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Director General Krishnaswamy Natarajan took over as the 23rd Chief of Indian Coast Guard on Sunday. He replaced Rajendra Singh, who was the first cadre officer to head the force.

Natarajan is a 5th Batch Officer of the Indian Coast Guard. He joined the forces on January 18, 1984, and holds a Masters` Degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Madras University.

He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. During his initial years, he specialised in select core competencies like Search and Rescue as well as Maritime Safety and Port Operations, at the US Coast Guard Reserve Training Centre, Yorktown in Virginia.

In his illustrious career spanning over 35 years, the Flag Officer has had the distinction of holding important Command and Staff appointments, both afloat and ashore.

He has commanded all classes of Indian Coast Guard ships, such as Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV), Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) and Inshore Patrol Vessel (IPV).

He has also served as the Commander Coast Guard District No.5 in Tamil Nadu, the Commanding Officer ICGS in Mandapam and as the first Officer-in-Charge of Coast Guard Training Centre in Kochi.

At the Coast Guard Headquarters, his key staff assignments include Principal Director (Policy and Plans), Chairman Coast Guard Service Selection Board, Principal Director (Projects), Joint Director (Operations) and Coast Guard Advisor (CGA) to the Director General Indian Coast Guard.

Post the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the country was recovering from one of the worst terrorist attacks. His moment of reckoning came during that period, when as the Deputy Director General (Policy and Plans), on being elevated to the Flag Rank he spearheaded the Staff Division of Policy and Plans at the Coast Guard Headquarters and was instrumental in giving a major fillip to the overall growth of the Coast Guard in terms of setting up of additional 20 Stations, 10 Air Establishment, 2 Regional Headquarters, 2 Seaboard Headquarters, contract for 120 ships and boats.

In the rank of Inspector General, he was also Commander of the Operational Formations - Coast Guard Region (Andaman and Nicobar) and Coast Guard Region (West) from 2014 to 2016 wherein he heralded a tactical shift towards Preventive Operations that saw a decline in security and safety related incidents at sea in respective Area of Responsibility.

The Flag Officer was elevated to the rank of Additional Director General on August 2016 and took over the reins as Coast Guard Commander (Western Seaboard).

Under his apex watch on the sensitive Western seafront, whilst there were no major marine incidents, the period saw a surge in major operations that included apprehension of 1.5 Ton of narcotic substance, mass rescue operations during cyclones, humanitarian assistance during natural calamities in coastal states and focussed Coastal Security Operations.

The Flag Officer is a recipient of President`s Tatrakshak Medal and Tatrakshak Medal for his distinguished service to the nation.&nbsp;

Director General Krishnaswamy Natarajan took over as the 23rd Chief of Indian Coast Guard on Sunday. He replaced Rajendra Singh, who was the first cadre officer to head the force.

Director General Krishnaswamy Natarajan took over as the 23rd Chief of Indian Coast Guard on Sunday. He replaced Rajendra Singh, who was the first cadre officer to head the force. Natarajan is a 5th Batch Officer of the Indian Coast Guard. He joined the forces on January 18, 1984, and holds a Masters` Degree in Defence and Strategic Studies from Madras University. He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington. During his initial years, he specialised in select core competencies like Search and Rescue as well as Maritime Safety and Port Operations, at the US Coast Guard Reserve Training Centre, Yorktown in Virginia. In his illustrious career spanning over 35 years, the Flag Officer has had the distinction of holding important Command and Staff appointments, both afloat and ashore. He has commanded all classes of Indian Coast Guard ships, such as Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV), Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) and Inshore Patrol Vessel (IPV). He has also served as the Commander Coast Guard District No.5 in Tamil Nadu, the Commanding Officer ICGS in Mandapam and as the first Officer-in-Charge of Coast Guard Training Centre in Kochi. At the Coast Guard Headquarters, his key staff assignments include Principal Director (Policy and Plans), Chairman Coast Guard Service Selection Board, Principal Director (Projects), Joint Director (Operations) and Coast Guard Advisor (CGA) to the Director General Indian Coast Guard. Post the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the country was recovering from one of the worst terrorist attacks. His moment of reckoning came during that period, when as the Deputy Director General (Policy and Plans), on being elevated to the Flag Rank he spearheaded the Staff Division of Policy and Plans at the Coast Guard Headquarters and was instrumental in giving a major fillip to the overall growth of the Coast Guard in terms of setting up of additional 20 Stations, 10 Air Establishment, 2 Regional Headquarters, 2 Seaboard Headquarters, contract for 120 ships and boats. In the rank of Inspector General, he was also Commander of the Operational Formations - Coast Guard Region (Andaman and Nicobar) and Coast Guard Region (West) from 2014 to 2016 wherein he heralded a tactical shift towards Preventive Operations that saw a decline in security and safety related incidents at sea in respective Area of Responsibility. The Flag Officer was elevated to the rank of Additional Director General on August 2016 and took over the reins as Coast Guard Commander (Western Seaboard). Under his apex watch on the sensitive Western seafront, whilst there were no major marine incidents, the period saw a surge in major operations that included apprehension of 1.5 Ton of narcotic substance, mass rescue operations during cyclones, humanitarian assistance during natural calamities in coastal states and focussed Coastal Security Operations. The Flag Officer is a recipient of President`s Tatrakshak Medal and Tatrakshak Medal for his distinguished service to the nation.

K Natarajan takes charge as Indian Coast Guard chief

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Sunday announced that summer holidays would be extended till July 8 for Delhi schools for students up to class 8, in view of the rising temperatures.

The schools which were supposed to re-open from July 1 will now be functional from July 8.

"Due to weather conditions prevailing in Delhi, summer holidays have been extended by a week for the students up to class 8. Schools for the children up to class 8 will re-open on July 8. The schools for the remaining classes will be open as per the old schedule," he tweeted.

The decision from the Delhi government came after temperature reached as high as 48-degree Celsius a few weeks ago.

This season, for more than two weeks, hot dry winds (loo) had swept the regions, compounding the woes of commuters.

Earlier today, the India Meteorological Department stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin that the heat wave condition is likely to prevail over Delhi with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering around 32 degree Celsius and 43 degree Celsius, respectively. The relative humidity will be around 28 per cent.

 
&nbsp;

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Sunday announced that summer holidays would be extended till July 8 for Delhi schools for students up to class 8, in view of the rising temperatures.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Sunday announced that summer holidays would be extended till July 8 for Delhi schools for students up to class 8, in view of the rising temperatures. The schools which were supposed to re-open from July 1 will now be functional from July 8. "Due to weather conditions prevailing in Delhi, summer holidays have been extended by a week for the students up to class 8. Schools for the children up to class 8 will re-open on July 8. The schools for the remaining classes will be open as per the old schedule," he tweeted. The decision from the Delhi government came after temperature reached as high as 48-degree Celsius a few weeks ago. This season, for more than two weeks, hot dry winds (loo) had swept the regions, compounding the woes of commuters. Earlier today, the India Meteorological Department stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin that the heat wave condition is likely to prevail over Delhi with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering around 32 degree Celsius and 43 degree Celsius, respectively. The relative humidity will be around 28 per cent.

Delhi schools' summer holidays extended by week for students up to class 8

India has moved down one place to 74th rank in terms of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-money-in-swiss-banks-falls-hits-second-lowest-level-in-two-decades-230943">money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks</a>, while the UK has retained its top position, as per data released by the central banking authority of the Alpine nation.

India was ranked 73rd last year, after jumping 15 places from its 88th position a year ago.

An analysis of the latest annual banking statistics released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB) shows that India remains ranked very low when it comes to money parked by Indian individuals and enterprises in Swiss banks, including through their India-based branches, while accounting for just about 0.07 per cent of the aggregate funds parked by all foreign clients of Switzerland-based banks.

In comparison, the top-ranked UK accounted for more than 26 per cent of the total foreign funds parked with Swiss banks at the end of 2018.

Among the top-ranked jurisdictions, the UK is followed by the US, West Indies, France and Hong Kong in the top five.

The top-five countries alone account for more than 50 per cent of the aggregate foreign funds parked with the Swiss banks, while the top-10 account for nearly two-thirds. The top-15 countries account for nearly 75 per cent of all foreign money in Swiss banks, while the contribution of the top-30 is almost 90 per cent.

The top-10 countries also include Bahamas, Germany, Luxembourg, Cayman Islands and Singapore.

Among the five-nation BRICS bloc of emerging economies, India is ranked the lowest while Russia is ranked the highest at 20th place, followed by China at 22nd, South Africa at 60th and Brazil at 65th place in terms of the amount of money parked by their residents and enterprises at the end of 2018.

The countries ranked higher than India also include Mauritius (71st), New Zealand (59th), the Philippines (54th), Venezuela (53rd), Seychelles (52nd), Thailand (39th), Canada (36th), Turkey (30th), Israel (28th), Saudi Arabia (21st), Panama (18th), Japan (16th), Italy (15th), Australia (13th), UAE (12th) and Guernsey (11th).

However, several of India's neighbouring nations are ranked lower, with Pakistan ranking 82nd, Bangladesh 89th, Nepal 109th, Sri Lanka 141st, Myanmar 187th and Bhutan 193rd.

This is the first time in the last four years that the funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks have slipped below that of Indians.

A number of other major countries also saw their funds falling in Swiss banks amid a global clampdown against the erstwhile banking secrecy walls in the Alpine nation. The funds, described by SNB as 'liabilities' of Swiss banks or 'amounts due to' their clients, are official figures disclosed by Swiss authorities and do not indicate the exact quantum of the much-debated alleged black money held in famed safe havens of Switzerland. The official figures, disclosed annually by Switzerland's central bank, also do not include the money that Indians, NRIs or others might have in Swiss banks in the names of entities from different countries. It has been often alleged that Indians and other nationals seeking to stash their illicit wealth abroad use multiple layers of various jurisdictions, including tax havens, to shift the money to Swiss banks.

Also, with Switzerland putting in place an automatic information exchange framework with India and various other countries, the famed secrecy walls of Swiss banks are said to have crumbled. India will start getting this automatic data from this year, while it has already been getting information on accounts where proof of illicit funds can be furnished.

