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Several areas of Mumbai woke up to heavy downpour on Saturday with the weather department predicting heavy rains for the next three days.

Today, the minimum and maximum temperatures will hover around 24 degree Celsius and 31 degree Celsius with relative humidity at 89 per cent.

However, due to negligence by the local authorities, two people died and three sustained injuries in separate incidents in the western suburbs due to electrocution, yesterday. An investigation into the fatal incidents has been carried out by the police.

The heavy downpour will not stop for the next three days and the temperature will be around 25 degree Celsius. Besides, the Mumbai doppler radar also showed 50.46 per cent cloud build-up in the region, predicted India Meteorological Department.

According to the Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, so far Mumbai has recorded 404 mm of rains against the average of 493 mm.

"The off-shore trough along the West Coast and the cyclonic circulation over east-central Arabian Sea have kept the Monsoon active to vigorous over Mumbai and nearby coastal areas of Konkan region," the Skymet stated.

Several areas of Mumbai woke up to heavy downpour on Saturday with the weather department predicting heavy rains for the next three days. Today, the minimum and maximum temperatures will hover around 24 degree Celsius and 31 degree Celsius with relative humidity at 89 per cent.

Several areas of Mumbai woke up to heavy downpour on Saturday with the weather department predicting heavy rains for the next three days. Today, the minimum and maximum temperatures will hover around 24 degree Celsius and 31 degree Celsius with relative humidity at 89 per cent. However, due to negligence by the local authorities, two people died and three sustained injuries in separate incidents in the western suburbs due to electrocution, yesterday. An investigation into the fatal incidents has been carried out by the police. The heavy downpour will not stop for the next three days and the temperature will be around 25 degree Celsius. Besides, the Mumbai doppler radar also showed 50.46 per cent cloud build-up in the region, predicted India Meteorological Department. According to the Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency, so far Mumbai has recorded 404 mm of rains against the average of 493 mm. "The off-shore trough along the West Coast and the cyclonic circulation over east-central Arabian Sea have kept the Monsoon active to vigorous over Mumbai and nearby coastal areas of Konkan region," the Skymet stated.

Heavy rainfall to lash Mumbai for next three days: India Meteorological Department

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-us-china-high-stakes-bilateral-meeting-gets-underway-in-osaka-231356">G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China</a>

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-offers-to-meet-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-at-dmz-this-weekend-231334">'I would meet Kim at demilitarised zone to shake hand, say hello', tweets Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would like to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this weekend at the demilitarised zone (DMZ) on the border of North and South Korea.

<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">PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Indonesia, Brazil leaders at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-14-dead-after-wall-collapses-in-punes-kondhwa-area-231340">Four children among 17 dead after wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area</a>

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.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-doing-spectacular-job-donald-trump-231336">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doing 'spectacular job': Donald Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war.

G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war. 'I would meet Kim at demilitarised zone to shake hand, say hello', tweets Trump US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would like to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this weekend at the demilitarised zone (DMZ) on the border of North and South Korea. PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Indonesia, Brazil leaders at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka. Four children among 17 dead after wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area 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. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doing 'spectacular job': Donald Trump US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-us-china-high-stakes-bilateral-meeting-gets-underway-in-osaka-231356">G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China</a>

US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-offers-to-meet-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-at-dmz-this-weekend-231334">'I would meet Kim at demilitarised zone to shake hand, say hello', tweets Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would like to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this weekend at the demilitarised zone (DMZ) on the border of North and South Korea.

<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">PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Indonesia, Brazil leaders at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-doing-spectacular-job-donald-trump-231336">Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doing 'spectacular job': Donald Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-14-dead-after-wall-collapses-in-punes-kondhwa-area-231340">Four children among 17 dead after wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area</a>

Four children and a woman among 17 dead on Saturday following a wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area.

&nbsp;

G20 Summit: Trump says open to 'historic' trade deal with China US President Donald Trump said Saturday he was ready for a "historic" deal with China as he kicked off a hotly awaited meeting with China's Xi Jinping, with the world watching to see if they can strike a deal over their long-running trade war. 'I would meet Kim at demilitarised zone to shake hand, say hello', tweets Trump US President Donald Trump said on Saturday he would like to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this weekend at the demilitarised zone (DMZ) on the border of North and South Korea. PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Indonesia, Brazil leaders at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman doing 'spectacular job': Donald Trump US President Donald Trump Saturday praised Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, saying he was doing a "spectacular job" as the pair met on the sidelines of the G20 summit. Four children among 17 dead after wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area Four children and a woman among 17 dead on Saturday following a wall collapse in Pune's Kondhwa area.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-talks-with-world-leaders-at-g20-pm-modi-discusses-indo-pacific-terrorism-situation-in-gulf-231173">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka.

''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,'' External Affairs Ministry's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar wrote on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Taking forward the comprehensive strategic partnership 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> had a productive meeting with Indonesian President <a href="https://twitter.com/jokowi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jokowi</a> on margins of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a> . Discussed expanding cooperation in trade &amp; investment, defence, maritime, space &amp; exchanged views on Indo-Pacific vision. <a href="https://t.co/ntAwbGJ9MC">pic.twitter.com/ntAwbGJ9MC</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1144766778339315712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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''Deepening the close &amp; multifaceted strategic partnership. PM @narendramodi &amp; Brazilian President @jairbolsonaro held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relationship, specially cooperation in trade &amp; investment, agriculture &amp; bio-fuels in the context of climate change,'' Raveesh Kumar wrote in another tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Deepening the close &amp; multifaceted strategic partnership 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; Brazilian President <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jairbolsonaro</a> held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relationship, specially cooperation in trade &amp; investment, agriculture &amp; bio-fuels in the context of climate change. <a href="https://t.co/JDCO9Dyf2m">pic.twitter.com/JDCO9Dyf2m</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1144773441691643904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi and Indonesian president congratulated each other for the recent election victory in their respective countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-global-leaders-at-g20-discusses-oil-prices-with-saudi-crown-prince-231298">PM Modi along with other world leaders</a> also joined an event on women empowerment on the final day of Summit.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi holds over 10 meetings, raises trade issue with world leaders

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g20-summit-pm-modi-holds-over-10-meetings-raises-trade-issue-with-world-leaders-231352/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

PM Modi is scheduled to hold more bilateral talks with other leaders including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Australian PM Scott Morrison before he leaves for India.

Yesterday, PM Modi met with&nbsp;US President Donald Trump, he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, South Korean President Moon Jae-in, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka. ''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,'' External Affairs Ministry's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar wrote on Twitter. 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. pic.twitter.com/ntAwbGJ9MC — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) June 29, 2019 × ''Deepening the close & multifaceted strategic partnership. PM @narendramodi & Brazilian President @jairbolsonaro held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relationship, specially cooperation in trade & investment, agriculture & bio-fuels in the context of climate change,'' Raveesh Kumar wrote in another tweet. Deepening the close & multifaceted strategic partnership PM @narendramodi & Brazilian President @jairbolsonaro held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relationship, specially cooperation in trade & investment, agriculture & bio-fuels in the context of climate change. pic.twitter.com/JDCO9Dyf2m — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) June 29, 2019 × PM Modi and Indonesian president congratulated each other for the recent election victory in their respective countries. PM Modi along with other world leaders also joined an event on women empowerment on the final day of Summit. Watch: PM Modi holds over 10 meetings, raises trade issue with world leaders PM Modi is scheduled to hold more bilateral talks with other leaders including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Australian PM Scott Morrison before he leaves for India. Yesterday, PM Modi met with US President Donald Trump, he met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, South Korean President Moon Jae-in, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron.

PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Indonesia, Brazil leaders at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka

Minister of State (MoS) for Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh on Saturday slammed the National Conference (NC) and the Congress and said both the parties used the special status to Jammu and Kashmir as per their convenience.&nbsp;

"This special status is an alibi created by the National Conference and Congress. When it suits them they are special, when it does not they aren`t,'' he said.

During the blackest era of independent India, during the Emergency, when the term of the state assemblies was extended to six years, the then chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Sheikh Abdullah, promptly adopted this legislation, without caring for special status. But just three years later, when it was reversed by the Morarji government, Abdullah again became special and refused. As a result, even after 40 years today, J&amp;K is the only state whose assembly has a six-year term, Singh reportedly told news agency ANI.

Singh pointed out that all provisions of the Constitution related to J&amp;K have been made during Congress and NC rule.

"All the provisions of the Constitution of India which apply to the state of J&amp;K took place during Congress and NC rule. The merits and demerits of the Special Status apart, the sincerity to it itself smells of deep-rooted opportunism," he added.&nbsp;

Minister of State (MoS) for Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh on Saturday slammed the National Conference (NC) and the Congress and said both the parties used the special status to Jammu and Kashmir as per their convenience.

Minister of State (MoS) for Prime Minister`s Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh on Saturday slammed the National Conference (NC) and the Congress and said both the parties used the special status to Jammu and Kashmir as per their convenience. "This special status is an alibi created by the National Conference and Congress. When it suits them they are special, when it does not they aren`t,'' he said. During the blackest era of independent India, during the Emergency, when the term of the state assemblies was extended to six years, the then chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Sheikh Abdullah, promptly adopted this legislation, without caring for special status. But just three years later, when it was reversed by the Morarji government, Abdullah again became special and refused. As a result, even after 40 years today, J&K is the only state whose assembly has a six-year term, Singh reportedly told news agency ANI. Singh pointed out that all provisions of the Constitution related to J&K have been made during Congress and NC rule. "All the provisions of the Constitution of India which apply to the state of J&K took place during Congress and NC rule. The merits and demerits of the Special Status apart, the sincerity to it itself smells of deep-rooted opportunism," he added.

NC and Congress use special status to Jammu and Kashmir as per their convenience: Jitendra Singh 

India has pitched strongly to deal with fugitive economic offenders, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged the issue at all global forums, the country’s Sherpa to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-stops-short-of-denouncing-protectionism-warns-of-global-slowdown-231451">G20</a> Suresh Prabhu said Saturday.

