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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday launched a special search operation in connection with alleged bank fraud cases involving Rs 640 crore of siphoned funds.

Searches are underway at over 50 places in 18 cities across 12 states and union territories. Delhi, Mumbai, Ludhiana, Thane, Valsad, Pune, Palani, Gaya, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Surat and Kolar are the various cities where the operation is on, agency sources said.

Various companies including Wilson diamond in Thane, Supreme Tax Mark in Ludhiana, S K Knit India Ltd in Gujarat, S L Consumer Product Ltd in Delhi, International Mega Food Park Ltd in Delhi among the places where the operation is being conducted, the sources said.

According to officials, 14 cases have been registered against accused including various companies/firms, their promoters/directors and bank officials.

The amount involved in these banking scams is around Rs. 640 crore, officials said. Further details are awaited.&nbsp;

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday launched a special search operation in connection with alleged bank fraud cases involving Rs 640 crore of siphoned funds.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday launched a special search operation in connection with alleged bank fraud cases involving Rs 640 crore of siphoned funds. Searches are underway at over 50 places in 18 cities across 12 states and union territories. Delhi, Mumbai, Ludhiana, Thane, Valsad, Pune, Palani, Gaya, Gurgaon, Chandigarh, Bhopal, Surat and Kolar are the various cities where the operation is on, agency sources said. Various companies including Wilson diamond in Thane, Supreme Tax Mark in Ludhiana, S K Knit India Ltd in Gujarat, S L Consumer Product Ltd in Delhi, International Mega Food Park Ltd in Delhi among the places where the operation is being conducted, the sources said. According to officials, 14 cases have been registered against accused including various companies/firms, their promoters/directors and bank officials. The amount involved in these banking scams is around Rs. 640 crore, officials said. Further details are awaited.

CBI launches special operation against banking frauds; searches underway

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday ordered a probe into incidents of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pune-wall-collapse-two-accused-sent-to-police-custody-till-july-2-231819">wall collapse</a> in Malad and Pune due to rain which claimed lives of 24 people in total.

"In the Pune incident, 6 died and 4 were injured. They were from Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh. The state government will give all the required assistance. We have ordered a probe in this matter. This wall was old and collapsed as a tree fell on it," Fadnavis said in the state assembly while speaking about Pune wall collapse incident.

Fadnavis has announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of bereaved in Malad wall collapse tragedy, in which 18 people lost their lives.

"Pained to know about the loss of lives in Malad Wall Collapse incidence. My thoughts are with families who lost loved ones and prayers for a speedy recovery of injured. Rs 5 lakh will be given to the kin of deceased," he tweeted early morning.

India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours, a similar situation expected for Vidarbha and Marathwada. Advice tourists to not visit mountain areas since heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Maharashtra," Met Department said.

The Chief Minister said that the government is prepared to deal with the situation.

"High tide is expected at 12 noon, we will monitor the situation. Last night, Mumbai police received 1600-1700 tweets from people, they received immediate help. BMC Disaster Management worked the entire night. Heavy rainfall is expected in the next 2 days. We are prepared for it," Fadnavis said.

Rains and waterlogging have brought the state to its knees as the movement of traffic slowed down on all the major roads in the city. Cars and vehicles were stuck on waterlogged roads at various places.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday ordered a probe into incidents of the wall collapse in Malad and Pune due to rain which claimed lives of 24 people in total.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday ordered a probe into incidents of the wall collapse in Malad and Pune due to rain which claimed lives of 24 people in total. "In the Pune incident, 6 died and 4 were injured. They were from Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh. The state government will give all the required assistance. We have ordered a probe in this matter. This wall was old and collapsed as a tree fell on it," Fadnavis said in the state assembly while speaking about Pune wall collapse incident. Fadnavis has announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of bereaved in Malad wall collapse tragedy, in which 18 people lost their lives. "Pained to know about the loss of lives in Malad Wall Collapse incidence. My thoughts are with families who lost loved ones and prayers for a speedy recovery of injured. Rs 5 lakh will be given to the kin of deceased," he tweeted early morning. India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours, a similar situation expected for Vidarbha and Marathwada. Advice tourists to not visit mountain areas since heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Maharashtra," Met Department said. The Chief Minister said that the government is prepared to deal with the situation. "High tide is expected at 12 noon, we will monitor the situation. Last night, Mumbai police received 1600-1700 tweets from people, they received immediate help. BMC Disaster Management worked the entire night. Heavy rainfall is expected in the next 2 days. We are prepared for it," Fadnavis said. Rains and waterlogging have brought the state to its knees as the movement of traffic slowed down on all the major roads in the city. Cars and vehicles were stuck on waterlogged roads at various places.

Fadnavis orders probe into Malad, Pune wall collapse incidents

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday extended interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar till July 22 in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam.

A single judge bench of Justice Asha Arora posted hearing in the main petition on July 15 and a modification plea on him travelling outside Kolkata on July 22.

Kumar had moved the High Court seeking quashing of a CBI notice asking him to appear before the agency in connection with the multi-crore chit fund scam.

A lower court in Kolkata had turned down Kumar's anticipatory bail plea seeking an extension of protection from arrest and recommended he approach the Calcutta High Court or trial courts in Bengal to "seek appropriate remedy".

Kumar, who headed the West Bengal Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) that probed the Saradha scam, is accused of tampering with evidence.

An unprecedented chain of events had unfolded on February 3 when a CBI team reached Kumar's residence to question him.

The investigation agency team was detained by Kolkata Police, were taken to a police station and later released.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had also visited the officer's home.&nbsp;

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday extended interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar till July 22 in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam.

The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday extended interim protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar till July 22 in connection with the Saradha chit fund scam. A single judge bench of Justice Asha Arora posted hearing in the main petition on July 15 and a modification plea on him travelling outside Kolkata on July 22. Kumar had moved the High Court seeking quashing of a CBI notice asking him to appear before the agency in connection with the multi-crore chit fund scam. A lower court in Kolkata had turned down Kumar's anticipatory bail plea seeking an extension of protection from arrest and recommended he approach the Calcutta High Court or trial courts in Bengal to "seek appropriate remedy". Kumar, who headed the West Bengal Police's Special Investigation Team (SIT) that probed the Saradha scam, is accused of tampering with evidence. An unprecedented chain of events had unfolded on February 3 when a CBI team reached Kumar's residence to question him. The investigation agency team was detained by Kolkata Police, were taken to a police station and later released. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had also visited the officer's home.

Saradha scam: Calcutta High Court extends interim protection from arrest to Rajeev Kumar

The Singapore High Court on Tuesday ordered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/swiss-authorities-freeze-nirav-modis-bank-accounts-on-enforcement-directorates-request-230790">freezing of a bank account</a> belonging to fugitive diamantaire <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-court-extends-nirav-modis-remand-till-july-25-230888">Nirav Modi</a>'s sister and brother-in-law, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said.

On the request of the ED, the high court directed the freezing of balance of $6.122 million (Rs 44.41 crore) in the account maintained in Singapore by Pavilion Point Corporation, a company owned by Mayank Mehta and Purvi Modi, it said.

The request by the probe agency was made on the ground that the money deposited in the account was illegally siphoned off from Indian banks.

This comes days after Swiss authorities froze four accounts belonging to Modi and his sister Purvi.

Watch: Noose tightens on Nirav Modi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-noose-tightens-on-nirav-modi-230987/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The bank accounts of the duo having deposit balance of $3,74,11,596 (over Rs 258 crore) and British pound 27,38,136 (over Rs 283 crore) were seized on a plea of the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

The diamantaire was arrested on March 19 by Scotland Yard in connection with the $two billion Punjab National Court (PNB) loan default case.

India is seeking Modi's extradition to make him face the law of the land for allegedly committing economic offences like fraud and money laundering.

Modi is lodged at Wandsworth prison in south-west London.&nbsp;

The Singapore High Court on Tuesday ordered the freezing of a bank account belonging to fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's sister and brother-in-law, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said.

The Singapore High Court on Tuesday ordered the freezing of a bank account belonging to fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi's sister and brother-in-law, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said. On the request of the ED, the high court directed the freezing of balance of $6.122 million (Rs 44.41 crore) in the account maintained in Singapore by Pavilion Point Corporation, a company owned by Mayank Mehta and Purvi Modi, it said. The request by the probe agency was made on the ground that the money deposited in the account was illegally siphoned off from Indian banks. This comes days after Swiss authorities froze four accounts belonging to Modi and his sister Purvi. Watch: Noose tightens on Nirav Modi The bank accounts of the duo having deposit balance of $3,74,11,596 (over Rs 258 crore) and British pound 27,38,136 (over Rs 283 crore) were seized on a plea of the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002. The diamantaire was arrested on March 19 by Scotland Yard in connection with the $two billion Punjab National Court (PNB) loan default case. India is seeking Modi's extradition to make him face the law of the land for allegedly committing economic offences like fraud and money laundering. Modi is lodged at Wandsworth prison in south-west London.

Singapore High Court orders freezing of bank accounts of Nirav Modi's sister, brother-in-law

At least 27 people died in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-heavy-downpour-causes-wall-collapse-in-mumbai-pune-19-dead-232185">wall collapse in Malad and Kalyan in the Mumbai city and Pune</a> as incessant rains pounded Mumbai metropolis and other parts of Maharashtra on Tuesday.

While 18 people died in the collapse in Malad, three succumbed to injuries in Kalyan. In another wall collapse in Pune, six people lost their lives. 17 other people sustained injuries.

The Maharashtra government has declared the day as a public holiday.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of bereaved in Malad wall collapse tragedy.

"Pained to know about the loss of lives in Malad Wall Collapse incidence. My thoughts are with families who lost loved ones &amp; prayers for speedy recovery of injured. Rs 5 lakh will be given to the kin of deceased," he tweeted early morning.

The torrential downpour has halted the movement of air, rail and road traffic. Around 54 flights were diverted to nearby airports and 52 flights were cancelled as heavy rains continued to lash Mumbai and its neighbouring areas, an airport official said on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, Mumbai airport's main runway remained closed after a Spice Jet aircraft from Jaipur overshot the runway while landing here.

According to the Central Railway, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-trains-rescheduled-railway-tracks-submerged-due-to-heavy-downpour-231898">27 trains have been cancelled</a> while several trains have been short terminated due to the incessant rains.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed all issues like railway traffic, road traffic movement, areas where more focus and assistance is required, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police officials.

The heavy downpour caused water logging at various places in Mumbai and the surrounding metropolitan area. BMC has received 45 complaints of waterlogging.

BMC is giving regular updates about waterlogged places where water has been pumped out Indian Navy teams have been deployed in Mumbai to help rain hit Mumbaikars.

"Indian Navy deploys various teams to provide relief to rain hit and stranded Mumbaikars in Kurla area," Spokesperson Navy tweeted.