The funds officially held by Indians with banks in Switzerland now accounts for only 0.07 per cent of the total funds kept by all foreign clients in the Swiss banking system, almost same as the level seen at 2017-end after a modest increase from 0.04 per cent a year before that, as per an analysis of the latest figures compiled by the SNB (Swiss National Bank) as on 2018-end.

India was placed at 75th position in 2015 and 61st in the year before, though it used to be among the top-50 countries in terms of holdings in Swiss banks till 2007. The country was ranked highest at 37th place in the year 2004.

The total money held in Swiss banks by foreign clients from across the world fell by about 4 per cent to CHF 1.4 trillion (about Rs. 99 lakh crore) in 2018. In terms of individual countries, the UK continues to account for the largest chunk at about CHF 372 billion (down from CHF 403 billion a year ago), which remains more than 26 per cent of the total foreign money with Swiss banks.

The US remains on the second position despite a dip to about CHF 144 billion (from CHF 166 billion a year ago), accounting for nearly 10.3 per cent of all foreign funds. The share is more than 1 per cent only for 21 jurisdictions.

India was ranked in the top-50 continuously between 1996 and 2007, but its rank started declining after that -&nbsp;55th in 2008, 59th in 2009 and 2010 each, 55th again in 2011, 71st in 2012 and then to 58th in 2013.

&nbsp;

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.

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. India was ranked 73rd last year, after jumping 15 places from its 88th position a year ago. An analysis of the latest annual banking statistics released by the Swiss National Bank (SNB) shows that India remains ranked very low when it comes to money parked by Indian individuals and enterprises in Swiss banks, including through their India-based branches, while accounting for just about 0.07 per cent of the aggregate funds parked by all foreign clients of Switzerland-based banks. In comparison, the top-ranked UK accounted for more than 26 per cent of the total foreign funds parked with Swiss banks at the end of 2018. Among the top-ranked jurisdictions, the UK is followed by the US, West Indies, France and Hong Kong in the top five. The top-five countries alone account for more than 50 per cent of the aggregate foreign funds parked with the Swiss banks, while the top-10 account for nearly two-thirds. The top-15 countries account for nearly 75 per cent of all foreign money in Swiss banks, while the contribution of the top-30 is almost 90 per cent. The top-10 countries also include Bahamas, Germany, Luxembourg, Cayman Islands and Singapore. Among the five-nation BRICS bloc of emerging economies, India is ranked the lowest while Russia is ranked the highest at 20th place, followed by China at 22nd, South Africa at 60th and Brazil at 65th place in terms of the amount of money parked by their residents and enterprises at the end of 2018. The countries ranked higher than India also include Mauritius (71st), New Zealand (59th), the Philippines (54th), Venezuela (53rd), Seychelles (52nd), Thailand (39th), Canada (36th), Turkey (30th), Israel (28th), Saudi Arabia (21st), Panama (18th), Japan (16th), Italy (15th), Australia (13th), UAE (12th) and Guernsey (11th). However, several of India's neighbouring nations are ranked lower, with Pakistan ranking 82nd, Bangladesh 89th, Nepal 109th, Sri Lanka 141st, Myanmar 187th and Bhutan 193rd. This is the first time in the last four years that the funds linked to Pakistan in Swiss banks have slipped below that of Indians. A number of other major countries also saw their funds falling in Swiss banks amid a global clampdown against the erstwhile banking secrecy walls in the Alpine nation. The funds, described by SNB as 'liabilities' of Swiss banks or 'amounts due to' their clients, are official figures disclosed by Swiss authorities and do not indicate the exact quantum of the much-debated alleged black money held in famed safe havens of Switzerland. The official figures, disclosed annually by Switzerland's central bank, also do not include the money that Indians, NRIs or others might have in Swiss banks in the names of entities from different countries. It has been often alleged that Indians and other nationals seeking to stash their illicit wealth abroad use multiple layers of various jurisdictions, including tax havens, to shift the money to Swiss banks. Also, with Switzerland putting in place an automatic information exchange framework with India and various other countries, the famed secrecy walls of Swiss banks are said to have crumbled. India will start getting this automatic data from this year, while it has already been getting information on accounts where proof of illicit funds can be furnished. The funds officially held by Indians with banks in Switzerland now accounts for only 0.07 per cent of the total funds kept by all foreign clients in the Swiss banking system, almost same as the level seen at 2017-end after a modest increase from 0.04 per cent a year before that, as per an analysis of the latest figures compiled by the SNB (Swiss National Bank) as on 2018-end. India was placed at 75th position in 2015 and 61st in the year before, though it used to be among the top-50 countries in terms of holdings in Swiss banks till 2007. The country was ranked highest at 37th place in the year 2004. The total money held in Swiss banks by foreign clients from across the world fell by about 4 per cent to CHF 1.4 trillion (about Rs. 99 lakh crore) in 2018. In terms of individual countries, the UK continues to account for the largest chunk at about CHF 372 billion (down from CHF 403 billion a year ago), which remains more than 26 per cent of the total foreign money with Swiss banks. The US remains on the second position despite a dip to about CHF 144 billion (from CHF 166 billion a year ago), accounting for nearly 10.3 per cent of all foreign funds. The share is more than 1 per cent only for 21 jurisdictions. India was ranked in the top-50 continuously between 1996 and 2007, but its rank started declining after that - 55th in 2008, 59th in 2009 and 2010 each, 55th again in 2011, 71st in 2012 and then to 58th in 2013.

Money in Swiss banks: India slips to 74th place, UK remains on top 

Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chandrayaan-2 is likely to be launched in the first week of September 2019. Indian scientists are also working towards their key expedition, a manned mission to Mars, which is likely to be launched in next 20-25 years, said former Chandrayaan-1 project director Mylswamy Annadurai.

Annadurai is the present project director of Chandrayaan-2, an Indian lunar mission to the moon.

"India is emerging in the field of science and technology, for instance, it has achieved greater success in our key space missions-Chandrayaan-1, Mangalyaan, and Chandrayaan-2. Young minds are working in the areas of Indian space and technology, and good opportunities are available for them in these fields," Annadurai told ANI on the sidelines of National Science Exhibition in Coimbatore on Saturday.

Central and state governments are putting in a lot of efforts to create more opportunities in the field of science and technology.

At least 30 per cent of women scientists are now part of India's major space projects.

"We are also conducting certain competitions at school levels. We have state level and national level openings for school students where they will get an opportunity to showcase their skills," he added.

Manned mission to Mars is possible but it might take another 20-25 years to launch a satellite to Mars, as it will approximately take 9 months to get to the Mars, 9 months to get back to earth and 2 months on Mars which makes it a total of a two-year long space expedition.

This mission will be launched at an international level; many other countries are also working in this direction, as told by Annadurai.&nbsp;

Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chandrayaan-2 is likely to be launched in the first week of September 2019. Indian scientists are also working towards their key expedition, a manned mission to Mars, which is likely to be launched in next 20-25 years, said former Chandrayaan-1 project director Mylswamy Annadurai.

Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chandrayaan-2 is likely to be launched in the first week of September 2019. Indian scientists are also working towards their key expedition, a manned mission to Mars, which is likely to be launched in next 20-25 years, said former Chandrayaan-1 project director Mylswamy Annadurai. Annadurai is the present project director of Chandrayaan-2, an Indian lunar mission to the moon. "India is emerging in the field of science and technology, for instance, it has achieved greater success in our key space missions-Chandrayaan-1, Mangalyaan, and Chandrayaan-2. Young minds are working in the areas of Indian space and technology, and good opportunities are available for them in these fields," Annadurai told ANI on the sidelines of National Science Exhibition in Coimbatore on Saturday. Central and state governments are putting in a lot of efforts to create more opportunities in the field of science and technology. At least 30 per cent of women scientists are now part of India's major space projects. "We are also conducting certain competitions at school levels. We have state level and national level openings for school students where they will get an opportunity to showcase their skills," he added. Manned mission to Mars is possible but it might take another 20-25 years to launch a satellite to Mars, as it will approximately take 9 months to get to the Mars, 9 months to get back to earth and 2 months on Mars which makes it a total of a two-year long space expedition. This mission will be launched at an international level; many other countries are also working in this direction, as told by Annadurai.

Coimbatore: Manned mission to Mars in another 20-25 years, says Indian scientist Mylswamy Annadurai

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-parliamentary-party-meet-postponed-due-to-rajasthan-unit-chiefs-death-230166">BJP Parliamentary Party meeting</a> is scheduled to take place in Parliament library here on July 2.

A press release issued by the Parliament Office secretary states, "A meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Party will be held at 9:30 am on July 2, 2019, in the GMC Balayogi Auditorium of Parliament Library Building (PLB).

All BJP Members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are requested to attend the meeting in time."

This meeting is taking place ahead of the Union Budget presentation on July 5.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary meeting was scheduled for June 25. It was postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini.

The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS.

Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death.

BJP Parliamentary Party meeting is scheduled to take place in Parliament library here on July 2. A press release issued by the Parliament Office secretary states, "A meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Party will be held at 9:30 am on July 2, 2019, in the GMC Balayogi Auditorium of Parliament Library Building (PLB).

BJP Parliamentary Party meeting is scheduled to take place in Parliament library here on July 2. A press release issued by the Parliament Office secretary states, "A meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Party will be held at 9:30 am on July 2, 2019, in the GMC Balayogi Auditorium of Parliament Library Building (PLB). All BJP Members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are requested to attend the meeting in time." This meeting is taking place ahead of the Union Budget presentation on July 5. Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary meeting was scheduled for June 25. It was postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini. The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS. Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death.

BJP Parliamentary Party meeting to be held on July 2

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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-400-missile-deal-not-discussed-by-pm-modi-and-trump-at-g20-summit-says-foreign-secretary-vijay-gokhale-231037">missile from Russia</a> for its fleet of Mi-35 attack choppers.

"The deal for acquiring 'Strum Ataka'&nbsp;anti-tank missiles was signed with Russia under the emergency clauses through which the missiles would be supplied within three months of contract signing," government sources told ANI.

The deal for the missiles is worth around Rs 200 crore and would give an added capability to the Mi-35 attack choppers to take out enemy tanks and other armoured elements.