“We strongly put forward the need to deal with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-noose-tightens-on-nirav-modi-230987">fugitive economic offenders</a>. It has been a strong agenda, we have been working on tax evasion, corruption, economic offences and fugitive offenders running away (from the country). We have also been very strongly championing this,” Prabhu told a media conference, detailing about the deliberations of the meeting.

He said that Prime Minister Modi has raised these issues at all global forums.

“We strongly feel that we as a global community must act in unison to deal with such issues of people committing economic offences and running away from their national domicile country,” he told reporters to post G20 Sherpa’s meeting.

On the query that why India didn’t join the Osaka declaration on the digital economy, Prabhu said the reasons have been communicated to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-meets-japan-pm-in-his-first-bilateral-summit-g20-sidelines-230752">Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe</a>.

But, he also clarified that India strongly believes in the digital economy and has taken a host of measures, including a huge number of bank accounts to thrust its digital agenda.

“India has a very massive programme on digital transactions. We have opened bank accounts of a large number of people. Many transactions are happening through the digital forms,” he said.Watch: G20 Summit day 2 - PM Modi's four bilaterals and four pull-asides

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/g20-summit-day-2-pm-modis-4-bilaterals-4-pull-asides-231362/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Prabhu, who was the Railways minister in the first term of the NDA government, also informed that the country’s railways has almost 8.1 billion passengers per year, and many of them buy tickets through digital platforms.

“So, digital is something which we all believe in, we have a market which is growing including the e-commerce market. Therefore, we believe in that digital economy and also at the same time we have a very close relationship with our dear friend Japan but we have already communicated the reasons to them,” Prabhu said.

Among other issues that India raised during the summit were on climate change, clean energy, environment protection, agriculture, tourism and systemic shift towards providing social security and financial benefits for the ageing population.

Prabhu said India also put emphasis on building a quality infrastructure that is a necessity for growth.

He also said that infusion of technology in all sphere of life will create economic opportunities for all as well as bridge the digital divide, and improve the quality of life.

“For that, quality infrastructure will play a very important role. In economy, finance will be an important issue and therefore issues related to global finance whether it is related to sustainable and modern tax system, whether related to technological innovation which can deliver benefits in financial markets…all these issues were also discussed,” he told reporters.

Prabhu said India’s Prime Minister Modi has been championing that “we need anti-corruption measures at global level. So, fight against corruption should be done at all levels by all the G20 members by combating foreign bribery and ensure each G20 country has a law to enforce it, that people committing economic crimes in one geography will not be able to run away to the other and escape the clutches of law”.

India has pitched strongly to deal with fugitive economic offenders, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged the issue at all global forums, the country’s Sherpa to G20 Suresh Prabhu said Saturday.

India has pitched strongly to deal with fugitive economic offenders, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged the issue at all global forums, the country’s Sherpa to G20 Suresh Prabhu said Saturday. “We strongly put forward the need to deal with fugitive economic offenders. It has been a strong agenda, we have been working on tax evasion, corruption, economic offences and fugitive offenders running away (from the country). We have also been very strongly championing this,” Prabhu told a media conference, detailing about the deliberations of the meeting. He said that Prime Minister Modi has raised these issues at all global forums. “We strongly feel that we as a global community must act in unison to deal with such issues of people committing economic offences and running away from their national domicile country,” he told reporters to post G20 Sherpa’s meeting. On the query that why India didn’t join the Osaka declaration on the digital economy, Prabhu said the reasons have been communicated to the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. But, he also clarified that India strongly believes in the digital economy and has taken a host of measures, including a huge number of bank accounts to thrust its digital agenda. “India has a very massive programme on digital transactions. We have opened bank accounts of a large number of people. Many transactions are happening through the digital forms,” he said. Watch: G20 Summit day 2 - PM Modi's four bilaterals and four pull-asides Prabhu, who was the Railways minister in the first term of the NDA government, also informed that the country’s railways has almost 8.1 billion passengers per year, and many of them buy tickets through digital platforms. “So, digital is something which we all believe in, we have a market which is growing including the e-commerce market. Therefore, we believe in that digital economy and also at the same time we have a very close relationship with our dear friend Japan but we have already communicated the reasons to them,” Prabhu said. Among other issues that India raised during the summit were on climate change, clean energy, environment protection, agriculture, tourism and systemic shift towards providing social security and financial benefits for the ageing population. Prabhu said India also put emphasis on building a quality infrastructure that is a necessity for growth. He also said that infusion of technology in all sphere of life will create economic opportunities for all as well as bridge the digital divide, and improve the quality of life. “For that, quality infrastructure will play a very important role. In economy, finance will be an important issue and therefore issues related to global finance whether it is related to sustainable and modern tax system, whether related to technological innovation which can deliver benefits in financial markets…all these issues were also discussed,” he told reporters. Prabhu said India’s Prime Minister Modi has been championing that “we need anti-corruption measures at global level. So, fight against corruption should be done at all levels by all the G20 members by combating foreign bribery and ensure each G20 country has a law to enforce it, that people committing economic crimes in one geography will not be able to run away to the other and escape the clutches of law”.

G20 summit: India pitches strongly for fight against fugitive economic offenders

The drama at the AICC took a quick turn on Saturday when senior leaders like PL Puniya and Nana Patole also put in their papers. PL Puniya was the general secretary in charge in Chattisgarh and Patole was looking after the agriculture cell of the party.&nbsp;

Sources informed WION that from July 2 roughly 1000 to 2000 workers and junior AICC functionaries will go on an indefinite sit-in. The purpose of the sit-in is to pressurize Rahul Gandhi to take back his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mass-resignations-of-congress-leaders-part-of-scripted-drama-bjps-tom-vadakkan-231500">resignation</a> and make other senior leaders resign from their respective positions.&nbsp;

Virendra Vashisht, one of the AICC secretaries who put in their papers said, "Most of the young people have been promoted by Rahul Gandhi. If Rahul Gandhi does not continue as the president then we would continue to only function as normal workers of the party.” Sources also said that the purpose is to build pressure within the organization so that Rahul Gandhi can recast the party.&nbsp;

When WION asked the question to Congress spokesperson, Pawan Khera, he said, "It is a way to request Rahul Gandhi that he must continue as the president of the Congress. It is not about junior leaders versus senior leaders".

Throughout Saturday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/resignations-pour-in-in-support-of-rahul-gandhi-pressure-on-senior-congress-leaders-to-resign-231254">number of resignations</a> continued to pour in from various state units of the Congress party. Sources also indicated that young leaders were directly in touch with the aides of Rahul Gandhi who seem to be providing oxygen to the idea of a sit-in. The Congress president, in the last party parliamentary meeting, had categorically said that he would not change his decision.&nbsp;

The issue is that only the Congress Working Committee can select a new president but can only be convened by the party president. Till now, Rahul Gandhi has not convened it and no other senior member constitutionally can convene the committee. Setting aside the legality, the party is politically adrift.&nbsp;

The drama at the AICC took a quick turn on Saturday when senior leaders like PL Puniya and Nana Patole also put in their papers. PL Puniya was the general secretary in charge in Chattisgarh and Patole was looking after the agriculture cell of the party.

The drama at the AICC took a quick turn on Saturday when senior leaders like PL Puniya and Nana Patole also put in their papers. PL Puniya was the general secretary in charge in Chattisgarh and Patole was looking after the agriculture cell of the party. Sources informed WION that from July 2 roughly 1000 to 2000 workers and junior AICC functionaries will go on an indefinite sit-in. The purpose of the sit-in is to pressurize Rahul Gandhi to take back his resignation and make other senior leaders resign from their respective positions. Virendra Vashisht, one of the AICC secretaries who put in their papers said, "Most of the young people have been promoted by Rahul Gandhi. If Rahul Gandhi does not continue as the president then we would continue to only function as normal workers of the party.” Sources also said that the purpose is to build pressure within the organization so that Rahul Gandhi can recast the party. When WION asked the question to Congress spokesperson, Pawan Khera, he said, "It is a way to request Rahul Gandhi that he must continue as the president of the Congress. It is not about junior leaders versus senior leaders". Throughout Saturday, the number of resignations continued to pour in from various state units of the Congress party. Sources also indicated that young leaders were directly in touch with the aides of Rahul Gandhi who seem to be providing oxygen to the idea of a sit-in. The Congress president, in the last party parliamentary meeting, had categorically said that he would not change his decision. The issue is that only the Congress Working Committee can select a new president but can only be convened by the party president. Till now, Rahul Gandhi has not convened it and no other senior member constitutionally can convene the committee. Setting aside the legality, the party is politically adrift.

Young Congress leaders to go on indefinite strike from July 2 

With no clarity on Rahul Gandhi's continuation as president of the Congress party, a number of junior Congress leaders assembled at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) office at 24, Akbar Road in New Delhi on Friday to hold an impromptu meeting on the state of affairs of the Congress.

More than 300 people had gathered for the impromptu meeting but surprisingly, the official rung of the Congress was unaware of such development. The media department of the party too was taken by surprise as its members were deployed in the Parliament house.

The net result of the meeting was more than 130 resignations from a number of office bearers of the Congress party. They came from different sections like PCC (state units) and Seva Dal, AICC, NSUI and Youth Congress. Known Congress functionaries&nbsp;who put in their papers are Anil Chaudhary, Rajesh Dharmani Virendra Rathore and Ponam&nbsp;Prabhakar.

AICC general secretary Deepak Babaria too resigned, so did the foreign cell secretary Virendra Vashishth. Babaria told WION that every Congress leader should take responsibility.&nbsp;Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president and AICC secretary Jitendra Baghal have also followed suit. &nbsp;

On Thursday night, Congress legal cell head and Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha had also put in his papers.

<img alt="cong office" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8eab8e05-11c9-482a-bdd2-6c472fbc547e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/visual.JPG" />

All India Congress Committee (AICC) office, New Delhi

Sources said that most of the people who gathered for Friday's meeting were promoted by Rahul Gandhi. Apart from the senior leaders, their ire was also directed against the younger lot who climbed the organisational ladder with Rahul Gandhi's support.

