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Two days after a junior doctor was allegedly attacked by relatives of a patient on Saturday evening, resident doctors at North Delhi`s Bara Hindu Rao hospital on Monday launched a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-doctors-strike-spreads-to-other-states-hospital-operations-hit-227037">protest demanding doctors'&nbsp;safety</a> and halted all Outdoor Patient Department (OPD) services.

Protesting doctors were seen raising slogans, "Save the Saviour" and "Band Karo OPD Band Karo" (shut down the OPD services) at the hospital. Abhishek Bhatia, a junior doctor told ANI, "A doctor was thrashed here on Saturday by relatives of a patient. He sustained grievous injuries.&nbsp;

The patient`s condition was not good and everything was explained about his medical condition yet 10-15 people came and thrashed our doctor in broad daylight."We will not let any OPD work take place unless the safety of doctors is ensured. Only emergency services will be functional," he added.

"The government should enhance rules and regulations for ensuring the safety of doctors," said another protesting junior doctor.

However, at the receiving end were the patients that had reached the hospital owing to different medical ailments but they were not attended by doctors due to the strike.&nbsp;

This comes weeks after a nationwide doctor`s strike triggered by another attack on a junior doctor at NRS hospital came to an end on June 18.

Two days after a junior doctor was allegedly attacked by relatives of a patient on Saturday evening, resident doctors at North Delhi`s Bara Hindu Rao hospital on Monday launched a protest demanding doctors' safety and halted all Outdoor Patient Department (OPD) services.

Two days after a junior doctor was allegedly attacked by relatives of a patient on Saturday evening, resident doctors at North Delhi`s Bara Hindu Rao hospital on Monday launched a protest demanding doctors' safety and halted all Outdoor Patient Department (OPD) services. Protesting doctors were seen raising slogans, "Save the Saviour" and "Band Karo OPD Band Karo" (shut down the OPD services) at the hospital. Abhishek Bhatia, a junior doctor told ANI, "A doctor was thrashed here on Saturday by relatives of a patient. He sustained grievous injuries. The patient`s condition was not good and everything was explained about his medical condition yet 10-15 people came and thrashed our doctor in broad daylight."We will not let any OPD work take place unless the safety of doctors is ensured. Only emergency services will be functional," he added. "The government should enhance rules and regulations for ensuring the safety of doctors," said another protesting junior doctor. However, at the receiving end were the patients that had reached the hospital owing to different medical ailments but they were not attended by doctors due to the strike. This comes weeks after a nationwide doctor`s strike triggered by another attack on a junior doctor at NRS hospital came to an end on June 18.

Delhi: Resident doctors go on strike after assault on their colleague

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley said on Monday that implementing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime two years ago was a monumental restructuring of one of the world`s clumsiest indirect tax system.

It was not an easy task and challenges to implement it were compounded by outlandish and exaggerated comments of the not so well-informed, he wrote in a blog post.

However, the Centre and states have pooled their fiscal rights in a collective forum to create one common market.

"My own experience of two years while chairing the GST Council was that finance ministers of states, notwithstanding the political position their parties take, have displayed a high level of statesmanship and acted with maturity. The council worked on the principle of consensus. This has added to the credibility of the decision-making process. I am sure this trend will continue in future," wrote Jaitley.

In the pre-GST regime, the states had multiple laws which entitled them to impose taxation at different points. There were twin challenges.

First, to get the states to agree because some of them felt they were losing their fiscal autonomy to tax. Second, to develop a consensus in the Parliament.

Jaitley said the states were scared of the fear of the unknown.

"The critical point which enabled the government to persuade the states was to cushion them with a 14 per cent annual increase from the tax base of 2015-16 for a period of five years."

The GST merged all these 17 different laws and created one single taxation. The pre-GST rate of taxation as a standard rate for the value-added tax was 14.5 per cent, excise at 12.5 per cent and added with the central sales tax and the cascading effect of tax on tax, the tax payable by the consumer was 31 per cent.

Entertainment tax was being levied by states from 35 per cent to 110 per cent.

The assessee had to file multiple returns, entertain multiple inspectors and additionally face the inefficiency with trucks being stranded at state boundaries for days altogether.

"The GST changed this scenario completely. Today, there is only one tax, online returns, no entry tax, no truck queues and no inter-state barriers, said Jaitley. "

After two years, one can confidently argue, without fear of contradiction that GST proved to be both consumer and assessee friendly.

The last two years have seen each of the GST Council meetings reducing the tax burden on consumers as the tax collections improved. An efficient tax system certainly leads to better compliance.

The 31 per cent tax, which was temporarily 28 per cent, has seen the largest single reform.

Most items of consumer use have been brought in the 18 per cent, 12 per cent and even 5 per cent category. Only luxury and sin goods remain in addition to some white goods.

The assessee base in the last two years has increased by 84 per cent. The number of assessees covered by the GST was around 65 lakh. Today, they are at 1.2 crores. This obviously leads to higher revenue collections.

In the eight months of 2017-18 (July to March), the average revenue collected per month was Rs 89,700 crore per month. In the next year (2018-19), the monthly average has increased by about 10 per cent to Rs.97,100 crore.

The fear of the states today is that for the first five years they get a guaranteed 14 per cent increase. The lurking doubt is as to what will happen after five years? Every state has been paid its share of tax as also from the compensation fund if necessary.

"We have just completed two years of GST. Already after the second year, 20 states are independently showing more than a 14 per cent increase in their revenues and the compensation fund in their case is not necessary,"&nbsp;said Jaitley.&nbsp;

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley said on Monday that implementing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime two years ago was a monumental restructuring of one of the world`s clumsiest indirect tax system.

Former finance minister Arun Jaitley said on Monday that implementing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime two years ago was a monumental restructuring of one of the world`s clumsiest indirect tax system. It was not an easy task and challenges to implement it were compounded by outlandish and exaggerated comments of the not so well-informed, he wrote in a blog post. However, the Centre and states have pooled their fiscal rights in a collective forum to create one common market. "My own experience of two years while chairing the GST Council was that finance ministers of states, notwithstanding the political position their parties take, have displayed a high level of statesmanship and acted with maturity. The council worked on the principle of consensus. This has added to the credibility of the decision-making process. I am sure this trend will continue in future," wrote Jaitley. In the pre-GST regime, the states had multiple laws which entitled them to impose taxation at different points. There were twin challenges. First, to get the states to agree because some of them felt they were losing their fiscal autonomy to tax. Second, to develop a consensus in the Parliament. Jaitley said the states were scared of the fear of the unknown. "The critical point which enabled the government to persuade the states was to cushion them with a 14 per cent annual increase from the tax base of 2015-16 for a period of five years." The GST merged all these 17 different laws and created one single taxation. The pre-GST rate of taxation as a standard rate for the value-added tax was 14.5 per cent, excise at 12.5 per cent and added with the central sales tax and the cascading effect of tax on tax, the tax payable by the consumer was 31 per cent. Entertainment tax was being levied by states from 35 per cent to 110 per cent. The assessee had to file multiple returns, entertain multiple inspectors and additionally face the inefficiency with trucks being stranded at state boundaries for days altogether. "The GST changed this scenario completely. Today, there is only one tax, online returns, no entry tax, no truck queues and no inter-state barriers, said Jaitley. " After two years, one can confidently argue, without fear of contradiction that GST proved to be both consumer and assessee friendly. The last two years have seen each of the GST Council meetings reducing the tax burden on consumers as the tax collections improved. An efficient tax system certainly leads to better compliance. The 31 per cent tax, which was temporarily 28 per cent, has seen the largest single reform. Most items of consumer use have been brought in the 18 per cent, 12 per cent and even 5 per cent category. Only luxury and sin goods remain in addition to some white goods. The assessee base in the last two years has increased by 84 per cent. The number of assessees covered by the GST was around 65 lakh. Today, they are at 1.2 crores. This obviously leads to higher revenue collections. In the eight months of 2017-18 (July to March), the average revenue collected per month was Rs 89,700 crore per month. In the next year (2018-19), the monthly average has increased by about 10 per cent to Rs.97,100 crore. The fear of the states today is that for the first five years they get a guaranteed 14 per cent increase. The lurking doubt is as to what will happen after five years? Every state has been paid its share of tax as also from the compensation fund if necessary. "We have just completed two years of GST. Already after the second year, 20 states are independently showing more than a 14 per cent increase in their revenues and the compensation fund in their case is not necessary," said Jaitley.

GST restructured one of the world's clumsiest indirect tax system: Arun Jaitley

Ahead of the meeting of Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states with party president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-working-committee-to-meet-this-week-over-rahuls-resignation-231962">Rahul Gandhi</a> today, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said only Gandhi can lead the party in the current scenario.

"All Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states will be meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi today at his residence to show our solidarity. Earlier also we all have stated that we are with Congress president and we own the responsibility of the 2019 debacle," Gehlot tweeted.

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We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched.
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1145566567859548160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched," he said in another tweet.

Gehlot went on to add that the 2019 Lok Sabha election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress.

"Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, BJP did manage to hide their huge failures behind their fanatic nationalism with help of enormous resources and government machinery at hand. But, in spite all odds, it's no secret how amidst opposition, only Congress president did his best to make it an issue-based election and took BJP head on," Gehlot stated.