The Mi-35s are the existing attack choppers of the Indian Air Force and are set to be replaced with the Apache gunships being acquired from the US and slated to be delivered from next month onwards.

India has been trying to acquire the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-deliver-first-s-400-missile-to-turkey-in-july-reports-230635">Russian missiles</a> for a long time but the deal has been signed under the emergency provisions after more than a decade.

Last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had given a presentation about the procurements made by the three services under the emergency provisions.

The Indian Air Force has emerged as the frontrunner in terms of weapon acquisition under the emergency procurement, followed by the Indian Army.

The IAF has acquired the Spice-2000 stand-off weapon system along with a number of spare and air to air missile deals with multiple counties under the emergency provisions to equip itself for sudden war.

The Army is in the process of acquiring the Spike anti-tank guided missile from France and Igla-S air defence missiles from Russia under the emergency provisions.

Under the powers given to the three services, they can buy the equipment of their choice within three months at a cost of up to Rs 300 crore per case, government sources said.

The emergency powers were given to the forces within few weeks after the February 14 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, and India started increasing vigil at the borders with Pakistan, sources added.&nbsp;

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.

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. "The deal for acquiring 'Strum Ataka' anti-tank missiles was signed with Russia under the emergency clauses through which the missiles would be supplied within three months of contract signing," government sources told ANI. The deal for the missiles is worth around Rs 200 crore and would give an added capability to the Mi-35 attack choppers to take out enemy tanks and other armoured elements. The Mi-35s are the existing attack choppers of the Indian Air Force and are set to be replaced with the Apache gunships being acquired from the US and slated to be delivered from next month onwards. India has been trying to acquire the Russian missiles for a long time but the deal has been signed under the emergency provisions after more than a decade. Last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had given a presentation about the procurements made by the three services under the emergency provisions. The Indian Air Force has emerged as the frontrunner in terms of weapon acquisition under the emergency procurement, followed by the Indian Army. The IAF has acquired the Spice-2000 stand-off weapon system along with a number of spare and air to air missile deals with multiple counties under the emergency provisions to equip itself for sudden war. The Army is in the process of acquiring the Spike anti-tank guided missile from France and Igla-S air defence missiles from Russia under the emergency provisions. Under the powers given to the three services, they can buy the equipment of their choice within three months at a cost of up to Rs 300 crore per case, government sources said. The emergency powers were given to the forces within few weeks after the February 14 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, and India started increasing vigil at the borders with Pakistan, sources added.

India signs Rs 200 crore anti-tank missile deal with Russia

One of India’s largest cities, Chennai, is dealing with a crippling crisis: It has run out of water. In the middle of a particularly hot summer, the four lakes that supply the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu have dried up; together they contain just 1 percent of the volume they did last year. Watch this video to know more.

Chennai's water woes after 2 failed monsoons

One of India’s largest cities, Chennai, is dealing with a crippling crisis: It has run out of water. In the middle of a particularly hot summer, the four lakes that supply the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu have dried up; together they contain just 1 per cent of the volume they did last year.

India’s man-made water crisis threatens more cities

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-will-make-no-difference-to-bjps-poll-prospects-in-up-yogi-adityanath-203705">Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath </a>on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state.

On Saturday, Priyanka had claimed that incidents of crime are on the rise in Uttar Pradesh, and criminals were "roaming freely" in the state.

"In Uttar Pradesh criminals are roaming freely and doing whatever they want. Criminal incidents are taking place one after the other. However, its BJP government has turned deaf. Has the Uttar Pradesh government surrendered before criminals?" she had tweeted in Hindi along with a collage of news reports indicating various incidents of crime.

In response to the claim, Adityanath, while addressing media here, said, "It is a case of sour grapes (angoor khatte hai). Her party president (Rahul Gandhi) lost from Uttar Pradesh. So while sitting anywhere &nbsp;Delhi, Italy or England &nbsp;they have to comment in order to remain in the news."

Minutes after Priyanka`s tweet, Uttar Pradesh police responded by explaining how effective the police has been in combating crime, citing statistics.

"UP Police has taken strict action against serious offenders. In two years, 9,225 criminals have been arrested and 81 have been killed. Illegal assets of more than 200 crore people have been seized under the National Security Act and there has been an unprecedented decline in dacoity, murder, loot and kidnappings," read a tweet on the official page.

"Because of UP Police`s effective working, there has been a 20-35 per cent decline in crimes. All sensational crimes have been solved in 48 hours," the police said in another tweet.

While addressing the press conference, Adityanath also rubbished reports of several Hindus being forced to leave Meerut and said, "Nobody is migrating, who will migrate now that we have come to power? There might be some cases of personal disputes but there is no migration."

A complaint was lodged on the NaMo app by a social worker claiming that 125 Hindu families had migrated from Prahlad Nagar in Meerut. The complainant claimed that Hindu families are selling their homes and migrating out of fear.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hit back at Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her tweet on increasing crime rate in the state. On Saturday, Priyanka had claimed that incidents of crime are on the rise in Uttar Pradesh, and criminals were "roaming freely" in the state. "In Uttar Pradesh criminals are roaming freely and doing whatever they want. Criminal incidents are taking place one after the other. However, its BJP government has turned deaf. Has the Uttar Pradesh government surrendered before criminals?" she had tweeted in Hindi along with a collage of news reports indicating various incidents of crime. In response to the claim, Adityanath, while addressing media here, said, "It is a case of sour grapes (angoor khatte hai). Her party president (Rahul Gandhi) lost from Uttar Pradesh. So while sitting anywhere Delhi, Italy or England they have to comment in order to remain in the news." Minutes after Priyanka`s tweet, Uttar Pradesh police responded by explaining how effective the police has been in combating crime, citing statistics. "UP Police has taken strict action against serious offenders. In two years, 9,225 criminals have been arrested and 81 have been killed. Illegal assets of more than 200 crore people have been seized under the National Security Act and there has been an unprecedented decline in dacoity, murder, loot and kidnappings," read a tweet on the official page. "Because of UP Police`s effective working, there has been a 20-35 per cent decline in crimes. All sensational crimes have been solved in 48 hours," the police said in another tweet. While addressing the press conference, Adityanath also rubbished reports of several Hindus being forced to leave Meerut and said, "Nobody is migrating, who will migrate now that we have come to power? There might be some cases of personal disputes but there is no migration." A complaint was lodged on the NaMo app by a social worker claiming that 125 Hindu families had migrated from Prahlad Nagar in Meerut. The complainant claimed that Hindu families are selling their homes and migrating out of fear.

CM Yogi Adityanath hits back at Priyanka Gandhi over tweet on rising crime in Uttar Pradesh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-invites-g20-countries-to-join-global-coalition-on-disaster-resilience-231414">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday left for home after concluding his three-day visit to Japan where he attended the G20 Summit and met with the world leaders including US President Donald Trump.

During his stay in Osaka, PM Modi took part in a series of summit sessions, bilateral and multilateral meetings.

This was Prime Minister Modi's sixth G20 Summit which was held on June 28-29.

He arrived here on Thursday and met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe and held wide-ranging talks on the global economy, issues of fugitive economic offenders and disaster management and announced that the Indian President will participate in the coronation ceremony of Emperor Naruhito in October.

On Friday, PM Modi held bilateral and plurilateral meetings with many leaders, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/white-house-advisor-ivanka-terms-trump-modi-meet-as-productive-231409">US President Donald Trump</a>, Russian president Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping

On Saturday, the Prime Minister met the presidents of Indonesia and Brazil separately and discussed ways to boost bilateral ties and enhance cooperation in trade and investment.

During his meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two countries<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-indonesia-set-50-billion-trade-target-by-2025-231383"> set an ambitious $50 billion target</a> for bilateral trade by 2025. 
Modi also invited the G20 countries to join a global coalition on disaster resilience, saying disasters require quick and effective remedial measures as they invariably affect the poor the most.

PM @narendramodi leaves for Delhi after the #G20 Summit in Osaka, where he took part in a series of Summit sessions, bilateral and multilateral meetings," the Prime Minister's Office said in a tweet.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> leaves for Delhi after the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> Summit in Osaka, where he took part in a series of Summit sessions, bilateral and multilateral meetings. <a href="https://t.co/VK4ZHrLEnW">pic.twitter.com/VK4ZHrLEnW</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1144855220909772800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday left for home after concluding his three-day visit to Japan where he attended the G20 Summit and met with the world leaders including US President Donald Trump.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday left for home after concluding his three-day visit to Japan where he attended the G20 Summit and met with the world leaders including US President Donald Trump. During his stay in Osaka, PM Modi took part in a series of summit sessions, bilateral and multilateral meetings. This was Prime Minister Modi's sixth G20 Summit which was held on June 28-29. He arrived here on Thursday and met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe and held wide-ranging talks on the global economy, issues of fugitive economic offenders and disaster management and announced that the Indian President will participate in the coronation ceremony of Emperor Naruhito in October. On Friday, PM Modi held bilateral and plurilateral meetings with many leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Russian president Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping On Saturday, the Prime Minister met the presidents of Indonesia and Brazil separately and discussed ways to boost bilateral ties and enhance cooperation in trade and investment. During his meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, the two countries set an ambitious $50 billion target for bilateral trade by 2025. Modi also invited the G20 countries to join a global coalition on disaster resilience, saying disasters require quick and effective remedial measures as they invariably affect the poor the most. PM @narendramodi leaves for Delhi after the #G20 Summit in Osaka, where he took part in a series of Summit sessions, bilateral and multilateral meetings," the Prime Minister's Office said in a tweet. PM @narendramodi leaves for Delhi after the #G20 Summit in Osaka, where he took part in a series of Summit sessions, bilateral and multilateral meetings. pic.twitter.com/VK4ZHrLEnW — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 29, 2019 ×

PM Modi leaves for India after G20 Summit in Japan

Rajasthan Police filed a charge sheet for cow smuggling against Pehlu Khan, who was allegedly lynched in 2017 by a mob of "gau rakshaks" in Alwar for transporting cattle, and his two sons.