Most of those who attended the meeting want senior leaders in AICC to also put in their papers as they feel that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-have-resigned-after-taking-full-responsibility-says-rahul-gandhi-231077">Rahul Gandhi</a> alone cannot be held responsible for the defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. Broadly, it is turning out to be a fight against the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/congress-culture-dynasty-glue-that-wont-let-go-230733">old guard and new guard</a> within the Congress after the party's massive poll debacle.

One of the key organisers categorically said that the resignations are being sought from AICC functionaries and not the sitting chief ministers, lest state governments get destabilised.

Rahul Gandhi has been insistent that he would not continue as Congress president but a section of the younger leadership feels that he should change his stand. They harbour the grouse that senior leadership did not do anything to make Rahul Gandhi change his mind. But many senior leaders privately admit that every decision was taken by Rahul Gandhi and to say that seniors did not cooperate is factually incorrect.

Rahul Gandhi on the past three occasions had made it very clear that he does not want to continue as the Congress president.

With no clarity on Rahul Gandhi's continuation as president of the Congress party, a number of junior Congress leaders assembled at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) office at 24, Akbar Road in New Delhi on Friday to hold an impromptu meeting on the state of affairs of the Congress.

With no clarity on Rahul Gandhi's continuation as president of the Congress party, a number of junior Congress leaders assembled at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) office at 24, Akbar Road in New Delhi on Friday to hold an impromptu meeting on the state of affairs of the Congress. More than 300 people had gathered for the impromptu meeting but surprisingly, the official rung of the Congress was unaware of such development. The media department of the party too was taken by surprise as its members were deployed in the Parliament house. The net result of the meeting was more than 130 resignations from a number of office bearers of the Congress party. They came from different sections like PCC (state units) and Seva Dal, AICC, NSUI and Youth Congress. Known Congress functionaries who put in their papers are Anil Chaudhary, Rajesh Dharmani Virendra Rathore and Ponam Prabhakar. AICC general secretary Deepak Babaria too resigned, so did the foreign cell secretary Virendra Vashishth. Babaria told WION that every Congress leader should take responsibility. Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president and AICC secretary Jitendra Baghal have also followed suit. On Thursday night, Congress legal cell head and Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha had also put in his papers. All India Congress Committee (AICC) office, New Delhi Sources said that most of the people who gathered for Friday's meeting were promoted by Rahul Gandhi. Apart from the senior leaders, their ire was also directed against the younger lot who climbed the organisational ladder with Rahul Gandhi's support. Most of those who attended the meeting want senior leaders in AICC to also put in their papers as they feel that Rahul Gandhi alone cannot be held responsible for the defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. Broadly, it is turning out to be a fight against the old guard and new guard within the Congress after the party's massive poll debacle. One of the key organisers categorically said that the resignations are being sought from AICC functionaries and not the sitting chief ministers, lest state governments get destabilised. Rahul Gandhi has been insistent that he would not continue as Congress president but a section of the younger leadership feels that he should change his stand. They harbour the grouse that senior leadership did not do anything to make Rahul Gandhi change his mind. But many senior leaders privately admit that every decision was taken by Rahul Gandhi and to say that seniors did not cooperate is factually incorrect. Rahul Gandhi on the past three occasions had made it very clear that he does not want to continue as the Congress president.

Resignations pour in support of Rahul Gandhi, pressure on senior Congress leaders to resign

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday.&nbsp;

Officiating his first public event after taking charge of the ministry, Shah said it is important to quickly develop better resilience and capability against disasters given that India is much prone to catastrophes owing to its varied topography and expanse.

The minister was speaking at the inauguration of a two-day annual conference organised here by the NDRF on capacity building of state disaster response forces (SDRFs) in consultation with home guards, civil defence and fire services.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is a federal force of the country and has 12 battalions based across various states for quick response to any emergency, manmade or natural.

Addressing the delegates at the meeting Shah said a chain of command between various agencies, stakeholders and department should be decided and formed when dealing with a disaster.

"This is very important as I have seen a very chaotic situation emerging in absence of this protocol and order of hierarchy," he said, adding it is a big lacuna in the country's bureaucratic system that no one pays heed to the other till a formal or official order is issued.

The minister said agencies like the NDRF should not rest on their past laurels but strive to do better.

"This is now the time to work and ensure that India becomes the number one country in disaster management. The path to achieving this goal is long but that should be our target. It should be our effort that the world takes note from our best practices and counter-disaster models," Shah said.

He said the NDRF and other similar agencies should "investigate, analyse and pick errors" once they complete operation, as this exercise will ensure that the work is completed in the true sense.

Shah asked the NDRF, an agency under his ministry, to collaborate with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and develop indigenous equipment to combat disaster not only for Indian agencies but also for neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The Home Minister assured the 12,000 personnel-strong force that the government will fulfil all their requirements for modern gadgets, equipment and infrastructure.

"It is very important to ensure that the motivation of the force's personnel working at the ground level remains high. It is they who commit their lives in the line of duty," Shah said.&nbsp;

He expressed concerns over increasing instances of forest fires, especially in the hills, and stressed upon the NDRF and its sister agencies to find out ways to effectively combat such instances.

He asked the agencies working in this domain to compile data of all disaster-combat equipment in the country, down to the district level, so that this information comes handy when a disaster strikes.

The minister said disaster management and combat was a "completely neglected" issue before 2000 and was taken only seriously after the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat's Bhuj.

At the event, NDRF Director General (DG) S N Pradhan said his force will be able to have its presence in virtually every part of the country by August and they were also working to have a women personnel combat component in every unit.&nbsp;

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday.

A clear 'chain of command' should be in place when multiple stakeholders get on-board to combat a disaster and government agencies should ensure that India becomes a top-notch nation for managing such emergencies, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Saturday. Officiating his first public event after taking charge of the ministry, Shah said it is important to quickly develop better resilience and capability against disasters given that India is much prone to catastrophes owing to its varied topography and expanse. The minister was speaking at the inauguration of a two-day annual conference organised here by the NDRF on capacity building of state disaster response forces (SDRFs) in consultation with home guards, civil defence and fire services. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is a federal force of the country and has 12 battalions based across various states for quick response to any emergency, manmade or natural. Addressing the delegates at the meeting Shah said a chain of command between various agencies, stakeholders and department should be decided and formed when dealing with a disaster. "This is very important as I have seen a very chaotic situation emerging in absence of this protocol and order of hierarchy," he said, adding it is a big lacuna in the country's bureaucratic system that no one pays heed to the other till a formal or official order is issued. The minister said agencies like the NDRF should not rest on their past laurels but strive to do better. "This is now the time to work and ensure that India becomes the number one country in disaster management. The path to achieving this goal is long but that should be our target. It should be our effort that the world takes note from our best practices and counter-disaster models," Shah said. He said the NDRF and other similar agencies should "investigate, analyse and pick errors" once they complete operation, as this exercise will ensure that the work is completed in the true sense. Shah asked the NDRF, an agency under his ministry, to collaborate with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and develop indigenous equipment to combat disaster not only for Indian agencies but also for neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The Home Minister assured the 12,000 personnel-strong force that the government will fulfil all their requirements for modern gadgets, equipment and infrastructure. "It is very important to ensure that the motivation of the force's personnel working at the ground level remains high. It is they who commit their lives in the line of duty," Shah said. He expressed concerns over increasing instances of forest fires, especially in the hills, and stressed upon the NDRF and its sister agencies to find out ways to effectively combat such instances. He asked the agencies working in this domain to compile data of all disaster-combat equipment in the country, down to the district level, so that this information comes handy when a disaster strikes. The minister said disaster management and combat was a "completely neglected" issue before 2000 and was taken only seriously after the 2001 earthquake in Gujarat's Bhuj. At the event, NDRF Director General (DG) S N Pradhan said his force will be able to have its presence in virtually every part of the country by August and they were also working to have a women personnel combat component in every unit.

Ensure India is number 1 in disaster management: Amit Shah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-will-do-all-it-can-to-improve-ties-with-us-231474">Moscow will do all it can to improve ties with US, says Russian President Vladimir Putin</a>

Russia's president&nbsp;said on Saturday that Moscow would do all it could to improve relations with the United States that have been strained by years of diplomatic conflicts over Ukraine and accusations of Russian meddling in US elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mass-resignations-of-congress-leaders-part-of-scripted-drama-bjps-tom-vadakkan-231500">Mass resignations of Congress leaders part of 'scripted drama': BJP's Tom Vadakkan</a>

BJP member Tom Vadakkan on Saturday claimed the&nbsp;recent mass resignations in the Congress&nbsp;as a "scripted drama", following Rahul Gandhi's refusal to withdraw his resignation as the party president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-kill-26-pro-government-militia-members-in-afghanistan-231459">Taliban kill 26 pro-government militia members in Afghanistan</a>

Taliban militants killed at least 26 members of a pro-government militia in north Afghanistan on Saturday, government officials said, the same day the militants and US government officials are due to start a new round of peace talks in Qatar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-says-no-setback-in-missile-deal-with-russia-as-trump-voices-sympathy-231492">Erdogan says no setback in missile deal with Russia as Trump voices sympathy</a>

Turkey said on Saturday there was no setback in its plan to buy&nbsp;Russian S-400 missile defence systems, despite US opposition, and President Donald Trump expressed understanding for the decision but did not rule out sanctions in response.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-declares-emergency-in-violence-plagued-rural-alaska-231512">Trump administration declares emergency in violence-plagued rural Alaska</a>

US Attorney General William Barr on Friday declared a public-safety emergency in rural Alaska and pledged $10.5 million in federal funds to combat some of the nation`s worst rates of sexual assault, child abuse and other violent crimes.

Moscow will do all it can to improve ties with US, says Russian President Vladimir Putin Russia's president said on Saturday that Moscow would do all it could to improve relations with the United States that have been strained by years of diplomatic conflicts over Ukraine and accusations of Russian meddling in US elections.