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The 2019 election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress. Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, 
1/2
— Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashokgehlot51/status/1145566771111272448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Besides Gehlot, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, and Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy are expected to meet Gandhi.

The Chief Ministers had been planning to meet the Congress chief for long to request him to continue as the party chief. Also, they are likely to discuss the mass resignations taking place in the party.

Gandhi, who became the party president in 2017, offered to step down from his post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the Congress'&nbsp;abysmal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha Elections.

However, his resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. So far, several top leaders have met Gandhi and urged him to continue to lead the party.

Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince the 49-year-old party chief to rethink his decision, he remains unfazed.

The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than what the party won in 2014 polls.

Meanwhile, Congress workers sat on hunger strike outside party headquarters, urging Gandhi to take back his resignation from the post of party president.

Ahead of the meeting of Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states with party president Rahul Gandhi today, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said only Gandhi can lead the party in the current scenario.

Ahead of the meeting of Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states with party president Rahul Gandhi today, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said only Gandhi can lead the party in the current scenario. "All Chief Ministers of Congress-ruled states will be meeting Congress president Rahul Gandhi today at his residence to show our solidarity. Earlier also we all have stated that we are with Congress president and we own the responsibility of the 2019 debacle," Gehlot tweeted. We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched. — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) July 1, 2019 × "We firmly believe that only he can lead the party in the current scenario, his commitment towards well being of our country and countrymen is un-compromised and unmatched," he said in another tweet. Gehlot went on to add that the 2019 Lok Sabha election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress. "Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, BJP did manage to hide their huge failures behind their fanatic nationalism with help of enormous resources and government machinery at hand. But, in spite all odds, it's no secret how amidst opposition, only Congress president did his best to make it an issue-based election and took BJP head on," Gehlot stated. The 2019 election was not a defeat of program, policy and ideology of the Congress. Although, it was very unfortunate to see that despite the failure of Modi government on various fronts including the depleting economy, 1/2 — Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) July 1, 2019 × Besides Gehlot, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, and Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy are expected to meet Gandhi. The Chief Ministers had been planning to meet the Congress chief for long to request him to continue as the party chief. Also, they are likely to discuss the mass resignations taking place in the party. Gandhi, who became the party president in 2017, offered to step down from his post at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on May 25, taking moral responsibility for the Congress' abysmal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha Elections. However, his resignation offer was unanimously rejected by the CWC. So far, several top leaders have met Gandhi and urged him to continue to lead the party. Despite senior members making serious attempts to convince the 49-year-old party chief to rethink his decision, he remains unfazed. The Congress won 52 seats in the recent general elections, which is just eight more than what the party won in 2014 polls. Meanwhile, Congress workers sat on hunger strike outside party headquarters, urging Gandhi to take back his resignation from the post of party president.

Only Rahul Gandhi can lead Congress in current scenario: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 Lakh each to the next of the kin of the deceased and Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar accident on Sunday.

At least 35 people lost their lives in Kishtwar district after a minibus fell into a gorge while it was travelling from Keshwan. Seventeen people have also been injured in the incident and are now being treated in a nearby hospital.

The incident took place after the driver of the minibus lost control and the vehicle fell into a gorge.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence to the families of the deceased and said that the accident is "heart-wrenching".

"The accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar is heart-wrenching. We mourn all those who lost their lives and express condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest," PM Modi said on Twitter.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that he is "extremely saddened" by the incident and will "pray for the speedy recovery" of those who were injured.

"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."&nbsp;

"I pray of the speedy recovery of those injured," he also said.

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also offered her condolences and tweeted, " Saddened to hear about the tragic accident in Kishtwar. Deepest condolences to families of the bereaved".

Omar Abdullah, Jammu &amp; Kashmir National Conference leader, also condoled the accident and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured through his Twitter account.

"Terrible news coming in about the high death toll in a bus accident in Kishtwar. Condolences to the families of the deceased &amp; prayers for the swift recovery of the injured," he tweeted.

Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 Lakh each to the next of the kin of the deceased and Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar accident on Sunday.

Jammu and Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announced ex-gratia of Rs 5 Lakh each to the next of the kin of the deceased and Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar accident on Sunday. At least 35 people lost their lives in Kishtwar district after a minibus fell into a gorge while it was travelling from Keshwan. Seventeen people have also been injured in the incident and are now being treated in a nearby hospital. The incident took place after the driver of the minibus lost control and the vehicle fell into a gorge. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolence to the families of the deceased and said that the accident is "heart-wrenching". "The accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar is heart-wrenching. We mourn all those who lost their lives and express condolences to the bereaved families. May the injured recover at the earliest," PM Modi said on Twitter. Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that he is "extremely saddened" by the incident and will "pray for the speedy recovery" of those who were injured. "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. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also offered her condolences and tweeted, " Saddened to hear about the tragic accident in Kishtwar. Deepest condolences to families of the bereaved". Omar Abdullah, Jammu & Kashmir National Conference leader, also condoled the accident and offered prayers for the swift recovery of the injured through his Twitter account. "Terrible news coming in about the high death toll in a bus accident in Kishtwar. Condolences to the families of the deceased & prayers for the swift recovery of the injured," he tweeted.

Kishtwar accident: Jammu & Kashmir governor Satya Pal Malik announces ex-gratia of 5 Lakh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns with his monthly radio broadcast Mann ki Baat today. On February 24, days before the Lok Sabha elections were announced, he had suspended his monthly broadcast for March and April. Confident of his return, PM Modi had said he will be back with the Mann ki Baat programme on the last Sunday of May.

PM Modi's Mann ki Baat 2.0, 30th June,2019

In the first edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'&nbsp;after Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the resistance against the national emergency in the 1970s was not limited to the political arena or politicians but even general public felt something was 'snatched'&nbsp;from them.

"When Emergency was imposed, resistance against it was not limited to the political arena or politicians; the movement was not curtailed to the confines of prison cells. There was an outrage in the conscience of one and all," Prime Minister Modi said.

"In normal life, one realises the importance of democratic rights when someone snatches them. During Emergency, every citizen felt that something that belonged to them has been snatched away. If what was snatched had never been enjoyed by that person, ever, it had to eventually precipitate into a painful inner agony," he added.

He went on to add, "Perhaps, nowhere else in the world had citizens voted, without bothering about other rights and requirements, just for the sake of saving democracy. And the country witnessed one such election in 1977."

This was not the first time when the Prime Minister talked about the Emergency period.

On June 25, Prime Minister Modi, he made a veiled attack on late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for imposing emergency in the 1970s and said that the soul of the country was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power.

"Today is June 25. On the night of June 25, the soul of the country was crushed. In India, democracy does not come into existence from the pages of the Constitution; it has been our soul for decades. That soul was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power," he had said while replying to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha.

June 25 marked the day when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had declared a state of Emergency in the country from 1975 to 1977. The for a 21-month period saw media censorship, restrictions on civil rights and forced mass sterilisation of men.&nbsp;

In the first edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' after Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the resistance against the national emergency in the 1970s was not limited to the political arena or politicians but even general public felt something was 'snatched' from them.

In the first edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' after Lok Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the resistance against the national emergency in the 1970s was not limited to the political arena or politicians but even general public felt something was 'snatched' from them. "When Emergency was imposed, resistance against it was not limited to the political arena or politicians; the movement was not curtailed to the confines of prison cells. There was an outrage in the conscience of one and all," Prime Minister Modi said. "In normal life, one realises the importance of democratic rights when someone snatches them. During Emergency, every citizen felt that something that belonged to them has been snatched away. If what was snatched had never been enjoyed by that person, ever, it had to eventually precipitate into a painful inner agony," he added. He went on to add, "Perhaps, nowhere else in the world had citizens voted, without bothering about other rights and requirements, just for the sake of saving democracy. And the country witnessed one such election in 1977." This was not the first time when the Prime Minister talked about the Emergency period. On June 25, Prime Minister Modi, he made a veiled attack on late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for imposing emergency in the 1970s and said that the soul of the country was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power. "Today is June 25. On the night of June 25, the soul of the country was crushed. In India, democracy does not come into existence from the pages of the Constitution; it has been our soul for decades. That soul was crushed just because they wanted to remain in power," he had said while replying to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha. June 25 marked the day when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had declared a state of Emergency in the country from 1975 to 1977. The for a 21-month period saw media censorship, restrictions on civil rights and forced mass sterilisation of men.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi discusses emergency in Mann Ki Baat

A day after, Bhopal court granted bail to Akash Vijayvargiya in an assault case, the BJP MLA was released from Indore District jail on Sunday.

On his release, Akash was welcomed with flower garlands by his supporters and relatives.

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Madhya Pradesh: Celebratory firing outside BJP MLA Akash Vijayvargiya's office in Indore after he got bail in an assault case. (29-06) <a href="https://t.co/d1j2d03hLY">pic.twitter.com/d1j2d03hLY</a>
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Speaking to ANI, the BJP legislator, who was jailed for thrashing a municipal corporation officer with a bat, said he was not embarrassed or guilty of what he did as he could not think of anything else when women were being mistreated.

"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 said, adding that he hopes he would not have to pick up the cricket bat again.