The police filed a charge sheet against&nbsp;Khan's sons Irsad (25) and Arif (22) under sections 5, 8 and 9 while charges have been framed against the deceased under section 6 of the Rajasthan Bovine Animal (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation of Temporary Migration or Export) Act, 1995.

The charge sheet against Khan was prepared on December 30 last year, 13 days after Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's government came into power in Rajasthan.

Section 5 of the RBA Act pertains to the prohibition of the export of bovine animals for the purpose of slaughter and regulation of temporary migration or export for other purposes, while section 6 says the transporter is also an abettor and is liable for the same punishment as the person committing the offence.

Section 8 is about the penalty for such offences while Section 9 mentions punishment for causing hurt to a bovine animal.

In 2018, the previous BJP government in the state had filed a similar charge sheet against two associates of Khan, who were also attacked by the mob.

There were two FIRs registered in the case. One was against the mob for beating Khan to death and second against him and his family for transporting cattle (cow) illegally out of the state.

The police had earlier given a clean chit to the six people accused of lynching Khan, a dairy farmer. The police's decision was reportedly based on statements of the staff of a cow shelter and mobile phone records.

55-year-old Khan, a native of Nuh in Haryana, was allegedly beaten up by self-styled cow vigilantes near Behror in Rajasthan on the Delhi-Alwar highway on April 1, accusing him of smuggling cattle. He succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital on April 3.

Rajasthan Police filed a charge sheet for cow smuggling against Pehlu Khan, who was allegedly lynched in 2017 by a mob of "gau rakshaks" in Alwar for transporting cattle, and his two sons.

Rajasthan Police filed a charge sheet for cow smuggling against Pehlu Khan, who was allegedly lynched in 2017 by a mob of "gau rakshaks" in Alwar for transporting cattle, and his two sons. The police filed a charge sheet against Khan's sons Irsad (25) and Arif (22) under sections 5, 8 and 9 while charges have been framed against the deceased under section 6 of the Rajasthan Bovine Animal (Prohibition of Slaughter and Regulation of Temporary Migration or Export) Act, 1995. The charge sheet against Khan was prepared on December 30 last year, 13 days after Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's government came into power in Rajasthan. Section 5 of the RBA Act pertains to the prohibition of the export of bovine animals for the purpose of slaughter and regulation of temporary migration or export for other purposes, while section 6 says the transporter is also an abettor and is liable for the same punishment as the person committing the offence. Section 8 is about the penalty for such offences while Section 9 mentions punishment for causing hurt to a bovine animal. In 2018, the previous BJP government in the state had filed a similar charge sheet against two associates of Khan, who were also attacked by the mob. There were two FIRs registered in the case. One was against the mob for beating Khan to death and second against him and his family for transporting cattle (cow) illegally out of the state. The police had earlier given a clean chit to the six people accused of lynching Khan, a dairy farmer. The police's decision was reportedly based on statements of the staff of a cow shelter and mobile phone records. 55-year-old Khan, a native of Nuh in Haryana, was allegedly beaten up by self-styled cow vigilantes near Behror in Rajasthan on the Delhi-Alwar highway on April 1, accusing him of smuggling cattle. He succumbed to his injuries at a private hospital on April 3.

Alwar lynching case: Victim Pehlu Khan, sons charged for smuggling cattle

The Madras High Court while urging the Tamil Nadu government to work with organisations interested in conservation of water bodies, in the wake of severe water crisis faced in several parts of the state, has told the state government not to prevent protests highlighting the water woes in the state, news agency PTI reported.

Justice N Anand Venkatesh made the observation on Friday while directing the Chennai Commissioner of Police to allow Arappor Iyakkam, an NGO, to hold a demonstration highlighting the present water crisis in Chennai and the causes for it on June 30 near Valluvarkottam in Chennai, the report added.

"The issue that is sought to be projected during the protest is a burning issue about which the people must be made aware. The government is taking all its efforts to ensure that water is supplied to the nook and corner of the city.

"However, it is important to realise as to why we have reached the present state of affairs as a result of various water bodies that were allowed to be encroached in the past and virtually destroying the eco system," the judge said.

Noting that the issue requires serious consideration, the judge said awareness must be spread all over the state and that the NGO was one of the pioneers in it.

The court also said these were issues that any government in power should never take as an affront and must make efforts to improve the situation and work along with associations that are interested in the conservation of water bodies.

Awareness is the only way through which the situation can be brought under control and therefore, protests of this nature should never be stopped, it observed.

On June 20, the Commissioner of Police had rejected the NGO's application seeking permission for the protest on the grounds that another organisation had sought permission on the very same day and that it would result inlaw and order problem.

Aggrieved, the petitioner approached the high court.

Several parts of Tamil Nadu, especially the state capital, have been reeling under severe water shortage since last month owing to poor storage in various reservoirs following deficit rainfall.&nbsp;

The Madras High Court while urging the Tamil Nadu government to work with organisations interested in conservation of water bodies, in the wake of severe water crisis faced in several parts of the state, has told the state government not to prevent protests highlighting the water woes in the state, news agency PTI reported.

The Madras High Court while urging the Tamil Nadu government to work with organisations interested in conservation of water bodies, in the wake of severe water crisis faced in several parts of the state, has told the state government not to prevent protests highlighting the water woes in the state, news agency PTI reported. Justice N Anand Venkatesh made the observation on Friday while directing the Chennai Commissioner of Police to allow Arappor Iyakkam, an NGO, to hold a demonstration highlighting the present water crisis in Chennai and the causes for it on June 30 near Valluvarkottam in Chennai, the report added. "The issue that is sought to be projected during the protest is a burning issue about which the people must be made aware. The government is taking all its efforts to ensure that water is supplied to the nook and corner of the city. "However, it is important to realise as to why we have reached the present state of affairs as a result of various water bodies that were allowed to be encroached in the past and virtually destroying the eco system," the judge said. Noting that the issue requires serious consideration, the judge said awareness must be spread all over the state and that the NGO was one of the pioneers in it. The court also said these were issues that any government in power should never take as an affront and must make efforts to improve the situation and work along with associations that are interested in the conservation of water bodies. Awareness is the only way through which the situation can be brought under control and therefore, protests of this nature should never be stopped, it observed. On June 20, the Commissioner of Police had rejected the NGO's application seeking permission for the protest on the grounds that another organisation had sought permission on the very same day and that it would result inlaw and order problem. Aggrieved, the petitioner approached the high court. Several parts of Tamil Nadu, especially the state capital, have been reeling under severe water shortage since last month owing to poor storage in various reservoirs following deficit rainfall.

Tamil Nadu government told not to prevent protests over water crisis

Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday informed that she has moved out of her official residence in Delhi.

In a tweet, Swaraj wrote, "I have moved out of my official residence 8, Safdarjung Lane, New Delhi. Please note that I am not contactable on the earlier address and phone numbers."

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I have moved out of my official residence 8, Safdarjung Lane, New Delhi. Please note that I am not contactable on the earlier address and phone numbers.
— Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/1144835064028512256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on June 10, Swaraj had denied reports suggesting that she was appointed as the Governor of Andhra Pradesh after Union Minister Harsh Vardhan tweeted congratulating her for it.

"The news about my appointment as Governor of Andhra Pradesh is not true," Swaraj had tweeted.

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan, later deleted his tweet.

Swaraj had opted out of the Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons. She was appointed the External Affairs Minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. The portfolio is now held by former foreign secretary S Jaishankar.

During her tenure, the BJP leader was extremely active and popular on Twitter for reaching out to the Indian diaspora in distress. She was also loved by users for her witty and humorous replies.

Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday informed that she has moved out of her official residence in Delhi. In a tweet, Swaraj wrote, "I have moved out of my official residence 8, Safdarjung Lane, New Delhi.

Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Saturday informed that she has moved out of her official residence in Delhi. In a tweet, Swaraj wrote, "I have moved out of my official residence 8, Safdarjung Lane, New Delhi. Please note that I am not contactable on the earlier address and phone numbers." I have moved out of my official residence 8, Safdarjung Lane, New Delhi. Please note that I am not contactable on the earlier address and phone numbers. — Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) June 29, 2019 × Earlier on June 10, Swaraj had denied reports suggesting that she was appointed as the Governor of Andhra Pradesh after Union Minister Harsh Vardhan tweeted congratulating her for it. "The news about my appointment as Governor of Andhra Pradesh is not true," Swaraj had tweeted. Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan, later deleted his tweet. Swaraj had opted out of the Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons. She was appointed the External Affairs Minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. The portfolio is now held by former foreign secretary S Jaishankar. During her tenure, the BJP leader was extremely active and popular on Twitter for reaching out to the Indian diaspora in distress. She was also loved by users for her witty and humorous replies.

Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj moves out of official residence

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-indonesian-presdient-joko-widodo-brazilian-president-jair-bolsonaro-at-g20-summit-in-japans-osaka-231351">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday invited the G20 countries to join a global coalition on disaster resilience, saying disasters require quick and effective remedial measures as they invariably affect the poor the most.

Modi, who is in Osaka, Japan for the two-day G20 Summit, laid special emphasis on building a disaster resilient future.

"Disaster resilient infrastructure is required not only for development, but it is also necessary to combat natural calamities. In this regard I stressed upon the need of an international coalition in the G-20 conference of Buenos Aires," he said at the G20 session on Quality Infrastructure Investment and Development Cooperation.

He invited the G20 countries to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

Watch:&nbsp;Big Bilateral between India &amp; Turkey

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"I invite the G-20 countries to join this coalition and share their experience and expertise," the Prime Minister said.

"Disasters, natural or manmade, require quick and effective remedial measures. They invariably affect the poor the most. At the #G20 Summit, invited other nations to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Let us close ranks for a safer planet," Modi said on Twitter.

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Disasters, natural or manmade, require quick and effective remedial measures. They invariably affect the poor the most. At the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> Summit, invited other nations to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Let us close ranks for a safer planet.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1144848986722861059?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"PM @narendramodi laying special emphasis on building a disaster resilient future, invites G20 countries to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet.

