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The humble kitchen sponge has always been viewed as the breeding ground for germs. In fact, in a study published in Nature Scientific Reports, German researchers found the presence of more than 54 billion bacteria across 118 genera in kitchen sponges. They also found that cleaning the sponge thoroughly did not help much. But now, thanks to a new study, this very kitchen sponge could provide the key to fighting antibiotic resistant bacteria

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Japan is going to host the G20 summit this year in its second-largest city Osaka. Being the host nation, the island nation has said that this year's gathering will focus on data protection and reforms in the World Trade Organisation or WTO.

“As one of the main fora for financial and economic coordination, G20 is unique and the most effective instrument for addressing the challenges of the present global scenario,” Argentina Ambassador to India Daniel Chuburu told WION ahead of the summit.

Chuburu is going to be one of the dialogue partners in WION World Order, a new show from WION which will discuss major global issues. G20, the gathering of 20 of the world's biggest economies, is the focus area in this edition.

The trade war between the US and China is going to be the highlight of this year's summit. US President Donald Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the summit.

While China's President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump will discuss the ongoing trade war and how to tackle plastic waste, financial stability, black money, and terrorism will top India's agenda. All eyeballs will be on "Trump-Putin", "Trump-Xi" and "Trump-Erdogan" bilaterals.

Founded in 1999, the G20 is made up of 19 major countries and the European Union. Collectively, G20 members represent 85 per cent of global economic output, two-thirds of the world population and 75 per cent of international trade.

Japan is going to host the G20 summit this year in its second-largest city Osaka. Being the host nation, the island nation has said that this year's gathering will focus on data protection and reforms in the World Trade Organisation or WTO.

Japan is going to host the G20 summit this year in its second-largest city Osaka. Being the host nation, the island nation has said that this year's gathering will focus on data protection and reforms in the World Trade Organisation or WTO. “As one of the main fora for financial and economic coordination, G20 is unique and the most effective instrument for addressing the challenges of the present global scenario,” Argentina Ambassador to India Daniel Chuburu told WION ahead of the summit. Chuburu is going to be one of the dialogue partners in WION World Order, a new show from WION which will discuss major global issues. G20, the gathering of 20 of the world's biggest economies, is the focus area in this edition. The trade war between the US and China is going to be the highlight of this year's summit. US President Donald Trump will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping at the summit. While China's President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump will discuss the ongoing trade war and how to tackle plastic waste, financial stability, black money, and terrorism will top India's agenda. All eyeballs will be on "Trump-Putin", "Trump-Xi" and "Trump-Erdogan" bilaterals. Founded in 1999, the G20 is made up of 19 major countries and the European Union. Collectively, G20 members represent 85 per cent of global economic output, two-thirds of the world population and 75 per cent of international trade.

G20 most effective instrument for addressing challenges in present global scenario: Argentina Ambassador to India Daniel Chuburu

As many as 78 bombs were seized from Paschim Bardhaman and North 24 Parganas districts in West Bengal on Monday.

Eight people have been arrested in connection with one of the cases, the police said.

While 60 bombs were seized from Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district, the police recovered 18 bombs from Kandeswar area of Durgapur city in Paschim Bardhaman district of the state.

Barrackpore Commissioner of Police Manoj Kumar said, "We recovered 60 bombs from Gali number 6 in Kankinara under Bhatpara police station. We have arrested eight people and further investigation is underway."

A bomb disposal squad destroyed all 18 bombs at an isolated place in Durgapur city, but no arrest has been reported so far.

Two persons were killed while several others were injured on Thursday after clashes broke out between two groups suspected to be affiliated to ruling TMC and BJP in Bhatpara, which comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC were imposed in the affected areas to restore order.

Both TMC and BJP have blamed each other for the violence.West Bengal witnessed violence during and after the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

As many as 78 bombs were seized from Paschim Bardhaman and North 24 Parganas districts in West Bengal on Monday. Eight people have been arrested in connection with one of the cases, the police said.

As many as 78 bombs were seized from Paschim Bardhaman and North 24 Parganas districts in West Bengal on Monday. Eight people have been arrested in connection with one of the cases, the police said. While 60 bombs were seized from Bhatpara area of North 24 Parganas district, the police recovered 18 bombs from Kandeswar area of Durgapur city in Paschim Bardhaman district of the state. Barrackpore Commissioner of Police Manoj Kumar said, "We recovered 60 bombs from Gali number 6 in Kankinara under Bhatpara police station. We have arrested eight people and further investigation is underway." A bomb disposal squad destroyed all 18 bombs at an isolated place in Durgapur city, but no arrest has been reported so far. Two persons were killed while several others were injured on Thursday after clashes broke out between two groups suspected to be affiliated to ruling TMC and BJP in Bhatpara, which comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC were imposed in the affected areas to restore order. Both TMC and BJP have blamed each other for the violence.West Bengal witnessed violence during and after the Lok Sabha elections.

78 bombs seized in two districts in West Bengal, 8 arrested

Delhi and its adjoining region are likely to receive moderate rain today, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The minimum and maximum temperatures of the national capital will hover around 26 degree Celsius and 34 degree Celsius with generally cloudy sky.

Apart from Delhi, thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) at isolated places very likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, East Rajasthan and West Madhya Pradesh, stated the weather forecasting agency in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Konkan and Goa and Arunachal Pradesh. Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Coastal Karnataka, Madhya Maharashtra, Gujarat region, West Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar and Andaman and Nicobar islands," the organisation added.

Rough sea conditions are likely to prevail over southwest and west central Arabian Sea. The IMD has adviced fishermen not to venture into these areas.&nbsp;

Delhi and its adjoining region are likely to receive moderate rain today, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD). The minimum and maximum temperatures of the national capital will hover around 26 degree Celsius and 34 degree Celsius with generally cloudy sky.

Delhi and its adjoining region are likely to receive moderate rain today, predicted India Meteorological Department (IMD). The minimum and maximum temperatures of the national capital will hover around 26 degree Celsius and 34 degree Celsius with generally cloudy sky. Apart from Delhi, thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) at isolated places very likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, East Rajasthan and West Madhya Pradesh, stated the weather forecasting agency in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places over Konkan and Goa and Arunachal Pradesh. Heavy rainfall at isolated places over Coastal Karnataka, Madhya Maharashtra, Gujarat region, West Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar and Andaman and Nicobar islands," the organisation added. Rough sea conditions are likely to prevail over southwest and west central Arabian Sea. The IMD has adviced fishermen not to venture into these areas.

Delhi-NCR likely to receive moderate rains: IMD

In the first high profile visit from US in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-focus-on-defence-security-trade-and-boosting-strategic-ties-during-pompeos-3-day-visit-to-india-230237">US secretary of state Mike Pompeo</a> arrived in Delhi on a three-day visit.&nbsp;

The visit comes days ahead of PM Modi's meeting with US President Trump in Osaka, Japan on the sidelines of 14th G20 summit and the second JAI trilateral - Japan, America and India.

The first JAI trilateral had taken place between Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, US Present Trump &amp; PM Modi in Buenos Aires in Argentina in December 2018.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrives in Delhi. He is scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar &amp; Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/9Fd8cBmX9U">pic.twitter.com/9Fd8cBmX9U</a>
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On Wednesday, Pompeo will be meeting PM Modi at 10am followed by external affairs minister S Jaishankar at 12 noon which would be followed by press statements. The US secretary of state will also be making an "India policy speech" on Wednesday evening.