"We work for public interest and dedicate each and every moment of our lives for the peace and prosperity of people of this country. We will continue doing that. I pray to god ki vo dobara ballebazi karne ka avsar na de (I Pray to God that I should not be given another opportunity to pick up the bat," he added.

Akash, son of BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, was arrested on June 26.

The Indore-3 MLA's release was preponed by two hours keeping in mind the law and order situation in the city.

Owing to an earlier release, a celebratory rally could not be held by his supporters.

A day after, Bhopal court granted bail to Akash Vijayvargiya in an assault case, the BJP MLA was released from Indore District jail on Sunday. On his release, Akash was welcomed with flower garlands by his supporters and relatives.

A day after, Bhopal court granted bail to Akash Vijayvargiya in an assault case, the BJP MLA was released from Indore District jail on Sunday. On his release, Akash was welcomed with flower garlands by his supporters and relatives. Madhya Pradesh: Celebratory firing outside BJP MLA Akash Vijayvargiya's office in Indore after he got bail in an assault case. (29-06) pic.twitter.com/d1j2d03hLY — ANI (@ANI) June 30, 2019 × Speaking to ANI, the BJP legislator, who was jailed for thrashing a municipal corporation officer with a bat, said he was not embarrassed or guilty of what he did as he could not think of anything else when women were being mistreated. "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 said, adding that he hopes he would not have to pick up the cricket bat again. "We work for public interest and dedicate each and every moment of our lives for the peace and prosperity of people of this country. We will continue doing that. I pray to god ki vo dobara ballebazi karne ka avsar na de (I Pray to God that I should not be given another opportunity to pick up the bat," he added. Akash, son of BJP National General Secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya, was arrested on June 26. The Indore-3 MLA's release was preponed by two hours keeping in mind the law and order situation in the city. Owing to an earlier release, a celebratory rally could not be held by his supporters.

BJP MLA Akash Vijayvargiya released from jail, says 'not embarrassed' of thrashing officer

People residing in Mumbai woke up to heavy rains on Sunday.

After months of sunshine and heat, the rains came as a huge sigh of relief. However, the heavy downpour resulted in water logging on the streets causing massive traffic congestion.

According to Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, Mumbai finally clocked its first spell of three-digit rainfall on Friday to the tune of 235 mm.

Besides, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted "heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places with extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places very likely over Odisha"

"Heavy rainfall at a few places with very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Konkan and Goa," it stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

The IMD has also issued a warning of thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds (30-40 kmph) at isolated places very likely over East Rajasthan and East Uttar Pradesh.

The duststorm (30-40 kmph) at isolated places is very likely over Haryana and West Uttar Pradesh.

Rough to very rough sea conditions (with wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph) is likely to prevail over west-central and adjoining southwest Arabian Sea, south and adjoining central Bay of Bengal; the North Bay of Bengal and along and off south Gujarat-Maharashtra-Goa coasts.

The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas.&nbsp;

People residing in Mumbai woke up to heavy rains on Sunday. After months of sunshine and heat, the rains came as a huge sigh of relief. However, the heavy downpour resulted in water logging on the streets causing massive traffic congestion.

People residing in Mumbai woke up to heavy rains on Sunday. After months of sunshine and heat, the rains came as a huge sigh of relief. However, the heavy downpour resulted in water logging on the streets causing massive traffic congestion. According to Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, Mumbai finally clocked its first spell of three-digit rainfall on Friday to the tune of 235 mm. Besides, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted "heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places with extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places very likely over Odisha" "Heavy rainfall at a few places with very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Konkan and Goa," it stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. The IMD has also issued a warning of thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds (30-40 kmph) at isolated places very likely over East Rajasthan and East Uttar Pradesh. The duststorm (30-40 kmph) at isolated places is very likely over Haryana and West Uttar Pradesh. Rough to very rough sea conditions (with wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph) is likely to prevail over west-central and adjoining southwest Arabian Sea, south and adjoining central Bay of Bengal; the North Bay of Bengal and along and off south Gujarat-Maharashtra-Goa coasts. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas.

Mumbai: Heavy rains bring city to a standstill

The annual <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devotees-upbeat-as-first-batch-of-pilgrims-leaving-for-amarnath-shrine-on-sunday-231484">Amarnath pilgrimage</a> will begin today amid tight security arrangement given the terror threat in Jammu and Kashmir. Around forty thousand security personnel have been deployed and modern technology has been pushed to service to thwart any attempts to disrupt the yatra.&nbsp;

The 46-day-long Amarnath pilgrimage to the cave shrine located at an altitude of 3,880 meters in south Kashmir's Anantnag will witness lakhs of devotees. Thousands of pilgrims have already reached Kashmir from different parts of India for the holy pilgrimage. Foolproof arrangements have been made to thwart any attempts by the terrorists to derail the yatra.&nbsp;

The Indian Army, the CRPF, the BSF and other paramilitary forces are dotting the national highway where terrorists frequently target security forces in the state. Strong directions by Home Minister Amit Shah to strictly implement the standard operating procedures for the pilgrimage has got the administration on toes. &nbsp;

But what has been interesting this year is the use of modern technology. CCTV cameras have been installed almost at every corner and street. Modern bulletproof vehicles have also been sent to the valley on the directions of the union government. Drones have also been pressed into service to monitor the dense forest area which could be used by terrorists to hide.&nbsp;

“For the yatra, we have made all security arrangements. Pilgrims are coming here with enthusiasm and the government has made all necessary arrangement for the safe yatra,” &nbsp;DS Ambeah, DIG CRPF told WION.&nbsp;

The government has been directed to ensure optimum use of the latest technologies and gadgets including tracking chips. These chips have been installed in vehicles to locate and check the locations. This will also help the administration to keep a check of every vehicle and stop unregistered pilgrims.&nbsp;

“The security arrangements are very good, in fact, I am coming here for the second time. We aren’t worried at all. We were escorted in bulletproof cars by the security forces,” said a pilgrim from Punjab.&nbsp;

This all is part of the big move by the Centre to stop any Pulwama-like suicide blast.&nbsp;

The annual Amarnath pilgrimage will begin today amid tight security arrangement given the terror threat in Jammu and Kashmir. Around forty thousand security personnel have been deployed and modern technology has been pushed to service to thwart any attempts to disrupt the yatra.

The annual Amarnath pilgrimage will begin today amid tight security arrangement given the terror threat in Jammu and Kashmir. Around forty thousand security personnel have been deployed and modern technology has been pushed to service to thwart any attempts to disrupt the yatra. The 46-day-long Amarnath pilgrimage to the cave shrine located at an altitude of 3,880 meters in south Kashmir's Anantnag will witness lakhs of devotees. Thousands of pilgrims have already reached Kashmir from different parts of India for the holy pilgrimage. Foolproof arrangements have been made to thwart any attempts by the terrorists to derail the yatra. The Indian Army, the CRPF, the BSF and other paramilitary forces are dotting the national highway where terrorists frequently target security forces in the state. Strong directions by Home Minister Amit Shah to strictly implement the standard operating procedures for the pilgrimage has got the administration on toes. But what has been interesting this year is the use of modern technology. CCTV cameras have been installed almost at every corner and street. Modern bulletproof vehicles have also been sent to the valley on the directions of the union government. Drones have also been pressed into service to monitor the dense forest area which could be used by terrorists to hide. “For the yatra, we have made all security arrangements. Pilgrims are coming here with enthusiasm and the government has made all necessary arrangement for the safe yatra,” DS Ambeah, DIG CRPF told WION. The government has been directed to ensure optimum use of the latest technologies and gadgets including tracking chips. These chips have been installed in vehicles to locate and check the locations. This will also help the administration to keep a check of every vehicle and stop unregistered pilgrims. “The security arrangements are very good, in fact, I am coming here for the second time. We aren’t worried at all. We were escorted in bulletproof cars by the security forces,” said a pilgrim from Punjab. This all is part of the big move by the Centre to stop any Pulwama-like suicide blast.

Massive security arrangement for Amarnath pilgrimage

The Chief Judicial Magistrate court on Saturday issued a direction to impose sedition charges on 44 people accused of instigating violence in Chingravathi area of Bulandshahr on December 3 last year.

In the violence that ensued in Bulandshahr, Kumar and a local youth were killed when a mob went on a rampage over allegations of illegal cow slaughter.

The court pronounced its order after hearing arguments of both the sides and approval of the administration.

"When the charge sheet was filed in this case, at that time the court had not put Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) because there was no permission from the administration. Later when they got the permission, the court has allowed to put the sedition charge," said defence lawyer Sanjay Sharma.

"We will now move to the High Court and will file a plea there soon," he added.

Earlier this week, while speaking to ANI, Investigation Officer in the case Raghavendra Mishra had said, "I have got the approval of the administration for placing sedition charge under section 124-A of the IPC against the 44 accused of Syana violence here."

"On February 19 this year we had made correspondence with the administration for placing sedition charges against the 44 accused. Today I got the letter of approval that I have submitted in the court," he added.

Violence had erupted in the city after carcasses of 25 cattle were found in the forests close to a police station. Locals had alleged the carcasses were of cows, slaughtered illegally.&nbsp;

The Chief Judicial Magistrate court on Saturday issued a direction to impose sedition charges on 44 people accused of instigating violence in Chingravathi area of Bulandshahr on December 3 last year.