Moscow will do all it can to improve ties with US, says Russian President Vladimir Putin Russia's president said on Saturday that Moscow would do all it could to improve relations with the United States that have been strained by years of diplomatic conflicts over Ukraine and accusations of Russian meddling in US elections. Mass resignations of Congress leaders part of 'scripted drama': BJP's Tom Vadakkan BJP member Tom Vadakkan on Saturday claimed the recent mass resignations in the Congress as a "scripted drama", following Rahul Gandhi's refusal to withdraw his resignation as the party president. Taliban kill 26 pro-government militia members in Afghanistan Taliban militants killed at least 26 members of a pro-government militia in north Afghanistan on Saturday, government officials said, the same day the militants and US government officials are due to start a new round of peace talks in Qatar. Erdogan says no setback in missile deal with Russia as Trump voices sympathy Turkey said on Saturday there was no setback in its plan to buy Russian S-400 missile defence systems, despite US opposition, and President Donald Trump expressed understanding for the decision but did not rule out sanctions in response. Trump administration declares emergency in violence-plagued rural Alaska US Attorney General William Barr on Friday declared a public-safety emergency in rural Alaska and pledged $10.5 million in federal funds to combat some of the nation`s worst rates of sexual assault, child abuse and other violent crimes.

Veteran British journalist Sir Mark Tully was presented with a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' here for his contributions to the UK-India relationship.

Tully, the former Bureau Chief of the BBC, New Delhi, received a standing ovation on Friday from the gathering as he said that being in India was his karma.

"I owe a great debt to India and I have been rewarded way beyond my expectations," said 83-year-old Tully, who has been previously knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in the UK and conferred with the Padma Bhushan in India.

The annual UK-India Awards, which celebrate special talents and organisations who use their worldwide influence to strengthen UK-India ties, included wins for British Telecom (BT) in the Social Impact category and Indian hospitality start-up Oyo in the Market Entrant of the Year category.

While British Indian actor Kunal Nayyar best known for his role as Rajesh Koothrappali on the US sitcom 'The Big Bang Theory' was named Global Indian Icon of the Year, Indian-origin peer and Cobra Beer founder Lord Karan Bilimoria was presented with a special Significant Contribution to UK-India Relations Award.

"The UK is a wonderful global power and if there is a special relationship, it is with India," said Bilimoria.

The start-up of the Year Award, sponsored by Indian software services major Infosys, was won by Maanch, a new platform that matches up funders and receivers to accelerate global sustainable development.

"Maanch is an impact technology and it is designed to really bring the world together for sustainability so that we can invest and give money in a way that has the highest impact.

An award like this is an important validation because technologies like these are new," said Founder &amp; CEO Darshita Gillies.&nbsp;

The awards marked the conclusion of the annual UK-India Week, which kicked off on Monday with the first-ever India Day in the Houses of Parliament in London. Some of the other winners of the night included Fund of the Year for SoftBank Investment Advisers, Law Firm of the Year for the UK's Baker McKenzie, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of the Year for Manchester India Partnership, Deal of the Year for EverSource Capital/ Lightsource BP and Finance Organisation of the Year for AXIS Bank Limited.

The UK-India Awards, now in their third year, were selected by an all-women judging panel for the first time, including Director and Chief Counsel of Rolls-Royce plc Deborah D'Aubney and prominent Indian-origin anti-Brexit campaigner Gina Miller.

"All the winners and nominees are inspirational figures at the cutting edge of technology, innovation, business, international relations and culture, who are doing amazing work in making that UK-India partnership a truly winning one," said Manoj Ladwa, Founder &amp; CEO of India Inc. the organisation behind the awards.&nbsp;

Veteran British journalist Sir Mark Tully was presented with a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' here for his contributions to the UK-India relationship. Tully, the former Bureau Chief of the BBC, New Delhi, received a standing ovation on Friday from the gathering as he said that being in India was his karma.

Veteran British journalist Sir Mark Tully was presented with a 'Lifetime Achievement Award' here for his contributions to the UK-India relationship. Tully, the former Bureau Chief of the BBC, New Delhi, received a standing ovation on Friday from the gathering as he said that being in India was his karma. "I owe a great debt to India and I have been rewarded way beyond my expectations," said 83-year-old Tully, who has been previously knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in the UK and conferred with the Padma Bhushan in India. The annual UK-India Awards, which celebrate special talents and organisations who use their worldwide influence to strengthen UK-India ties, included wins for British Telecom (BT) in the Social Impact category and Indian hospitality start-up Oyo in the Market Entrant of the Year category. While British Indian actor Kunal Nayyar best known for his role as Rajesh Koothrappali on the US sitcom 'The Big Bang Theory' was named Global Indian Icon of the Year, Indian-origin peer and Cobra Beer founder Lord Karan Bilimoria was presented with a special Significant Contribution to UK-India Relations Award. "The UK is a wonderful global power and if there is a special relationship, it is with India," said Bilimoria. The start-up of the Year Award, sponsored by Indian software services major Infosys, was won by Maanch, a new platform that matches up funders and receivers to accelerate global sustainable development. "Maanch is an impact technology and it is designed to really bring the world together for sustainability so that we can invest and give money in a way that has the highest impact. An award like this is an important validation because technologies like these are new," said Founder & CEO Darshita Gillies. The awards marked the conclusion of the annual UK-India Week, which kicked off on Monday with the first-ever India Day in the Houses of Parliament in London. Some of the other winners of the night included Fund of the Year for SoftBank Investment Advisers, Law Firm of the Year for the UK's Baker McKenzie, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency of the Year for Manchester India Partnership, Deal of the Year for EverSource Capital/ Lightsource BP and Finance Organisation of the Year for AXIS Bank Limited. The UK-India Awards, now in their third year, were selected by an all-women judging panel for the first time, including Director and Chief Counsel of Rolls-Royce plc Deborah D'Aubney and prominent Indian-origin anti-Brexit campaigner Gina Miller. "All the winners and nominees are inspirational figures at the cutting edge of technology, innovation, business, international relations and culture, who are doing amazing work in making that UK-India partnership a truly winning one," said Manoj Ladwa, Founder & CEO of India Inc. the organisation behind the awards.

Mark Tully gets lifetime achievement award for role in UK-India ties

BJP member Tom Vadakkan on Saturday claimed the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/resignations-pour-in-in-support-of-rahul-gandhi-pressure-on-senior-congress-leaders-to-resign-231254"> recent mass resignations in the Congress</a> as a "scripted drama", following Rahul Gandhi's refusal to withdraw his resignation as the party president.

Vadakkan, who once was the face of the Congress in the capacity of a spokesperson, told ANI that the "scripted resignation drama" was part of sycophancy masterminded by a "particular senior leader" who did the same thing during Sonia Gandhi's tenure as party president.

"People who have been following the Congress know that the script is same - the resignation drama. You will have a hold horde of resignations coming which has no meaning. It is part of sycophancy that is creating a situation where there is a face-saver but the point is the script is the same that has been played out" Vadakkan said.

"I can see the fingerprints of a particular senior leader who is masterminding the operation. It has been the same leader who did it during Sonia ji's time, nothing new and nothing special," said Vadakkan who jumped ship to the BJP in March this year, ahead of 17th Lok Sabha elections.

Vadakkan, considered among the loyalists of the Nehru-Gandhi family had claimed that the dynastic politics in Congress had reached a level which is not acceptable to "self-respecting people".

Vadakkan's response came after scores of Congress leaders and office bearers put in their papers from the party following Rahul's adamancy to resign from the post after facing a humiliating defeat in the general elections.

As many as 145 office bearers tendered a mass resignation during a meeting conducted in the Congress office.

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 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.

BJP member Tom Vadakkan on Saturday claimed the recent mass resignations in the Congress as a "scripted drama", following Rahul Gandhi's refusal to withdraw his resignation as the party president.

BJP member Tom Vadakkan on Saturday claimed the recent mass resignations in the Congress as a "scripted drama", following Rahul Gandhi's refusal to withdraw his resignation as the party president. Vadakkan, who once was the face of the Congress in the capacity of a spokesperson, told ANI that the "scripted resignation drama" was part of sycophancy masterminded by a "particular senior leader" who did the same thing during Sonia Gandhi's tenure as party president. "People who have been following the Congress know that the script is same - the resignation drama. You will have a hold horde of resignations coming which has no meaning. It is part of sycophancy that is creating a situation where there is a face-saver but the point is the script is the same that has been played out" Vadakkan said. "I can see the fingerprints of a particular senior leader who is masterminding the operation. It has been the same leader who did it during Sonia ji's time, nothing new and nothing special," said Vadakkan who jumped ship to the BJP in March this year, ahead of 17th Lok Sabha elections. Vadakkan, considered among the loyalists of the Nehru-Gandhi family had claimed that the dynastic politics in Congress had reached a level which is not acceptable to "self-respecting people". Vadakkan's response came after scores of Congress leaders and office bearers put in their papers from the party following Rahul's adamancy to resign from the post after facing a humiliating defeat in the general elections. As many as 145 office bearers tendered a mass resignation during a meeting conducted in the Congress office. 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 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.

Mass resignations of Congress leaders part of 'scripted drama': BJP's Tom Vadakkan

Four Su-30 MKI jets, one IL-78 tanker, and two C-17 Globe Master will be participating in Indo-French joint exercise - Garuda - from July 1 to 14 at Mont-de-Marsan airbase in France, said Indian Air Force (IAF) in a tweet on Saturday.

According to IAF tweet, two C-17 Globe Master will provide transport support for induction and de-induction for the exercise.

IAF contingent landed at Mont-de-Marsan air base in France on Friday for the Indo-French joint exercise.

Base Commander Colonel Gaudillere received the Air Force contingent on arrival. In a video posted on Twitter by IAF on June 24, Bareilly Air Force Base Commander Air Commodore M Ranade had said, "This is the sixth edition of the exercises, which is intended for both the air forces to exercise together and learn best practices each one has to offer."

India and France had recently held Naval drills in the Arabian Sea under the 'Varuna'&nbsp;series war games in which Indian Naval fighters along with the Rafale-M of the French Air Force took part.