On Friday, Modi held bilateral and plurilateral meetings with many leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Russian president Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday invited the G20 countries to join a global coalition on disaster resilience, saying disasters require quick and effective remedial measures as they invariably affect the poor the most.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday invited the G20 countries to join a global coalition on disaster resilience, saying disasters require quick and effective remedial measures as they invariably affect the poor the most. Modi, who is in Osaka, Japan for the two-day G20 Summit, laid special emphasis on building a disaster resilient future. "Disaster resilient infrastructure is required not only for development, but it is also necessary to combat natural calamities. In this regard I stressed upon the need of an international coalition in the G-20 conference of Buenos Aires," he said at the G20 session on Quality Infrastructure Investment and Development Cooperation. He invited the G20 countries to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Watch: Big Bilateral between India & Turkey "I invite the G-20 countries to join this coalition and share their experience and expertise," the Prime Minister said. "Disasters, natural or manmade, require quick and effective remedial measures. They invariably affect the poor the most. At the #G20 Summit, invited other nations to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Let us close ranks for a safer planet," Modi said on Twitter. Disasters, natural or manmade, require quick and effective remedial measures. They invariably affect the poor the most. At the #G20 Summit, invited other nations to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. Let us close ranks for a safer planet. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 29, 2019 × "PM @narendramodi laying special emphasis on building a disaster resilient future, invites G20 countries to join the International Coalition on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a tweet. On Friday, Modi held bilateral and plurilateral meetings with many leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Russian president Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping.

PM Modi invites G20 countries to join global coalition on disaster resilience

White House advisor and US President Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump termed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-become-great-friends-well-work-together-in-many-ways-including-military-trump-to-pm-modi-at-g20-231285">US president's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> as a ''subsequent productive conversation.''

"We are here at the G20 in Osaka and Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Abe just concluded a meeting with the President talking about 5G technology, particularly with a focus on its security implication," said Ivanka Trump, in a video tweeted by the White House.

"A subsequent productive conversation, a one-on-one meeting between the President and Prime Minister Modi (was held) where the same issues were covered, of course, 5G, as well as trade relations between the United States and India, a critical trading partner, a critical security partner and a critical ally. So it was a productive discussion, everything from Iran to national security was covered by the President and the US delegation with their Indian counterparts," added the US President's daughter, who is a part of his delegation at the G-20 Summit in Osaka, Japan.

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More from President Trump's meeting with Prime Minister Modi: <a href="https://t.co/GoKa9Q4Uje">pic.twitter.com/GoKa9Q4Uje</a>
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1144673869686616064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Trump and PM Modi held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Summit in Osaka.

During the meeting, Trump had agreed to resolve trade issues which have been bone of contention between New Delhi-Washington ties.

"We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer...We'll work together in many ways including military," Trump said.

No discussions took place on the Indo-Russia S-400 missile defence deal, on which Washington has been raising concerns to India.

White House advisor and US President Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump termed US president's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a ''subsequent productive conversation.

White House advisor and US President Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump termed US president's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a ''subsequent productive conversation.'' "We are here at the G20 in Osaka and Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Abe just concluded a meeting with the President talking about 5G technology, particularly with a focus on its security implication," said Ivanka Trump, in a video tweeted by the White House. "A subsequent productive conversation, a one-on-one meeting between the President and Prime Minister Modi (was held) where the same issues were covered, of course, 5G, as well as trade relations between the United States and India, a critical trading partner, a critical security partner and a critical ally. So it was a productive discussion, everything from Iran to national security was covered by the President and the US delegation with their Indian counterparts," added the US President's daughter, who is a part of his delegation at the G-20 Summit in Osaka, Japan. More from President Trump's meeting with Prime Minister Modi: pic.twitter.com/GoKa9Q4Uje — The White House (@WhiteHouse) June 28, 2019 × Trump and PM Modi held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the Summit in Osaka. During the meeting, Trump had agreed to resolve trade issues which have been bone of contention between New Delhi-Washington ties. "We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer...We'll work together in many ways including military," Trump said. No discussions took place on the Indo-Russia S-400 missile defence deal, on which Washington has been raising concerns to India.

White House advisor Ivanka terms Trump-Modi meet as 'productive'

Congress workers in Kanpur are set to go on a hunger strike on Saturday to urge party president Rahul Gandhi to not resign from the post.

"The local Congress unit will undertake 'sadbhavan anshan' on June 29 at 11 am to press upon <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/resignations-pour-in-in-support-of-rahul-gandhi-pressure-on-senior-congress-leaders-to-resign-231254">Rahul Gandhi to take back his decision</a> to resign from the post of Congress chief," a press note by Congress committee in Kanpur said.

Meanwhile, a flurry of resignations has emerged within the Congress after Gandhi said he will not reconsider resigning from his post after facing a humiliating defeat in the general elections.

As many as 145 office bearers tendered a mass resignation earlier in the day during a meeting conducted in the Congress office and set an example for the senior members of the party to follow the suit of taking the moral responsibility behind dismal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha elections.

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 Congress' dismal performance in the 17th general elections.

However, his offer of 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 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.

&nbsp;

Congress workers in Kanpur are set to go on a hunger strike on Saturday to urge party president Rahul Gandhi to not resign from the post. "The local Congress unit will undertake 'sadbhavan anshan' on June 29 at 11 am to press upon Rahul Gandhi to take back his decision to resign from the post of Congress chief," a press note by Congress committee in Kanpur said.

Congress workers in Kanpur are set to go on a hunger strike on Saturday to urge party president Rahul Gandhi to not resign from the post. "The local Congress unit will undertake 'sadbhavan anshan' on June 29 at 11 am to press upon Rahul Gandhi to take back his decision to resign from the post of Congress chief," a press note by Congress committee in Kanpur said. Meanwhile, a flurry of resignations has emerged within the Congress after Gandhi said he will not reconsider resigning from his post after facing a humiliating defeat in the general elections. As many as 145 office bearers tendered a mass resignation earlier in the day during a meeting conducted in the Congress office and set an example for the senior members of the party to follow the suit of taking the moral responsibility behind dismal performance in the 17th Lok Sabha elections. 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 Congress' dismal performance in the 17th general elections. However, his offer of 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 2014 in the outgoing Lok Sabha.

Kanpur Congress workers to go on hunger strike urging Rahul Gandhi to not resign as party chief

Four children and a woman among 17&nbsp;dead on Saturday following a wall collapse&nbsp;in Pune's Kondhwa area.

The compound wall collapsed around 1.45 am on Friday night in the Kondhawa area, an official said.&nbsp;

The District Collector of Pune, Naval Kishore Ram said, ''The wall collapsed due to heavy rainfall. Negligence of the construction company is coming to light with this incident. Death of 15 people is not a small matter. Most were labourers from Bihar and West Bengal. Government to provide help to the affected.''

Two to three people are still believed to be trapped as rescue operations are underway.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Saturday ordered an in-depth inquiry into the incident of wall collapse in Pune, in which 15 people were killed.

"Extremely saddened to know about loss of lives in the Kondhwa, Pune wall collapse incident. My deepest condolences to the families and praying for speedy recovery of the injured. Directed Pune Collector to conduct an in-depth enquiry," Fadnavis said on Twitter.

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Extremely saddened to know about loss of lives in the Kondhwa, Pune wall collapse incident. 
My deepest condolences to the families and prying for speedy recovery of the injured. 
Directed Pune Collector to conduct an in-depth enquiry.
— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/1144816744328024064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, the number of people who have been injured in the accident&nbsp;is yet to be confirmed.

The identities of the deceased are yet to be ascertained.

The NDRF team has reached the accident spot for rescue and search operations.

Four children and a woman among 17 dead on Saturday following a wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area. The compound wall collapsed around 1.45 am on Friday night in the Kondhawa area, an official said.

Four children and a woman among 17 dead on Saturday following a wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area. The compound wall collapsed around 1.45 am on Friday night in the Kondhawa area, an official said. The District Collector of Pune, Naval Kishore Ram said, ''The wall collapsed due to heavy rainfall. Negligence of the construction company is coming to light with this incident. Death of 15 people is not a small matter. Most were labourers from Bihar and West Bengal. Government to provide help to the affected.'' Two to three people are still believed to be trapped as rescue operations are underway. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Saturday ordered an in-depth inquiry into the incident of wall collapse in Pune, in which 15 people were killed. "Extremely saddened to know about loss of lives in the Kondhwa, Pune wall collapse incident. My deepest condolences to the families and praying for speedy recovery of the injured. Directed Pune Collector to conduct an in-depth enquiry," Fadnavis said on Twitter. Extremely saddened to know about loss of lives in the Kondhwa, Pune wall collapse incident. My deepest condolences to the families and prying for speedy recovery of the injured. Directed Pune Collector to conduct an in-depth enquiry. — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) June 29, 2019 × According to reports, the number of people who have been injured in the accident is yet to be confirmed. The identities of the deceased are yet to be ascertained. The NDRF team has reached the accident spot for rescue and search operations.

Four children among 17 dead after wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area

The 15-member team which helped to recover bodies of personnel died in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/an-32-crash-iaf-retrieves-remains-of-all-13-air-warriors-229036">AN-32 crash</a> in Arunachal Pradesh was retrieved on Saturday evening, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said.

The team which was stuck at the crash site since June 20 could not be airlifted, due to inclement weather and rain.

"Today evening around 5:15 PM, the search and rescue team which was camping as the crash site since June 12, was retrieved by IAF choppers to along. The 15 member team comprising of 8 from IAF (including 2 officers), 4 from Army (including 1 officer) and 3 civilians were recovered using ALH and Mi-17V5 helicopters," the IAF release said.

Thirteen IAF personnel died in the AN-32 aircraft crash which went missing on June 3 after taking off from Assam's Jorhat.

The aircraft was headed for Mechuka Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh when it lost contact with ground authorities at around 1 pm.

After a massive search and rescue operation for eight days, during which assets from several agencies were deployed, the wreckage of the aircraft was located by a Mi-17 chopper.

The remains IAF personnel were retrieved on June 20 from Arunachal Pradesh where the plane crashed.

The wreckage was located 16 km north of Lipo in Arunachal Pradesh at an elevation of 12,000 feet.&nbsp;

The 15-member team which helped to recover bodies of personnel died in AN-32 crash in Arunachal Pradesh was retrieved on Saturday evening, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said.