The Chief Judicial Magistrate court on Saturday issued a direction to impose sedition charges on 44 people accused of instigating violence in Chingravathi area of Bulandshahr on December 3 last year. In the violence that ensued in Bulandshahr, Kumar and a local youth were killed when a mob went on a rampage over allegations of illegal cow slaughter. The court pronounced its order after hearing arguments of both the sides and approval of the administration. "When the charge sheet was filed in this case, at that time the court had not put Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) because there was no permission from the administration. Later when they got the permission, the court has allowed to put the sedition charge," said defence lawyer Sanjay Sharma. "We will now move to the High Court and will file a plea there soon," he added. Earlier this week, while speaking to ANI, Investigation Officer in the case Raghavendra Mishra had said, "I have got the approval of the administration for placing sedition charge under section 124-A of the IPC against the 44 accused of Syana violence here." "On February 19 this year we had made correspondence with the administration for placing sedition charges against the 44 accused. Today I got the letter of approval that I have submitted in the court," he added. Violence had erupted in the city after carcasses of 25 cattle were found in the forests close to a police station. Locals had alleged the carcasses were of cows, slaughtered illegally.

Bulandshahr violence: Court issues direction to impose sedition charges on 44 accused

Many Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and leaders joined the BJP here in presence of West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh.

The inclusion of TMC workers into BJP took place at the Jogdaan Mela organised by the party on Saturday.

Prior to the event, 20 BJP workers were admitted to a hospital after they were attacked by unidentified people on their way to the function.&nbsp;

Many Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and leaders joined the BJP here in presence of West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh. The inclusion of TMC workers into BJP took place at the Jogdaan Mela organised by the party on Saturday.

Many Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers and leaders joined the BJP here in presence of West Bengal BJP President Dilip Ghosh. The inclusion of TMC workers into BJP took place at the Jogdaan Mela organised by the party on Saturday. Prior to the event, 20 BJP workers were admitted to a hospital after they were attacked by unidentified people on their way to the function.

TMC workers join BJP in presence of West Bengal party president Dilip Ghosh

With two more deaths, the toll due to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) rose to 136 in the district on Sunday.

As per the official data, Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, has reported 115 deaths so far.

No new death was reported at Kejriwal Hospital where 21 children have lost their lives fighting with the disease.

AES is a viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms such as high fever, vomiting and in extreme cases, brain dysfunction, seizure, and inflammation of heart and kidney.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, had termed the AES deaths as "unfortunate" and "a matter of shame for the nation.

"The Supreme Court had on June 24 expressed "serious concerns" over the rising number of deaths due to the disease, saying "it is a matter of great concern."

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the children who died due to AES.

He has also given directions to the Health Department, District Administration, and doctors to take necessary measures for the containment of the disease.&nbsp;

With two more deaths, the toll due to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) rose to 136 in the district on Sunday. As per the official data, Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, has reported 115 deaths so far.

With two more deaths, the toll due to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) rose to 136 in the district on Sunday. As per the official data, Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, has reported 115 deaths so far. No new death was reported at Kejriwal Hospital where 21 children have lost their lives fighting with the disease. AES is a viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms such as high fever, vomiting and in extreme cases, brain dysfunction, seizure, and inflammation of heart and kidney. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while speaking in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, had termed the AES deaths as "unfortunate" and "a matter of shame for the nation. "The Supreme Court had on June 24 expressed "serious concerns" over the rising number of deaths due to the disease, saying "it is a matter of great concern." Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had announced a compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the children who died due to AES. He has also given directions to the Health Department, District Administration, and doctors to take necessary measures for the containment of the disease.

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome death toll climbs to 136 in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed the Navy and called it the most important component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's "Act East Policy".

"I believe the Indian Navy is working as the most important component in our 'Act East Policy'. I believe Indian Navy will keep growing its strength," Singh said at the Eastern Naval Command headquarters here.

He also said that the Navy becomes more significant given neighbouring China's provocative activities. "Our neighbour China is always up to some activity or the other," he said.

He said the force not only plays an important role in maritime security but also assists authorities in tackling natural calamities.

Singh promised the naval personnel that he will try his best in resolving their housing problems. "I have been apprised about the housing problem. I will try my best to sort it out," he said.

Singh was on his maiden visit to the Eastern Naval Command as defence minister where he was briefed on the operational readiness of the Command and other aspects of maritime and coastal security on the eastern seaboard.

The minister also visited Indian Navy Submarines (INS) Shivalik and Sindhukirti and interacted with the crew members.

"Visited the indigenously conceived, designed and constructed frontline stealth frigate INS Shivalik and Indian Naval Submarine Sindhukirti at Visakhapatnam today. Indian Navy is maintaining a constant vigil against maritime threats and safeguarding our Nation's maritime interests," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed the Navy and called it the most important component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's "Act East Policy".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed the Navy and called it the most important component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's "Act East Policy". "I believe the Indian Navy is working as the most important component in our 'Act East Policy'. I believe Indian Navy will keep growing its strength," Singh said at the Eastern Naval Command headquarters here. He also said that the Navy becomes more significant given neighbouring China's provocative activities. "Our neighbour China is always up to some activity or the other," he said. He said the force not only plays an important role in maritime security but also assists authorities in tackling natural calamities. Singh promised the naval personnel that he will try his best in resolving their housing problems. "I have been apprised about the housing problem. I will try my best to sort it out," he said. Singh was on his maiden visit to the Eastern Naval Command as defence minister where he was briefed on the operational readiness of the Command and other aspects of maritime and coastal security on the eastern seaboard. The minister also visited Indian Navy Submarines (INS) Shivalik and Sindhukirti and interacted with the crew members. "Visited the indigenously conceived, designed and constructed frontline stealth frigate INS Shivalik and Indian Naval Submarine Sindhukirti at Visakhapatnam today. Indian Navy is maintaining a constant vigil against maritime threats and safeguarding our Nation's maritime interests," he tweeted.

Navy has important role in Act East Policy: Rajnath Singh

Pune sessions court has sent two accused Vipul Agrawal and Vivek Agrawal to police custody till July 2 in connection with Pune wall collapse incident.

Both Vipul and Vivek Agrawal were developers of Alcon Stylus housing society.

Pune Police yesterday arrested them in connection with a wall collapse incident in which 15 people lost their lives.

An FIR had been registered against eight people, including construction builders, site engineer, and construction supervisor at Kondhwa Police station.

All accused have been booked under Section 302 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the people killed and also ordered an inquiry.

A three-member team has been formed to probe the wall collapse incident. Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrakant Patil also announced that the NDRF will give compensation of Rs 4 lakh to families of 15 Bihar-based workers who lost their lives.

Meanwhile, the Bihar government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for kin of the victims and Rs 50,000 for the injured who hail from the state.

At least 15 people died while three others sustained injuries after a portion of a wall collapsed near Talab Masjid in Kondhwa area of Pune in the wee hours of Saturday.

An official from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) told ANI that the wall collapsed due to heavy downpour in the city.&nbsp;

Pune sessions court has sent two accused Vipul Agrawal and Vivek Agrawal to police custody till July 2 in connection with Pune wall collapse incident. Both Vipul and Vivek Agrawal were developers of Alcon Stylus housing society.

Pune sessions court has sent two accused Vipul Agrawal and Vivek Agrawal to police custody till July 2 in connection with Pune wall collapse incident. Both Vipul and Vivek Agrawal were developers of Alcon Stylus housing society. Pune Police yesterday arrested them in connection with a wall collapse incident in which 15 people lost their lives. An FIR had been registered against eight people, including construction builders, site engineer, and construction supervisor at Kondhwa Police station. All accused have been booked under Section 302 and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the people killed and also ordered an inquiry. A three-member team has been formed to probe the wall collapse incident. Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrakant Patil also announced that the NDRF will give compensation of Rs 4 lakh to families of 15 Bihar-based workers who lost their lives. Meanwhile, the Bihar government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh for kin of the victims and Rs 50,000 for the injured who hail from the state. At least 15 people died while three others sustained injuries after a portion of a wall collapsed near Talab Masjid in Kondhwa area of Pune in the wee hours of Saturday. An official from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) told ANI that the wall collapsed due to heavy downpour in the city.

Pune wall collapse: Two accused sent to police custody till July 2

One terrorist was gunned down by security forces on Sunday as encounter broke out in a Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Sunday. The operation is still underway.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> CRPF: One terrorist has been killed in Budgam encounter, operation continues. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/JKEESUDqKq">pic.twitter.com/JKEESUDqKq</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1145173634820055040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area, following information about the presence of terrorists there.&nbsp;

As the forces were conducting searches, the hiding terrorists fired upon them. The security forces retaliated the firing, triggering off a gunbattle.

The identity of the slain terrorist is yet to ascertain.

Further details are awaited.

On Friday, a terrorist was killed in the same district during an encounter. Later the slain terrorist was identified as a Pakistani national name Zarar who was affiliated to Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.

On June 23, four terrorists were gunned down in Shopian district.

One terrorist was gunned down by security forces on Sunday as encounter broke out in a Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Sunday. The operation is still underway.