India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours, a similar situation expected for Vidarbha and Marathwada. Advice tourists to not visit mountain areas since heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Maharashtra," Met Department said.

"Intermittent heavy showers expected in Mumbai today. Extremely heavy rainfall, over 200 mm recorded at many places in city; more towards suburbs in last 24 hrs," IMD said.

Rains and waterlogging have brought the state to its knees as the movement of traffic slowed down on all the major roads in the city. Cars and vehicles were stuck on waterlogged roads at various places.

Mumbai Police is constantly updating residents about waterlogging roads and asking them to take alternative routes. Traffic on various roads has been diverted.

Amidst the heavy rain, Thane Municipal Transport had arranged extra buses to ferry passengers up to Mulund check post. The arrangement has been directed by Thane Municipal commissioner after local services were stopped between Kurla and Thane.

The Chief Minister said that the government is prepared to deal with the situation.

"High tide is expected at 12 noon, we will monitor the situation. Last night Mumbai police received 1600-1700 tweets from people, they received immediate help. BMC Disaster Management worked entire night. Heavy rainfall is expected in next two&nbsp;days. We are prepared for it," Fadnavis said.

According to SkymetWeather, Mumbai has recorded 795 mm of rainfall for the past four days and rains of varied intensity are expected to continue until July 5. 
&nbsp;

At least 27 people died in wall collapse in Malad and Kalyan in the Mumbai city and Pune as incessant rains pounded Mumbai metropolis and other parts of Maharashtra on Tuesday.

At least 27 people died in wall collapse in Malad and Kalyan in the Mumbai city and Pune as incessant rains pounded Mumbai metropolis and other parts of Maharashtra on Tuesday. While 18 people died in the collapse in Malad, three succumbed to injuries in Kalyan. In another wall collapse in Pune, six people lost their lives. 17 other people sustained injuries. The Maharashtra government has declared the day as a public holiday. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of bereaved in Malad wall collapse tragedy. "Pained to know about the loss of lives in Malad Wall Collapse incidence. My thoughts are with families who lost loved ones & prayers for speedy recovery of injured. Rs 5 lakh will be given to the kin of deceased," he tweeted early morning. The torrential downpour has halted the movement of air, rail and road traffic. Around 54 flights were diverted to nearby airports and 52 flights were cancelled as heavy rains continued to lash Mumbai and its neighbouring areas, an airport official said on Tuesday. On Tuesday, Mumbai airport's main runway remained closed after a Spice Jet aircraft from Jaipur overshot the runway while landing here. According to the Central Railway, 27 trains have been cancelled while several trains have been short terminated due to the incessant rains. Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed all issues like railway traffic, road traffic movement, areas where more focus and assistance is required, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and Mumbai Police officials. The heavy downpour caused water logging at various places in Mumbai and the surrounding metropolitan area. BMC has received 45 complaints of waterlogging. BMC is giving regular updates about waterlogged places where water has been pumped out Indian Navy teams have been deployed in Mumbai to help rain hit Mumbaikars. "Indian Navy deploys various teams to provide relief to rain hit and stranded Mumbaikars in Kurla area," Spokesperson Navy tweeted. India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall expected in Mumbai and suburban parts in next 48 hours, a similar situation expected for Vidarbha and Marathwada. Advice tourists to not visit mountain areas since heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Maharashtra," Met Department said. "Intermittent heavy showers expected in Mumbai today. Extremely heavy rainfall, over 200 mm recorded at many places in city; more towards suburbs in last 24 hrs," IMD said. Rains and waterlogging have brought the state to its knees as the movement of traffic slowed down on all the major roads in the city. Cars and vehicles were stuck on waterlogged roads at various places. Mumbai Police is constantly updating residents about waterlogging roads and asking them to take alternative routes. Traffic on various roads has been diverted. Amidst the heavy rain, Thane Municipal Transport had arranged extra buses to ferry passengers up to Mulund check post. The arrangement has been directed by Thane Municipal commissioner after local services were stopped between Kurla and Thane. The Chief Minister said that the government is prepared to deal with the situation. "High tide is expected at 12 noon, we will monitor the situation. Last night Mumbai police received 1600-1700 tweets from people, they received immediate help. BMC Disaster Management worked entire night. Heavy rainfall is expected in next two days. We are prepared for it," Fadnavis said. According to SkymetWeather, Mumbai has recorded 795 mm of rainfall for the past four days and rains of varied intensity are expected to continue until July 5.

Maharashtra rains kill 27 people, hit rail, air, road traffic

The Central government on Tuesday mentioned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ready-to-provide-air-ambulance-to-mehul-choksi-to-bring-him-back-to-india-enforcement-directorate-tells-court-229405">fugitive Mehul Choksi</a> case seeking an urgent hearing against a Bombay High Court order allowing Choksi`s counsel to furnish his health report.&nbsp;

Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta mentioned the matter Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it may have an impact on fugitive`s extradition from Antigua.&nbsp;

The Bombay High Court had on June 24 stated that a team of specialists from Mumbai`s JJ Hospital will give a report to the High Court on the present health condition of Mehul Choksi to ascertain whether he is fit to travel from Antigua to India for interrogation or not.

&nbsp;At that time, Choksi's lawyers were directed to submit his latest medical reports to the team within a week.&nbsp;

The doctors will submit a report on the status of Choksi's health in a sealed cover to the court on July 9. The Bombay High Court has scheduled the matter for hearing on July 10.&nbsp;

The Central government on Tuesday mentioned the fugitive Mehul Choksi case seeking an urgent hearing against a Bombay High Court order allowing Choksi`s counsel to furnish his health report.

The Central government on Tuesday mentioned the fugitive Mehul Choksi case seeking an urgent hearing against a Bombay High Court order allowing Choksi`s counsel to furnish his health report. Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta mentioned the matter Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said it may have an impact on fugitive`s extradition from Antigua. The Bombay High Court had on June 24 stated that a team of specialists from Mumbai`s JJ Hospital will give a report to the High Court on the present health condition of Mehul Choksi to ascertain whether he is fit to travel from Antigua to India for interrogation or not. At that time, Choksi's lawyers were directed to submit his latest medical reports to the team within a week. The doctors will submit a report on the status of Choksi's health in a sealed cover to the court on July 9. The Bombay High Court has scheduled the matter for hearing on July 10.

Centre mentions Mehul Choksi case in Supreme Court for urgent hearing

Congress Parliamentary Party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-reaches-out-to-sonia-gandhi-ahead-of-parliament-session-225236">Sonia Gandhi </a>on Tuesday said that government was seeking to surreptitiously "privatise" the Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareli, adding that it has caused uncertainty among employees and their families.&nbsp;

Raising the issue during zero hours in the Lok Sabha, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-sonia-gandhi-to-attend-narendra-modis-swearing-in-ceremony-as-prime-minister-222569">Sonia Gandhi</a> said that privatization leads to thousands of people getting unemployed and is against the objectives for which the plant had been set up.

"The real concern is that they have chosen Modern Coach Factory for the experiment," the Rae Bareli lawmaker said.&nbsp;

She added that the factory had been set up by the UPA government to boost manufacturing in the country and is the "most modern plant" that makes good quality coaches at cheap prices.

"The employees have also not been taken into confidence. It is a matter of sadness that their and their families` future is in danger," she said."I urge the government to protect the Modern Coach Factory and other PSUs and give respect to the farmers and their families," the senior Congress leader said.&nbsp;

The UPA chairperson also expressed concerns over the condition of some public sector undertakings, including HAL, BSNL and MTNL."Their condition is not hidden from anyone," she said.&nbsp;

Gandhi said privatisation leads to priceless assets going to a few private hands at very cheap prices and thousands getting unemployed.&nbsp;

She also expressed unhappiness over BJP-led NDA government`s decision to merge the rail budget with the general budget.

Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday said that government was seeking to surreptitiously "privatise" the Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareli, adding that it has caused uncertainty among employees and their families.

Congress Parliamentary Party chief Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday said that government was seeking to surreptitiously "privatise" the Modern Coach Factory in Rae Bareli, adding that it has caused uncertainty among employees and their families. Raising the issue during zero hours in the Lok Sabha, Sonia Gandhi said that privatization leads to thousands of people getting unemployed and is against the objectives for which the plant had been set up. "The real concern is that they have chosen Modern Coach Factory for the experiment," the Rae Bareli lawmaker said. She added that the factory had been set up by the UPA government to boost manufacturing in the country and is the "most modern plant" that makes good quality coaches at cheap prices. "The employees have also not been taken into confidence. It is a matter of sadness that their and their families` future is in danger," she said."I urge the government to protect the Modern Coach Factory and other PSUs and give respect to the farmers and their families," the senior Congress leader said. The UPA chairperson also expressed concerns over the condition of some public sector undertakings, including HAL, BSNL and MTNL."Their condition is not hidden from anyone," she said. Gandhi said privatisation leads to priceless assets going to a few private hands at very cheap prices and thousands getting unemployed. She also expressed unhappiness over BJP-led NDA government`s decision to merge the rail budget with the general budget.

Sonia Gandhi opposes move to privatise Rae Bareli coach factory

In a candid chat with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the new Afghan head of mission, Tahir Qadiry lauded Indian government's position on the Afghan peace process and New Delhi's role in the country while thanking India for its support to the Afghan cricket team.

WION: How do you see the current sporting ties, with India helping to develop Afghan cricket?

Tahir Qadiry: We thank WION since it is watched widely in Afghanistan. Whenever I meet an Indian friend, it is usually about cricket which I feel is a form of new diplomacy which is linked to our national identity, national pride, national joy, and something really good, since its better than being asked about insecurity, problems in Afghanistan.

Sports is a good reputation to have for Afghanistan. Thanks to India for giving us two home grounds for our Afghan cricket team -Dehradun and Greater Noida. The cricket players our peace ambassadors, they are doing&nbsp;great work, they are coming out of ashes, they are appearing on international grounds and bringing Afghanistan victory, their presence is a big thing for Afghanistan.&nbsp;

When we had a match against India, that was the only time the whole of Afghanistan was confused, who to support or who to clap for, but in the end, it was like we don't care who wins, it was a victory for both nations. I saw a couple of tweets saying India won, but Afghanistan won the hearts.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in your country?