Calling the visit an important one, S Jaishankar speaking in Gandhinagar said, "we have a very positive approach for the meeting."

On the ongoing crisis in the Gulf due to US-Iran tensions, Jaishankar said, "we have a relationship with Iran we have a relationship with US....we will be guided by our national interest and that will be the yardstick of judgement."

India is concerned by the situation in the Gulf, especially with a large diaspora in the West Asian region. The Indian government says it has a strong and legitimate interest in maintaining stability and peace in the region and believes both Washington and Tehran should de-escalate and refrain from any action that can destabilise the region.

India will be discussing the import of Iran oil with Washington. The US had waived import of Iranian oil after its sanctions for all countries had been terminated by Washington.&nbsp;

On the geopolitical situation in the region, terror and Indo-Pacific will be the focus areas during Pompeo's visit. Trade remains an issue of contention with US President Trump calling India a "Tariff King".&nbsp;

Along with trade, H-1B visa, data localisation or use and storage of data of Indian citizens, S-400 missile defence deal with Russia remain other contentious issues.

On the S-400 deal, India has made it clear to the US that it has a long-standing defence relationship with Moscow which can't "be wished away" and that the deal has been in discussion with Russia for a decade.&nbsp;

New Delhi believes the Trump administration has enough flexibility to give a waiver under the American CAATSA law which imposes sanction on countries engaging in defence ties with Russia.

Also with China-backed Huawei, which is feeling Washington's heat, New Delhi will be looking at its own security requirements and will take its own call but before that will hear concerns of other countries as well.

This is the second visit of Pompeo to India. He was in India last year for the maiden 2+2 dialogue between defence and foreign ministers of US and India.

In the first high profile visit from US in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo arrived in Delhi on a three-day visit. The visit comes days ahead of PM Modi's meeting with US President Trump in Osaka, Japan on the sidelines of 14th G20 summit and the second JAI trilateral - Japan, America and India.

In the first high profile visit from US in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's second term, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo arrived in Delhi on a three-day visit. The visit comes days ahead of PM Modi's meeting with US President Trump in Osaka, Japan on the sidelines of 14th G20 summit and the second JAI trilateral - Japan, America and India. The first JAI trilateral had taken place between Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, US Present Trump & PM Modi in Buenos Aires in Argentina in December 2018. #WATCH: United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrives in Delhi. He is scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar & Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/9Fd8cBmX9U — ANI (@ANI) June 25, 2019 × On Wednesday, Pompeo will be meeting PM Modi at 10am followed by external affairs minister S Jaishankar at 12 noon which would be followed by press statements. The US secretary of state will also be making an "India policy speech" on Wednesday evening. Calling the visit an important one, S Jaishankar speaking in Gandhinagar said, "we have a very positive approach for the meeting." On the ongoing crisis in the Gulf due to US-Iran tensions, Jaishankar said, "we have a relationship with Iran we have a relationship with US....we will be guided by our national interest and that will be the yardstick of judgement." India is concerned by the situation in the Gulf, especially with a large diaspora in the West Asian region. The Indian government says it has a strong and legitimate interest in maintaining stability and peace in the region and believes both Washington and Tehran should de-escalate and refrain from any action that can destabilise the region. India will be discussing the import of Iran oil with Washington. The US had waived import of Iranian oil after its sanctions for all countries had been terminated by Washington. On the geopolitical situation in the region, terror and Indo-Pacific will be the focus areas during Pompeo's visit. Trade remains an issue of contention with US President Trump calling India a "Tariff King". Along with trade, H-1B visa, data localisation or use and storage of data of Indian citizens, S-400 missile defence deal with Russia remain other contentious issues. On the S-400 deal, India has made it clear to the US that it has a long-standing defence relationship with Moscow which can't "be wished away" and that the deal has been in discussion with Russia for a decade. New Delhi believes the Trump administration has enough flexibility to give a waiver under the American CAATSA law which imposes sanction on countries engaging in defence ties with Russia. Also with China-backed Huawei, which is feeling Washington's heat, New Delhi will be looking at its own security requirements and will take its own call but before that will hear concerns of other countries as well. This is the second visit of Pompeo to India. He was in India last year for the maiden 2+2 dialogue between defence and foreign ministers of US and India.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo arrives in India on three-day visit

A meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary party, which was scheduled today, has been postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini.

The new date for the meeting which would be headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been announced yet.

The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday.

Ruling BJP's first parliamentary party meeting during the ongoing session and after JP Nadda's election as the working president was scheduled to take place here in the morning.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS.

Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death.

"The passing away of Shri Madanlal Saini Ji is a major loss for the BJP family. He contributed to strengthening the Party in Rajasthan. He was widely respected for his congenial nature and community service efforts. My thoughts are with his family and supporters. Om Shanti," Modi tweeted.

Calling him a "jan sevak", Shah said Saini played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan."I have received the sad news of death of BJP's senior leader and Rajasthan party chief Shri Madan Lal Saini ji. He served the party at different posts. He was a true 'jan sevak'&nbsp;who devoted his life for party and society. He played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan. Saini`s demise is an irreparable loss for BJP family. I offer my condolences and pray for his soul," the Home Minister tweeted.

Nadda and Rajnath Singh also offered condolences to the bereaved family. "I am shocked by the information of the death of BJP Rajasthan chief and my fellow in Rajya Sabha Shri Madan Lal Saini. This is irreparable damage to the Bharatiya Janata Party family. Madan Lal Saini devoted his whole life to serve the society. God bless his virtuous soul," Nadda tweeted.

Taking to Twitter, Rajnath Singh said, "I am shocked at the passing away of Rajasthan BJP State President and Rajya Sabha MP Madan Lal Sainiji. Madan ji was distinguished as a skilled organiser and a simple person. My condolences to the bereaved family. May God give them the power to endure this suffering."

&nbsp;

A meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary party, which was scheduled today, has been postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini.

A meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) parliamentary party, which was scheduled today, has been postponed due to the sudden demise of Rajasthan unit party president Madan Lal Saini. The new date for the meeting which would be headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not been announced yet. The 75-year-old BJP leader breathed his last at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Monday. Ruling BJP's first parliamentary party meeting during the ongoing session and after JP Nadda's election as the working president was scheduled to take place here in the morning. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, BJP National Working President JP Nadda and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla paid tributes to Rajasthan BJP chief Madan Lal Saini at AIIMS. Several other BJP party leaders also paid tribute to the 75-year-old Rajya Sabha MP, who breathed his last on Monday evening. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled Saini's death. "The passing away of Shri Madanlal Saini Ji is a major loss for the BJP family. He contributed to strengthening the Party in Rajasthan. He was widely respected for his congenial nature and community service efforts. My thoughts are with his family and supporters. Om Shanti," Modi tweeted. Calling him a "jan sevak", Shah said Saini played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan."I have received the sad news of death of BJP's senior leader and Rajasthan party chief Shri Madan Lal Saini ji. He served the party at different posts. He was a true 'jan sevak' who devoted his life for party and society. He played an important role in strengthening BJP in Rajasthan. Saini`s demise is an irreparable loss for BJP family. I offer my condolences and pray for his soul," the Home Minister tweeted. Nadda and Rajnath Singh also offered condolences to the bereaved family. "I am shocked by the information of the death of BJP Rajasthan chief and my fellow in Rajya Sabha Shri Madan Lal Saini. This is irreparable damage to the Bharatiya Janata Party family. Madan Lal Saini devoted his whole life to serve the society. God bless his virtuous soul," Nadda tweeted. Taking to Twitter, Rajnath Singh said, "I am shocked at the passing away of Rajasthan BJP State President and Rajya Sabha MP Madan Lal Sainiji. Madan ji was distinguished as a skilled organiser and a simple person. My condolences to the bereaved family. May God give them the power to endure this suffering."