One terrorist was gunned down by security forces on Sunday as encounter broke out in a Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Sunday. The operation is still underway. #UPDATE CRPF: One terrorist has been killed in Budgam encounter, operation continues. #JammuAndKashmir pic.twitter.com/JKEESUDqKq — ANI (@ANI) June 30, 2019 × Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area, following information about the presence of terrorists there. As the forces were conducting searches, the hiding terrorists fired upon them. The security forces retaliated the firing, triggering off a gunbattle. The identity of the slain terrorist is yet to ascertain. Further details are awaited. On Friday, a terrorist was killed in the same district during an encounter. Later the slain terrorist was identified as a Pakistani national name Zarar who was affiliated to Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. On June 23, four terrorists were gunned down in Shopian district.

Jammu and Kashmir: One terrorist killed in Budgam encounter

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-eyes-a-breakthrough-as-us-taliban-resume-talks-on-ending-war-231605">Washington eyes breakthrough as US, Taliban resume talks on ending war</a>

The United States and the Taliban opened fresh negotiations in Doha on Saturday, a Taliban spokesman said, as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan's September presidential election.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-very-much-wants-to-trump-on-possible-encounter-with-kim-231613">'He very much wants to': Trump on possible encounter with Kim</a>

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that Kim Jong-un "very much wants" to meet him, a day after inviting the North Korean leader for a handshake in the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) that divides the peninsula, reported news agency AFP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigation-is-still-underway-french-ambassador-on-data-theft-from-indian-air-forces-rafale-team-office-in-paris-231603">'Probe underway': French envoy on data theft during break-in into Rafale project team office in Paris</a>

French ambassador to India, Alexandre Ziegler, on Saturday said the investigation into a possible data theft during the break-in into the Rafale project management team office in Paris is still underway.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-intercepts-two-yemen-rebel-drones-coalition-231615">Saudi Arabia intercepts two Yemen rebel drones: Riyadh-led coalition</a>

Two Yemeni rebel drones targeting southern Saudi Arabia were intercepted on Saturday, a Riyadh-led military coalition said, the latest in a series of assaults on the kingdom.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/first-mann-ki-baat-after-modis-return-to-power-to-air-today-231604">First 'Mann ki Baat' after Modi's return to power to air today</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power.

&nbsp;

Washington eyes breakthrough as US, Taliban resume talks on ending war The United States and the Taliban opened fresh negotiations in Doha on Saturday, a Taliban spokesman said, as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan's September presidential election.

Washington eyes breakthrough as US, Taliban resume talks on ending war The United States and the Taliban opened fresh negotiations in Doha on Saturday, a Taliban spokesman said, as Washington eyes a breakthrough before Afghanistan's September presidential election. 'He very much wants to': Trump on possible encounter with Kim US President Donald Trump said Sunday that Kim Jong-un "very much wants" to meet him, a day after inviting the North Korean leader for a handshake in the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) that divides the peninsula, reported news agency AFP. 'Probe underway': French envoy on data theft during break-in into Rafale project team office in Paris French ambassador to India, Alexandre Ziegler, on Saturday said the investigation into a possible data theft during the break-in into the Rafale project management team office in Paris is still underway. Saudi Arabia intercepts two Yemen rebel drones: Riyadh-led coalition Two Yemeni rebel drones targeting southern Saudi Arabia were intercepted on Saturday, a Riyadh-led military coalition said, the latest in a series of assaults on the kingdom. First 'Mann ki Baat' after Modi's return to power to air today Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US national security advisor Robert O'Brien will represent the United States at back-to-back virtual summits with Asian countries this weekend, the White House said on Friday.

O'Brien will lead the US delegation in talks with the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) beginning on Friday evening US time, or Saturday morning in Asia.

"Ambassador O'Brien will reaffirm the commitment of the United States to prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific during virtual remarks," the White House said in a statement.

O'Brien will participate in a broader East Asia Summit on Sunday, when 15 Asia-Pacific economies - excluding the United States - are expected to sign a China-backed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, which could become the world's largest free trade agreement.

It will be the third year in a row that the United States has been represented in the East Asia meetings at a relatively low level, even though the outgoing administration of President Donald Trump had declared the Asia Pacific and competition with China a foreign policy priority.

Trump is preoccupied with challenging the results of last week's U.S. presidential election and has refused to concede defeat to Democratic President-elect Joe Biden, who is due to take office in January.

While Trump attended the US-ASEAN summit in Manila in 2017, he has never attended a full EAS meeting. Vice-President Mike Pence represented the United States at the meetings in Singapore in 2018, while O'Brien did so in Thailand last year.

US national security advisor Robert O'Brien will represent the United States at back-to-back virtual summits with Asian countries this weekend, the White House said on Friday.

US national security advisor Robert O'Brien will represent the United States at back-to-back virtual summits with Asian countries this weekend, the White House said on Friday. O'Brien will lead the US delegation in talks with the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) beginning on Friday evening US time, or Saturday morning in Asia. "Ambassador O'Brien will reaffirm the commitment of the United States to prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific during virtual remarks," the White House said in a statement. O'Brien will participate in a broader East Asia Summit on Sunday, when 15 Asia-Pacific economies - excluding the United States - are expected to sign a China-backed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, which could become the world's largest free trade agreement. It will be the third year in a row that the United States has been represented in the East Asia meetings at a relatively low level, even though the outgoing administration of President Donald Trump had declared the Asia Pacific and competition with China a foreign policy priority. Trump is preoccupied with challenging the results of last week's U.S. presidential election and has refused to concede defeat to Democratic President-elect Joe Biden, who is due to take office in January. While Trump attended the US-ASEAN summit in Manila in 2017, he has never attended a full EAS meeting. Vice-President Mike Pence represented the United States at the meetings in Singapore in 2018, while O'Brien did so in Thailand last year.

IMD predicts heavy rainfall in parts of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh in next 2-3 days

The exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, Dalai Lama came under fire on Sunday as he said, his successor in case of woman needs to "more attractive" otherwise people would not "prefer" seeing her face.

In 2015, during an interview with BBC, the Dalai Lama had commented that if a female Dalai Lama comes then she would have to be attractive, "otherwise it’s not much use."

In the latest interview, the BBC reporter again asked about his stand on his earlier comments to which he reiterated that the female Dalai Lama should be "more attractive" or &nbsp;people would prefer " not see her, that face."

"If a female Dalai Lama comes, she should be more attractive," Dalai Lama answered adding, If not, "people, I think prefer, not see her, that face."&nbsp;

"Real beauty is inner beauty, that's true. But we're human beings. I think the appearance is also important," Lama said in an answer when the reporter asked him "It's about who you are inside, isn't it".

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This was perhaps the most surprising moment in the interview. I asked the Dalai Lama if he stood by his earlier comment that if his successor was female, she should be attractive. 
 
He said he did. Watch here:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DalaiLama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DalaiLama</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBCDalaiLama?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBCDalaiLama</a>. <a href="https://t.co/QAy0EFDZTT">pic.twitter.com/QAy0EFDZTT</a>
— Rajini Vaidyanathan (@BBCRajiniV) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCRajiniV/status/1144254308176879616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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I am curious to know if attractiveness was a quality looked for when monks went to look for him??? ‘We have found the Dalai Lama but wait he is not attractive’
— Claire Chambers (@ClaritanicA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClaritanicA/status/1144563032829440002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Dalai Lama has stood by his earlier comments that if his successor was female, she should be attractive. And this is the man we look to for inspiration. Sure he’s just like every other man. <a href="https://t.co/pS6y0qt6F9">https://t.co/pS6y0qt6F9</a>
— Bríd Stenson (@bridstenson) <a href="https://twitter.com/bridstenson/status/1144561587744923648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Apart from these, The Nobel peace prize winner also raised eyebrows as he said that European nations should be take in those who are fleeing their home countries but later they should return to their own countries.

"European countries should take these refugees and give them education and training, and the aim is – return to their own land with certain skills."

He continued, "But the whole of Europe [will] eventually become Muslim country – impossible. Or an African country, also impossible."

After 1959's Tibet uprising against the Chinese rule, Dalai Lama along with thousands of Tibetan fled for an exile in India. He has been living mostly in Himachal Pradesh's Dharamsala since then while his supporters operate a government-in-exile.

&nbsp;

The exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, Dalai Lama came under fire on Sunday as he said, his successor in case of woman needs to "more attractive" otherwise people would not "prefer" seeing her face.