Tahir Qadiry: India has been contributing hugely&nbsp;in Afghanistan. I, as the in-charge of the embassy and the representative of the Afghan government, believe that India has rightly designed its projects in Afghanistan. India wanted Afghanistan to have a democratic house, so they built a house of Parliament.&nbsp;

India supports sports in Afghanistan, so they built stadiums in Kandahar and Mazar-e-Sharif. India believes in&nbsp;infrastructure of Afghanistan, so they built the Salma dam. They have done a couple of infrastructure projects in Afghanistan which has brought changes to the lives of people.&nbsp;

I believe India has designed projects which have won the hearts and minds of people and every single Afghan, and of course Bollywood, people are so emotionally attached. while we appreciate the generous contribution of India in Afghanistan, we expect more, there are loads of other projects which are going to be implemented.&nbsp;

India is one of the most trusted regional partners of Afghanistan and Afghans have huge respect and affection for India, and our Indian brothers and sisters, so we expect more projects, especially more cultural engagement and more people-to-people contacts, so that is the reason I am here and my main mission is to promote that sort of bilateral, cultural activities and portray&nbsp;a different image of Afghanistan and encourage our Indian partners to go Afghanistan as there are loads of venues for investment and cultural engagement.

WION: How is the closure of air space by Pakistan impacting your landlocked country, especially the India-Afghan air corridor?

Tahir Qadiry: Firstly, Afghanistan is no more a land-locked country, it is a land-bridge country. Secondly, the air corridor is the biggest achievement of the Afghanistan government and his Excellency the president because regional connectivity is what the current Afghan government is looking into which is paying off.&nbsp;

Since the start of the air corridor in 2017, it has made a huge impact on the lives of traders and the frequency of flights have increased.&nbsp;

Since 2017, Afghanistan exported millions of dollars worth of dry fruits to India, but since the closure of air space, it has badly impacted passengers and our traders as well because it's more time consuming and expensive. It used to take one and a half hour, it now takes four hours.&nbsp;

I have been speaking to our students here, which is a big community, 16000, they are facing problems and challenges. It is time-consuming, and for the traders as well, imagine if they bring fresh fruits from Kabul, it takes longer&nbsp;now, it rots. So its impacting lives of the people, ordinary Afghans, the people form part of medical tourism for India and as well as tourists who come just for sightseeing.&nbsp;

WION: Status of the &nbsp;Afghan peace process, how do you see India's role?

Tahir Qadiry: There are a lot of efforts to have a political settlement initiated by the United States, of course, you know the Afghan government has always said, any political settlement should be Afghan-controlled, Afghan-owned&nbsp;and Afghan-controlled.&nbsp;

That is why our president and senior officials have been advocating a kind of coalition&nbsp;that can form and establish regional consensus around the peace talks.&nbsp;

The Afghan government is hopeful it can achieve some good results. We should not forget whatever the agreement, the "red line" for the Afghan government is the constitution and activist, the younger generation is drawing the "red lines".&nbsp;

Afghanistan has achieved a lot in the last 18 years, we have freedom of expression and achievement in social and cultural and other spheres of society, so we have a new generation which is dynamic, committed and patriotic and very open-minded and these are the gains the Afghan government wants to preserve and safeguard.

We are quite hopeful that these gains will be preserved as the Afghan government is trying to engage with the countries and stakeholders involved that if there is a peace deal, they should support from the position of the Afghan government.&nbsp;

As far as India is concerned, the Indian government supports the position of the Afghan government, which is very much appreciated because that is what the Afghan government wants because if there is a peace deal, it should be led and controlled by the Afghan government. Recently our president called a loya jirga, attended by many people, activists, women, elders and influential people, and after that, they drew some lines, that is the road map our government is working on regarding the peace process.&nbsp;

WION: Your proactive diplomacy is getting you a lot of fans, the new age Afghan diplomacy...

Tahir Qadiry: That is exactly what I wanted when I was posted here, that we should be more responsive. So I launched a couple of cultural engagement programmes - the first thing I thought we must do&nbsp;was open up cultural diplomacy which is something that works with &nbsp;Indians and Afghans.&nbsp;

Sometime you will not believe, I wake up at 3am and check my Twitter account and I feel more responsive. It is a high and very big responsibility on my shoulder.&nbsp;

I have to be responsive both to my people and to Indians who would like to travel and visit Afghanistan, for example, we launched a hotline, and there is&nbsp;an email address and a phone number.&nbsp;

Sometimes, it really doesn't matter what time it is, when I go there and an Indian sends me a message and says he comes from a part of India and he would like to donate some books to a school in Bamiyan, I felt&nbsp;so inspired and I said: look, every penny counts, so this is&nbsp;what is cultural engagement.

Perhaps based on my background that is one thing, but the second thing is that Afghanistan is at a very serious juncture and it is upon us to engage more and make the best of the situation.

In a candid chat with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the new Afghan head of mission, Tahir Qadiry lauded Indian government's position on the Afghan peace process and New Delhi's role in the country while thanking India for its support to the Afghan cricket team.

In a candid chat with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the new Afghan head of mission, Tahir Qadiry lauded Indian government's position on the Afghan peace process and New Delhi's role in the country while thanking India for its support to the Afghan cricket team. WION: How do you see the current sporting ties, with India helping to develop Afghan cricket? Tahir Qadiry: We thank WION since it is watched widely in Afghanistan. Whenever I meet an Indian friend, it is usually about cricket which I feel is a form of new diplomacy which is linked to our national identity, national pride, national joy, and something really good, since its better than being asked about insecurity, problems in Afghanistan. Sports is a good reputation to have for Afghanistan. Thanks to India for giving us two home grounds for our Afghan cricket team -Dehradun and Greater Noida. The cricket players our peace ambassadors, they are doing great work, they are coming out of ashes, they are appearing on international grounds and bringing Afghanistan victory, their presence is a big thing for Afghanistan. When we had a match against India, that was the only time the whole of Afghanistan was confused, who to support or who to clap for, but in the end, it was like we don't care who wins, it was a victory for both nations. I saw a couple of tweets saying India won, but Afghanistan won the hearts. WION: How do you see India's role in your country? Tahir Qadiry: India has been contributing hugely in Afghanistan. I, as the in-charge of the embassy and the representative of the Afghan government, believe that India has rightly designed its projects in Afghanistan. India wanted Afghanistan to have a democratic house, so they built a house of Parliament. India supports sports in Afghanistan, so they built stadiums in Kandahar and Mazar-e-Sharif. India believes in infrastructure of Afghanistan, so they built the Salma dam. They have done a couple of infrastructure projects in Afghanistan which has brought changes to the lives of people. I believe India has designed projects which have won the hearts and minds of people and every single Afghan, and of course Bollywood, people are so emotionally attached. while we appreciate the generous contribution of India in Afghanistan, we expect more, there are loads of other projects which are going to be implemented. India is one of the most trusted regional partners of Afghanistan and Afghans have huge respect and affection for India, and our Indian brothers and sisters, so we expect more projects, especially more cultural engagement and more people-to-people contacts, so that is the reason I am here and my main mission is to promote that sort of bilateral, cultural activities and portray a different image of Afghanistan and encourage our Indian partners to go Afghanistan as there are loads of venues for investment and cultural engagement. WION: How is the closure of air space by Pakistan impacting your landlocked country, especially the India-Afghan air corridor? Tahir Qadiry: Firstly, Afghanistan is no more a land-locked country, it is a land-bridge country. Secondly, the air corridor is the biggest achievement of the Afghanistan government and his Excellency the president because regional connectivity is what the current Afghan government is looking into which is paying off. Since the start of the air corridor in 2017, it has made a huge impact on the lives of traders and the frequency of flights have increased. Since 2017, Afghanistan exported millions of dollars worth of dry fruits to India, but since the closure of air space, it has badly impacted passengers and our traders as well because it's more time consuming and expensive. It used to take one and a half hour, it now takes four hours. I have been speaking to our students here, which is a big community, 16000, they are facing problems and challenges. It is time-consuming, and for the traders as well, imagine if they bring fresh fruits from Kabul, it takes longer now, it rots. So its impacting lives of the people, ordinary Afghans, the people form part of medical tourism for India and as well as tourists who come just for sightseeing. WION: Status of the Afghan peace process, how do you see India's role? Tahir Qadiry: There are a lot of efforts to have a political settlement initiated by the United States, of course, you know the Afghan government has always said, any political settlement should be Afghan-controlled, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled. That is why our president and senior officials have been advocating a kind of coalition that can form and establish regional consensus around the peace talks. The Afghan government is hopeful it can achieve some good results. We should not forget whatever the agreement, the "red line" for the Afghan government is the constitution and activist, the younger generation is drawing the "red lines". Afghanistan has achieved a lot in the last 18 years, we have freedom of expression and achievement in social and cultural and other spheres of society, so we have a new generation which is dynamic, committed and patriotic and very open-minded and these are the gains the Afghan government wants to preserve and safeguard. We are quite hopeful that these gains will be preserved as the Afghan government is trying to engage with the countries and stakeholders involved that if there is a peace deal, they should support from the position of the Afghan government. As far as India is concerned, the Indian government supports the position of the Afghan government, which is very much appreciated because that is what the Afghan government wants because if there is a peace deal, it should be led and controlled by the Afghan government. Recently our president called a loya jirga, attended by many people, activists, women, elders and influential people, and after that, they drew some lines, that is the road map our government is working on regarding the peace process. WION: Your proactive diplomacy is getting you a lot of fans, the new age Afghan diplomacy... Tahir Qadiry: That is exactly what I wanted when I was posted here, that we should be more responsive. So I launched a couple of cultural engagement programmes - the first thing I thought we must do was open up cultural diplomacy which is something that works with Indians and Afghans. Sometime you will not believe, I wake up at 3am and check my Twitter account and I feel more responsive. It is a high and very big responsibility on my shoulder. I have to be responsive both to my people and to Indians who would like to travel and visit Afghanistan, for example, we launched a hotline, and there is an email address and a phone number. Sometimes, it really doesn't matter what time it is, when I go there and an Indian sends me a message and says he comes from a part of India and he would like to donate some books to a school in Bamiyan, I felt so inspired and I said: look, every penny counts, so this is what is cultural engagement. Perhaps based on my background that is one thing, but the second thing is that Afghanistan is at a very serious juncture and it is upon us to engage more and make the best of the situation.

India one of our most trusted regional partners: Tahir Qadiry, Afghan head of mission to WION

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/need-serious-dialogue-for-repatriation-of-lankan-refugees-in-tamil-nadu-sri-lankan-envoy-191330">More than 200 Sri Lankan refugees</a> living in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/storeroom-security-breach-of-madurai-lok-sabha-seat-eroded-public-confidence-election-commission-214901">Tamil Nadu`s Madurai district</a> for 29 years submitted petitions to collector`s office on Monday to seek the Indian citizenship.

As many as 457 Sri Lankan refugees have been living in Madurai ever since they fled their worn-torn nation in 1990, at the height of the civil war in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Since then, they have been living in the refugee camps provided by the Tamil Nadu government."During the final war in Sri Lanka, we took refuge in India. We are grateful to the Government of India and the Government of Tamil Nadu for all the necessary facilities," Sri Lankan refugee KS Jeevan told media outside the district collector`s office.&nbsp;

The lack of Indian citizenship makes it difficult for these refugees to apply for a secured job.