India and France are strategic partners and have been enhancing their strategic cooperation over the last many years.&nbsp;

Four Su-30 MKI jets, one IL-78 tanker, and two C-17 Globe Master will be participating in Indo-French joint exercise - Garuda - from July 1 to 14 at Mont-de-Marsan airbase in France, said Indian Air Force (IAF) in a tweet on Saturday.

Four Su-30 MKI jets, one IL-78 tanker, and two C-17 Globe Master will be participating in Indo-French joint exercise - Garuda - from July 1 to 14 at Mont-de-Marsan airbase in France, said Indian Air Force (IAF) in a tweet on Saturday. According to IAF tweet, two C-17 Globe Master will provide transport support for induction and de-induction for the exercise. IAF contingent landed at Mont-de-Marsan air base in France on Friday for the Indo-French joint exercise. Base Commander Colonel Gaudillere received the Air Force contingent on arrival. In a video posted on Twitter by IAF on June 24, Bareilly Air Force Base Commander Air Commodore M Ranade had said, "This is the sixth edition of the exercises, which is intended for both the air forces to exercise together and learn best practices each one has to offer." India and France had recently held Naval drills in the Arabian Sea under the 'Varuna' series war games in which Indian Naval fighters along with the Rafale-M of the French Air Force took part. India and France are strategic partners and have been enhancing their strategic cooperation over the last many years.

Four Su-30 MKI jets to participate in Indo-French aerial war exercise

All necessary arrangements are in place as the first batch of Amarnath pilgrims are scheduled to leave for Kashmir from here amid tight security on Sunday, a day ahead of the formal commencement of the annual pilgrimage in the Valley.&nbsp;

Over 1.5 lakh pilgrims from across the country have so far registered themselves for the 46-day long yatra, which takes place from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam track in Anantnag district and 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district, officials said.&nbsp;

Hundreds of pilgrims, including sadhus (saints), have started arriving in Jammu and are enthusiastic about undertaking the pilgrimage.

Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Sanjeev Verma said all necessary arrangements, including security, have been put in place to facilitate the pilgrims and ensure their safety during the yatra, which will be conducted under the surveillance and close coordination of various security agencies.

As many as 2,85,006 lakh pilgrims had paid obeisance at the 3,880-metre high holy cave, housing the naturally formed ice-shivlingam, in south Kashmir Himalayas last year, while the number of pilgrims was 3,52,771 in 2015, 3,20,490 in 2016 and 2,60,003 in 2017.&nbsp;

The yatra is scheduled to end on August 15 coinciding with the Raksha Bandhan festival.&nbsp;

Inspector General of Police, Jammu, M K Sinha said adequate security arrangements have been made all along the yatra route right from Lakhanpur -- the gateway to Jammu and Kashmir bordering Punjab -- besides base camps, lodgement centres, halting stations and community kitchen sites in view of threat perception.&nbsp;

Though there was no specific intelligence about any plan by terrorists to disrupt the yatra, the security arrangements had been made in view of the present security scenario of the state to foil any attempt by anti-national elements, he said.&nbsp;

Akash Tamrikar, 21, who had come from Chattisgarh along with his Uncle Raj Kumar for the yatra, expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and said he is waiting eagerly for 'Darshan' (glimpse) at the shrine.

"This is for the fifth time I am undertaking this yatra to have darshan of the shivlingam and never faced any problem...The (Shri Amarnathji) shrine board and the state administration is doing well as every year we witness improvement in the arrangements," Tamrikar, who had secured the registration for the first-day yatra on July 1, told PTI on his arrival at the main base camp, Bhagwati Nagar, here.

The pilgrims will be taken in a convoy to their desired destinations, Pahalgam base camp or Baltal base camp in the valley, to proceed for the cave shrine by foot after night stay there.&nbsp;

Gautam, 50, a businessman from Punjab, said he started visiting the shrine since 2000 and had never missed any yatra since then.

"I had tracked both Pahalgam and Baltal routes and this time I am going through Baltal," he said, adding besides seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva for himself and his family, he would like to pray for peace and prosperity in the country in general and Jammu and Kashmir in particular.&nbsp;

The yatra will be led by a group of sadhus who are separately staying at Ram temple in the Purani Mandi area of the old city where their registration for the pilgrimage started this morning.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the registration centre set up for the sadhus and lauded the Mahant of the temple, Rameshwar Dass, and the district administration for making necessary arrangements for the saints.&nbsp;

All necessary arrangements are in place as the first batch of Amarnath pilgrims are scheduled to leave for Kashmir from here amid tight security on Sunday, a day ahead of the formal commencement of the annual pilgrimage in the Valley.

All necessary arrangements are in place as the first batch of Amarnath pilgrims are scheduled to leave for Kashmir from here amid tight security on Sunday, a day ahead of the formal commencement of the annual pilgrimage in the Valley. Over 1.5 lakh pilgrims from across the country have so far registered themselves for the 46-day long yatra, which takes place from the traditional 36-km Pahalgam track in Anantnag district and 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal district, officials said. Hundreds of pilgrims, including sadhus (saints), have started arriving in Jammu and are enthusiastic about undertaking the pilgrimage. Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Sanjeev Verma said all necessary arrangements, including security, have been put in place to facilitate the pilgrims and ensure their safety during the yatra, which will be conducted under the surveillance and close coordination of various security agencies. As many as 2,85,006 lakh pilgrims had paid obeisance at the 3,880-metre high holy cave, housing the naturally formed ice-shivlingam, in south Kashmir Himalayas last year, while the number of pilgrims was 3,52,771 in 2015, 3,20,490 in 2016 and 2,60,003 in 2017. The yatra is scheduled to end on August 15 coinciding with the Raksha Bandhan festival. Inspector General of Police, Jammu, M K Sinha said adequate security arrangements have been made all along the yatra route right from Lakhanpur -- the gateway to Jammu and Kashmir bordering Punjab -- besides base camps, lodgement centres, halting stations and community kitchen sites in view of threat perception. Though there was no specific intelligence about any plan by terrorists to disrupt the yatra, the security arrangements had been made in view of the present security scenario of the state to foil any attempt by anti-national elements, he said. Akash Tamrikar, 21, who had come from Chattisgarh along with his Uncle Raj Kumar for the yatra, expressed satisfaction over the arrangements and said he is waiting eagerly for 'Darshan' (glimpse) at the shrine. "This is for the fifth time I am undertaking this yatra to have darshan of the shivlingam and never faced any problem...The (Shri Amarnathji) shrine board and the state administration is doing well as every year we witness improvement in the arrangements," Tamrikar, who had secured the registration for the first-day yatra on July 1, told PTI on his arrival at the main base camp, Bhagwati Nagar, here. The pilgrims will be taken in a convoy to their desired destinations, Pahalgam base camp or Baltal base camp in the valley, to proceed for the cave shrine by foot after night stay there. Gautam, 50, a businessman from Punjab, said he started visiting the shrine since 2000 and had never missed any yatra since then. "I had tracked both Pahalgam and Baltal routes and this time I am going through Baltal," he said, adding besides seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva for himself and his family, he would like to pray for peace and prosperity in the country in general and Jammu and Kashmir in particular. The yatra will be led by a group of sadhus who are separately staying at Ram temple in the Purani Mandi area of the old city where their registration for the pilgrimage started this morning. Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the registration centre set up for the sadhus and lauded the Mahant of the temple, Rameshwar Dass, and the district administration for making necessary arrangements for the saints.

Devotees upbeat as first batch of pilgrims leave for Amarnath shrine on Sunday

The cave at the Kedarnath shrine where Prime Minister Narendra Modi meditated last month has seen an unprecedented boost in popularity, with a large number of devotees logging into the GMVN website daily to book the facility online.

The "dhyan gufa" (meditation cave) is booked for the whole of July and there are also advance bookings for different dates in August, September and October, Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd (GMVN) General Manager B L Rana said.

People from different parts of the country are logging into the GMVN website to book the facility, he said. Since the prime minister's visit in May, not a single day has passed when the "dhyan gufa" was not occupied by someone, the GMVN official said.

The growing popularity of the unique facility in the serene environs of the 12,500 feet shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas has prompted the district administration to plan three more meditation caves in its vicinity, Rudraprayag District Magistrate Mangesh Ghildiyal told PTI.

"We are planning to build three more such caves close to the existing one. In fact, work on one has already started and the sites for the other two on the surrounding hills have also been identified," he said.

Ghildiyal said the "gufa" has been in existence for nearly a year now but people have started showing an interest only after the prime minister meditated there on the night of May 18.

When Modi came to visit the shrine, a photograph of the PM wrapped in a saffron shawl, sitting inside the cave with his eyes shut in a pose of meditation had gone viral on social media, giving the newly added tourist attraction the much needed promotional push, the DM said.

Better facilities created for pilgrims at Kedarnath coupled with the prime minister's increased visits (Modi visited the shrine four times during his first tenure as PM) have even contributed to a dramatic rise in footfall at the Himalayan temple, which received a record 7,62,000 pilgrims in 50 days so far this year, Ghildiyal said.&nbsp;

Kedarnath had opened on May 9 this year for devotees after remaining closed for the winter.

"The number of pilgrims visiting Kedarnath during the entire yatra season last year was 7,32,000. There are more than three months to go for the end of the yatra sometime in October, and we hope the number this time is all set to cross the 10 lakh mark. It will be the first time in the history of Kedarnath,"&nbsp;Ghildiyal said.

In 2012, Kedarnath had received 5,80,000 pilgrims. There was a sudden slump in footfall after the flash floods in 2013 which caused large-scale damage to the infrastructure in the area. As the reconstruction of Kedarpuri started, the number of pilgrims began to rise from 2015 onwards, he said.

The Kedarnath area had witnessed unprecedented rainfall between June 14, 2013, and June 17, 2013, and the Chorabari lake had collapsed due to cloudburst, resulting in a major flash flood.

Several roads, buildings and other structures were washed away and, according to the state government, the estimated death toll was around 10,000, with over 3,000 persons missing.