The 15-member team which helped to recover bodies of personnel died in AN-32 crash in Arunachal Pradesh was retrieved on Saturday evening, the Indian Air Force (IAF) said. The team which was stuck at the crash site since June 20 could not be airlifted, due to inclement weather and rain. "Today evening around 5:15 PM, the search and rescue team which was camping as the crash site since June 12, was retrieved by IAF choppers to along. The 15 member team comprising of 8 from IAF (including 2 officers), 4 from Army (including 1 officer) and 3 civilians were recovered using ALH and Mi-17V5 helicopters," the IAF release said. Thirteen IAF personnel died in the AN-32 aircraft crash which went missing on June 3 after taking off from Assam's Jorhat. The aircraft was headed for Mechuka Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh when it lost contact with ground authorities at around 1 pm. After a massive search and rescue operation for eight days, during which assets from several agencies were deployed, the wreckage of the aircraft was located by a Mi-17 chopper. The remains IAF personnel were retrieved on June 20 from Arunachal Pradesh where the plane crashed. The wreckage was located 16 km north of Lipo in Arunachal Pradesh at an elevation of 12,000 feet.

AN-32 crash: IAF retrieves 15-member rescue team from crash site

Despite the heavy schedule at G20 summit which is currently underway in Japan's Osaka, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-indonesian-presdient-joko-widodo-brazilian-president-jair-bolsonaro-at-g20-summit-in-japans-osaka-231351">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison managed to click a selfie.

Scott Morrison later tweeted the picture with a Hindi caption, saying ''Kithana acha he Modi!'' (How nice Modi is).

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Kithana acha he Modi! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20OsakaSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20OsakaSummit</a> <a href="https://t.co/BC6DyuX4lf">pic.twitter.com/BC6DyuX4lf</a>
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1144754448587079680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Both the prime ministers are busy holding a string of bilateral and trilateral meetings on the sidelines of Summit.

This is the first meeting of the two leaders after the election in both countries.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-pm-tweets-a-selfie-with-pm-modi-praised-him-in-hindi-231375/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Soon after the PM Modi's re-election, Morrison called up Modi to congratulate him on winning the Lok Sabha elections and sought to boost bilateral ties.

PM Modi on Saturday held a bilateral meeting with President Joko Widodo, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Despite the heavy schedule at G20 summit which is currently underway in Japan's Osaka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison managed to click a selfie.

Despite the heavy schedule at G20 summit which is currently underway in Japan's Osaka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison managed to click a selfie. Scott Morrison later tweeted the picture with a Hindi caption, saying ''Kithana acha he Modi!'' (How nice Modi is). Kithana acha he Modi! #G20OsakaSummit pic.twitter.com/BC6DyuX4lf — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) June 28, 2019 × Both the prime ministers are busy holding a string of bilateral and trilateral meetings on the sidelines of Summit. This is the first meeting of the two leaders after the election in both countries. Soon after the PM Modi's re-election, Morrison called up Modi to congratulate him on winning the Lok Sabha elections and sought to boost bilateral ties. PM Modi on Saturday held a bilateral meeting with President Joko Widodo, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison tweets selfie with PM Modi at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka

India and Indonesia on Saturday set an ambitious $50 billion target for bilateral trade over the next six years as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-indonesian-presdient-joko-widodo-brazilian-president-jair-bolsonaro-at-g20-summit-in-japans-osaka-231351">Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joko Widodo</a> discussed ways to deepen cooperation in a number of key areas including economy, defence and maritime security.

The two leaders, who are in Osaka, Japan for the G20 Summit, met in the morning and discussed ways to boost bilateral ties and enhance cooperation in trade and investment.

According to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, India and Indonesia set a $50 billion target for bilateral trade by 2025.

Trade between the two countries in 2016 was $12.9 billion. It rose 28.7 per cent to $18.13 billion in 2017 with Indonesia's exports to India reaching $14.08 billion and its imports from India standing at $4.05 billion, according to Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency.

During his meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Indonesian President Widodo, the two leaders discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, defence and maritime fronts.

This was Modi's first official engagement on the second day of the June 28-29 Summit.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi's 4 Bilaterals &amp; 4 Pull-Asides

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"Beginning Day 2 of the #G20 Summit by meeting a valued friend. PM @narendramodi holds talks with President @jokowi on ways to deepen India-Indonesia cooperation," the prime minister's office tweeted.

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Beginning Day 2 of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> Summit by meeting a valued friend. 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> holds talks with President <a href="https://twitter.com/jokowi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jokowi</a> on ways to deepen India-Indonesia cooperation. <a href="https://t.co/lEF3uIFPAJ">pic.twitter.com/lEF3uIFPAJ</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1144766583950041089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In a tweet, Kumar said, "Taking forward the comprehensive strategic partnership. PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with Indonesian President @jokowi on margins of #G20Summit. Discussed expanding cooperation in trade &amp; investment, defence, maritime, space &amp; exchanged views on Indo-Pacific vision".

On Friday, Modi held bilateral and plurilateral meetings with many leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Russian president Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping.&nbsp;

India and Indonesia on Saturday set an ambitious $50 billion target for bilateral trade over the next six years as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joko Widodo discussed ways to deepen cooperation in a number of key areas including economy, defence and maritime security.

India and Indonesia on Saturday set an ambitious $50 billion target for bilateral trade over the next six years as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joko Widodo discussed ways to deepen cooperation in a number of key areas including economy, defence and maritime security. The two leaders, who are in Osaka, Japan for the G20 Summit, met in the morning and discussed ways to boost bilateral ties and enhance cooperation in trade and investment. According to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, India and Indonesia set a $50 billion target for bilateral trade by 2025. Trade between the two countries in 2016 was $12.9 billion. It rose 28.7 per cent to $18.13 billion in 2017 with Indonesia's exports to India reaching $14.08 billion and its imports from India standing at $4.05 billion, according to Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency. During his meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Indonesian President Widodo, the two leaders discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, defence and maritime fronts. This was Modi's first official engagement on the second day of the June 28-29 Summit. Watch: PM Modi's 4 Bilaterals & 4 Pull-Asides "Beginning Day 2 of the #G20 Summit by meeting a valued friend. PM @narendramodi holds talks with President @jokowi on ways to deepen India-Indonesia cooperation," the prime minister's office tweeted. Beginning Day 2 of the #G20 Summit by meeting a valued friend. PM @narendramodi holds talks with President @jokowi on ways to deepen India-Indonesia cooperation. pic.twitter.com/lEF3uIFPAJ — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 29, 2019 × In a tweet, Kumar said, "Taking forward the comprehensive strategic partnership. PM @narendramodi had a productive meeting with Indonesian President @jokowi on margins of #G20Summit. Discussed expanding cooperation in trade & investment, defence, maritime, space & exchanged views on Indo-Pacific vision". On Friday, Modi held bilateral and plurilateral meetings with many leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Russian president Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping.

India, Indonesia set $50 billion trade target by 2025

The toll due to the acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) mounted to 134 in the state on Saturday.

As per the official data, Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, reported 113 deaths while there were 21 deaths at Kejriwal Hospital of the city.

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 has 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;

The toll due to the acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) mounted to 134 in the state on Saturday. As per the official data, Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, reported 113 deaths while there were 21 deaths at Kejriwal Hospital of the city.

The toll due to the acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) mounted to 134 in the state on Saturday. As per the official data, Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, reported 113 deaths while there were 21 deaths at Kejriwal Hospital of the city. 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 has 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.

Bihar: Encephalitis toll rises to 134 in Muzaffarpur

An Indian-American teen has won a whopping $100,000 prize in the most-watched individual quiz show in the US, according to a statement.

Avi Gupta's victory on the '2019 Teen Jeopardy' contest was televised on Friday in which he beat out three other Indian-American teens.

Gupta, a high school senior from Portland, Oregon, won the show's latest Teen Tournament, taking home the $100,000 grand prize, Jeopardy! said in a statement.

"It still feels unreal, and I honestly can't express how grateful and fortunate I feel to have had this opportunity," Gupta said.

"Jeopardy! has always been a huge part of my life and my family's life; it's a special bonding connection with my grandma, who is a huge fan," he added.

"As a mother my heart was beating 100 miles per hour. I think the thing about Avi is his perseverance. For him, I could see the effort he has put in throughout the year, So I wanted to just have him have a happy wholesome experience. And the win was the cherry on top," Nandita Gupta, his mother said.

Ryan Presler, an eighth-grader from Sioux Falls, came in second place, grabbing the $50,000 runner-up prize, while Lucas Miner, a high school junior from Miami, received $25,000 for his third-place troubles.

The 2018 College Jeopardy, which also carried a prize of $100,000, was won by Dhruv Gaur.

Jeopardy!, which featured a total of 15 students, is an American television game show which features a quiz competition in which contestants are presented with general knowledge clues in the form of answers, and must phrase their responses in the form of questions.

An Indian-American teen has won a whopping $100,000 prize in the most-watched individual quiz show in the US, according to a statement. Avi Gupta's victory on the '2019 Teen Jeopardy' contest was televised on Friday in which he beat out three other Indian-American teens.

An Indian-American teen has won a whopping $100,000 prize in the most-watched individual quiz show in the US, according to a statement. Avi Gupta's victory on the '2019 Teen Jeopardy' contest was televised on Friday in which he beat out three other Indian-American teens. Gupta, a high school senior from Portland, Oregon, won the show's latest Teen Tournament, taking home the $100,000 grand prize, Jeopardy! said in a statement. "It still feels unreal, and I honestly can't express how grateful and fortunate I feel to have had this opportunity," Gupta said. "Jeopardy! has always been a huge part of my life and my family's life; it's a special bonding connection with my grandma, who is a huge fan," he added. "As a mother my heart was beating 100 miles per hour. I think the thing about Avi is his perseverance. For him, I could see the effort he has put in throughout the year, So I wanted to just have him have a happy wholesome experience. And the win was the cherry on top," Nandita Gupta, his mother said. Ryan Presler, an eighth-grader from Sioux Falls, came in second place, grabbing the $50,000 runner-up prize, while Lucas Miner, a high school junior from Miami, received $25,000 for his third-place troubles. The 2018 College Jeopardy, which also carried a prize of $100,000, was won by Dhruv Gaur. Jeopardy!, which featured a total of 15 students, is an American television game show which features a quiz competition in which contestants are presented with general knowledge clues in the form of answers, and must phrase their responses in the form of questions.