"It has been 29 years since we came to India and we need to get Indian citizenship. Due to the lack of Indian citizenship, we could not go to any job. We have come to the Madurai District collector today demanding Need for Indian citizenship of Tamil Nadu government," he added.

"We want Indian citizenship, especially for our children," said Pumati, a refugee.

"Whenever we tell them they could go back to Sri Lanka, they refuse and tell us that they were born in India and would live in India. They should be granted Indian citizenship."

More than 200 Sri Lankan refugees living in Tamil Nadu`s Madurai district for 29 years submitted petitions to collector`s office on Monday to seek the Indian citizenship.

More than 200 Sri Lankan refugees living in Tamil Nadu`s Madurai district for 29 years submitted petitions to collector`s office on Monday to seek the Indian citizenship. As many as 457 Sri Lankan refugees have been living in Madurai ever since they fled their worn-torn nation in 1990, at the height of the civil war in Sri Lanka. Since then, they have been living in the refugee camps provided by the Tamil Nadu government."During the final war in Sri Lanka, we took refuge in India. We are grateful to the Government of India and the Government of Tamil Nadu for all the necessary facilities," Sri Lankan refugee KS Jeevan told media outside the district collector`s office. The lack of Indian citizenship makes it difficult for these refugees to apply for a secured job. "It has been 29 years since we came to India and we need to get Indian citizenship. Due to the lack of Indian citizenship, we could not go to any job. We have come to the Madurai District collector today demanding Need for Indian citizenship of Tamil Nadu government," he added. "We want Indian citizenship, especially for our children," said Pumati, a refugee. "Whenever we tell them they could go back to Sri Lanka, they refuse and tell us that they were born in India and would live in India. They should be granted Indian citizenship."

Tamil Nadu: Sri Lankan refugees submit petitions to seek Indian citizenship

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pakistan-army-is-obsessed-with-india-because-it-justifies-its-indispensability-209455">India and Pakistan</a> on Monday exchanged lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in their custody through diplomatic channels simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad.&nbsp;

A release by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India handed over lists of 256 Pakistan civilian prisoners and 99 fishermen, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-releases-100-indian-fishermen-as-goodwill-gesture-208631">Pakistan</a> has shared lists of 209 fishermen and 52 prisoners in its custody, who are Indians or believed-to-be Indians.&nbsp;

The government called for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, missing Indian defence personnel and fishermen along with their boats.

In this context, Pakistan was asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 10 Indian civil prisoners and 124 Indian fishermen to India whose nationality has been confirmed.

Apart from this, the government has also called upon Pakistan to expedite the grant of visas to the members of the medical experts` team which is proposed to visit Pakistan to assess the mental condition of believed-to-be Indian prisoners of unsound mind lodged in different jails of Pakistan.&nbsp;

It also called for an early visit of the Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan and early visit of the four-member team to Karachi in connection with release and repatriation of 22 Indian fishing boats.

Immediate consular access has also been sought for the remaining prisoners and fishermen with the request to facilitate their earliest release and repatriation.&nbsp;

The release said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-cancels-annual-maritime-dialogue-with-india-says-prevailing-conditions-to-blame-204498">India</a> remains committed to addressing, on priority, all humanitarian matters including those pertaining to prisoners and fishermen in each other`s country.

&nbsp;In this context, India has also asked Pakistan to expedite its response in the case of 88 Pakistan prisoners, including fishermen, who have completed their sentences and await repatriation for want of nationality confirmation by Pakistan.&nbsp;

The exchange of lists is in keeping with the provisions of the 2008 Agreement under which these are exchanged on January 1 and July 1 every year.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan on Monday exchanged lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in their custody through diplomatic channels simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad.

India and Pakistan on Monday exchanged lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in their custody through diplomatic channels simultaneously at New Delhi and Islamabad. A release by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India handed over lists of 256 Pakistan civilian prisoners and 99 fishermen, while Pakistan has shared lists of 209 fishermen and 52 prisoners in its custody, who are Indians or believed-to-be Indians. The government called for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, missing Indian defence personnel and fishermen along with their boats. In this context, Pakistan was asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 10 Indian civil prisoners and 124 Indian fishermen to India whose nationality has been confirmed. Apart from this, the government has also called upon Pakistan to expedite the grant of visas to the members of the medical experts` team which is proposed to visit Pakistan to assess the mental condition of believed-to-be Indian prisoners of unsound mind lodged in different jails of Pakistan. It also called for an early visit of the Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan and early visit of the four-member team to Karachi in connection with release and repatriation of 22 Indian fishing boats. Immediate consular access has also been sought for the remaining prisoners and fishermen with the request to facilitate their earliest release and repatriation. The release said that India remains committed to addressing, on priority, all humanitarian matters including those pertaining to prisoners and fishermen in each other`s country. In this context, India has also asked Pakistan to expedite its response in the case of 88 Pakistan prisoners, including fishermen, who have completed their sentences and await repatriation for want of nationality confirmation by Pakistan. The exchange of lists is in keeping with the provisions of the 2008 Agreement under which these are exchanged on January 1 and July 1 every year.

India, Pakistan exchange list of civilian prisoners

The Chief Minister may change but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-results-to-decide-fate-of-karnatakas-coalition-213500">Karnataka government</a> will not dissolve, said Congress legislator Satish Ramappa at a time when cracks are seeming to appear in the JD(S)-Congress coalition, following the resignation of two MLAs of his party.&nbsp;

"I am not bothered about the resignations of MLAs. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-coalition-worries-hd-kumaraswamy-holds-talks-with-siddaramaiah-223537">HD Kumaraswamy</a> may remain as the Chief Minister or any other can come. I hope Kumaraswamy continues. The chief minister may change, but the government will not dissolve," Harihara constituency MLA Ramappa said while speaking to ANI here on Monday.&nbsp;

This comes a day after the resignation of Congress MLAs, &nbsp;Anand Singh and Ramesh Jarkiholi from the Assembly, bringing the party`s strength down to 77.&nbsp;

State Forest Minister Satish Jarkiholi, brother of Ramesh Jarkiholi, said that the party had put in all the efforts to convince Ramesh but he did not agree to it.

&nbsp;"Ramesh had been talking about the resignation for the past six months. There is nothing new to it. The party tried to convince him but he did not agree to it. It is his personal matter. We will see when by-elections would come. More resignations can come but such moves will not affect our party," the Forest minister said.

&nbsp;Sources said as many as four MLAs may resign in the coming days, including Mahesh Kumathalli, Pratap Gowda Patil and BC Patil. Both JD(S) and Congress have repeatedly maintained that there is no threat to the alliance and the government would complete its full term.&nbsp;

In the recently held Lok Sabha polls, Congress and the JD(S) failed to make a mark with the BJP bagging 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it, leaving just one seat each to the coalition partners.

The Chief Minister may change but Karnataka government will not dissolve, said Congress legislator Satish Ramappa at a time when cracks are seeming to appear in the JD(S)-Congress coalition, following the resignation of two MLAs of his party.

The Chief Minister may change but Karnataka government will not dissolve, said Congress legislator Satish Ramappa at a time when cracks are seeming to appear in the JD(S)-Congress coalition, following the resignation of two MLAs of his party. "I am not bothered about the resignations of MLAs. HD Kumaraswamy may remain as the Chief Minister or any other can come. I hope Kumaraswamy continues. The chief minister may change, but the government will not dissolve," Harihara constituency MLA Ramappa said while speaking to ANI here on Monday. This comes a day after the resignation of Congress MLAs, Anand Singh and Ramesh Jarkiholi from the Assembly, bringing the party`s strength down to 77. State Forest Minister Satish Jarkiholi, brother of Ramesh Jarkiholi, said that the party had put in all the efforts to convince Ramesh but he did not agree to it. "Ramesh had been talking about the resignation for the past six months. There is nothing new to it. The party tried to convince him but he did not agree to it. It is his personal matter. We will see when by-elections would come. More resignations can come but such moves will not affect our party," the Forest minister said. Sources said as many as four MLAs may resign in the coming days, including Mahesh Kumathalli, Pratap Gowda Patil and BC Patil. Both JD(S) and Congress have repeatedly maintained that there is no threat to the alliance and the government would complete its full term. In the recently held Lok Sabha polls, Congress and the JD(S) failed to make a mark with the BJP bagging 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it, leaving just one seat each to the coalition partners.

Chief Minister may change but government won't dissolve: Karnataka Congress legislator Satish Ramappa

Pilgrims undertaking the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amarnath-yatra-begins-jk-governor-satya-pal-malik-participates-in-pratham-pooja-232041">Amarnath Yatra this year</a> are being served 'langar'&nbsp;three times a day, and are also being provided shelter and medical aid at various points along the National Highway, pilgrims said on Tuesday.

Langar committees have constructed sheds at various points along the National Highway to provide facilities to pilgrims such as food, shelter and medical aid.

They have also established washrooms as well as set up boarding and lodging facilities. CCTV cameras have also been installed in the tents. Speaking to ANI, a first-time pilgrim Jai Singh Rana said, "We are a group of 20 people from Hyderabad. We are very happy with the services provided to us by the government, especially the langar. Healthy food like upma and poha are being served here and they taste really good. Forces are also very well deployed in the region."

"The arrangements are made keeping in mind the interest of every pilgrim. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chants-of-har-har-mahadev-rent-air-as-devotees-take-holy-dip-at-kumbh-mela-198364">Langar</a> services in various places make us feel at home. Army personnel are providing us with full protection and helping us in the yatra. It is because of them we are able to undertake this yatra. The construction of various tunnels has also made our yatra easier. Our morale is very high due to blessings of Baba Barfani," another devotee said.

&nbsp;According to government officials, the rush at Amarnath Yatra has increased this year in comparison to the past couple of years. The 46-day-long yatra began on July 1, the day of Masik Shivratri, and will conclude on August 15, the day of Shravan Purnima.&nbsp;

On Monday morning, a total of 1617 pilgrims (1174 men, 379 women, 15 children, 49 saints) began their journey from Pahalgam axis to Amarnath cave shrine from Baltal axis and 2800 pilgrims (2321 men, 463 women, 16 children).&nbsp;

Situated at an altitude of 3,888 m, the Amarnath cave is considered as one of the holiest shrines for Hindus.

&nbsp;The Yatra takes place from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam track in Anantnag district and 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district.&nbsp;

The holy cave remains open during this period and it attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year.

Pilgrims undertaking the Amarnath Yatra this year are being served 'langar' three times a day, and are also being provided shelter and medical aid at various points along the National Highway, pilgrims said on Tuesday.