The exiled spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, Dalai Lama came under fire on Sunday as he said, his successor in case of woman needs to "more attractive" otherwise people would not "prefer" seeing her face. In 2015, during an interview with BBC, the Dalai Lama had commented that if a female Dalai Lama comes then she would have to be attractive, "otherwise it’s not much use." In the latest interview, the BBC reporter again asked about his stand on his earlier comments to which he reiterated that the female Dalai Lama should be "more attractive" or people would prefer " not see her, that face." "If a female Dalai Lama comes, she should be more attractive," Dalai Lama answered adding, If not, "people, I think prefer, not see her, that face." "Real beauty is inner beauty, that's true. But we're human beings. I think the appearance is also important," Lama said in an answer when the reporter asked him "It's about who you are inside, isn't it". This was perhaps the most surprising moment in the interview. I asked the Dalai Lama if he stood by his earlier comment that if his successor was female, she should be attractive. He said he did. Watch here:#DalaiLama #BBCDalaiLama. pic.twitter.com/QAy0EFDZTT — Rajini Vaidyanathan (@BBCRajiniV) June 27, 2019 × I am curious to know if attractiveness was a quality looked for when monks went to look for him??? ‘We have found the Dalai Lama but wait he is not attractive’ — Claire Chambers (@ClaritanicA) June 28, 2019 × The Dalai Lama has stood by his earlier comments that if his successor was female, she should be attractive. And this is the man we look to for inspiration. Sure he’s just like every other man. https://t.co/pS6y0qt6F9 — Bríd Stenson (@bridstenson) June 28, 2019 × Apart from these, The Nobel peace prize winner also raised eyebrows as he said that European nations should be take in those who are fleeing their home countries but later they should return to their own countries. "European countries should take these refugees and give them education and training, and the aim is – return to their own land with certain skills." He continued, "But the whole of Europe [will] eventually become Muslim country – impossible. Or an African country, also impossible." After 1959's Tibet uprising against the Chinese rule, Dalai Lama along with thousands of Tibetan fled for an exile in India. He has been living mostly in Himachal Pradesh's Dharamsala since then while his supporters operate a government-in-exile.

Woman successor should be 'more attractive' or people would not prefer seeing her face: Dalai Lama

Health ministry has asked all state governments in the country not to partner with the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (FSFW) because of its links to tobacco giant Philip Morris International Inc, a letter seen by Reuters showed.

Established in 2017, the FSFW focuses on eliminating the usage of cigarettes and works towards smoking cessation using new technologies and alternative products. It says it works independently, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has said there are "clear conflicts" due to the $80 million in annual funding the foundation receives from Philip Morris.

At least three Indian anti-tobacco groups earlier this year wrote to the federal health ministry in New Delhi calling for the rejection of any possible partnerships with FSFW, according to copies of their representations seen by Reuters.

Health ministry has sent a letter, dated June 24, to chief secretaries of all states, saying they should not partner with FSFW and also advised other departments and institutions in their region accordingly.

The ministry said Philip Morris was funding FSFW as well as manufacturing and promoting harm-reduction smoking devices. Reuters has previously reported Philip Morris has plans to launch its iQOS smoking device in India which it says is less harmful than conventional cigarettes.

"Any collaboration with the Foundation for a Smoke Free World should be avoided in the larger interest of Public Health," a senior health ministry official, Sanjeeva Kumar, wrote in the letter, which was reviewed by Reuters.

The Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, which is led by former WHO official Dr&nbsp;Derek Yach, said it "operates with complete independence from Philip Morris" and was committed to full transparency about who its funders were.&nbsp;

Philip Morris, which has a stated longer-term vision to replace cigarette sales with products such as its iQOS device, in a statement, said FSFW was "an independent body governed by its own independent Board of Directors".&nbsp;

Tobacco in India

In recent years, the Indian government has intensified its tobacco-control efforts, raising cigarette taxes and ordering companies to print bigger health warnings on cigarette packs.

India has 106 million adult smokers, second only to China, and more than 900,000 people die each year in India due to tobacco-related illnesses.

A federal health ministry official said on Sunday the letter on FSFW had been sent as a preventive measure to dissuade states from any collaboration with the foundation, and similar instructions were likely to be sent to other federal ministries.

The FSFW said there were no projects with any state government institutions in India. "We seek partnerships with all who share our goal to end smoking in the world," a spokesperson said in a statement to Reuters.&nbsp;

In May, FSFW said its team was committed to working with others "to accelerate an end to smoking in this generation" in India. It also invited people to study its strategic plan.

That same month, Philip Morris in a press statement said it had urged the Indian government to create a regulatory environment for devices such as its iQOS.

When the FSFW was launched in 2017, the WHO had said it will not partner with the foundation and asked governments around the world and public health communities to follow the agency's lead.

Health ministry has asked all state governments in the country not to partner with the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (FSFW) because of its links to tobacco giant Philip Morris International Inc, a letter seen by Reuters showed.

Health ministry has asked all state governments in the country not to partner with the Foundation for a Smoke-Free World (FSFW) because of its links to tobacco giant Philip Morris International Inc, a letter seen by Reuters showed. Established in 2017, the FSFW focuses on eliminating the usage of cigarettes and works towards smoking cessation using new technologies and alternative products. It says it works independently, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has said there are "clear conflicts" due to the $80 million in annual funding the foundation receives from Philip Morris. At least three Indian anti-tobacco groups earlier this year wrote to the federal health ministry in New Delhi calling for the rejection of any possible partnerships with FSFW, according to copies of their representations seen by Reuters. Health ministry has sent a letter, dated June 24, to chief secretaries of all states, saying they should not partner with FSFW and also advised other departments and institutions in their region accordingly. The ministry said Philip Morris was funding FSFW as well as manufacturing and promoting harm-reduction smoking devices. Reuters has previously reported Philip Morris has plans to launch its iQOS smoking device in India which it says is less harmful than conventional cigarettes. "Any collaboration with the Foundation for a Smoke Free World should be avoided in the larger interest of Public Health," a senior health ministry official, Sanjeeva Kumar, wrote in the letter, which was reviewed by Reuters. The Foundation for a Smoke-Free World, which is led by former WHO official Dr Derek Yach, said it "operates with complete independence from Philip Morris" and was committed to full transparency about who its funders were. Philip Morris, which has a stated longer-term vision to replace cigarette sales with products such as its iQOS device, in a statement, said FSFW was "an independent body governed by its own independent Board of Directors". Tobacco in India In recent years, the Indian government has intensified its tobacco-control efforts, raising cigarette taxes and ordering companies to print bigger health warnings on cigarette packs. India has 106 million adult smokers, second only to China, and more than 900,000 people die each year in India due to tobacco-related illnesses. A federal health ministry official said on Sunday the letter on FSFW had been sent as a preventive measure to dissuade states from any collaboration with the foundation, and similar instructions were likely to be sent to other federal ministries. The FSFW said there were no projects with any state government institutions in India. "We seek partnerships with all who share our goal to end smoking in the world," a spokesperson said in a statement to Reuters. In May, FSFW said its team was committed to working with others "to accelerate an end to smoking in this generation" in India. It also invited people to study its strategic plan. That same month, Philip Morris in a press statement said it had urged the Indian government to create a regulatory environment for devices such as its iQOS. When the FSFW was launched in 2017, the WHO had said it will not partner with the foundation and asked governments around the world and public health communities to follow the agency's lead.

India asks states not to partner with foundation funded by tobacco giant Philip Morris International

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" resumed on Sunday after four months.

In the first episode of&nbsp;'Mann ki Baat'&nbsp;in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister, he said that the show is a spiritual journey and he missed speaking on 'Mann ki Baat'. He also said that he missed his family of 130 crore people.

He also reminisced about his Kedarnath visit and rued the politicisation of it.

"I want to tell you that perhaps in that solitary cave, I got an opportunity to fill the vacuum caused due to the long gap of Mann Ki Baat. I undertook Kedarnath journey to meet my inner self, " PM Modi said, adding,&nbsp;"Some people politicised my visit."

PM Modi also said hailed recently held 17th Lok Sabha elections and said, "It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world."

"In the 2019 General elections, India witnessed 61 crore voters exercising their franchise. It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world. In a remote area of Arunachal Pradesh, just for one voter, a booth was set up."&nbsp;

He also&nbsp;thanked voters for the landslide victory and said the entire credit goes to the people who helped him in the reelection.

PM Modi also addressed the water scarcity which has gripped many parts of the country and urged people to raise awareness on water conservation and its methods.

"Water crisis hits many parts of the nation every year. You will be surprised that only 8% of the rainwater in the whole year is harvested in our country," PM Modi said, adding, "With the significance of water in mind, a new&nbsp;Jalashakti ministry has been established in the country. This will allow quicker decision-making on all water issues."

&nbsp;"I have three requests&nbsp;to all, including eminent people from all walks of life to create awareness on water conservation. Share information on traditional methods of water conservation. If you know about any individuals or NGOs working on water, do share about them."

The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year.

Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat' programme by sitting with the people and party workers.

The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" resumed on Sunday after four months. In the first episode of 'Mann ki Baat' in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister, he said that the show is a spiritual journey and he missed speaking on 'Mann ki Baat'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" resumed on Sunday after four months. In the first episode of 'Mann ki Baat' in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister, he said that the show is a spiritual journey and he missed speaking on 'Mann ki Baat'. He also said that he missed his family of 130 crore people. He also reminisced about his Kedarnath visit and rued the politicisation of it. "I want to tell you that perhaps in that solitary cave, I got an opportunity to fill the vacuum caused due to the long gap of Mann Ki Baat. I undertook Kedarnath journey to meet my inner self, " PM Modi said, adding, "Some people politicised my visit." PM Modi also said hailed recently held 17th Lok Sabha elections and said, "It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world." "In the 2019 General elections, India witnessed 61 crore voters exercising their franchise. It was the largest democratic election ever held in the world. In a remote area of Arunachal Pradesh, just for one voter, a booth was set up." He also thanked voters for the landslide victory and said the entire credit goes to the people who helped him in the reelection. PM Modi also addressed the water scarcity which has gripped many parts of the country and urged people to raise awareness on water conservation and its methods. "Water crisis hits many parts of the nation every year. You will be surprised that only 8% of the rainwater in the whole year is harvested in our country," PM Modi said, adding, "With the significance of water in mind, a new Jalashakti ministry has been established in the country. This will allow quicker decision-making on all water issues." "I have three requests to all, including eminent people from all walks of life to create awareness on water conservation. Share information on traditional methods of water conservation. If you know about any individuals or NGOs working on water, do share about them." The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year. Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat' programme by sitting with the people and party workers. The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

PM Narendra discusses Kedarnath visit, water scarcity in first Mann Ki Baat in second term

An exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces is underway in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Sunday.