BJP parliamentary party meet postponed due to Rajasthan unit chief's death

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked the Congress to “not miss” another opportunity to empower Muslim women and sought the opposition party’s support for the bill on triple talaq. Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, Modi quoted a former minister in the Rajiv Gandhi-led Congress government as saying in an interview that its leaders claimed that it was not the duty of their party to uplift Muslims and “if they want to lie in gutter let them be”.&nbsp;

He made these remarks while referring to a law brought by the then Congress government to overrule the Supreme Court judgement on the Shah Bano case to placate Muslims.

When his remarks drew a sharp reaction from the Congress, the Prime Minister said he could share the YouTube link of the interview. He said the Congress has missed many chances to empower Muslim women and has got one more opportunity. Modi said this in reference to the triple talaq bill introduced in the Lok Sabha by the government.

The bill had lapsed as it could not be passed by Parliament during the tenure of the 16th Lok Sabha. It had faced stiff resistance from the opposition including the Congress for allegedly being against fundamental rights.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked the Congress to “not miss” another opportunity to empower Muslim women and sought the opposition party’s support for the bill on triple talaq.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday asked the Congress to “not miss” another opportunity to empower Muslim women and sought the opposition party’s support for the bill on triple talaq. Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, Modi quoted a former minister in the Rajiv Gandhi-led Congress government as saying in an interview that its leaders claimed that it was not the duty of their party to uplift Muslims and “if they want to lie in gutter let them be”. He made these remarks while referring to a law brought by the then Congress government to overrule the Supreme Court judgement on the Shah Bano case to placate Muslims. When his remarks drew a sharp reaction from the Congress, the Prime Minister said he could share the YouTube link of the interview. He said the Congress has missed many chances to empower Muslim women and has got one more opportunity. Modi said this in reference to the triple talaq bill introduced in the Lok Sabha by the government. The bill had lapsed as it could not be passed by Parliament during the tenure of the 16th Lok Sabha. It had faced stiff resistance from the opposition including the Congress for allegedly being against fundamental rights.

Congress missed many opportunities to empower Muslim women: PM Modi

The Centre has earmarked Rs 7,255.5 crore under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) scheme for undertaking initiatives to strengthen Panchayati Raj institutions in the country, Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said Tuesday.

Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, he said the RGSA aims at strengthening governance capabilities of PRIs to deliver on sustainable development goals under which financial support is provided to states and Union Territories. “…The government has launched the centrally sponsored scheme of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, which is being implemented for four years from 2018-19 to 2021-22 with a total outlay of Rs 7255.50 crore,” the minister said in his written reply.

The ministry has been providing programmatic support for the strengthening of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and capacity building of elected representatives and functionaries of PRIs to improve their functioning and effectiveness and make them self-reliant, he said.&nbsp;

The activities undertaken under RGSA include capacity building and training, human resource and training infrastructure support, strengthening of Gram Sabha, distance learning support, technical support, economic development and income enhancement, the minister added.

The Centre has earmarked Rs 7,255.5 crore under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) scheme for undertaking initiatives to strengthen Panchayati Raj institutions in the country, Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said Tuesday.

The Centre has earmarked Rs 7,255.5 crore under the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) scheme for undertaking initiatives to strengthen Panchayati Raj institutions in the country, Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said Tuesday. Replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, he said the RGSA aims at strengthening governance capabilities of PRIs to deliver on sustainable development goals under which financial support is provided to states and Union Territories. “…The government has launched the centrally sponsored scheme of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, which is being implemented for four years from 2018-19 to 2021-22 with a total outlay of Rs 7255.50 crore,” the minister said in his written reply. The ministry has been providing programmatic support for the strengthening of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and capacity building of elected representatives and functionaries of PRIs to improve their functioning and effectiveness and make them self-reliant, he said. The activities undertaken under RGSA include capacity building and training, human resource and training infrastructure support, strengthening of Gram Sabha, distance learning support, technical support, economic development and income enhancement, the minister added.

Govt sanctions Rs 7,255.5 crore to strengthen Panchayati Raj institutions

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is among the 100 most influential women driving the UK-India relationship forward alongside one of Britain’s senior-most Cabinet ministers Penny Mordaunt.

The ‘100 Most Influential in UK-India Relations: Celebrating Women’ list was launched by UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid to mark India Day in the Houses of Parliament in London on Monday.

It credited Sitharaman, also the Minister of Corporate Affairs, as one of India’s most “powerful women” who plays a “pivotal” role in the bilateral relationship – as India’s former defence minister and now finance minister.

“Having studied at the London School of Economics (LSE) and worked in the UK in her previous career, Nirmala is familiar with the UK more so than probably all her other colleagues,” notes the power list, released by UK-based media house India Inc.

Penny Mordaunt, Britain’s Secretary of State for Defence, is the other senior politician in the list who is credited as the first woman to be assigned the role in the UK Cabinet.

“With India emerging as the world’s largest importer of defence products, and a significant strategic partner for the UK, Penny plays a crucial role in the UK-India relationship,” her citation notes.

Ruchi Ghanashyam, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, who is herself honoured in the list, welcomed the compilation as a recognition of the “front and centre role” played by women in the bilateral relationship.

“This list highlights the huge potential for the future of the UK and India as they continue to forge on together as two great countries. From business to politics, and art and literacy, women are continuing to pave the way in bringing together this bold partnership through collaboration and relationships,” she said.

The women in the list, now in its third year, hold positions of influence in India and the UK across 11 broad sectors including politics, technology and sustainability.

Some of the other prominent names include Indian-origin parliamentarians in the UK like Priti Patel and Baroness Sandy Verma, filmmaker Gurinder Chadha, Indian law firm chiefs Zia Mody and Pallavi S Shroff, Apollo Hospitals’ managing director Suneeta Reddy and Nasscom President Debjani Ghosh.

“The women highlighted in this list hold positions of tremendous influence and therefore their inclusion here is as much about the promise they bring, as the success they may have already achieved,” said Manoj Ladwa, Founder of India Inc.