Pilgrims undertaking the Amarnath Yatra this year are being served 'langar' three times a day, and are also being provided shelter and medical aid at various points along the National Highway, pilgrims said on Tuesday. Langar committees have constructed sheds at various points along the National Highway to provide facilities to pilgrims such as food, shelter and medical aid. They have also established washrooms as well as set up boarding and lodging facilities. CCTV cameras have also been installed in the tents. Speaking to ANI, a first-time pilgrim Jai Singh Rana said, "We are a group of 20 people from Hyderabad. We are very happy with the services provided to us by the government, especially the langar. Healthy food like upma and poha are being served here and they taste really good. Forces are also very well deployed in the region." "The arrangements are made keeping in mind the interest of every pilgrim. Langar services in various places make us feel at home. Army personnel are providing us with full protection and helping us in the yatra. It is because of them we are able to undertake this yatra. The construction of various tunnels has also made our yatra easier. Our morale is very high due to blessings of Baba Barfani," another devotee said. According to government officials, the rush at Amarnath Yatra has increased this year in comparison to the past couple of years. The 46-day-long yatra began on July 1, the day of Masik Shivratri, and will conclude on August 15, the day of Shravan Purnima. On Monday morning, a total of 1617 pilgrims (1174 men, 379 women, 15 children, 49 saints) began their journey from Pahalgam axis to Amarnath cave shrine from Baltal axis and 2800 pilgrims (2321 men, 463 women, 16 children). Situated at an altitude of 3,888 m, the Amarnath cave is considered as one of the holiest shrines for Hindus. The Yatra takes place from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam track in Anantnag district and 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district. The holy cave remains open during this period and it attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year.

Food thrice a day, medical aid for pilgrims trekking to Amarnath

Chief Economic Adviser KV Subramanian will table the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/narendra-modi-20-would-propel-affordable-housing-in-india-224832">Narendra Modi</a> government`s first Economic Survey in Parliament on Thursday.

"Looking forward with excitement to table my first and the new Government`s first - Economic Survey in Parliament on Thursday. #EcoSurvey2019" he tweeted on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Economic Survey is an outlook of developments in the economy that is presented a day before the Union Budget.

The survey contains a summary of the performance on major development programmes, as well as the policy initiatives of the government and the prospects of the economy.

Subramanian was appointed as the Chief Economic Adviser in December last year, nearly six months after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/it-was-the-best-job-enriching-and-exciting-says-outgoing-cea-arvind-subramanian-145861">Arvind Subramanian</a> stepped down from the post at the end of his term owing to "pressing family commitments."

The first full-fledged budget of the Union Government will be tabled on Friday by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Chief Economic Adviser KV Subramanian will table the new Narendra Modi government`s first Economic Survey in Parliament on Thursday. "Looking forward with excitement to table my first and the new Government`s first - Economic Survey in Parliament on Thursday.

Chief Economic Adviser KV Subramanian will table the new Narendra Modi government`s first Economic Survey in Parliament on Thursday. "Looking forward with excitement to table my first and the new Government`s first - Economic Survey in Parliament on Thursday. #EcoSurvey2019" he tweeted on Tuesday. The Economic Survey is an outlook of developments in the economy that is presented a day before the Union Budget. The survey contains a summary of the performance on major development programmes, as well as the policy initiatives of the government and the prospects of the economy. Subramanian was appointed as the Chief Economic Adviser in December last year, nearly six months after Arvind Subramanian stepped down from the post at the end of his term owing to "pressing family commitments." The first full-fledged budget of the Union Government will be tabled on Friday by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Chief Economic Adviser KV Subramanian to table Economic Survey in Parliament

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/odisha-naveen-patnaik-chosen-leader-of-bjd-legislative-party-meets-governor-221783">Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik</a> on Monday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that if the project on Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh continues then it will cause "permanent injury" to the interests of Odisha.

"If the project is allowed to be completed before the resolution of all the pending cases, it will cause permanent injury to the interest of the state of Odisha and its people," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi.

His letter comes in response to the Environment Ministry's decision to extend the construction of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gadkari-promises-funds-for-completion-of-polavaram-project--150868">Polavaram Multipurpose Project</a>.

The Chief Minister had written several letters to the Prime Minister in the recent past, warning the Centre of severe environmental consequences in his state if the project is allowed to be completed.

Echoing similar concern, Patnaik urged Modi to intervene in the matter and give directions to "stop" the construction work of the project.&nbsp;

"I would earnestly request you to kindly intervene in the matter and give appropriate direction to stop the construction work of the Polavaram Project immediately until all the pending issues are resolved," the letter read.

&nbsp;Patnaik`s government has been opposing the project for its design which could pose danger for Odisha.&nbsp;

"Once the project is completed there will be impounding of the reservoir and it may not be possible to change the design and operating parameters of the project thereafter," he said.

Urging the centre to wait for a final resolution of the dispute, the Chief Minister wrote, "I would like to reiterate that if the construction work on Polavaram Project is not stopped forthwith, it will have immense adverse impacts on people living in the tribal district of Malkangiri in Odisha. The submergence of the large extent of forest area would be of irreversible consequences".

The Chief Minister also pointed out that Odisha's pleas were ignored on the matter and public hearing on the project has not been held till date.&nbsp;

Stating that the issue can be avoided if an opportunity is given for a final resolution pending before the Supreme Court, he said; "Polavaram project can be reformulated as per the Godavari Water Dispute Tribunal award without causing large scale submergence in Odisha, Telangana and Chhattisgarh".

Polavaram Project is an under-construction multi-purpose national project on the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh. It is designed to overcome the deficit in water in the country. The project is entirely funded by the Centre and is also known as National River-Linking Project.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that if the project on Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh continues then it will cause "permanent injury" to the interests of Odisha.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating that if the project on Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh continues then it will cause "permanent injury" to the interests of Odisha. "If the project is allowed to be completed before the resolution of all the pending cases, it will cause permanent injury to the interest of the state of Odisha and its people," Patnaik said in a letter to Modi. His letter comes in response to the Environment Ministry's decision to extend the construction of the Polavaram Multipurpose Project. The Chief Minister had written several letters to the Prime Minister in the recent past, warning the Centre of severe environmental consequences in his state if the project is allowed to be completed. Echoing similar concern, Patnaik urged Modi to intervene in the matter and give directions to "stop" the construction work of the project. "I would earnestly request you to kindly intervene in the matter and give appropriate direction to stop the construction work of the Polavaram Project immediately until all the pending issues are resolved," the letter read. Patnaik`s government has been opposing the project for its design which could pose danger for Odisha. "Once the project is completed there will be impounding of the reservoir and it may not be possible to change the design and operating parameters of the project thereafter," he said. Urging the centre to wait for a final resolution of the dispute, the Chief Minister wrote, "I would like to reiterate that if the construction work on Polavaram Project is not stopped forthwith, it will have immense adverse impacts on people living in the tribal district of Malkangiri in Odisha. The submergence of the large extent of forest area would be of irreversible consequences". The Chief Minister also pointed out that Odisha's pleas were ignored on the matter and public hearing on the project has not been held till date. Stating that the issue can be avoided if an opportunity is given for a final resolution pending before the Supreme Court, he said; "Polavaram project can be reformulated as per the Godavari Water Dispute Tribunal award without causing large scale submergence in Odisha, Telangana and Chhattisgarh". Polavaram Project is an under-construction multi-purpose national project on the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh. It is designed to overcome the deficit in water in the country. The project is entirely funded by the Centre and is also known as National River-Linking Project.

Stop the Polavaram project as it will cause 'permanent injury' to Odisha: Naveen Patnaik writes to PM Narendra Modi

As many as 14 Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, NCP, AAP and CPI, have given notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha tomorrow under Rule 176 on the `need for electoral reforms in the country`.

The leaders of the parties are expected to talk about electoral bonds, One Nation One Election and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-learn-a-lot-from-indian-experience-on-electronic-voting-machines-indonesian-envoy-211182">Electronic Voting Machine</a> (EVM) malfunction, among other issues.&nbsp;

Claiming that a majority of political parties were in favour of "One Nation, One Election" idea, the government had on June 19 announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will constitute a committee to study the feasibility of the concept after a meeting of parties from which main Opposition Congress and major parties kept away.&nbsp;

As many as 14 Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, NCP, AAP and CPI, have given notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha tomorrow under Rule 176 on the `need for electoral reforms in the country`.

As many as 14 Opposition parties, including Congress, TMC, NCP, AAP and CPI, have given notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha tomorrow under Rule 176 on the `need for electoral reforms in the country`. The leaders of the parties are expected to talk about electoral bonds, One Nation One Election and Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) malfunction, among other issues. Claiming that a majority of political parties were in favour of "One Nation, One Election" idea, the government had on June 19 announced that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will constitute a committee to study the feasibility of the concept after a meeting of parties from which main Opposition Congress and major parties kept away.

14 opposition parties give notice over discussion in Rajya Sabha on 'need for electoral reforms'

Terming it "unacceptable", Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed displeasure with BJP legislator Akash Vijayvargiya, who had thrashed a Municipal Corporation officer with a cricket bat.

During BJP's Parliamentary Party meeting held today, the Prime Minister said such behaviour is unacceptable, irrespective of whose son he is, sources said.

The Indore-3 legislator and son of senior party leader Kailash Vijayvargiya was recently jailed for thrashing the municipal officer, on an anti-encroachment drive, following a heated argument.

A BJP lawmaker, on condition of anonymity, told ANI, "Prime Minister is very upset with Akash Vijayvargiya for his recent conduct. Prime Minister said that local unit of the BJP should be immediately dissolved for welcoming Akash on coming out of jail."

"PM even said that such leaders should be expelled from the party," the MP added.

Demanding a thorough probe into the matter, Modi said that those backing such behaviour should also be questioned, sources added.

He advised party MPs to behave in a "responsible and cordial manner".Modi also warned MPs to give full time in the Parliament and raise issues related to the common man.

Akash had thrashed a Municipal Corporation officer in Indore with a bat and slapped him repeatedly on June 26 and was subsequently arrested for the act.

Akash, while narrating the sequence of events that unfolded before his arrest, had claimed that certain Congress legislators were getting buildings in Indore demolished in connivance with the Municipal Corporation without consulting him.

Despite repeated requests to wait for proper investigation, Akash claimed that the officers paid no heed to his pleas and sent "goons" to evict the people from the building that had to be demolished.

On Sunday, Akash was released from jail on bail and was garlanded upon his release by supporters.

"I am not guilty or embarrassed about what I did as it was in public interest. A woman was being dragged brutally in front of the police and I couldn`t think of doing anything else," he had said after being released, adding that he hopes he would not have to pick up the cricket bat again.

Akash's supporters even fired celebratory gunshots outside his office as their leader walked out of prison.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Terming it "unacceptable", Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed displeasure with BJP legislator Akash Vijayvargiya, who had thrashed a Municipal Corporation officer with a cricket bat.