Reconstruction of Kedarpuri, the township around the temple, is considered the pet project of the prime minister, who keeps reviewing its progress from time to time via video-conferencing.&nbsp;

The cave at the Kedarnath shrine where Prime Minister Narendra Modi meditated last month has seen an unprecedented boost in popularity, with a large number of devotees logging into the GMVN website daily to book the facility online.

The cave at the Kedarnath shrine where Prime Minister Narendra Modi meditated last month has seen an unprecedented boost in popularity, with a large number of devotees logging into the GMVN website daily to book the facility online. The "dhyan gufa" (meditation cave) is booked for the whole of July and there are also advance bookings for different dates in August, September and October, Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd (GMVN) General Manager B L Rana said. People from different parts of the country are logging into the GMVN website to book the facility, he said. Since the prime minister's visit in May, not a single day has passed when the "dhyan gufa" was not occupied by someone, the GMVN official said. The growing popularity of the unique facility in the serene environs of the 12,500 feet shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas has prompted the district administration to plan three more meditation caves in its vicinity, Rudraprayag District Magistrate Mangesh Ghildiyal told PTI. "We are planning to build three more such caves close to the existing one. In fact, work on one has already started and the sites for the other two on the surrounding hills have also been identified," he said. Ghildiyal said the "gufa" has been in existence for nearly a year now but people have started showing an interest only after the prime minister meditated there on the night of May 18. When Modi came to visit the shrine, a photograph of the PM wrapped in a saffron shawl, sitting inside the cave with his eyes shut in a pose of meditation had gone viral on social media, giving the newly added tourist attraction the much needed promotional push, the DM said. Better facilities created for pilgrims at Kedarnath coupled with the prime minister's increased visits (Modi visited the shrine four times during his first tenure as PM) have even contributed to a dramatic rise in footfall at the Himalayan temple, which received a record 7,62,000 pilgrims in 50 days so far this year, Ghildiyal said. Kedarnath had opened on May 9 this year for devotees after remaining closed for the winter. "The number of pilgrims visiting Kedarnath during the entire yatra season last year was 7,32,000. There are more than three months to go for the end of the yatra sometime in October, and we hope the number this time is all set to cross the 10 lakh mark. It will be the first time in the history of Kedarnath," Ghildiyal said. In 2012, Kedarnath had received 5,80,000 pilgrims. There was a sudden slump in footfall after the flash floods in 2013 which caused large-scale damage to the infrastructure in the area. As the reconstruction of Kedarpuri started, the number of pilgrims began to rise from 2015 onwards, he said. The Kedarnath area had witnessed unprecedented rainfall between June 14, 2013, and June 17, 2013, and the Chorabari lake had collapsed due to cloudburst, resulting in a major flash flood. Several roads, buildings and other structures were washed away and, according to the state government, the estimated death toll was around 10,000, with over 3,000 persons missing. Reconstruction of Kedarpuri, the township around the temple, is considered the pet project of the prime minister, who keeps reviewing its progress from time to time via video-conferencing.

PM Modi's cave meditation at Kedarnath drawing more pilgrims: Officials

BJP working president JP Nadda Saturday claimed the ruling AAP has become "a laughing stock" and exuded confidence that his party will form government in Delhi as the city needs leadership with "serious vision" for it.

Addressing the party's Delhi unit leaders on the second day of the state working committee's meeting, he asked them to work together for the Delhi elections, due early next year.

In reference to the 2015 Assembly elections where the Aam Aadmi Party had won 67 out of 70 seats, Nadda claimed that the people of Delhi have now started realising what the leaders have actually done.

"They (AAP) have become the laughing stock. Delhi, being the national capital, needs leadership which has a serious vision for the city," he said.

Nadda claimed that people are not happy with the Arvind Kejriwal-government in Delhi and exuded confidence that the BJP will win the Delhi Assembly elections. 
"I am fully confident that we will succeed in Delhi," the BJP working president said.

In his 30-minute speech, Nadda listed the public-welfare schemes of the Modi government and congratulated BJP's Delhi unit for its performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections in which party won all the seven seats in the national capital.

Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari claimed that the AAP has "failed to address acute water crisis" in the city and his party unit has prepared a detailed plan to address the problems the national capital faces.

Senior party leaders, including Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, V K Malhotra, Meenakshi Lekhi, Parvesh Verma, Hans Raj Hans and Kuljeet Chahal were present at the meeting.&nbsp;

BJP working president JP Nadda Saturday claimed the ruling AAP has become "a laughing stock" and exuded confidence that his party will form government in Delhi as the city needs leadership with "serious vision" for it.

BJP working president JP Nadda Saturday claimed the ruling AAP has become "a laughing stock" and exuded confidence that his party will form government in Delhi as the city needs leadership with "serious vision" for it. Addressing the party's Delhi unit leaders on the second day of the state working committee's meeting, he asked them to work together for the Delhi elections, due early next year. In reference to the 2015 Assembly elections where the Aam Aadmi Party had won 67 out of 70 seats, Nadda claimed that the people of Delhi have now started realising what the leaders have actually done. "They (AAP) have become the laughing stock. Delhi, being the national capital, needs leadership which has a serious vision for the city," he said. Nadda claimed that people are not happy with the Arvind Kejriwal-government in Delhi and exuded confidence that the BJP will win the Delhi Assembly elections. "I am fully confident that we will succeed in Delhi," the BJP working president said. In his 30-minute speech, Nadda listed the public-welfare schemes of the Modi government and congratulated BJP's Delhi unit for its performance in the recent Lok Sabha elections in which party won all the seven seats in the national capital. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari claimed that the AAP has "failed to address acute water crisis" in the city and his party unit has prepared a detailed plan to address the problems the national capital faces. Senior party leaders, including Delhi BJP in-charge Shyam Jaju, V K Malhotra, Meenakshi Lekhi, Parvesh Verma, Hans Raj Hans and Kuljeet Chahal were present at the meeting.

Aam Aadmi Party has become a laughing stock: JP Nadda

The search for the eighth missing mountaineer was cancelled on Saturday due to bad weather, informed Pithoragarh official.

"Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) rescue team has successfully recovered bodies of seven mountaineers, who were hit by an avalanche near Nanda Devi in Uttarakhand. Today two sorties were carried out to search the eighth body, but it is not possible to continue right now due to bad weather," said VK Jogdande, DM Pithoragarh.

These tourists were hit by an avalanche on May 26 and were missing since then. The bodies were traced at an altitude of approximately 21,000 feet near the peak from where the mountaineers reportedly went missing.

They were on an expedition to a Nanda Devi East peak when they met the tragic fate.

A 10-member <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nanda-devi-indo-tibetan-border-police-recovers-7-bodies-of-foreign-tourists-229764">team of ITBP had dug out the seven bodies</a>, including that of a woman mountaineer, from under the snow.

The ITBP had launched search operation last week to search for the missing mountaineers in which 4 were British, 2 were Americans, and 1 each from Australia and India.

The attempt to rescue the trapped mountaineers from Nanda Devi East is named Operation Daredevil. Standing at a height of 7,816 metres, Nanda Devi is the second highest mountain in India and 23rd highest overall.

&nbsp;

The search for the eighth missing mountaineer was cancelled on Saturday due to bad weather, informed Pithoragarh official. "Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) rescue team has successfully recovered bodies of seven mountaineers, who were hit by an avalanche near Nanda Devi in Uttarakhand.

The search for the eighth missing mountaineer was cancelled on Saturday due to bad weather, informed Pithoragarh official. "Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) rescue team has successfully recovered bodies of seven mountaineers, who were hit by an avalanche near Nanda Devi in Uttarakhand. Today two sorties were carried out to search the eighth body, but it is not possible to continue right now due to bad weather," said VK Jogdande, DM Pithoragarh. These tourists were hit by an avalanche on May 26 and were missing since then. The bodies were traced at an altitude of approximately 21,000 feet near the peak from where the mountaineers reportedly went missing. They were on an expedition to a Nanda Devi East peak when they met the tragic fate. A 10-member team of ITBP had dug out the seven bodies, including that of a woman mountaineer, from under the snow. The ITBP had launched search operation last week to search for the missing mountaineers in which 4 were British, 2 were Americans, and 1 each from Australia and India. The attempt to rescue the trapped mountaineers from Nanda Devi East is named Operation Daredevil. Standing at a height of 7,816 metres, Nanda Devi is the second highest mountain in India and 23rd highest overall.

Nanda Devi: Search for eighth tourist cancelled due to bad weather

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with a whole host of leaders Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan among others on the second and final day of the 14th G20 Summit before his departure to New Delhi on Saturday.&nbsp;

Meeting with President Xi came towards the end of the summit and both the leaders were seen interacting with each other.

During PM Modi's bilateral with Erdogan, the latter raised his country's deal with Russia for S400. The US has threatened sanctions on Ankara if Turkey goes ahead with the deal.

External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "There was a general discussion as to how the two countries can cooperate in defence cooperation and see on the possibility of working together".

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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>
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Modi started the day with meetings with Brazilian President Jair M. Bolsonaro and Indonesian President Joko Widodo. During the meet with the Indonesian president, the focus was on defence, Indo-Pacific and trade.&nbsp;

PM had visited Indonesia last year and established a comprehensive strategic partnership. Both are also looking at maritime connectivity, especially, between the westernmost Indonesian province of Aceh and India's the Andaman Islands.

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Mate, I’m stoked about the energy of our bilateral relationship! <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ScottMorrisonMP</a> <a href="https://t.co/RdvaWsqlwY">https://t.co/RdvaWsqlwY</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1144822260319920128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi's last bilateral meeting was with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Earlier in the day, Scot Morrison tweeted, "Kithana acha he Modi!", to which PM Modi responded, "Mate, I’m stoked about the energy of our bilateral relationship!"