The launch of the list also marked the start of UK-India Week in Britain, which will include a series of sessions on trade and investment and closer cooperation between the UK and India through the course of the week.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is among the 100 most influential women driving the UK-India relationship forward alongside one of Britain’s senior-most Cabinet ministers Penny Mordaunt.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is among the 100 most influential women driving the UK-India relationship forward alongside one of Britain’s senior-most Cabinet ministers Penny Mordaunt. The ‘100 Most Influential in UK-India Relations: Celebrating Women’ list was launched by UK Home Secretary Sajid Javid to mark India Day in the Houses of Parliament in London on Monday. It credited Sitharaman, also the Minister of Corporate Affairs, as one of India’s most “powerful women” who plays a “pivotal” role in the bilateral relationship – as India’s former defence minister and now finance minister. “Having studied at the London School of Economics (LSE) and worked in the UK in her previous career, Nirmala is familiar with the UK more so than probably all her other colleagues,” notes the power list, released by UK-based media house India Inc. Penny Mordaunt, Britain’s Secretary of State for Defence, is the other senior politician in the list who is credited as the first woman to be assigned the role in the UK Cabinet. “With India emerging as the world’s largest importer of defence products, and a significant strategic partner for the UK, Penny plays a crucial role in the UK-India relationship,” her citation notes. Ruchi Ghanashyam, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, who is herself honoured in the list, welcomed the compilation as a recognition of the “front and centre role” played by women in the bilateral relationship. “This list highlights the huge potential for the future of the UK and India as they continue to forge on together as two great countries. From business to politics, and art and literacy, women are continuing to pave the way in bringing together this bold partnership through collaboration and relationships,” she said. The women in the list, now in its third year, hold positions of influence in India and the UK across 11 broad sectors including politics, technology and sustainability. Some of the other prominent names include Indian-origin parliamentarians in the UK like Priti Patel and Baroness Sandy Verma, filmmaker Gurinder Chadha, Indian law firm chiefs Zia Mody and Pallavi S Shroff, Apollo Hospitals’ managing director Suneeta Reddy and Nasscom President Debjani Ghosh. “The women highlighted in this list hold positions of tremendous influence and therefore their inclusion here is as much about the promise they bring, as the success they may have already achieved,” said Manoj Ladwa, Founder of India Inc. The launch of the list also marked the start of UK-India Week in Britain, which will include a series of sessions on trade and investment and closer cooperation between the UK and India through the course of the week.

Nirmala Sitharaman among 100 most influential in UK power list

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-visit-south-korea-as-pompeo-raises-hope-for-new-north-korea-talks-after-letter-230158">Trump to visit South Korea as Pompeo raises hope for new North Korea talks after letter</a>

US President Donald Trump will visit South Korea this weekend after an exchange of letters with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boosted hopes for a resumption of talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-security-council-urges-dialogue-end-to-us-iran-tensions-230148">UN Security Council urges dialogue, end to US-Iran tensions as Trump announces new sanctions</a>

The UN Security Council on Monday called for dialogue and measures to end tensions in the Gulf, but Iran rejected talks with the United States after President Donald Trump imposed fresh sanctions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lack-of-predictability-coherence-in-india-us-strategic-relationship-congressman-tells-pompeo-ahead-of-new-delhi-visit-230160">Lack of predictability, coherence in India-US strategic ties: Congressman tells Pompeo ahead of visit</a>

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-trade-negotiators-hold-talks-ahead-of-xi-trump-meeting-report-230147">US-China trade negotiators hold talks ahead of Xi-Trump meeting: Report</a>

Top Chinese and US trade negotiators have held telephone talks ahead of a crunch meeting between presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump at the G20 summit this week, Chinese state media said Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huaweis-us-research-arm-builds-separate-identity-230155">Huawei's US research arm builds separate identity</a>

The US-based research arm of China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd - Futurewei Technologies Inc - has moved to separate its operations from its corporate parent since the US government in May put Huawei on a trade blacklist, according to two people familiar with the matter.

&nbsp;

Trump to visit South Korea as Pompeo raises hope for new North Korea talks after letter US President Donald Trump will visit South Korea this weekend after an exchange of letters with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boosted hopes for a resumption of talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program.

Trump to visit South Korea as Pompeo raises hope for new North Korea talks after letter US President Donald Trump will visit South Korea this weekend after an exchange of letters with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un boosted hopes for a resumption of talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program. UN Security Council urges dialogue, end to US-Iran tensions as Trump announces new sanctions The UN Security Council on Monday called for dialogue and measures to end tensions in the Gulf, but Iran rejected talks with the United States after President Donald Trump imposed fresh sanctions. Lack of predictability, coherence in India-US strategic ties: Congressman tells Pompeo ahead of visit On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India. US-China trade negotiators hold talks ahead of Xi-Trump meeting: Report Top Chinese and US trade negotiators have held telephone talks ahead of a crunch meeting between presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump at the G20 summit this week, Chinese state media said Tuesday. Huawei's US research arm builds separate identity The US-based research arm of China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd - Futurewei Technologies Inc - has moved to separate its operations from its corporate parent since the US government in May put Huawei on a trade blacklist, according to two people familiar with the matter.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The IMD Tuesday declared the onset of the south-west monsoon for Mumbai where besides extreme humidity the prospect of another water cut is looming large due to delay in setting in of rains. The monsoon, which generally arrives in Mumbai on June 10 every year, is behind schedule by more than two weeks, which is the longest such delay in the last ten years.&nbsp;

If the monsoon fails to keep its date with Mumbai Tuesday, the citizens might have to face another cut in water supply, a civic body official said.

“Monsoon onset declared over Mumbai today covering entire Maharashtra today by IMD,” Deputy Director General of Meteorology, India Meteorology Department (IMD), Mumbai, K S Hosalikar, said in a tweet. He also said the northern limit of the south-west monsoon is expected to cover not only Mumbai but also entire Maharashtra, besides some parts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

When asked about the causes behind the longest delay in the last ten years in the arrival of monsoon in Mumbai, an IMD official attributed it to the late onset over Kerala and the cyclone “Vayu”. In 2009, the monsoon had arrived on June 27, nearly ten days behind schedule. The second-longest delay since 2009 was in 2016 when the monsoon had arrived on June 20.

A Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Tuesday said Mumbaikars might have to face another water cut if the monsoon doesn’t arrive Tuesday. “The water levels in the reservoirs supplying water to Mumbai are fast depleting and almost 5 per cent water is left in them. Any further delay in monsoon may spell trouble for the city as the administrator may have to impose further water cut,” he said, adding that a 10 per cent water cut is already in the force.

Mumbai’s water supply comes from seven reservoirs: Modak Sagar, Tansa lake, Vehar lake, Tulsi lake, Upper Vaitarna, Bhatsa and Middle Vaitarna. The BMC supplies 3,750 million litres of water every day to the residents of the island city and suburbs, which still falls short of the actual demand for 4200 million litres.

The IMD Tuesday declared the onset of the south-west monsoon for Mumbai where besides extreme humidity the prospect of another water cut is looming large due to delay in setting in of rains.

The IMD Tuesday declared the onset of the south-west monsoon for Mumbai where besides extreme humidity the prospect of another water cut is looming large due to delay in setting in of rains. The monsoon, which generally arrives in Mumbai on June 10 every year, is behind schedule by more than two weeks, which is the longest such delay in the last ten years. If the monsoon fails to keep its date with Mumbai Tuesday, the citizens might have to face another cut in water supply, a civic body official said. “Monsoon onset declared over Mumbai today covering entire Maharashtra today by IMD,” Deputy Director General of Meteorology, India Meteorology Department (IMD), Mumbai, K S Hosalikar, said in a tweet. He also said the northern limit of the south-west monsoon is expected to cover not only Mumbai but also entire Maharashtra, besides some parts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. When asked about the causes behind the longest delay in the last ten years in the arrival of monsoon in Mumbai, an IMD official attributed it to the late onset over Kerala and the cyclone “Vayu”. In 2009, the monsoon had arrived on June 27, nearly ten days behind schedule. The second-longest delay since 2009 was in 2016 when the monsoon had arrived on June 20. A Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Tuesday said Mumbaikars might have to face another water cut if the monsoon doesn’t arrive Tuesday. “The water levels in the reservoirs supplying water to Mumbai are fast depleting and almost 5 per cent water is left in them. Any further delay in monsoon may spell trouble for the city as the administrator may have to impose further water cut,” he said, adding that a 10 per cent water cut is already in the force. Mumbai’s water supply comes from seven reservoirs: Modak Sagar, Tansa lake, Vehar lake, Tulsi lake, Upper Vaitarna, Bhatsa and Middle Vaitarna. The BMC supplies 3,750 million litres of water every day to the residents of the island city and suburbs, which still falls short of the actual demand for 4200 million litres.