Terming it "unacceptable", Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed displeasure with BJP legislator Akash Vijayvargiya, who had thrashed a Municipal Corporation officer with a cricket bat. During BJP's Parliamentary Party meeting held today, the Prime Minister said such behaviour is unacceptable, irrespective of whose son he is, sources said. The Indore-3 legislator and son of senior party leader Kailash Vijayvargiya was recently jailed for thrashing the municipal officer, on an anti-encroachment drive, following a heated argument. A BJP lawmaker, on condition of anonymity, told ANI, "Prime Minister is very upset with Akash Vijayvargiya for his recent conduct. Prime Minister said that local unit of the BJP should be immediately dissolved for welcoming Akash on coming out of jail." "PM even said that such leaders should be expelled from the party," the MP added. Demanding a thorough probe into the matter, Modi said that those backing such behaviour should also be questioned, sources added. He advised party MPs to behave in a "responsible and cordial manner".Modi also warned MPs to give full time in the Parliament and raise issues related to the common man. Akash had thrashed a Municipal Corporation officer in Indore with a bat and slapped him repeatedly on June 26 and was subsequently arrested for the act. Akash, while narrating the sequence of events that unfolded before his arrest, had claimed that certain Congress legislators were getting buildings in Indore demolished in connivance with the Municipal Corporation without consulting him. Despite repeated requests to wait for proper investigation, Akash claimed that the officers paid no heed to his pleas and sent "goons" to evict the people from the building that had to be demolished. On Sunday, Akash was released from jail on bail and was garlanded upon his release by supporters. "I am not guilty or embarrassed about what I did as it was in public interest. A woman was being dragged brutally in front of the police and I couldn`t think of doing anything else," he had said after being released, adding that he hopes he would not have to pick up the cricket bat again. Akash's supporters even fired celebratory gunshots outside his office as their leader walked out of prison.

Unacceptable, no matter whose son: PM Narendra Modi on Akash Vijayvargiya

Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday resigned from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-turmoil-congress-mla-injured-in-brawl-notices-sent-to-4-lawmakers-for-skipping-clp-meet-191682">Karnataka Assembly</a>. The Vijayanagar MLA said he submitted his resignation to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.&nbsp;

However, Kumar said he was not aware of any such resignation, adding that no leader contacted him.

"Nobody has contacted me or met me. I have got nothing to do with political developments and I will accept resignations even if 20 members resign. I`m not aware of any such resignation. I haven`t met any leader, not even Anand Singh," Kumar told reporters in Kolar.&nbsp;

Sources said as many as five MLAs may resign in the coming days, including Congress' Ramesh Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumathalli, Pratap Gowda Patil and BC Patil.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, a scuffle had taken place between Singh and his party colleague JN Ganesh. An MLA from Kampli, Ganesh had allegedly assaulted Singh on January 19 following a heated argument at a resort near Bengaluru.&nbsp;

Singh was later admitted to a hospital, while Ganesh was suspended on the directions of state Congress president Dinesh Gundu Rao.

&nbsp;Singh`s resignation comes at a time when cracks are seeming to appear in the Janata Dal (Secular) and Congress coalition in the state. However, the two parties have repeatedly said there is no threat to the alliance and the government would complete its full term.

In the recently held Lok Sabha polls, Congress and the JD(S) failed to make a mark with BJP bagging 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it leaving just one seat each to the coalition partners.

&nbsp;Earlier this month, Congress leader K.H. Muniyappa had said his party will contest alone in the local body elections next year. The statement had come days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-an-understanding-signed-between-jds-congress-hd-deve-gowda-takes-a-u-turn-229242">JD(S) president H D Deve Gowda</a> lashed out the "Congress` behaviour" while claiming that mid-term elections would "no doubt" be held in the state.

"There is no doubt that there will be mid-term polls. They (Congress) said they will support us for five years but look at their behaviour now. Our people are smart," he had said.&nbsp;

However, the former prime minister later downplayed his comments, saying his remark was about the local body elections and not for the Assembly polls.

Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday resigned from the Karnataka Assembly. The Vijayanagar MLA said he submitted his resignation to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar.

Congress legislator Anand Singh on Monday resigned from the Karnataka Assembly. The Vijayanagar MLA said he submitted his resignation to Speaker KR Ramesh Kumar. However, Kumar said he was not aware of any such resignation, adding that no leader contacted him. "Nobody has contacted me or met me. I have got nothing to do with political developments and I will accept resignations even if 20 members resign. I`m not aware of any such resignation. I haven`t met any leader, not even Anand Singh," Kumar told reporters in Kolar. Sources said as many as five MLAs may resign in the coming days, including Congress' Ramesh Jarkiholi, Mahesh Kumathalli, Pratap Gowda Patil and BC Patil. Earlier this year, a scuffle had taken place between Singh and his party colleague JN Ganesh. An MLA from Kampli, Ganesh had allegedly assaulted Singh on January 19 following a heated argument at a resort near Bengaluru. Singh was later admitted to a hospital, while Ganesh was suspended on the directions of state Congress president Dinesh Gundu Rao. Singh`s resignation comes at a time when cracks are seeming to appear in the Janata Dal (Secular) and Congress coalition in the state. However, the two parties have repeatedly said there is no threat to the alliance and the government would complete its full term. In the recently held Lok Sabha polls, Congress and the JD(S) failed to make a mark with BJP bagging 25 of the 28 seats along with an Independent backed by it leaving just one seat each to the coalition partners. Earlier this month, Congress leader K.H. Muniyappa had said his party will contest alone in the local body elections next year. The statement had come days after JD(S) president H D Deve Gowda lashed out the "Congress` behaviour" while claiming that mid-term elections would "no doubt" be held in the state. "There is no doubt that there will be mid-term polls. They (Congress) said they will support us for five years but look at their behaviour now. Our people are smart," he had said. However, the former prime minister later downplayed his comments, saying his remark was about the local body elections and not for the Assembly polls.

Congress MLA Anand Singh resigns from Karnataka Assembly; Speaker 'unaware'

On the fourth anniversary of his government`s flagship program 'Digital India', <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-first-mann-ki-baat-of-2019-193050">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Monday said that the initiative has empowered people, reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor.

"On this day, 4 years ago Digital India was launched, to leverage the power of technology and make technology more accessible. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ravi-shankar-prasad-the-wily-counsel-of-ram-lalla-and-modis-digital-india-minder-222872">Digital India </a>has empowered people, significantly reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor #DigitalIndiaNewIndia," he tweeted."

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On this day, 4 years ago <a href="https://twitter.com/_DigitalIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_DigitalIndia</a> was launched, to leverage the power of technology and make technology more accessible. Digital India has empowered people, significantly reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DigitalIndiaNewIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DigitalIndiaNewIndia</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1145543068424331264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Digital India initiative is a people`s movement, powered by people`s strength and their efforts to learn as well as innovate. I salute all those assiduously working to strengthen Digital India and wish them the very best for their future efforts," Modi said in another tweet.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/_DigitalIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@_DigitalIndia</a> initiative is a people’s movement, powered by people’s strength and their efforts to learn as well as innovate. 
 
I salute all those assiduously working to strengthen Digital India and wish them the very best for their future efforts. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DigitalIndiaNewIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DigitalIndiaNewIndia</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1145543315682680836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The program was launched on July 1, 2015, by the Government of India with a vision to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.

Digital India, which is the focal point of Modi's 'New India' push, is centred on three key vision areas- Digital Infrastructure as a Utility to Every Citizen and Governance and Services on Demand, and Digital Empowerment of Citizens.

Taking to Twitter, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that the program is now finding global resonance.

"PM Narendra Modi had launched Digital India on July 1, 2015. The success of Digital India is an inspiring story of inclusion, transformation, growth, and empowerment through digital technologies, which is now finding global resonance," Prasad tweeted.&nbsp;

Highlighting the success of the program, Prasad said that 3.65 lakh Common Service centres have been opened and 123 crore Aadhaar were generated.

&nbsp;He said that there are currently 2.39 crore users of Digilocker, which is an online space to store documents. Prasad also lauded BHIM-UPI, a unified payments interface, and said it is a "unique fintech innovation" of India that has transformed the digital payment ecosystem.

&nbsp;"It was made it possible to make payments using a simple and easy to use the mobile app," he said. The Union Minister further said that Rs 7.45 lakh crore money has been transferred through total Direct Benefit Transfer.&nbsp;

On the fourth anniversary of his government`s flagship program 'Digital India', Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the initiative has empowered people, reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor.

On the fourth anniversary of his government`s flagship program 'Digital India', Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the initiative has empowered people, reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor. "On this day, 4 years ago Digital India was launched, to leverage the power of technology and make technology more accessible. Digital India has empowered people, significantly reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor #DigitalIndiaNewIndia," he tweeted." On this day, 4 years ago @_DigitalIndia was launched, to leverage the power of technology and make technology more accessible. Digital India has empowered people, significantly reduced corruption and improved public service delivery to benefit the poor. #DigitalIndiaNewIndia — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 1, 2019 × The Digital India initiative is a people`s movement, powered by people`s strength and their efforts to learn as well as innovate. I salute all those assiduously working to strengthen Digital India and wish them the very best for their future efforts," Modi said in another tweet. The @_DigitalIndia initiative is a people’s movement, powered by people’s strength and their efforts to learn as well as innovate. I salute all those assiduously working to strengthen Digital India and wish them the very best for their future efforts. #DigitalIndiaNewIndia — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 1, 2019 × The program was launched on July 1, 2015, by the Government of India with a vision to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. Digital India, which is the focal point of Modi's 'New India' push, is centred on three key vision areas- Digital Infrastructure as a Utility to Every Citizen and Governance and Services on Demand, and Digital Empowerment of Citizens. Taking to Twitter, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that the program is now finding global resonance. "PM Narendra Modi had launched Digital India on July 1, 2015. The success of Digital India is an inspiring story of inclusion, transformation, growth, and empowerment through digital technologies, which is now finding global resonance," Prasad tweeted. Highlighting the success of the program, Prasad said that 3.65 lakh Common Service centres have been opened and 123 crore Aadhaar were generated. He said that there are currently 2.39 crore users of Digilocker, which is an online space to store documents. Prasad also lauded BHIM-UPI, a unified payments interface, and said it is a "unique fintech innovation" of India that has transformed the digital payment ecosystem. "It was made it possible to make payments using a simple and easy to use the mobile app," he said. The Union Minister further said that Rs 7.45 lakh crore money has been transferred through total Direct Benefit Transfer.

Digital India empowered people, reduced corruption: PM Narendra Modi on initiative's fourth anniversary

BSP chief Mayawati on Monday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for its decision to put 17 castes into Scheduled Caste category and called the move "unconstitutional" and politically motivated.

"It is reported in a section of media that 17 cases have been removed from OBC category and put in SC category. Yogi Adityanath government has deceived them. They will not get the benefit from any of the categories," Mayawati told ANI.

"No government can either put or remove any caste from SC category. Article 341 of the constitution bars a government from doing so," she added.