Indian-American teen wins $100K quiz show prize in US

Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth Saturday said Rain-water harvesting (RWH) should be taken up on a war-footing to address the acute water crisis in the state.

The 69-year-old actor was speaking to reporters here on his arrival from Mumbai, where he was shooting for his film 'Durbar.'

"As of now, immediate measures that need to be taken is saving rain-water. It should be on a war-footing mode. Then all water bodies, including lakes and ponds need to be distilled ahead of the monsoon season", he said to a query on the water crisis prevailing in Tamil Nadu.

The city is facing a severe crisis with all four major reservoirs supplying water going bone dry, forcing residents to look for alternatives to tide over the crisis.

Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio had recently expressed concern over the acute water crisis in Tamil Nadu.

The 44-year-old actor, one of the most vocal environmentalists in Hollywood, had shared a post by news outlet BBC on Instagram with the title, "Only rain can save Chennai from this situation".

Rajinikanth replied in the affirmative when asked whether he was upset at not being able to cast his vote in the recently held South Indian Artists Association election.

"Yes (I am upset). Because I did not receive the postal votes on time", Rajinikanth said.

The bi-annual South Indian Artists Association was held on June 23 as per the orders of the Madras High Court. Nearly 1,604 actors and actresses, including top actors Kamal Hassan and Vijay, cast their votes.

However, Rajinikanth missed out as he was in Mumbai for shooting for his upcoming flick 'Durbar'.

He had expressed his regret at not being able to vote in a tweet, saying that he had received the postal votes for the election only at 6.45 pm on June 22 despite his efforts to get it earlier.&nbsp;

Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth Saturday said Rain-water harvesting (RWH) should be taken up on a war-footing to address the acute water crisis in the state. The 69-year-old actor was speaking to reporters here on his arrival from Mumbai, where he was shooting for his film 'Durbar.

Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth Saturday said Rain-water harvesting (RWH) should be taken up on a war-footing to address the acute water crisis in the state. The 69-year-old actor was speaking to reporters here on his arrival from Mumbai, where he was shooting for his film 'Durbar.' "As of now, immediate measures that need to be taken is saving rain-water. It should be on a war-footing mode. Then all water bodies, including lakes and ponds need to be distilled ahead of the monsoon season", he said to a query on the water crisis prevailing in Tamil Nadu. The city is facing a severe crisis with all four major reservoirs supplying water going bone dry, forcing residents to look for alternatives to tide over the crisis. Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio had recently expressed concern over the acute water crisis in Tamil Nadu. The 44-year-old actor, one of the most vocal environmentalists in Hollywood, had shared a post by news outlet BBC on Instagram with the title, "Only rain can save Chennai from this situation". Rajinikanth replied in the affirmative when asked whether he was upset at not being able to cast his vote in the recently held South Indian Artists Association election. "Yes (I am upset). Because I did not receive the postal votes on time", Rajinikanth said. The bi-annual South Indian Artists Association was held on June 23 as per the orders of the Madras High Court. Nearly 1,604 actors and actresses, including top actors Kamal Hassan and Vijay, cast their votes. However, Rajinikanth missed out as he was in Mumbai for shooting for his upcoming flick 'Durbar'. He had expressed his regret at not being able to vote in a tweet, saying that he had received the postal votes for the election only at 6.45 pm on June 22 despite his efforts to get it earlier.

Rainwater harvesting should be taken up on war footing: Rajinikanth

The Odisha government put all the 30 districts of the state on alert Saturday in view of the IMD forecasting enhanced heavy rainfall for the next three days, officials said.

The step was taken in view of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating the formation of a low-pressure area in North Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas, which is likely to intensify into a depression during the subsequent 48 hours.

"Under its influence, enhanced rainfall activity is very likely over the districts of Odisha," Director of IMD, Bhubaneswar H R Biswas said.

Due to the likely formation of a low-pressure area over north Bay of Bengal, squally weather with the wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph is likely to prevail over north Bay of Bengal and the adjoining west central bay from June 30 to July 2, he added.

In an advisory issued to the district collectors, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said, "Administrative machinery of all the districts has been asked to remain alert to meet any localised flood/waterlogging situation that may arise in the event of extremely very heavy rainfall. The situation may be closely watched."

The SRC said Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, Nabarangpur, Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri and Balasore districts were specially told to remain alert.

The IMD advised fishermen not to venture along and off the Odisha coast and north Bay of Bengal from June 30 to July 2.

Those who had ventured to the deep sea were advised to return to the coast by June 29 night, the IMD said.

Extremely heavy rainfall at one or two places in Bhadrak, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Kendrapada districts and heavy to very heavy rainfall at one or two places in the coastal districts, besides in Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Angul, Deogarh, Sambalpur, Kandhmal and Malkangiri have been forecast on Sunday, the department said.

It forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall on Monday with extremely heavy rainfall likely to occur over one or two places in Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Sonepur and Boudh districts.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur over one or two places of Gajapati, Ganjam, Rayagada, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Jajpur and Sundargarh districts, the IMD said.

Jharsuguda, Sundergarh, Bargarh, Nuapada, Bolangir, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur and Koraput districts are likely to experience heavy rainfall on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Odisha government put all the 30 districts of the state on alert Saturday in view of the IMD forecasting enhanced heavy rainfall for the next three days, officials said.

The Odisha government put all the 30 districts of the state on alert Saturday in view of the IMD forecasting enhanced heavy rainfall for the next three days, officials said. The step was taken in view of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating the formation of a low-pressure area in North Bay of Bengal and adjoining areas, which is likely to intensify into a depression during the subsequent 48 hours. "Under its influence, enhanced rainfall activity is very likely over the districts of Odisha," Director of IMD, Bhubaneswar H R Biswas said. Due to the likely formation of a low-pressure area over north Bay of Bengal, squally weather with the wind speed reaching 40-50 kmph is likely to prevail over north Bay of Bengal and the adjoining west central bay from June 30 to July 2, he added. In an advisory issued to the district collectors, Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said, "Administrative machinery of all the districts has been asked to remain alert to meet any localised flood/waterlogging situation that may arise in the event of extremely very heavy rainfall. The situation may be closely watched." The SRC said Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, Nabarangpur, Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri and Balasore districts were specially told to remain alert. The IMD advised fishermen not to venture along and off the Odisha coast and north Bay of Bengal from June 30 to July 2. Those who had ventured to the deep sea were advised to return to the coast by June 29 night, the IMD said. Extremely heavy rainfall at one or two places in Bhadrak, Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Kendrapada districts and heavy to very heavy rainfall at one or two places in the coastal districts, besides in Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Angul, Deogarh, Sambalpur, Kandhmal and Malkangiri have been forecast on Sunday, the department said. It forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall on Monday with extremely heavy rainfall likely to occur over one or two places in Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Sambalpur, Deogarh, Sonepur and Boudh districts. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely to occur over one or two places of Gajapati, Ganjam, Rayagada, Koraput, Nabarangpur, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Angul, Dhenkanal, Keonjhar, Jajpur and Sundargarh districts, the IMD said. Jharsuguda, Sundergarh, Bargarh, Nuapada, Bolangir, Kalahandi, Nabarangpur and Koraput districts are likely to experience heavy rainfall on Tuesday.

Odisha government puts all districts on alert due to forecast of heavy rain

Taking a step forward to break the lock jam on stalled India-Pakistan officials levels talks on Kartarpur, New Delhi has proposed Islamabad any date between July 11 to 14 at Attari-Wagah on the Pakistani side for the second round of talks.

The second round of talks was originally expected to happen on April 2 but New Delhi had postponed the talks as Pakistan had appointed Khalistani elements on a committee associated with the Kartarpur corridor.

A known Khalistani and close aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Gopal Singh Chawla was appointed to Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak committee which oversees the project on Pakistan side.

The first round of India Pakistan talks was held on March 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagah border.

The focus of the upcoming meeting, if Pakistan agrees, would be to discuss the draft agreement on the Kartarpur corridor which includes movement of pilgrims, alignment and infrastructure along the corridor.

India during the first round of talks had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5000 people allowed very day, Pakistan said it can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit.

Other than India Pakistan officials level talks, 3 technical level discussions have taken place between both sides to discuss and finalise alignment and other related issues.

Work in on full swing on the Indian side of the Kartarpur corridor with 45% of work being completed. India is building a 4 lane highway and passenger bus terminal. The deadline for construction for the entire project is October 2019, just a month ahead of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji.

Meanwhile, as part of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, India has asked Islamabad to facilitate Nagar Kirtan to which is organized by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee at Gurudwara Nankana Sahib in July 2019 and then in October-November 2019.

India also asked Islamabad to increase the number of pilgrims to visit the religious shrines in Pakistan to 10000 under the 1974 bilateral Protocol.

Taking a step forward to break the lock jam on stalled India-Pakistan officials levels talks on Kartarpur, New Delhi has proposed Islamabad any date between July 11 to 14 at Attari-Wagah on the Pakistani side for the second round of talks.

Taking a step forward to break the lock jam on stalled India-Pakistan officials levels talks on Kartarpur, New Delhi has proposed Islamabad any date between July 11 to 14 at Attari-Wagah on the Pakistani side for the second round of talks. The second round of talks was originally expected to happen on April 2 but New Delhi had postponed the talks as Pakistan had appointed Khalistani elements on a committee associated with the Kartarpur corridor. A known Khalistani and close aide of 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Gopal Singh Chawla was appointed to Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak committee which oversees the project on Pakistan side. The first round of India Pakistan talks was held on March 14 on the Indian side of Attari-Wagah border. The focus of the upcoming meeting, if Pakistan agrees, would be to discuss the draft agreement on the Kartarpur corridor which includes movement of pilgrims, alignment and infrastructure along the corridor. India during the first round of talks had proposed that the corridor should be open to Indian citizens and Indian diaspora with 5000 people allowed very day, Pakistan said it can allow only 700 people that too only Indian citizens on designated days with a paid permit. Other than India Pakistan officials level talks, 3 technical level discussions have taken place between both sides to discuss and finalise alignment and other related issues. Work in on full swing on the Indian side of the Kartarpur corridor with 45% of work being completed. India is building a 4 lane highway and passenger bus terminal. The deadline for construction for the entire project is October 2019, just a month ahead of 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji. Meanwhile, as part of the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji, India has asked Islamabad to facilitate Nagar Kirtan to which is organized by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee at Gurudwara Nankana Sahib in July 2019 and then in October-November 2019. India also asked Islamabad to increase the number of pilgrims to visit the religious shrines in Pakistan to 10000 under the 1974 bilateral Protocol.