Mumbai rains: IMD declares onset of south-west monsoon for Maharashtra capital

As many as 64 people had died and over 1.4 lakh hectare crop area affected due to cyclone Fani in Odisha, the Home Ministry said on Tuesday. Cyclone Fani affected three states — Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. In Odisha, 64 lives were lost, 5.56 lakh houses and huts were damaged, 6,281 cattle were lost, 1,48,663 hectare of cropland affected and 6,416 boats and 8,828 nets were damaged, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai told Lok Sabha in a written reply.

“In addition, infrastructure like roads, power, railway, telecommunications etc. were also damaged in Odisha,” he said. There was no loss of human lives in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. A total of 222 houses/huts were damaged, 28 cattle were lost and 1,365-hectare crop area was damaged in Andhra Pradesh, he said. In West Bengal, 29,260 houses/huts were damaged and 1.12 lakh hectare of crop area was affected due to the cyclone Fani, the minister said.

To prevent loss of human lives, a record number of 15,57,170 persons in Odisha, 17,460 persons in Andhra Pradesh and 2,34,801 persons in West Bengal were evacuated to safer places, Rai said. “There are institutional mechanisms at the national and state level for effective management of natural disasters. Though the primary responsibility for disaster management rests with the state governments, the central government extends all possible logistics and financial support to the states to supplement their efforts to meet the situation effectively,” he said.

The concerned state governments undertake an assessment of damage and provide financial relief in the wake of natural disasters including cyclone, from the State Disaster Response Fund already placed at their disposal, Rai said. In order to support the affected people of the states, central government has released in advance an assistance of Rs 1,086 crore (Rs 340.875 crore to Odisha, Rs 200.25 crore to Andhra Pradesh, Rs 235.50 crore to West Bengal and Rs 309.375 crore to Tamil Nadu) from SDRF on April 29, the minister said.

In pursuance to the visit made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Odisha after the cyclone Fani, the central government released additional Rs 1,000 crore to the state government on May 7, he said. Odisha was severely affected by the cyclone and has submitted a memorandum seeking an assistance of Rs 5,227.68 crore, Rai said.

An inter-ministerial central team visited the affected areas of the state from June 20 to 22 again for an on-the-spot assessment of damages caused by the cyclone Fani. Upon receipt of the report from the team, further financial assistance under NDRF will be considered as per laid down procedure, the minister said.

As many as 64 people had died and over 1.4 lakh hectare crop area affected due to cyclone Fani in Odisha, the Home Ministry said on Tuesday. Cyclone Fani affected three states — Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal.

As many as 64 people had died and over 1.4 lakh hectare crop area affected due to cyclone Fani in Odisha, the Home Ministry said on Tuesday. Cyclone Fani affected three states — Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. In Odisha, 64 lives were lost, 5.56 lakh houses and huts were damaged, 6,281 cattle were lost, 1,48,663 hectare of cropland affected and 6,416 boats and 8,828 nets were damaged, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai told Lok Sabha in a written reply. “In addition, infrastructure like roads, power, railway, telecommunications etc. were also damaged in Odisha,” he said. There was no loss of human lives in Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. A total of 222 houses/huts were damaged, 28 cattle were lost and 1,365-hectare crop area was damaged in Andhra Pradesh, he said. In West Bengal, 29,260 houses/huts were damaged and 1.12 lakh hectare of crop area was affected due to the cyclone Fani, the minister said. To prevent loss of human lives, a record number of 15,57,170 persons in Odisha, 17,460 persons in Andhra Pradesh and 2,34,801 persons in West Bengal were evacuated to safer places, Rai said. “There are institutional mechanisms at the national and state level for effective management of natural disasters. Though the primary responsibility for disaster management rests with the state governments, the central government extends all possible logistics and financial support to the states to supplement their efforts to meet the situation effectively,” he said. The concerned state governments undertake an assessment of damage and provide financial relief in the wake of natural disasters including cyclone, from the State Disaster Response Fund already placed at their disposal, Rai said. In order to support the affected people of the states, central government has released in advance an assistance of Rs 1,086 crore (Rs 340.875 crore to Odisha, Rs 200.25 crore to Andhra Pradesh, Rs 235.50 crore to West Bengal and Rs 309.375 crore to Tamil Nadu) from SDRF on April 29, the minister said. In pursuance to the visit made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Odisha after the cyclone Fani, the central government released additional Rs 1,000 crore to the state government on May 7, he said. Odisha was severely affected by the cyclone and has submitted a memorandum seeking an assistance of Rs 5,227.68 crore, Rai said. An inter-ministerial central team visited the affected areas of the state from June 20 to 22 again for an on-the-spot assessment of damages caused by the cyclone Fani. Upon receipt of the report from the team, further financial assistance under NDRF will be considered as per laid down procedure, the minister said.

Cyclone Fani: 64 people died, over 1.4 lakh hectare crop area affected in Odisha

Financial Action Task Force(FATF) president Marshall Billingslea has<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/day-after-fatf-warning-pak-army-chief-claims-country-doing-best-to-wipe-out-terrorism-229711"> said Pakistan has to do</a> "significant work to meet the obligations they themselves undertook" as part of there high-level commitments and the country is "lacking in almost every respect of action plan."

Following its greylisting in 2018, Islamabad had made a high-level political commitment <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tells-pakistan-to-take-credible-verifiable-irreversible-measures-on-terror-financing-after-fatf-relief-229407">to work with the FATF</a> to deal with “structural deficiencies” in its anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) or simply put-- acting on the financing of terror.

Speaking at the end of FATF plenary which took place in Orlando, Florida last week and whose audio was provided on Monday, Billingslea said, "There is absolutely a possibility that Pakistan could be put on the blacklist. That is a decision to be taken in future plenary because the period of the action plan has not yet expired, the action plan runs through September of this year."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-remains-in-fatf-greylist-survives-blacklist-scare-229398/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The next plenary of FATF will be in Paris in October during which Pakistan will be assessed if it was able to full fill its commitments. Coming strongly on Pakistan, FATF president said, "Pakistan does not appreciate or chooses not to acknowledge the transnational and transborder terrorist financing risk they face."

Pakistan was slammed by the global anti-terror financing body during the Orlando meet last week after failing to meet its commitments twice - first in January 2019 and then May 2019.&nbsp;

Billingslea explained, "Pakistan was cautioned in February at the plenary that they have missed almost all of the January milestones and they were urged not to fail milestones in May. Unfortunately, Pakistan yet again missed the May milestones."

