, said that Washington and New Delhi need to solve trade issues as there are millions of opportunity before the two countries.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Senior officials of India and the US are likely to meet in the next couple of weeks here to discuss differences on trade matters between the two countries. "On trade, Foreign Secretary did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon.

Senior officials of India and the US are likely to meet in the next couple of weeks here to discuss differences on trade matters between the two countries. "On trade, Foreign Secretary did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media at the weekly briefing. A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) is expected to hold the meeting with senior officials of the commerce department very soon. This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5. The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers. "The Broad trajectory of the relationship between India and the US remains positive. The discussion Prime Minister had with Donald Trump in Osaka was very open and productive. In any multi-dimensional relationship, there are bound to be a certain difference. What we agreed was to continue to talk on all issues," Kumar added in his briefing. During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo`s visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them. Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them. Jaishankar asserted that India is committed to making business easier between the two countries. Last year, India had announced tariffs in retaliation to higher US import duties on steel and aluminium. Asserting that great friends are bound to have disagreements, Pompeo, in his remarks, said that Washington and New Delhi need to solve trade issues as there are millions of opportunity before the two countries.

India, US officials likely to meet soon to discuss trade difference: MEA

The government on Thursday warned in a study that its population is going to start to age and it needs to be prepared to merge schools and raise the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/enhancement-of-retirement-age-unemployment-allowance-on-trs-poll-manifesto-181040">retirement age</a>.

While India should be set to benefit from the so-called "demographic dividend" over the next decade as its working population is set to increase by about 9.7 million a year between 2021-31, that will quickly fade as the nation's fertility rate plunges below replacement level.

The conclusions in the study, "India's Demography at 2040: Planning Public Good Provision for the 21st Century," will have major implications for many companies, particularly those that have been eyeing consumer demand from India's young population.

It said the number of children in the 5-14 age bracket will decline significantly, leading to the need for school mergers and less focus on building new ones.

Already states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have fewer than 50 students enrolled in more than 40 per cent of their elementary schools, according to the study, which was included in the government's annual Economic Survey.

It also said that policymakers need to prepare for an increasing number of elderly people, estimating there will be 239.4 million Indians over the age of 60 in 2041 against 104.2 million in 2011.

"This will need investments in health care as well as a plan for increasing the retirement age in a phased manner," concluded the study, which was authored by India's Chief Economic Adviser Krishnamurthy Subramanian and his team of economists.

The current retirement age for most government workers in India is 60.

Meanwhile, the number of Indians aged between 0-19 has already started to decline and the proportion of the population in that age group is projected to fall to 25 per cent by 2041 from 41 per cent in 2011.

The demographic dividend that is talked about in India refers to the current situation where the nation's labour force is growing quicker than the rest of the population it supports.

If the newcomers to the labour market get well-paid jobs it boosts consumption and economic growth.

The government on Thursday warned in a study that its population is going to start to age and it needs to be prepared to merge schools and raise the retirement age.

The government on Thursday warned in a study that its population is going to start to age and it needs to be prepared to merge schools and raise the retirement age. While India should be set to benefit from the so-called "demographic dividend" over the next decade as its working population is set to increase by about 9.7 million a year between 2021-31, that will quickly fade as the nation's fertility rate plunges below replacement level. The conclusions in the study, "India's Demography at 2040: Planning Public Good Provision for the 21st Century," will have major implications for many companies, particularly those that have been eyeing consumer demand from India's young population. It said the number of children in the 5-14 age bracket will decline significantly, leading to the need for school mergers and less focus on building new ones. Already states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have fewer than 50 students enrolled in more than 40 per cent of their elementary schools, according to the study, which was included in the government's annual Economic Survey. It also said that policymakers need to prepare for an increasing number of elderly people, estimating there will be 239.4 million Indians over the age of 60 in 2041 against 104.2 million in 2011. "This will need investments in health care as well as a plan for increasing the retirement age in a phased manner," concluded the study, which was authored by India's Chief Economic Adviser Krishnamurthy Subramanian and his team of economists. The current retirement age for most government workers in India is 60. Meanwhile, the number of Indians aged between 0-19 has already started to decline and the proportion of the population in that age group is projected to fall to 25 per cent by 2041 from 41 per cent in 2011. The demographic dividend that is talked about in India refers to the current situation where the nation's labour force is growing quicker than the rest of the population it supports. If the newcomers to the labour market get well-paid jobs it boosts consumption and economic growth.

India's old age population set to double in 20 years, warns government report

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