The encounter broke out in the early hours of the day in Chadoora area of Budgam.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area, following information about the presence of terrorists there.

As the forces were conducting searches, the hiding terrorists fired upon them. The security forces retaliated the firing, triggering off a gunbattle.

Further details are awaited.

On Friday, a terrorist was killed in the same district during an encounter. Later the slain terrorist was identified as a Pakistani national name Zarar who was affiliated to Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.

On June 23, four terrorists were gunned down in Shopian district.

An exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces is underway in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Sunday. The encounter broke out in the early hours of the day in Chadoora area of Budgam.

An exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces is underway in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district on Sunday. The encounter broke out in the early hours of the day in Chadoora area of Budgam. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area, following information about the presence of terrorists there. As the forces were conducting searches, the hiding terrorists fired upon them. The security forces retaliated the firing, triggering off a gunbattle. Further details are awaited. On Friday, a terrorist was killed in the same district during an encounter. Later the slain terrorist was identified as a Pakistani national name Zarar who was affiliated to Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed. On June 23, four terrorists were gunned down in Shopian district.

Jammu and Kashmir: Encounter between security forces and terrorists underway in Budgam

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-signs-rs-200-crore-anti-tank-missile-deal-with-russia-231721">India signs Rs 200 crore anti-tank missile deal with Russia</a>

Seeking to keep itself battle-ready in situations like the one post-Balakot aerial strikes, India has signed a deal to acquire 'Strum Ataka'&nbsp;anti-tank&nbsp;missile from Russia&nbsp;for its fleet of Mi-35 attack choppers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-daughter-ivanka-and-pompeo-beautiful-couple-beauty-and-the-beast-231774">Trump tries off-hand humour again, calls daughter Ivanka and Pompeo 'beautiful couple'</a>

US President Donald Trump is known for his slapstick humour and off-hand comments. On Sunday, the US president went on to launch another remark, this time involving&nbsp;his daughter Ivanka Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-allowed-to-buy-from-us-suppliers-as-relations-with-china-are-back-on-track-231743">Huawei allowed to buy from US suppliers as relations with China are 'back on track'</a>

United States President Donald Trump in a series of tweets on Saturday said he had a great meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the&nbsp;G20 summit in Japan's Osaka&nbsp;where he also agreed to continue negotiations over the stalled trade talks between the two world economies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/money-in-swiss-banks-india-slips-to-74th-place-uk-remains-on-top-231751">Money in Swiss banks: India slips to 74th place, UK remains on top&nbsp;</a>

India has moved down one place to 74th rank in terms of&nbsp;money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks, while the UK has retained its top position, as per data released by the central banking authority of the Alpine nation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/donald-trump-meets-kim-jong-un-becomes-first-sitting-united-states-president-to-set-foot-in-north-korea-231748">Donald Trump meets Kim Jong-un, becomes first sitting United States president to set foot in North Korea</a>

US President Donald Trump became the first sitting US president to set foot in North Korea on Sunday when he met its leader, Kim Jong Un, in the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) between the two Koreas.

India signs Rs 200 crore anti-tank missile deal with Russia Seeking to keep itself battle-ready in situations like the one post-Balakot aerial strikes, India has signed a deal to acquire 'Strum Ataka' anti-tank missile from Russia for its fleet of Mi-35 attack choppers.

India signs Rs 200 crore anti-tank missile deal with Russia Seeking to keep itself battle-ready in situations like the one post-Balakot aerial strikes, India has signed a deal to acquire 'Strum Ataka' anti-tank missile from Russia for its fleet of Mi-35 attack choppers. Trump tries off-hand humour again, calls daughter Ivanka and Pompeo 'beautiful couple' US President Donald Trump is known for his slapstick humour and off-hand comments. On Sunday, the US president went on to launch another remark, this time involving his daughter Ivanka Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Huawei allowed to buy from US suppliers as relations with China are 'back on track' United States President Donald Trump in a series of tweets on Saturday said he had a great meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan's Osaka where he also agreed to continue negotiations over the stalled trade talks between the two world economies. Money in Swiss banks: India slips to 74th place, UK remains on top India has moved down one place to 74th rank in terms of money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks, while the UK has retained its top position, as per data released by the central banking authority of the Alpine nation. Donald Trump meets Kim Jong-un, becomes first sitting United States president to set foot in North Korea US President Donald Trump became the first sitting US president to set foot in North Korea on Sunday when he met its leader, Kim Jong Un, in the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) between the two Koreas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power.

This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat'&nbsp;programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to listen to the radio programme with other party workers at the Kakrola stadium in Dwarka.

Enthused by stunning performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is planning to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme to more people this time by making special arrangements and utilising all possible means.

In order to ensure that more and more people listen to Modi's radio programme, the party cadres at all levels have been directed to ensure better facilities such as better radio sets to attract more people to the programme.

The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year.

He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said the programme will return after the polls.

On June 15, Modi said the programme was going to resume on June 30 at 11:00 am in a tweet.

"30th June, Sunday at 11:00 AM...We will meet once again, thanks to the radio, share joy, positivity and celebrate the collective strength of 130 crore Indians. I am sure you have lots to say for #MannKiBaat. Share it on the NaMo App Open Forum," Modi tweeted.

Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat'&nbsp;programme by sitting with the people and party workers.

The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power. This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat' programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" will resume today almost a month after the PM returned to power. This will be the first 'Mann ki Baat' programme in Modi's second consecutive term as the Prime Minister. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to listen to the radio programme with other party workers at the Kakrola stadium in Dwarka. Enthused by stunning performance in the Lok Sabha elections, the BJP is planning to take Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio programme to more people this time by making special arrangements and utilising all possible means. In order to ensure that more and more people listen to Modi's radio programme, the party cadres at all levels have been directed to ensure better facilities such as better radio sets to attract more people to the programme. The PM had last spoken on the radio programme in the episode which aired in February this year. He had expressed confidence of the BJP-led NDA's victory in the Lok Sabha elections and said the programme will return after the polls. On June 15, Modi said the programme was going to resume on June 30 at 11:00 am in a tweet. "30th June, Sunday at 11:00 AM...We will meet once again, thanks to the radio, share joy, positivity and celebrate the collective strength of 130 crore Indians. I am sure you have lots to say for #MannKiBaat. Share it on the NaMo App Open Forum," Modi tweeted. Many BJP leaders have also planned to listen to 'Mann Ki Baat' programme by sitting with the people and party workers. The programme broadcasts on the last Sunday of the month and suggestions, stories and ideas are invited from people for it.

First 'Mann ki Baat' after Modi's return to power to air today

The groundwater level in 16 per cent of the taluka, mandal, block-level units in the country fall under the “over-exploited” category, while 4 per cent fall under the “critical” category, government data shows. Groundwater level of the 6,584 block, mandal, tehsil level units assessed by the Central Groundwater Board reveal that 4,520 units fall under the “safe category”, according to the data shared by the government in Lok Sabha last week.

As many as 1,034 units have been categorised as “over-exploited”, the data states. Nearly 681 block, mandal, taluka level units in the country, constituting 10 per cent of the total figure, fall under the “semi-critical” category, while 253 fall under the “critical” category. Nearly 1 per cent of the blocks, mandals and talukas had saline water. The figure is based on the government’s 2013 assessment.

“As per the 2013 assessment, out of total 6,584 assessment units (blocks, talukas, mandals, watersheds, firkas) in the country, 1,034 units in 17 states and Union territories have been categorised as over-exploited where groundwater extraction is more than the net groundwater availability and there is a significant long-term decline in water levels.

“Two hundred and fifty-three units have been categorised as critical, 681 units as semi-critical and 4,520 units as safe,” the minister of state in the Jal Shakti Ministry shared the information in Parliament last week. The overexploitation of the groundwater was highest in the states of Punjab (76 per cent) and Rajasthan (66 per cent), followed by Delhi (56 per cent) and Haryana (54 per cent). There was no over-exploitation of groundwater reported in the states of West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Tripura, Odisha, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa.

Groundwater levels in all the block, taluka, mandal level units from 12 states and Union territories — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli — were reported to be in the safe category.

The groundwater level in 16 per cent of the taluka, mandal, block-level units in the country fall under the “over-exploited” category, while 4 per cent fall under the “critical” category, government data shows.