Billingslea added, "The action plan is set to complete in September. So this was not the plenary we were to discuss blacklisting, this was the plenary how far or how far behind Pakistan is on its action plan, and I must say, they are far behind and there is much that must be done, by September."

If Islamabad fails to implement the action plan by September, then the FATF may consider next steps, which includes a possible blacklisting. FATF is a technical body, whose main aim is to protect the international financial system. The 30-year-old body works on the consensus of member countries.&nbsp;

FATF added that it is ready to "provide advice" to International monetary fund(IMF) if requested by the multilateral Washington-based organisation.&nbsp;

IMF is an observer organisation at the grouping and has a detailed understanding about the Pakistani action plan but its board has to decide on what conditionality they will like to apply.

The IMF fund had agreed on a $6bn bailout for Pakistan's beleaguered economy for three years but it has to be approved by the board of the organisation.

This is the thirteenth bailout the South Asian country has got since the 1980s. The last time the Pakistan government got a bailout from the IMF was in 2013.

Financial Action Task Force(FATF) president Marshall Billingslea has said Pakistan has to do "significant work to meet the obligations they themselves undertook" as part of there high-level commitments and the country is "lacking in almost every respect of action plan.

Financial Action Task Force(FATF) president Marshall Billingslea has said Pakistan has to do "significant work to meet the obligations they themselves undertook" as part of there high-level commitments and the country is "lacking in almost every respect of action plan." Following its greylisting in 2018, Islamabad had made a high-level political commitment to work with the FATF to deal with “structural deficiencies” in its anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) or simply put-- acting on the financing of terror. Speaking at the end of FATF plenary which took place in Orlando, Florida last week and whose audio was provided on Monday, Billingslea said, "There is absolutely a possibility that Pakistan could be put on the blacklist. That is a decision to be taken in future plenary because the period of the action plan has not yet expired, the action plan runs through September of this year." The next plenary of FATF will be in Paris in October during which Pakistan will be assessed if it was able to full fill its commitments. Coming strongly on Pakistan, FATF president said, "Pakistan does not appreciate or chooses not to acknowledge the transnational and transborder terrorist financing risk they face." Pakistan was slammed by the global anti-terror financing body during the Orlando meet last week after failing to meet its commitments twice - first in January 2019 and then May 2019. Billingslea explained, "Pakistan was cautioned in February at the plenary that they have missed almost all of the January milestones and they were urged not to fail milestones in May. Unfortunately, Pakistan yet again missed the May milestones." Billingslea added, "The action plan is set to complete in September. So this was not the plenary we were to discuss blacklisting, this was the plenary how far or how far behind Pakistan is on its action plan, and I must say, they are far behind and there is much that must be done, by September." If Islamabad fails to implement the action plan by September, then the FATF may consider next steps, which includes a possible blacklisting. FATF is a technical body, whose main aim is to protect the international financial system. The 30-year-old body works on the consensus of member countries. FATF added that it is ready to "provide advice" to International monetary fund(IMF) if requested by the multilateral Washington-based organisation. IMF is an observer organisation at the grouping and has a detailed understanding about the Pakistani action plan but its board has to decide on what conditionality they will like to apply. The IMF fund had agreed on a $6bn bailout for Pakistan's beleaguered economy for three years but it has to be approved by the board of the organisation. This is the thirteenth bailout the South Asian country has got since the 1980s. The last time the Pakistan government got a bailout from the IMF was in 2013.

Absolute possibility Pakistan could be blacklisted: FATF president Billingslea

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-visit-south-korea-as-pompeo-raises-hope-for-new-north-korea-talks-after-letter-230158">Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential.

"I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo.

H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum.

There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said.

Watch:&nbsp;Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mike-pompeo-to-arrive-in-india-on-tuesday-all-eyes-on-strengthening-defence-ties-230156/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said.

According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi.&nbsp;

The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said.&nbsp;

"But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded.

The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs.

The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added.&nbsp;

"I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.&nbsp;

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India. Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential. "I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo. H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum. There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said. Watch: Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties "The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said. According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi. The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said. "But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded. The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs. The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added. "I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.

Lack of predictability, coherence in India-US strategic ties: Congressman tells Pompeo ahead of visit

PM Modi while addressing parliament today says that people of India are satisfied with the work of the NDA government. Moreover, he also credits opposition for conducting healthy debates. 'Our government follows and will follow a path of development' he added.

Parliament live: 'People of India are satisfied with NDA government' says PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-cant-forget-dark-days-of-emergency-indias-soul-was-crushed-pm-modi-in-lok-sabha-230357">We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha</a>

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/navys-marcos-commandos-board-indian-vessels-in-persian-gulf-to-ensure-safety-230339">Navy's MARCOS commandos board Indian vessels in Persian Gulf to ensure safety</a>

After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-military-intelligence-to-show-us-drone-was-iranian-airspace-russia-230296">Have military intelligence to show US drone was in Iranian airspace: Russia</a>

Russia has military intelligence that shows that a US drone was in Iranian air space when it was shot down by Iran last week, Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russia's Security Council, said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brian-lara-complains-of-chest-pain-hospitalised-in-mumbai-230288">Brian Lara complains of chest pain, hospitalised in Mumbai</a>

Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara, 50, has complained of chest pain and has been admitted to Global Hospital in Mumbai. There has been no information on Lara's health but the hospital will issue an official statement shortly to give an update.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-life-and-legacy-of-michael-jackson-remembering-the-king-of-pop-on-his-tenth-death-anniversary-230233">In pics: The life and legacy of Michael Jackson-Remembering the 'King of Pop'&nbsp;</a>

Despite the controversies around him, there is no doubt that man created some incredible music and his work cannot be overshadowed by any single person.&nbsp;

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten. Navy's MARCOS commandos board Indian vessels in Persian Gulf to ensure safety After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships. Have military intelligence to show US drone was in Iranian airspace: Russia Russia has military intelligence that shows that a US drone was in Iranian air space when it was shot down by Iran last week, Nikolai Patrushev, secretary of Russia's Security Council, said on Tuesday. Brian Lara complains of chest pain, hospitalised in Mumbai Former West Indies cricketer Brian Lara, 50, has complained of chest pain and has been admitted to Global Hospital in Mumbai. There has been no information on Lara's health but the hospital will issue an official statement shortly to give an update. In pics: The life and legacy of Michael Jackson-Remembering the 'King of Pop' Despite the controversies around him, there is no doubt that man created some incredible music and his work cannot be overshadowed by any single person.

Home minister Amit Shah will embark&nbsp;on a two-day visit to the Kashmir valley from Wednesday.&nbsp;

Focusing on internal security, the home minister will chair a high-level security meeting in Srinagar during the visit. He will also co-chair the unified headquarters meeting with J&amp;K Governor Satya Pal Malik.

Unified headquarters is the state's apex anti-militancy security grid, which comprises top officials of the security forces, including the army and the state police engaged in counter-insurgency operations.

Shah will also meet the state party leaders, delegations of the civil society and Panchayat members. The home minister's visit, which was earlier scheduled for June 30, was preponed due to his busy schedule connected with the Union Budget.

Earlier this month, Shah held a security meeting to take stock of internal security in the country and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, attended by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and the Intelligence Bureau chief.

Shah has asserted that the policy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government of zero tolerance towards terrorism will continue in Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Home minister Amit Shah will embark on a two-day visit to the Kashmir valley from Wednesday. Focusing on internal security, the home minister will chair a high-level security meeting in Srinagar during the visit.