The BSP supremo said that only the President and Parliament have powers to make any changes in the list.

Mayawati said, "Part one of Article 341 clearly states that the President can specify any group to SC category through a public notification on Governor`s advice. Part 2 of the Article says that if notification is released under part one of the Article, it can only be changed by Parliament. Part 2 states that Parliament can specify, include or exclude any group from SC category."

The rules state that the notification cannot be undone by any other notification, she said.

Stating that the move is against the law and the Constitution, she said, "These castes will no longer get the quota under OBC category. They will be treated as general caste. It is clear that Yogi government has issued this order to deceive these castes."

Mayawati alleged that the order has been issued keeping in view the upcoming by-polls in the state and appealed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to immediately withdraw it.

She also urged the Centre to initiate the constitutional procedure to include these groups in the SC category and demanded an increase in the quota limit for them.

"I appeal the government to take the order back and the Centre to include these castes in the category and increase SC quota proportionately as per constitutional procedure," she concluded.

In a decision taken on Friday, UP government added 17 castes including Kashyap, Mallah, Kumhar, Rajbhar, Prajapati and others in the list of Scheduled Castes. It also directed all district officers to issue caste certificate to the families of those belonging to these castes. 
&nbsp;

BSP chief Mayawati on Monday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for its decision to put 17 castes into Scheduled Caste category and called the move "unconstitutional" and politically motivated.

BSP chief Mayawati on Monday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for its decision to put 17 castes into Scheduled Caste category and called the move "unconstitutional" and politically motivated. "It is reported in a section of media that 17 cases have been removed from OBC category and put in SC category. Yogi Adityanath government has deceived them. They will not get the benefit from any of the categories," Mayawati told ANI. "No government can either put or remove any caste from SC category. Article 341 of the constitution bars a government from doing so," she added. The BSP supremo said that only the President and Parliament have powers to make any changes in the list. Mayawati said, "Part one of Article 341 clearly states that the President can specify any group to SC category through a public notification on Governor`s advice. Part 2 of the Article says that if notification is released under part one of the Article, it can only be changed by Parliament. Part 2 states that Parliament can specify, include or exclude any group from SC category." The rules state that the notification cannot be undone by any other notification, she said. Stating that the move is against the law and the Constitution, she said, "These castes will no longer get the quota under OBC category. They will be treated as general caste. It is clear that Yogi government has issued this order to deceive these castes." Mayawati alleged that the order has been issued keeping in view the upcoming by-polls in the state and appealed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to immediately withdraw it. She also urged the Centre to initiate the constitutional procedure to include these groups in the SC category and demanded an increase in the quota limit for them. "I appeal the government to take the order back and the Centre to include these castes in the category and increase SC quota proportionately as per constitutional procedure," she concluded. In a decision taken on Friday, UP government added 17 castes including Kashyap, Mallah, Kumhar, Rajbhar, Prajapati and others in the list of Scheduled Castes. It also directed all district officers to issue caste certificate to the families of those belonging to these castes.

UP government's move to include 17 castes in Scheduled Caste category 'unconstitutional': Mayawati

The Supreme Court on Monday asked petitioner and lawyer, Anuja Kapur, to approach the Delhi High Court for redressal of her plea seeking a direction to the Union of India for framing the necessary guidelines along with appropriate laws to consider marital rape as a ground of divorce.

A two-judge bench of the Apex Court, headed by Justice SA Bobde, and also comprising Justice B R Gavai, asked Kapur to approach the Delhi High court for seeking relief in the case.

The petition was filed before the Supreme Court by Kapur, seeking a direction to the Central government to ensure that there should be a clear guideline for registration of the cases related to marital rape.

The petition sought a direction to frame necessary guidelines along with appropriate laws and by-laws related to considering marital rape as a ground of divorce.

The petition also sought that there should be a proper guideline for registration of the cases related to marital rape, so that accountability, responsibility, and liability of the concerned authorities could be assigned while awarding penalties to the accused.

To maintain the dignity of women in marriage, the petition of Anuja, pleaded to the Supreme Court that it should pass suitable directions to the respondent (UOI) keeping in mind the welfare, well-being and interest of the public.

Anuja's 47-page petition, a copy of which is available with the ANI, further claimed that there is no law for stopping the marital rape.

The petition said that the top court should hear the petition on an urgent basis and pass a direction which is the need of the hour in order to put a stop to such cases.

The petition further claimed that marital rape is not a crime and that there is no FIR (First Information Report) registered by a wife against her husband in any police station, rather, cases are being compromised by the police authorities to maintain the sanctity of the marriage between the victims and their husbands.

 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Monday asked petitioner and lawyer, Anuja Kapur, to approach the Delhi High Court for redressal of her plea seeking a direction to the Union of India for framing the necessary guidelines along with appropriate laws to consider marital rape as a ground of divorce.

The Supreme Court on Monday asked petitioner and lawyer, Anuja Kapur, to approach the Delhi High Court for redressal of her plea seeking a direction to the Union of India for framing the necessary guidelines along with appropriate laws to consider marital rape as a ground of divorce. A two-judge bench of the Apex Court, headed by Justice SA Bobde, and also comprising Justice B R Gavai, asked Kapur to approach the Delhi High court for seeking relief in the case. The petition was filed before the Supreme Court by Kapur, seeking a direction to the Central government to ensure that there should be a clear guideline for registration of the cases related to marital rape. The petition sought a direction to frame necessary guidelines along with appropriate laws and by-laws related to considering marital rape as a ground of divorce. The petition also sought that there should be a proper guideline for registration of the cases related to marital rape, so that accountability, responsibility, and liability of the concerned authorities could be assigned while awarding penalties to the accused. To maintain the dignity of women in marriage, the petition of Anuja, pleaded to the Supreme Court that it should pass suitable directions to the respondent (UOI) keeping in mind the welfare, well-being and interest of the public. Anuja's 47-page petition, a copy of which is available with the ANI, further claimed that there is no law for stopping the marital rape. The petition said that the top court should hear the petition on an urgent basis and pass a direction which is the need of the hour in order to put a stop to such cases. The petition further claimed that marital rape is not a crime and that there is no FIR (First Information Report) registered by a wife against her husband in any police station, rather, cases are being compromised by the police authorities to maintain the sanctity of the marriage between the victims and their husbands.

Marital rape as ground for divorce: Supreme Court asks petitioner to approach Delhi High Court

At least 35&nbsp;people lost their lives after a matador vehicle fell into a gorge on Sunday in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district.

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Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Angrez Singh Rana: 10 dead and 7 have been injured after a matador vehicle coming from Keshwan to Kishtwar fell into a gorge, today. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/hTqhRcVzPO">pic.twitter.com/hTqhRcVzPO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1145543391817736192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Seventeen people were also injured in the incident out of whom three have been airlifted to Jammu for the treatment. Rest are being treated in a nearby hospital.

Another helicopter also flew to Kishtwar to airlift more injured.

According to a report, the driver lost control of the overloaded minibus while it was travelling from the Keshwan to Kishtwar causing the accident.

Rescue efforts have been launched as police and administration officials immediately rushed to the spot. Locals are also helping officials in the rescue efforts.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended his condolences&nbsp;to the families of&nbsp;lost their "loved ones"&nbsp;in the incident.

"Extremely saddened to learn about the loss of lives due to a road accident in Kishtwar, Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir," Amit Shah said, adding,&nbsp;"My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones."&nbsp;

"I pray of the speedy recovery of those injured," he also said. 
&nbsp;

At least 35 people lost their lives after a matador vehicle fell into a gorge on Sunday in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Angrez Singh Rana: 10 dead and 7 have been injured after a matador vehicle coming from Keshwan to Kishtwar fell into a gorge, today.

At least 35 people lost their lives after a matador vehicle fell into a gorge on Sunday in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district. Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar, Angrez Singh Rana: 10 dead and 7 have been injured after a matador vehicle coming from Keshwan to Kishtwar fell into a gorge, today. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/hTqhRcVzPO — ANI (@ANI) July 1, 2019 × Seventeen people were also injured in the incident out of whom three have been airlifted to Jammu for the treatment. Rest are being treated in a nearby hospital. Another helicopter also flew to Kishtwar to airlift more injured. According to a report, the driver lost control of the overloaded minibus while it was travelling from the Keshwan to Kishtwar causing the accident. Rescue efforts have been launched as police and administration officials immediately rushed to the spot. Locals are also helping officials in the rescue efforts. Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended his condolences to the families of lost their "loved ones" in the incident. "Extremely saddened to learn about the loss of lives due to a road accident in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir," Amit Shah said, adding, "My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones." "I pray of the speedy recovery of those injured," he also said.

J&K: 35 dead, 17 injured as overloaded minibus falls into gorge

Odisha has registered a deficit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-rains-imd-declares-onset-of-south-west-monsoon-for-maharashtra-capital-230394">rainfall</a> of 31.5 per cent in June this year, an official said.

The state received an average rainfall of 148.3 mm against the Long Term Average (LTA) of 216.5 mm during June.

On average, the state experiences 9.9 rainy days in June. However, this time, there were 7.4 rainy days during the month.

Of the 30 districts, Jajpur received the highest rainfall of 253.7 mm in June, whereas Gajapati district received the lowest of 59.8 mm, an official at the Special Relief Commissioner's (SRC) office said.

While four districts of Jajpur, Koraput, Dhenkanal and Nawarangpur recorded normal rainfall last month, rainfall in 18 districts remained deficit between 19 per cent and 39 per cent, the official said.

Rainfall in as many as six districts - Balangir, Keonjhar, Nuapada, Nayagarh, Kandhamal and Sundargarh - remained severe deficit between 39 per cent and 59 per cent during June.

Two districts of Rayagada and Gajapati received scanty rainfall in June, the official said.

Going by blocks, 19 blocks have received surplus rainfall and 73 blocks received normal rainfall in June.

While 90 blocks received deficit rainfall, 85 blocks received severe deficit rainfall and 47 blocks received scanty rainfall in June, he said.&nbsp;

Odisha has registered a deficit rainfall of 31.5 per cent in June this year, an official said. The state received an average rainfall of 148.3 mm against the Long Term Average (LTA) of 216.

Odisha has registered a deficit rainfall of 31.5 per cent in June this year, an official said. The state received an average rainfall of 148.3 mm against the Long Term Average (LTA) of 216.5 mm during June. On average, the state experiences 9.9 rainy days in June. However, this time, there were 7.4 rainy days during the month. Of the 30 districts, Jajpur received the highest rainfall of 253.7 mm in June, whereas Gajapati district received the lowest of 59.8 mm, an official at the Special Relief Commissioner's (SRC) office said. While four districts of Jajpur, Koraput, Dhenkanal and Nawarangpur recorded normal rainfall last month, rainfall in 18 districts remained deficit between 19 per cent and 39 per cent, the official said. Rainfall in as many as six districts - Balangir, Keonjhar, Nuapada, Nayagarh, Kandhamal and Sundargarh - remained severe deficit between 39 per cent and 59 per cent during June. Two districts of Rayagada and Gajapati received scanty rainfall in June, the official said. Going by blocks, 19 blocks have received surplus rainfall and 73 blocks received normal rainfall in June. While 90 blocks received deficit rainfall, 85 blocks received severe deficit rainfall and 47 blocks received scanty rainfall in June, he said.