The groundwater level in 16 per cent of the taluka, mandal, block-level units in the country fall under the “over-exploited” category, while 4 per cent fall under the “critical” category, government data shows. Groundwater level of the 6,584 block, mandal, tehsil level units assessed by the Central Groundwater Board reveal that 4,520 units fall under the “safe category”, according to the data shared by the government in Lok Sabha last week. As many as 1,034 units have been categorised as “over-exploited”, the data states. Nearly 681 block, mandal, taluka level units in the country, constituting 10 per cent of the total figure, fall under the “semi-critical” category, while 253 fall under the “critical” category. Nearly 1 per cent of the blocks, mandals and talukas had saline water. The figure is based on the government’s 2013 assessment. “As per the 2013 assessment, out of total 6,584 assessment units (blocks, talukas, mandals, watersheds, firkas) in the country, 1,034 units in 17 states and Union territories have been categorised as over-exploited where groundwater extraction is more than the net groundwater availability and there is a significant long-term decline in water levels. “Two hundred and fifty-three units have been categorised as critical, 681 units as semi-critical and 4,520 units as safe,” the minister of state in the Jal Shakti Ministry shared the information in Parliament last week. The overexploitation of the groundwater was highest in the states of Punjab (76 per cent) and Rajasthan (66 per cent), followed by Delhi (56 per cent) and Haryana (54 per cent). There was no over-exploitation of groundwater reported in the states of West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Tripura, Odisha, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa. Groundwater levels in all the block, taluka, mandal level units from 12 states and Union territories — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli — were reported to be in the safe category.

Water crisis: Groundwater level in 16% tehsils, mandals and blocks in ‘over-exploited’ category

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday dispatched a central team to review the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) situation in view of recently reported cases in Assam and also directed the Ministry to extend all support and assistance to the state government.

"I am closely monitoring the situation. The Health Ministry is coordinating with the Assam government for the prevention and management of JE to ensure that the cases don`t rise in the state," the Union Minister said in a statement.

He also said the Union Health Ministry is providing all logistical and technical support to the Assam government in terms of surveillance and diagnostic kits to strengthen their efforts in dealing with the JE in the state.

Noting that community participation and empowerment are the most crucial to the prevention of JE, Dr Vardhan has urged all the stakeholders to start rigorous awareness campaigns regarding the preventive steps to be taken by the communities.

The Central team, likely to reach Assam this evening, is headed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Additional Secretary Sanjeeva Kumar and is accompanied by the senior officers from the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme in New Delhi.

All 27 districts of Assam have been covered under the JE vaccination campaign (for 1-15 years) followed by the routine immunization as part of the Immunization Programme. Ten high endemic districts of Assam -&nbsp;Shivsagar Barpeta, Nagaon, Sonitpur, Darrang, Udalguri, Bongaigaon, Cachar, Morigaon, and Nalbari - have been included under the multipronged strategy for the prevention and control of JE.

These districts have also been covered under adult JE vaccination campaign.

Out of 10 high burdened districts, funds have been provided for the establishment of seven Pediatric ICUs (PICUs). Of these, four PICUs have been made functional.

For the diagnosis of the disease, till date 28 Sentinel Surveillance Hospitals have been identified and the Union Health Ministry is providing diagnostic kits to Assam free of cost, said the statement.

For rehabilitation of JE disabled patients, the Centre has provided funds for the strengthening of two Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) departments at Dibrugarh Medical College and Guwahati Medical College.JE is vector-borne encephalitis transmitted by Culex groups of mosquitoes.

These mosquitoes breed mainly in rice fields and large water bodies rich in aquatic vegetations. Migratory birds along with pigs in the community play an important role in the transmission of JE from one area to other areas.&nbsp;

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday dispatched a central team to review the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) situation in view of recently reported cases in Assam and also directed the Ministry to extend all support and assistance to the state government.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan on Sunday dispatched a central team to review the Japanese Encephalitis (JE) situation in view of recently reported cases in Assam and also directed the Ministry to extend all support and assistance to the state government. "I am closely monitoring the situation. The Health Ministry is coordinating with the Assam government for the prevention and management of JE to ensure that the cases don`t rise in the state," the Union Minister said in a statement. He also said the Union Health Ministry is providing all logistical and technical support to the Assam government in terms of surveillance and diagnostic kits to strengthen their efforts in dealing with the JE in the state. Noting that community participation and empowerment are the most crucial to the prevention of JE, Dr Vardhan has urged all the stakeholders to start rigorous awareness campaigns regarding the preventive steps to be taken by the communities. The Central team, likely to reach Assam this evening, is headed by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Additional Secretary Sanjeeva Kumar and is accompanied by the senior officers from the National Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme in New Delhi. All 27 districts of Assam have been covered under the JE vaccination campaign (for 1-15 years) followed by the routine immunization as part of the Immunization Programme. Ten high endemic districts of Assam - Shivsagar Barpeta, Nagaon, Sonitpur, Darrang, Udalguri, Bongaigaon, Cachar, Morigaon, and Nalbari - have been included under the multipronged strategy for the prevention and control of JE. These districts have also been covered under adult JE vaccination campaign. Out of 10 high burdened districts, funds have been provided for the establishment of seven Pediatric ICUs (PICUs). Of these, four PICUs have been made functional. For the diagnosis of the disease, till date 28 Sentinel Surveillance Hospitals have been identified and the Union Health Ministry is providing diagnostic kits to Assam free of cost, said the statement. For rehabilitation of JE disabled patients, the Centre has provided funds for the strengthening of two Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) departments at Dibrugarh Medical College and Guwahati Medical College.JE is vector-borne encephalitis transmitted by Culex groups of mosquitoes. These mosquitoes breed mainly in rice fields and large water bodies rich in aquatic vegetations. Migratory birds along with pigs in the community play an important role in the transmission of JE from one area to other areas.

Centre dispatches team to review Japanese encephalitis situation in Assam

External affairs minister S Jaishankar and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono on the sidelines of the G20 held Strategic Dialogue and discussed Iran and the upcoming 2+2 dialogue.&nbsp;

Discussions on Iran was focussed on American wavier for import of Iranian oil and the ongoing US-Iran tensions impact both the countries.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Shinzo Abe was in Iran and sought to mediate between the US and Iran as both countries head towards a confrontation that impacts energy security of both the countries.

India has already raised concerns of Tehran-Washington tensions escalates could impact its large diaspora in West Asia and energy security.&nbsp;

The talks lasted for 80 minutes during which Japanese Foreign Minister mentioned about the upcoming 2+2 India Japan Defence and foreign minister meet later this year, ahead of the visit of Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to India for the annual summit between the 2 countries.&nbsp;

A Japan foreign ministry statement said "Minister Kono stated that an agreed “2+2” Ministerial Meeting is important in advancing security and defence cooperation between the two countries and demonstrating the roles that Japan and India can play for the peace and stability of the region."&nbsp;

This is the second 2+2 format meet India will be having with any country, after the US, with which India had maiden 2+2 talks in Delhi last year.

The two Ministers shared the view to "continue cooperation toward the realization of a free and open Indo-Pacific". Japan, India along with the US and Australia are already having discussions under quad format. Japan FM, " welcomed the progress of Japan-India-U.S.-Australia cooperation, expressing his hope to further deepen its cooperation", the release said.&nbsp;

Last week PM Modi met Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, first for a bilateral and then during the JAI—Japan, America and India trilateral on the sidelines of the 14th G20 Summit. Both countries are now looking to develop infrastructure in 3rd countries and agreed to build a cancer hospital in Kenya and develop part of Colombo port in Sri Lanka.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono on the sidelines of the G20 held Strategic Dialogue and discussed Iran and the upcoming 2+2 dialogue.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar and Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono on the sidelines of the G20 held Strategic Dialogue and discussed Iran and the upcoming 2+2 dialogue. Discussions on Iran was focussed on American wavier for import of Iranian oil and the ongoing US-Iran tensions impact both the countries. Earlier this month, Shinzo Abe was in Iran and sought to mediate between the US and Iran as both countries head towards a confrontation that impacts energy security of both the countries. India has already raised concerns of Tehran-Washington tensions escalates could impact its large diaspora in West Asia and energy security. The talks lasted for 80 minutes during which Japanese Foreign Minister mentioned about the upcoming 2+2 India Japan Defence and foreign minister meet later this year, ahead of the visit of Japanese PM Shinzo Abe to India for the annual summit between the 2 countries. A Japan foreign ministry statement said "Minister Kono stated that an agreed “2+2” Ministerial Meeting is important in advancing security and defence cooperation between the two countries and demonstrating the roles that Japan and India can play for the peace and stability of the region." This is the second 2+2 format meet India will be having with any country, after the US, with which India had maiden 2+2 talks in Delhi last year. The two Ministers shared the view to "continue cooperation toward the realization of a free and open Indo-Pacific". Japan, India along with the US and Australia are already having discussions under quad format. Japan FM, " welcomed the progress of Japan-India-U.S.-Australia cooperation, expressing his hope to further deepen its cooperation", the release said. Last week PM Modi met Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, first for a bilateral and then during the JAI—Japan, America and India trilateral on the sidelines of the 14th G20 Summit. Both countries are now looking to develop infrastructure in 3rd countries and agreed to build a cancer hospital in Kenya and develop part of Colombo port in Sri Lanka.

India, Japan hold strategic dialogue on sidelines of  G20 summit

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India, Japan hold strategic dialogue on sidelines of G20 summit