Kartarpur corridor talks: India proposes meeting with Pakistan officials in July

Twenty-two people were killed and seven injured in Maharashtra and Jharkhand in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rainfall-to-lash-mumbai-for-next-three-days-india-meteorological-department-231366">rain-related incidents</a>, even as the dry spell continued in most parts of north India which was reeling under sweltering heat.

At least 15 people, including four children, were killed and two injured in Pune when a portion of the 22-ft high compound wall of a housing society collapsed on adjoining shanties following incessant rains, trapping the sleeping families under the debris, officials said.

The incident took place between 1:30 am and 1:45 am at Kondhwa and the victims were labourers and their family members, a majority of them from Bihar, who were living in makeshift shelters at the under-construction residential project where deep excavation work was underway.

Heavy monsoon rains continued to lash Mumbai and its neighbouring areas for the second consecutive day on Saturday and at least five persons were injured in rain-related incidents, officials said.

The suburban local trains, called the lifeline of Mumbai, remained largely unaffected and were running as per their schedule. However, in view of IMD's heavy rainfall forecast, the Central Railway (CR) cancelled some express or passenger trains, especially those between Mumbai and Pune.

According to the officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), 39 incidents of short circuit, 104 incidents of the uprooting of trees or falling of tree branches were reported from various parts of the city.

In Maharashtra's Thane district, two people died of electrocution in separate incidents caused by incessant rains on late Friday night. While the first incident occurred in Thane city, the other one occurred in Ambarnath.

Two people died on Saturday after being struck by lightning in separate incidents in Maharashtra's Buldhana district, police said.

While Shrikrishna Dhabal (69) was struck by a lightning bolt while working in his field in Sangrampur taluka, farm labourer Yuvraj Gavande (35) died in a similar manner in Jalgaon village, they said.

Three people, including two teenagers, died in lightning strikes in Jharkhand's Gumla district during heavy rains on Friday evening.

In the national capital, the mercury settled five notches above normal on Sunday. The minimum temperature was recorded at 30 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal, while the maximum temperature settled at 42.3 degrees, five notches above normal.&nbsp;

Parts of south Gujarat received extremely heavy rainfall Saturday, with the IMD stating that districts in the south and central parts of the state were likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next two days with upper cyclonic circulation formed over the region.

The IMD warned of heavy rains in Valsad, Navsari, Dangs, Surat, Narmada, Chhota Udepur and Vadodara districts over the next two days, adding that upper cyclonic circulation had formed over the south Gujarat region.

Valsad received 130 millimetres rainfall in a 24-hour period till Saturday morning, while Bhavnagar and Vadodara got 52.8 and 34 mm rainfall respectively, IMD data showed.&nbsp;

The heatwave continued to sweep the Jammu region as the mercury touched 43.1 degrees Celsius, four degrees above average. Summer capital Srinagar, on the other hand, continued to experience pleasant weather with a high of 29.6 degrees Celsius, up by over two notches but below the season's average.

In Punjab and Haryana, rains remained elusive even as the maximum temperatures were recorded to be between two to five notches above normal. Bhiwani and Narnaul were the hottest places in the twin states with the mercury settling at a high of 42.8 degrees Celsius, three notches above normal.

While Amritsar braved a high of 42.4 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal, the maximum temperature at Ambala was 41.8 degrees Celsius, also five notches above normal.

Moderate rain and thunderstorm were witnessed at isolated places in Eastern Uttar Pradesh even Banda was recorded as the hottest place in the state, recording a temperature of 44.8 degrees Celsius, which is eight degrees above normal.

Heatwave also swept some parts of the state and Allahabad sizzled at 44 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

According to the IMD, rain and thundershowers were observed at many places over Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, North Interior Karnataka and at most places over Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa.

Extremely heavy rainfall was observed at a few places over Konkan and Goa and Gujarat region, it said.

The Meteorological Department has issued a fresh yellow weather warning for a thunderstorm in Himachal Pradesh for July 3. It has forecast thunderstorms accompanied with hailstorm and gusty winds in several parts of middle hills of the state on July 3. 
 
The weather office issues colour-coded warnings to alert people ahead of severe or hazardous weather that has the potential to cause "damage, widespread disruption or danger to life". Yellow is the least dangerous of all the weather warnings. It indicates the possibility of severe weather over the next few days.

The Odisha government Saturday put all 30 districts in the state on alert in view of the IMD forecasting enhanced heavy rainfall over the next three days. The step was taken after the IMD indicated the formation of a low-pressure area in north Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood, which is likely to intensify into a depression during the subsequent 48 hours.

"Under its influence, enhanced rainfall activity is very likely over the districts of Odisha," said H R Biswas, the director of the IMD, Bhubaneswar.

 
&nbsp;

Twenty-two people were killed and seven injured in Maharashtra and Jharkhand in rain-related incidents, even as the dry spell continued in most parts of north India which was reeling under sweltering heat.

Twenty-two people were killed and seven injured in Maharashtra and Jharkhand in rain-related incidents, even as the dry spell continued in most parts of north India which was reeling under sweltering heat. At least 15 people, including four children, were killed and two injured in Pune when a portion of the 22-ft high compound wall of a housing society collapsed on adjoining shanties following incessant rains, trapping the sleeping families under the debris, officials said. The incident took place between 1:30 am and 1:45 am at Kondhwa and the victims were labourers and their family members, a majority of them from Bihar, who were living in makeshift shelters at the under-construction residential project where deep excavation work was underway. Heavy monsoon rains continued to lash Mumbai and its neighbouring areas for the second consecutive day on Saturday and at least five persons were injured in rain-related incidents, officials said. The suburban local trains, called the lifeline of Mumbai, remained largely unaffected and were running as per their schedule. However, in view of IMD's heavy rainfall forecast, the Central Railway (CR) cancelled some express or passenger trains, especially those between Mumbai and Pune. According to the officials of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), 39 incidents of short circuit, 104 incidents of the uprooting of trees or falling of tree branches were reported from various parts of the city. In Maharashtra's Thane district, two people died of electrocution in separate incidents caused by incessant rains on late Friday night. While the first incident occurred in Thane city, the other one occurred in Ambarnath. Two people died on Saturday after being struck by lightning in separate incidents in Maharashtra's Buldhana district, police said. While Shrikrishna Dhabal (69) was struck by a lightning bolt while working in his field in Sangrampur taluka, farm labourer Yuvraj Gavande (35) died in a similar manner in Jalgaon village, they said. Three people, including two teenagers, died in lightning strikes in Jharkhand's Gumla district during heavy rains on Friday evening. In the national capital, the mercury settled five notches above normal on Sunday. The minimum temperature was recorded at 30 degrees Celsius, two notches above normal, while the maximum temperature settled at 42.3 degrees, five notches above normal. Parts of south Gujarat received extremely heavy rainfall Saturday, with the IMD stating that districts in the south and central parts of the state were likely to receive heavy rainfall over the next two days with upper cyclonic circulation formed over the region. The IMD warned of heavy rains in Valsad, Navsari, Dangs, Surat, Narmada, Chhota Udepur and Vadodara districts over the next two days, adding that upper cyclonic circulation had formed over the south Gujarat region. Valsad received 130 millimetres rainfall in a 24-hour period till Saturday morning, while Bhavnagar and Vadodara got 52.8 and 34 mm rainfall respectively, IMD data showed. The heatwave continued to sweep the Jammu region as the mercury touched 43.1 degrees Celsius, four degrees above average. Summer capital Srinagar, on the other hand, continued to experience pleasant weather with a high of 29.6 degrees Celsius, up by over two notches but below the season's average. In Punjab and Haryana, rains remained elusive even as the maximum temperatures were recorded to be between two to five notches above normal. Bhiwani and Narnaul were the hottest places in the twin states with the mercury settling at a high of 42.8 degrees Celsius, three notches above normal. While Amritsar braved a high of 42.4 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal, the maximum temperature at Ambala was 41.8 degrees Celsius, also five notches above normal. Moderate rain and thunderstorm were witnessed at isolated places in Eastern Uttar Pradesh even Banda was recorded as the hottest place in the state, recording a temperature of 44.8 degrees Celsius, which is eight degrees above normal. Heatwave also swept some parts of the state and Allahabad sizzled at 44 degrees Celsius. According to the IMD, rain and thundershowers were observed at many places over Assam, Meghalaya, Chhattisgarh, Kerala, North Interior Karnataka and at most places over Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa. Extremely heavy rainfall was observed at a few places over Konkan and Goa and Gujarat region, it said. The Meteorological Department has issued a fresh yellow weather warning for a thunderstorm in Himachal Pradesh for July 3. It has forecast thunderstorms accompanied with hailstorm and gusty winds in several parts of middle hills of the state on July 3. The weather office issues colour-coded warnings to alert people ahead of severe or hazardous weather that has the potential to cause "damage, widespread disruption or danger to life". Yellow is the least dangerous of all the weather warnings. It indicates the possibility of severe weather over the next few days. The Odisha government Saturday put all 30 districts in the state on alert in view of the IMD forecasting enhanced heavy rainfall over the next three days. The step was taken after the IMD indicated the formation of a low-pressure area in north Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood, which is likely to intensify into a depression during the subsequent 48 hours. "Under its influence, enhanced rainfall activity is very likely over the districts of Odisha," said H R Biswas, the director of the IMD, Bhubaneswar.

22 killed in rain-related incidents in Maharashtra, Jharkhand; dry spell continues in North India

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