Home minister Amit Shah will embark on a two-day visit to the Kashmir valley from Wednesday. Focusing on internal security, the home minister will chair a high-level security meeting in Srinagar during the visit. He will also co-chair the unified headquarters meeting with J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik. Unified headquarters is the state's apex anti-militancy security grid, which comprises top officials of the security forces, including the army and the state police engaged in counter-insurgency operations. Shah will also meet the state party leaders, delegations of the civil society and Panchayat members. The home minister's visit, which was earlier scheduled for June 30, was preponed due to his busy schedule connected with the Union Budget. Earlier this month, Shah held a security meeting to take stock of internal security in the country and the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, attended by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and the Intelligence Bureau chief. Shah has asserted that the policy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government of zero tolerance towards terrorism will continue in Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

Internal security top agenda of home minister Amit Shah's Kashmir visit

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-leaders-never-mentioned-narasimha-rao-and-dr-manmohan-singh-centred-only-around-gandhis-pm-modi-in-lok-sabha-230332">PM Narendra Modi</a> said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

In his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-government-will-overcome-all-challenges-received-a-strong-mandate-pm-modi-230320">maiden speech in the 17th Lok Sabha</a>, the prime minister said: “A few people were constantly asking during the debate – Who did it? Who did it? I want to ask them, today is 25th June. Who imposed the Emergency? Who trampled over the spirit of the Constitution, gagged the media and bullied the judiciary? We can’t forget those dark days.”

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The Prime Minister recalled the "horrors of emergency" while targeting Congress, the prime Opposition party. "Soul of the nation was crushed on this day, June 25, 44 years ago," he said, adding that all castes, groups, religions had fought together to reclaim democracy.

Taking a potshot at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the party never recognised efforts of anyone but only the members from the Gandhi-Nehru family.&nbsp;

Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha, Modi said the Congress never spoke about the good work of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narasimha Rao.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister said the NDA was given a chance to serve the nation in 2014 as the people thought it was a way of escaping from the UPA regime.

(With inputs from PTI)

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten.

Launching a scathing attack on Congress Party on Tuesday PM Narendra Modi said that Emergency was imposed on this day in 1975 and the blot on India’s soul will never be forgotten. In his maiden speech in the 17th Lok Sabha, the prime minister said: “A few people were constantly asking during the debate – Who did it? Who did it? I want to ask them, today is 25th June. Who imposed the Emergency? Who trampled over the spirit of the Constitution, gagged the media and bullied the judiciary? We can’t forget those dark days.” Replying to 'Motion Of Thanks On the President's Address' in Lok Sabha https://t.co/oXpl0TMDOg — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 25, 2019 × The Prime Minister recalled the "horrors of emergency" while targeting Congress, the prime Opposition party. "Soul of the nation was crushed on this day, June 25, 44 years ago," he said, adding that all castes, groups, religions had fought together to reclaim democracy. Taking a potshot at the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said the party never recognised efforts of anyone but only the members from the Gandhi-Nehru family. Replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Lok Sabha, Modi said the Congress never spoke about the good work of former Prime Ministers Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narasimha Rao. The Prime Minister said the NDA was given a chance to serve the nation in 2014 as the people thought it was a way of escaping from the UPA regime. (With inputs from PTI)

We can't forget dark days of Emergency, India's soul was crushed: PM Modi in Lok Sabha

In a sharp attack on the Congress, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-government-will-overcome-all-challenges-received-a-strong-mandate-pm-modi-230320">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying in Lok Sabha on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house.

Continuing his attack on the Congress, Narendra Modi said, "Did those in power from 2004 to 2014 ever talk in appreciation of Atal Bihari Vajpayee? Did they ever speak about the good work of Narasimha Rao Ji? In this Lok Sabha debate, they did not even speak of Manmohan Singh."

Taking a dig at the Opposition, Narendra Modi said, "You have gone so up in the air that you can't see the ground, you've lost your roots. It gives me satisfaction to see you rise so much,".

In the next 5 years, Modi claimed, the goal is to further strengthen and secure the nation and giving an impetus to the nation's inclusivity.

PM Modi said a period of five years cannot suffice to cure the malaise of 70 years, but his government strove to bring the nation to the path of peace, prosperity and development.

"I know that it takes time to change things which have been existing for the last 70 years. We did not divert or dilute from our main goal. We have to move forward, be it regarding infrastructure or in space," he added.

The Prime Minister claimed that electoral gains or setback never factored in his governance or policy-making.

"I never think about polls in terms of victory and defeat. The opportunity to serve 130 crore Indians and work to make a positive difference in the lives of our citizens is special to me," he said.&nbsp;

In a sharp attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention.

In a sharp attack on the Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday accused it of insulting leaders like Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh and also targeted the party over “dynastic politics” and said only one family was spoken about and got all the attention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying in Lok Sabha on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house. Continuing his attack on the Congress, Narendra Modi said, "Did those in power from 2004 to 2014 ever talk in appreciation of Atal Bihari Vajpayee? Did they ever speak about the good work of Narasimha Rao Ji? In this Lok Sabha debate, they did not even speak of Manmohan Singh." Taking a dig at the Opposition, Narendra Modi said, "You have gone so up in the air that you can't see the ground, you've lost your roots. It gives me satisfaction to see you rise so much,". In the next 5 years, Modi claimed, the goal is to further strengthen and secure the nation and giving an impetus to the nation's inclusivity. PM Modi said a period of five years cannot suffice to cure the malaise of 70 years, but his government strove to bring the nation to the path of peace, prosperity and development. "I know that it takes time to change things which have been existing for the last 70 years. We did not divert or dilute from our main goal. We have to move forward, be it regarding infrastructure or in space," he added. The Prime Minister claimed that electoral gains or setback never factored in his governance or policy-making. "I never think about polls in terms of victory and defeat. The opportunity to serve 130 crore Indians and work to make a positive difference in the lives of our citizens is special to me," he said.

Congress leaders never mentioned Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh; centred only around Gandhis: PM Modi in Lok Sabha

After the Indian Navy launched<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gulf-crisis-navy-launches-operation-operation-sankalp-to-reassure-indian-vessels-amid-us-iran-row-229020"> "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman</a> to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships.

India has deployed its ships - INS Chennai and INS Sunayna in the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf - to undertake maritime security operations as tensions in the Gulf ratcheted up after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-military-intelligence-to-show-us-drone-was-iranian-airspace-russia-230296">Iran shot down a US drone last week</a>.

DG Shipping had issued two advisories on June 13 and 16 to all Indian flagged vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz and Persian/ Arabian Gulf region and had advised them to take appropriate protection measures.

Both the gulfs are busy shipping routes through which international trade occurs, aerial surveillance is also being undertaken by India in the area.

Tensions in the Gulf continued to rise nearly a week after Iran shot down a US drone. On Monday, Washington blacklisted Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and top military chiefs asserting that it would also sanction foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.

Iran stuck to its contention that the drone which was downed by its Revolutionary Guard had violated its airspace. Russia, a key ally of Tehran, backed Iran's version of events.

Washington has also blamed Iran for mid-June attacks on two tankers in sensitive Gulf waters, a claim Iran hotly refutes.