All in all, the PM had nine bilaterals and 8 pull-asides at the G20 besides participating in two trilaterals - JAI, RIC - and the BRICS informal meet.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with a whole host of leaders Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan among others on the second and final day of the 14th G20 Summit before his departure to New Delhi on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with a whole host of leaders Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan among others on the second and final day of the 14th G20 Summit before his departure to New Delhi on Saturday. Meeting with President Xi came towards the end of the summit and both the leaders were seen interacting with each other. During PM Modi's bilateral with Erdogan, the latter raised his country's deal with Russia for S400. The US has threatened sanctions on Ankara if Turkey goes ahead with the deal. External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "There was a general discussion as to how the two countries can cooperate in defence cooperation and see on the possibility of working together". Kithana acha he Modi! #G20OsakaSummit pic.twitter.com/BC6DyuX4lf — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) June 28, 2019 × Modi started the day with meetings with Brazilian President Jair M. Bolsonaro and Indonesian President Joko Widodo. During the meet with the Indonesian president, the focus was on defence, Indo-Pacific and trade. PM had visited Indonesia last year and established a comprehensive strategic partnership. Both are also looking at maritime connectivity, especially, between the westernmost Indonesian province of Aceh and India's the Andaman Islands. Mate, I’m stoked about the energy of our bilateral relationship! @ScottMorrisonMP https://t.co/RdvaWsqlwY — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 29, 2019 × Modi's last bilateral meeting was with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Earlier in the day, Scot Morrison tweeted, "Kithana acha he Modi!", to which PM Modi responded, "Mate, I’m stoked about the energy of our bilateral relationship!" All in all, the PM had nine bilaterals and 8 pull-asides at the G20 besides participating in two trilaterals - JAI, RIC - and the BRICS informal meet.

PM Modi holds 20 bilaterals, pull-asides on day 2 of G20 Summit 

Prime minister Narendra Modi focused on terror, healthcare and disaster infrastructure during his intervention at G20 Summit and sideline trilateral and bilateral meets, Suresh Prabhu, India's sherpa for G20 said at a presser at the end of G20 summit.

"India played a proactive, positive, forward-looking role. PM Modi raised many issues of global concerns", he said.

During his intervention at G20 session on "Inequalities: Realising an Inclusive and Sustainable World", PM Modi highlighted "Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas" policy aimed at building an inclusive society.&nbsp;

On disaster resilient infrastructure, PM Modi said, "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 G20 Conference of Buenos Aires. I invite the G20 countries to join this coalition and share their experience and expertise."

Healthcare was also one of PM Modi's focus at G20 with he talking about India's "Ayushman Bharat - world's largest health insurance scheme" and "AYUSH - Alternate and Traditional System of Medicine".

PM Modi also presented his vision of maximising digital technology for society during his intervention at G20 on Digital Economy &amp; Artificial Intelligence. He gave, 5 'I's which are - "Inclusiveness, Indigenization, Innovation, Investment in infrastructure and International cooperation."

Asked why India did not join the Japan led pact on data free flow, Suresh Prabhu said, "PM Modi has communicated the reason to Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe."

During his bilaterals and BRICS, PM Modi raised the issue of terror.&nbsp;

On prime minister's idea of an international conference on terror Ministry of external affair spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "It is an issue which impacts mankind.. whenever PM has raised the topic with world leaders and in a multilateral format, there has been considerable interest and enthusiasm."

Prime minister Narendra Modi focused on terror, healthcare and disaster infrastructure during his intervention at G20 Summit and sideline trilateral and bilateral meets, Suresh Prabhu, India's sherpa for G20 said at a presser at the end of G20 summit.

Prime minister Narendra Modi focused on terror, healthcare and disaster infrastructure during his intervention at G20 Summit and sideline trilateral and bilateral meets, Suresh Prabhu, India's sherpa for G20 said at a presser at the end of G20 summit. "India played a proactive, positive, forward-looking role. PM Modi raised many issues of global concerns", he said. During his intervention at G20 session on "Inequalities: Realising an Inclusive and Sustainable World", PM Modi highlighted "Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas" policy aimed at building an inclusive society. On disaster resilient infrastructure, PM Modi said, "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 G20 Conference of Buenos Aires. I invite the G20 countries to join this coalition and share their experience and expertise." Healthcare was also one of PM Modi's focus at G20 with he talking about India's "Ayushman Bharat - world's largest health insurance scheme" and "AYUSH - Alternate and Traditional System of Medicine". PM Modi also presented his vision of maximising digital technology for society during his intervention at G20 on Digital Economy & Artificial Intelligence. He gave, 5 'I's which are - "Inclusiveness, Indigenization, Innovation, Investment in infrastructure and International cooperation." Asked why India did not join the Japan led pact on data free flow, Suresh Prabhu said, "PM Modi has communicated the reason to Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe." During his bilaterals and BRICS, PM Modi raised the issue of terror. On prime minister's idea of an international conference on terror Ministry of external affair spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "It is an issue which impacts mankind.. whenever PM has raised the topic with world leaders and in a multilateral format, there has been considerable interest and enthusiasm."

PM Modi focused on terror, healthcare and infrastructure at G20 Summit in Osaka: Suresh Prabhu

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-saudi-crown-prince-salman-at-g20-summit-in-japans-osaka-discusses-counter-terrorism-231041">Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday</a> held bilateral talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka.

"A natural partnership strengthened by historical ties. On the margins of #G20 Summit PM @narendramodi had a good meeting with President of Republic of Korea," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

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A natural partnership strengthened by historical ties. 
 
On the margins of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> Summit PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> had a good meeting with President of Republic of Korea, <a href="https://twitter.com/moonriver365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moonriver365</a>. Expressed mutual desire to synergize our Act East Policy with South Korea's New Southern Policy. <a href="https://t.co/CWCujq4ibj">pic.twitter.com/CWCujq4ibj</a>
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During their meeting, the two leaders expressed mutual desire to synergise India's Act East Policy with South Korea's New Southern Policy.

The main focus of India's Act East Policy is to shift the country's trading focus from the west and neighbours to the booming South East Asian countries.

The Moon administration's 'New Southern Policy' focuses on South Korea's development of its relations with Southeast Asia and ASEAN.

Watch:&nbsp;Modi raises Iran, 5G, Bilateral ties and Defence

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After the meeting, PM Modi tweeted saying, "It is always special to meet my good friend, President Moon Jae-in. He is extremely passionate about furthering friendship between India and the Republic of Korea. Today, we talked about various steps to enhance trade, economic and people-to-people relations."

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It is always special to meet my good friend, President Moon Jae-in. He is extremely passionate about furthering friendship between India and the Republic of Korea. Today, we talked about various steps to enhance trade, economic and people-to-people relations. <a href="https://twitter.com/moonriver365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moonriver365</a> <a href="https://t.co/N6bfD4zLxL">pic.twitter.com/N6bfD4zLxL</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1144480927579426818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi also held bilateral talks with Crown Prince Salman and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-trilateral-meeting-with-us-president-trump-japan-pm-abe-231016">US President Donald Trump</a>.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held bilateral talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka. "A natural partnership strengthened by historical ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held bilateral talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka. "A natural partnership strengthened by historical ties. On the margins of #G20 Summit PM @narendramodi had a good meeting with President of Republic of Korea," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. A natural partnership strengthened by historical ties. On the margins of #G20 Summit PM @narendramodi had a good meeting with President of Republic of Korea, @moonriver365. Expressed mutual desire to synergize our Act East Policy with South Korea's New Southern Policy. pic.twitter.com/CWCujq4ibj — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) June 28, 2019 × During their meeting, the two leaders expressed mutual desire to synergise India's Act East Policy with South Korea's New Southern Policy. The main focus of India's Act East Policy is to shift the country's trading focus from the west and neighbours to the booming South East Asian countries. The Moon administration's 'New Southern Policy' focuses on South Korea's development of its relations with Southeast Asia and ASEAN. Watch: Modi raises Iran, 5G, Bilateral ties and Defence After the meeting, PM Modi tweeted saying, "It is always special to meet my good friend, President Moon Jae-in. He is extremely passionate about furthering friendship between India and the Republic of Korea. Today, we talked about various steps to enhance trade, economic and people-to-people relations." It is always special to meet my good friend, President Moon Jae-in. He is extremely passionate about furthering friendship between India and the Republic of Korea. Today, we talked about various steps to enhance trade, economic and people-to-people relations. @moonriver365 pic.twitter.com/N6bfD4zLxL — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 28, 2019 × PM Modi also held bilateral talks with Crown Prince Salman and US President Donald Trump.

PM Modi holds bilateral talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday refused to reconsider his decision to resign as the party president, saying he has taken full responsibility of party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

"I have resigned after taking full responsibility and ensuring accountability for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. I cannot ask others to resign too. It is up to them if they want to take responsibility," he told the Congress leaders in Haryana. 
 
He made the comments during a meeting with leaders from Haryana state coordination committee who urged him to continue to lead the party and take back his resignation.

Earlier, in a meeting of Congress Parliamentary party chaired by UPA chief Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday, &nbsp;Gandhi told his party's Lok Sabha members that he was no longer the Congress president as he had resigned.

Rahul had offered to resign as the party chief at the May 25 meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) after the Lok Sabha elections. While the CWC had rejected his resignation and asked him to restructure the party at all levels. Since then party leaders have been trying to convince the Gandhi scion to reconsider his decision.

Last week, Gandhi had said the party would decide his successor. “I am not the right person to make a decision and will not get involved in that process,” he had said.

According to reports, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot is likely to be appointed as the next Congress president. Sources in the Delhi unit of the party say that a large chunk of Congress is in favour of Gehlot's elevation as the party chief.