Odisha receives 31.5 per cent deficit rain in June

Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council on Monday unanimously passed the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) Amendment Bill paving the way for reservation of Maratha community in jobs and education.

According to the amended bill, there will be 12 per cent reservation for Marathas in jobs and 13 per cent reservation in education.

The percentage was brought down by the Bombay High Court after it upheld the decision on Maratha reservation.

On June 27, the Bombay High Court had upheld the reservation given to the Maratha community in educational institutions and government jobs. A bench of Justices Ranjit More and Bharti Dangre, however, did not approve the quota of 16 per cent extended to the community.

The Maharashtra Assembly had, on November 30, in 2018, passed the Maratha Reservation Bill which extended 16 per cent reservation in educational institutions and government jobs to the Maratha community.

Following the decision of the state legislature, several petitions were filed contending that the reservation to the community will raise the reservation in the state from 52 per cent to 68 per cent, which is 18 per cent higher than the ceiling set by the Supreme Court.

On this, the High Court had said that 50 per cent cap on the reservation can be "extended in exceptional situations".&nbsp;

Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council on Monday unanimously passed the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) Amendment Bill paving the way for reservation of Maratha community in jobs and education.

Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council on Monday unanimously passed the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC) Amendment Bill paving the way for reservation of Maratha community in jobs and education. According to the amended bill, there will be 12 per cent reservation for Marathas in jobs and 13 per cent reservation in education. The percentage was brought down by the Bombay High Court after it upheld the decision on Maratha reservation. On June 27, the Bombay High Court had upheld the reservation given to the Maratha community in educational institutions and government jobs. A bench of Justices Ranjit More and Bharti Dangre, however, did not approve the quota of 16 per cent extended to the community. The Maharashtra Assembly had, on November 30, in 2018, passed the Maratha Reservation Bill which extended 16 per cent reservation in educational institutions and government jobs to the Maratha community. Following the decision of the state legislature, several petitions were filed contending that the reservation to the community will raise the reservation in the state from 52 per cent to 68 per cent, which is 18 per cent higher than the ceiling set by the Supreme Court. On this, the High Court had said that 50 per cent cap on the reservation can be "extended in exceptional situations".

Maharashtra Assembly passes SEBC Amendment Bill paving way for Maratha reservation

The first batch of pilgrims left for Amarnath cave shrine from Baltal base camp here on Monday morning, kicking off the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/massive-security-arrangement-for-amarnath-pilgrimage-231836">annual pilgrimage</a> to the 46-day-long yatra.

Amid tight security, the Amarnath yatra was flagged off by SSP Ganderbal Khalil Poswal and Gandetbal Additional Deputy Commissioner Shafaqat here.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik's advisor K K Sharma flagged off the first batch of devotees for Amarnath Yatra after performing puja at the Jammu base camp on Sunday.

Speaking to media, he said that the government has made all arrangements, including adequate security, for the yatra.

"On behalf of the government, we went to Pahalgam and Baltal yesterday, all arrangements for the well-being of the devotees have been made all through the route between Jammu and Srinagar," Sharma had said.

The pilgrims were welcomed by the district administration and locals at Tikri in Udhampur.

Governor Malik has given credit to local Muslims for conducting a peaceful yatra for the many past years.

He said,&nbsp;"We are making arrangements for security of the Amarnath Yatra but this yatra is not conducted by Army or Police. For many years it's being conducted by people of Kashmir, especially our Muslim brothers. It is conducted with their support."

Situated at an altitude of 3,888 m, the Amarnath cave is considered as one of the holiest shrines for Hindus.

The Amarnath Yatra is conducted every year during Shravani Mela, which starts from July and continues till August.

The Yatra takes place from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam track in Anantnag district and 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district.

The holy cave remains open during this period and it attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year.

The first batch of pilgrims left for Amarnath cave shrine from Baltal base camp here on Monday morning, kicking off the annual pilgrimage to the 46-day-long yatra.

The first batch of pilgrims left for Amarnath cave shrine from Baltal base camp here on Monday morning, kicking off the annual pilgrimage to the 46-day-long yatra. Amid tight security, the Amarnath yatra was flagged off by SSP Ganderbal Khalil Poswal and Gandetbal Additional Deputy Commissioner Shafaqat here. Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satyapal Malik's advisor K K Sharma flagged off the first batch of devotees for Amarnath Yatra after performing puja at the Jammu base camp on Sunday. Speaking to media, he said that the government has made all arrangements, including adequate security, for the yatra. "On behalf of the government, we went to Pahalgam and Baltal yesterday, all arrangements for the well-being of the devotees have been made all through the route between Jammu and Srinagar," Sharma had said. The pilgrims were welcomed by the district administration and locals at Tikri in Udhampur. Governor Malik has given credit to local Muslims for conducting a peaceful yatra for the many past years. He said, "We are making arrangements for security of the Amarnath Yatra but this yatra is not conducted by Army or Police. For many years it's being conducted by people of Kashmir, especially our Muslim brothers. It is conducted with their support." Situated at an altitude of 3,888 m, the Amarnath cave is considered as one of the holiest shrines for Hindus. The Amarnath Yatra is conducted every year during Shravani Mela, which starts from July and continues till August. The Yatra takes place from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam track in Anantnag district and 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district. The holy cave remains open during this period and it attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year.

First batch of pilgrims leaves for Amarnath cave kicking off the annual pilgrimage

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-govt-committed-to-bringing-kashmiri-pandits-back-to-valley-amit-shah-232113">Union Home Minister Amit Shah</a> on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat".

Shah began his speech by condoling the 35 lives lost in a bus accident that took place in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kishtwar-accident-jammu-kashmir-governor-satya-pal-malik-announces-ex-gratia-of-5-lakh-231960">Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir</a> today.

Renewing the promise made by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee while delivering <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-have-enough-state-governments-dont-prefer-ruling-jammu-and-kashmir-through-presidents-rule-amit-shah-232128">speech in Rajya Sabha</a>, Shah said, "Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that solution of Kashmir's problem should be in "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat", I reiterate today that Modi-led government is also working on Atal ji's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat".

While defining the terms, the minister said "Kashmiriyat" will protect the culture of Kashmir.

He added that Modi government's motto of development has been inherent in the term "Insaniyat" while "Jamuriyat" (democracy), is what the Centre is hoping to achieve through the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019.

Reiterating that ruling BJP-led NDA government has zero tolerance towards terrorism, the Union Minister said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Everyone knows Kashmir is ours and no one takes Kashmir away from India. Modi-led government has zero tolerance towards terrorism and we are committed to ending it."

Shah asserted that the Modi-led government brought development to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-approves-statutory-resolution-to-extend-presidents-rule-in-jammu-and-kashmir-for-6-months-232106">Jammu and Kashmir under President's Rule</a>.

&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat".

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is working on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, Insaniyat". Shah began his speech by condoling the 35 lives lost in a bus accident that took place in Kishtwar in Jammu and Kashmir today. Renewing the promise made by late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee while delivering speech in Rajya Sabha, Shah said, "Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that solution of Kashmir's problem should be in "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat", I reiterate today that Modi-led government is also working on Atal ji's path of "Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, and Insaniyat". While defining the terms, the minister said "Kashmiriyat" will protect the culture of Kashmir. He added that Modi government's motto of development has been inherent in the term "Insaniyat" while "Jamuriyat" (democracy), is what the Centre is hoping to achieve through the Jammu and Kashmir Reservation (Amendment) Bill, 2019. Reiterating that ruling BJP-led NDA government has zero tolerance towards terrorism, the Union Minister said, "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Everyone knows Kashmir is ours and no one takes Kashmir away from India. Modi-led government has zero tolerance towards terrorism and we are committed to ending it." Shah asserted that the Modi-led government brought development to Jammu and Kashmir under President's Rule.

Modi government working on Atal ji's path of 'Jamuriyat, Kashmiriyat, aur Insaniyat': Amit Shah

Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said he will raise the issue of deaths due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in the state Assembly on Monday.

"I will ask questions on crime and health issues in state Assembly," Yadav told reporters here.

When asked about his opponents'&nbsp;criticism over his "disappearance" post the Lok Sabha elections, Tejashwi, while rubbishing the comments, said he has already clarified his stance.

"I have already cleared my position with a tweet. They have nothing else to talk about," he said.

After his month-long absence from the public eye, Tejashwi had on June 28 said he was undergoing treatment for a ligament and ACL injury.

"Friends! For the last few weeks I was busy undergoing treatment for my long-delayed ligament &amp; ACL injury. However, I'm amused to see political opponents, as well as a section of media, cooking up spicy stories," Yadav had tweeted.

"Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers, leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament and that is why PM responded. My Dear Bihar! I am very much here," he had said in another tweet.

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Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers,leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament &amp; that’s why PM responded. My Dear Bihar!I am very much here
— Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavtejashwi/status/1144822519284658176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Monsoon session of Bihar Assembly started on June 28.&nbsp;

Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said he will raise the issue of deaths due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in the state Assembly on Monday. "I will ask questions on crime and health issues in state Assembly," Yadav told reporters here.

Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav said he will raise the issue of deaths due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in the state Assembly on Monday. "I will ask questions on crime and health issues in state Assembly," Yadav told reporters here. When asked about his opponents' criticism over his "disappearance" post the Lok Sabha elections, Tejashwi, while rubbishing the comments, said he has already clarified his stance. "I have already cleared my position with a tweet. They have nothing else to talk about," he said. After his month-long absence from the public eye, Tejashwi had on June 28 said he was undergoing treatment for a ligament and ACL injury. "Friends! For the last few weeks I was busy undergoing treatment for my long-delayed ligament & ACL injury. However, I'm amused to see political opponents, as well as a section of media, cooking up spicy stories," Yadav had tweeted. "Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers, leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament and that is why PM responded. My Dear Bihar! I am very much here," he had said in another tweet. Constantly following up the untimely loss of hundreds of poor kids due to AES. In this tragic moment asked party workers,leaders to visit affected families without getting into Photo-OP and MPs to raise it in Parliament & that’s why PM responded. My Dear Bihar!I am very much here — Tejashwi Yadav (@yadavtejashwi) June 29, 2019 × The Monsoon session of Bihar Assembly started on June 28.

Tejashwi Yadav to discuss encephalitis deaths in Bihar Assembly

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