Trump has said he is ready to negotiate with Iran "with no preconditions" and that Iran could have a "phenomenal future".

"We do not ask for conflict," he said, adding that depending on Iran's response, sanctions could end tomorrow or "years from now."

After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships.

After the Indian Navy launched "Operation Sankalp" in the Gulf of Oman to "reassure" Indian flagged vessels transiting through the region in the wake of US-Iran tensions, Indian Navy MARCOS commandos boarded the oil tankers intent on travelling onboard in order to provide protection to the ships. India has deployed its ships - INS Chennai and INS Sunayna in the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf - to undertake maritime security operations as tensions in the Gulf ratcheted up after Iran shot down a US drone last week. DG Shipping had issued two advisories on June 13 and 16 to all Indian flagged vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz and Persian/ Arabian Gulf region and had advised them to take appropriate protection measures. Both the gulfs are busy shipping routes through which international trade occurs, aerial surveillance is also being undertaken by India in the area. Tensions in the Gulf continued to rise nearly a week after Iran shot down a US drone. On Monday, Washington blacklisted Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and top military chiefs asserting that it would also sanction foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. Iran stuck to its contention that the drone which was downed by its Revolutionary Guard had violated its airspace. Russia, a key ally of Tehran, backed Iran's version of events. Washington has also blamed Iran for mid-June attacks on two tankers in sensitive Gulf waters, a claim Iran hotly refutes. Trump has said he is ready to negotiate with Iran "with no preconditions" and that Iran could have a "phenomenal future". "We do not ask for conflict," he said, adding that depending on Iran's response, sanctions could end tomorrow or "years from now."

Navy's MARCOS commandos board Indian vessels in Persian Gulf to ensure safety

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed the parliament&nbsp;on Motion of thanks on&nbsp;President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house and said that the country has given a strong mandate, as our government was voted back into power.

"The president in his address mentioned our vision for India. We should all move forward together. We can overcome every obstacle together. About 60 speakers spoke on the Motion of Thanks," PM Narendra Modi said in Lok Sabha.

Thanking country's voter PM Narendra Modi said that after many decades, the country has given a strong mandate, a government was voted back into power.This Lok Sabha elections have shown that more than themselves, the people of India are thinking about the betterment of the country, this spirit is commendable.

"We have to move together to fulfil the dream of a strong, safe, developed and inclusive nation," said PM Modi speaking in Lok Sabha.

President Ram Nath Kovind had addressed the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha last week and had raised several issues comprising water crisis, 'One Nation, One Poll' proposal and the National Register of Citizens.&nbsp;

The President had said that the government has taken the decision to go ahead with the process of National Register Citizens on a priority basis.&nbsp;

Following the fierce debate between the government and the opposition, Congress specifically

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed the parliament on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house and said that the country has given a strong mandate, as our government was voted back into power.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed the parliament on Motion of thanks on President Ram Nath Kovind's joint address of the house and said that the country has given a strong mandate, as our government was voted back into power. "The president in his address mentioned our vision for India. We should all move forward together. We can overcome every obstacle together. About 60 speakers spoke on the Motion of Thanks," PM Narendra Modi said in Lok Sabha. Thanking country's voter PM Narendra Modi said that after many decades, the country has given a strong mandate, a government was voted back into power.This Lok Sabha elections have shown that more than themselves, the people of India are thinking about the betterment of the country, this spirit is commendable. "We have to move together to fulfil the dream of a strong, safe, developed and inclusive nation," said PM Modi speaking in Lok Sabha. President Ram Nath Kovind had addressed the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha last week and had raised several issues comprising water crisis, 'One Nation, One Poll' proposal and the National Register of Citizens. The President had said that the government has taken the decision to go ahead with the process of National Register Citizens on a priority basis. Following the fierce debate between the government and the opposition, Congress specifically

Our government will overcome all challenges, received a strong mandate: PM Modi 

More than 700 terrorists have been killed in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three years, the Home Ministry said on Tuesday.

A total of 113 terrorists were killed between January and 16 June this year, 257 were killed in 2018, 213 in 2017 and 150 in 2016, taking the total number of those killed during the period to 733, it said.

As many as 112 civilians have also lost their lives during this period in the state. Of them, 15 had died in 2016, 40 in 2017, 39 in 2018 and 18 between January and 16 June, this year.

"The government has adopted a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. Security forces are taking effective and continuous action in countering terrorism. This has resulted in a corresponding change in the number of such incidents, including casualties," Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy said in a written reply to Lok Sabha.

"Security forces keep a close watch on persons who attempt to provide support to terrorists and initiate action against them," he added.

More than 700 terrorists have been killed in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three years, the Home Ministry said on Tuesday. A total of 113 terrorists were killed between January and 16 June this year, 257 were killed in 2018, 213 in 2017 and 150 in 2016, taking the total number of those killed during the period to 733, it said.

More than 700 terrorists have been killed in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three years, the Home Ministry said on Tuesday. A total of 113 terrorists were killed between January and 16 June this year, 257 were killed in 2018, 213 in 2017 and 150 in 2016, taking the total number of those killed during the period to 733, it said. As many as 112 civilians have also lost their lives during this period in the state. Of them, 15 had died in 2016, 40 in 2017, 39 in 2018 and 18 between January and 16 June, this year. "The government has adopted a policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism. Security forces are taking effective and continuous action in countering terrorism. This has resulted in a corresponding change in the number of such incidents, including casualties," Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy said in a written reply to Lok Sabha. "Security forces keep a close watch on persons who attempt to provide support to terrorists and initiate action against them," he added.

Over 700 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir in three years: Government

A total of 155 members and sympathisers of banned terrorist organisation Islamic State (IS) have been arrested in the country so far, the Home Ministry said Tuesday.

Some instances of individuals from different states joining the IS have also come to the notice of central and state security agencies, it said.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the state police forces have registered cases against IS members and sympathisers, and have arrested 155 accused from across the country so far, Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy said in a written reply to Lok Sabha., it said.

The Islamic State (IS), the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL), the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) or the Daesh has been notified as a terrorist organisation and included in the first schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, by the central government.

"The IS is using various Internet-based social media platforms to propagate its ideology. Cyberspace is being closely watched in this regard by agencies concerned and action is taken as per the law," Reddy said.

Coastal states and Union territories are advised to regularly enhance surveillance and patrolling along the coastline, in view of the threat perception, he said.

A total of 155 members and sympathisers of banned terrorist organisation Islamic State (IS) have been arrested in the country so far, the Home Ministry said Tuesday.

A total of 155 members and sympathisers of banned terrorist organisation Islamic State (IS) have been arrested in the country so far, the Home Ministry said Tuesday. Some instances of individuals from different states joining the IS have also come to the notice of central and state security agencies, it said. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the state police forces have registered cases against IS members and sympathisers, and have arrested 155 accused from across the country so far, Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy said in a written reply to Lok Sabha., it said. The Islamic State (IS), the Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL), the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) or the Daesh has been notified as a terrorist organisation and included in the first schedule of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, by the central government. "The IS is using various Internet-based social media platforms to propagate its ideology. Cyberspace is being closely watched in this regard by agencies concerned and action is taken as per the law," Reddy said. Coastal states and Union territories are advised to regularly enhance surveillance and patrolling along the coastline, in view of the threat perception, he said.

155 Islamic State members, sympathisers arrested so far: Home Ministry

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