Congress put a poor show in the Lok Sabha polls by winning just 52 seats, while the ruling BJP stormed back to power with 303 seats.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday refused to reconsider his decision to resign as the party president, saying he has taken full responsibility of party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday refused to reconsider his decision to resign as the party president, saying he has taken full responsibility of party's debacle in the Lok Sabha elections. "I have resigned after taking full responsibility and ensuring accountability for the party's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections. I cannot ask others to resign too. It is up to them if they want to take responsibility," he told the Congress leaders in Haryana. He made the comments during a meeting with leaders from Haryana state coordination committee who urged him to continue to lead the party and take back his resignation. Earlier, in a meeting of Congress Parliamentary party chaired by UPA chief Sonia Gandhi on Wednesday, Gandhi told his party's Lok Sabha members that he was no longer the Congress president as he had resigned. Rahul had offered to resign as the party chief at the May 25 meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) after the Lok Sabha elections. While the CWC had rejected his resignation and asked him to restructure the party at all levels. Since then party leaders have been trying to convince the Gandhi scion to reconsider his decision. Last week, Gandhi had said the party would decide his successor. “I am not the right person to make a decision and will not get involved in that process,” he had said. According to reports, Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot is likely to be appointed as the next Congress president. Sources in the Delhi unit of the party say that a large chunk of Congress is in favour of Gehlot's elevation as the party chief. Congress put a poor show in the Lok Sabha polls by winning just 52 seats, while the ruling BJP stormed back to power with 303 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

I have resigned after taking full responsibility of Congress's defeat, says Rahul Gandhi

The Supreme Court Friday refused to entertain a plea by rebel AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat challenging a disqualification notice under the anti-defection law issued to him by the Delhi Assembly Secretariat for reportedly joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

A vacation bench comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice B R Gavai told the counsel appearing for Sehrawat that the lawmaker can raise his grievances during the proceedings on the disqualification notice before the Assembly Speaker.

After the court said it was not inclined to hear the plea, Sehrawat's counsel withdrew the petition.

Sehrawat, an MLA from Bijwasan Assembly segment, had claimed that he has still not taken the primary membership of the BJP and the disqualification notice issued to him was arbitrary and illegal.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Friday refused to entertain a plea by rebel AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat challenging a disqualification notice under the anti-defection law issued to him by the Delhi Assembly Secretariat for reportedly joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The Supreme Court Friday refused to entertain a plea by rebel AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat challenging a disqualification notice under the anti-defection law issued to him by the Delhi Assembly Secretariat for reportedly joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). A vacation bench comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice B R Gavai told the counsel appearing for Sehrawat that the lawmaker can raise his grievances during the proceedings on the disqualification notice before the Assembly Speaker. After the court said it was not inclined to hear the plea, Sehrawat's counsel withdrew the petition. Sehrawat, an MLA from Bijwasan Assembly segment, had claimed that he has still not taken the primary membership of the BJP and the disqualification notice issued to him was arbitrary and illegal.

Supreme Court refuses to entertain AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat's plea challenging disqualification notice

India Watch, 28th June 2019

The death toll due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/doctors-forum-say-encephalitis-deaths-due-to-administrative-failure-state-apathy-231207">Acute Encephalitis Syndrome</a> (AES) here mounted to 133 on Friday.

As per official data, Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, reported 112 deaths while there were 21 deaths in Kejriwal Hospital.

The Supreme Court on June 24 expressed "serious concerns" over the rising number of deaths due to the disease, saying "it is a matter of great concern".

While hearing a plea filed by two advocates, a Bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and BR Gavai said, "This (death of children) cannot go on."

The petitioner had sought constitution of a team of medical experts for the treatment of children suffering from encephalitis.

The Bihar government told the top court that it is taking all necessary steps to control the outbreak and that the situation is "absolutely under control."

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the children who died due to AES.

He had also given directions to the health department, district administration and doctors to take necessary measures for the containment of the disease.

AES is a viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms such as high fever, vomiting and in extreme cases, brain dysfunction, seizure, and inflammation of heart and kidney.

 
&nbsp;

The death toll due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) here mounted to 133 on Friday. As per official data, Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, reported 112 deaths while there were 21 deaths in Kejriwal Hospital.

The death toll due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) here mounted to 133 on Friday. As per official data, Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), which is handling the largest number of patients in the district, reported 112 deaths while there were 21 deaths in Kejriwal Hospital. The Supreme Court on June 24 expressed "serious concerns" over the rising number of deaths due to the disease, saying "it is a matter of great concern". While hearing a plea filed by two advocates, a Bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and BR Gavai said, "This (death of children) cannot go on." The petitioner had sought constitution of a team of medical experts for the treatment of children suffering from encephalitis. The Bihar government told the top court that it is taking all necessary steps to control the outbreak and that the situation is "absolutely under control." Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the children who died due to AES. He had also given directions to the health department, district administration and doctors to take necessary measures for the containment of the disease. AES is a viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms such as high fever, vomiting and in extreme cases, brain dysfunction, seizure, and inflammation of heart and kidney.

Encephalitis death toll rises to 133 in Muzaffarpur

''We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety,'' said US President Donald <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trade-in-focus-as-pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-us-president-trump-231014">Trump during his bilateral talks</a> with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-trilateral-meeting-with-us-president-trump-japan-pm-abe-231016">sidelines of G20 Summit in Osaka</a>, Japan.

''We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety. We'll work together in many ways including military, we'll be discussing trade today,'' Trump told PM Modi during talks.&nbsp;

Modi and Trump discussed various bilateral and global issues including Iran, 5G communications networks, trade and defence ahead of the G-20 Summit.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> held talks on the sidelines of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> Summit in Osaka. 
 
Both leaders discussed various bilateral and global issues. <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://t.co/XXpFzOLKsZ">pic.twitter.com/XXpFzOLKsZ</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1144415735302635520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Trump congratulated Modi on his election victory and said that the two countries would work together in many areas including military.&nbsp;

"It was a big victory, you deserve it, you have done a great job. We have big things to announce. In terms of trade, in terms of manufacturing, we would be discussing 5G. I congratulate you and I look forward to talks," Trump said.

"We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety. We will work together in many ways including military, we'll be discussing trade today," he said.

On Iran, Trump said: "We have a lot of time. There's no rush, they can take their time. There is absolutely no time pressure".

"PM @narendramodi and @POTUS held talks on the sidelines of the #G20 Summit in Osaka. Both leaders discussed various bilateral and global issues," the Prime Minister's Office said in a tweet.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> US President Donald Trump at bilateral meeting with PM Narendra Modi in Osaka, Japan: We have become great friends &amp; our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety. We'll work together in many ways including military, we'll be discussing trade today <a href="https://t.co/SjvenXi4df">pic.twitter.com/SjvenXi4df</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1144413376862412801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Watch:&nbsp;What to expect from G20 summit? a discussion

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-to-expect-from-g20-summit-a-discussion-231005/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Modi-Trump meeting assumes significance as the US president, championing his 'America First' policy, has been a vocal critic of India for levying "tremendously high" duties on US products.

Before his arrival in Japan on Thursday, Trump tweeted, "I look forward to speaking with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi about the fact that India, for years having put very high Tariffs against the United States, just recently increased the Tariffs even further. This is unacceptable and the Tariffs must be withdrawn!"

This was Modi's first meeting with Trump after the BJP's landslide win in the parliamentary election.&nbsp;

''We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety,'' said US President Donald Trump during his bilateral talks with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan.

''We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety,'' said US President Donald Trump during his bilateral talks with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan. ''We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety. We'll work together in many ways including military, we'll be discussing trade today,'' Trump told PM Modi during talks. Modi and Trump discussed various bilateral and global issues including Iran, 5G communications networks, trade and defence ahead of the G-20 Summit. PM @narendramodi and @POTUS held talks on the sidelines of the #G20 Summit in Osaka. Both leaders discussed various bilateral and global issues. @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/XXpFzOLKsZ — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 28, 2019 × Trump congratulated Modi on his election victory and said that the two countries would work together in many areas including military. "It was a big victory, you deserve it, you have done a great job. We have big things to announce. In terms of trade, in terms of manufacturing, we would be discussing 5G. I congratulate you and I look forward to talks," Trump said. "We have become great friends and our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety. We will work together in many ways including military, we'll be discussing trade today," he said. On Iran, Trump said: "We have a lot of time. There's no rush, they can take their time. There is absolutely no time pressure". "PM @narendramodi and @POTUS held talks on the sidelines of the #G20 Summit in Osaka. Both leaders discussed various bilateral and global issues," the Prime Minister's Office said in a tweet. #WATCH US President Donald Trump at bilateral meeting with PM Narendra Modi in Osaka, Japan: We have become great friends & our countries have never been closer. I can say that with surety. We'll work together in many ways including military, we'll be discussing trade today pic.twitter.com/SjvenXi4df — ANI (@ANI) June 28, 2019 × Watch: What to expect from G20 summit? a discussion The Modi-Trump meeting assumes significance as the US president, championing his 'America First' policy, has been a vocal critic of India for levying "tremendously high" duties on US products. Before his arrival in Japan on Thursday, Trump tweeted, "I look forward to speaking with Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi about the fact that India, for years having put very high Tariffs against the United States, just recently increased the Tariffs even further. This is unacceptable and the Tariffs must be withdrawn!" This was Modi's first meeting with Trump after the BJP's landslide win in the parliamentary election.

G20 Summit: 'Our countries have never been closer', Trump on US-India ties

In this segment of India Watch, know contribution of PV Narasimha Rao on his 98th anniversary. WION is in conversation with NV Subhash, who is grandson of PV Narasimha Rao. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Acknowledging the contribution of PV Narasimha Rao

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News brief: Big stories of the day

News brief: Big stories of the day

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Resignations pour in support of Rahul Gandhi, pressure on senior Congress leaders to resign

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News brief: Big stories of the day

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Mass resignations of Congress leaders part of 'scripted drama': BJP's Tom Vadakkan

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Devotees upbeat as first batch of pilgrims leave for Amarnath shrine on Sunday

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PM Modi holds 20 bilaterals, pull-asides on day 2 of G20 Summit

PM Modi focused on terror, healthcare and infrastructure at G20 Summit in Osaka: Suresh Prabhu

PM Modi holds bilateral talks with South Korean President Moon Jae-in at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka

I have resigned after taking full responsibility of Congress's defeat, says Rahul Gandhi

Supreme Court refuses to entertain AAP MLA Devender Sehrawat's plea challenging disqualification notice

India Watch, 28th June 2019

Encephalitis death toll rises to 133 in Muzaffarpur

G20 Summit: 'Our countries have never been closer', Trump on US-India ties

India Watch: Acknowledging the contribution of PV Narasimha Rao