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Prevailing heat and humidity conditions coupled with malnutrition have "contributed substantially" to the deaths of hundreds of children due to acute encephalitis syndrome in Bihar's Muzaffarpur, an IMA team has said.

The team, which analysed the fatalities there, said consumption of 'litchi' cannot be attributed as the major factor as even infants have been affected.

Dehydration, hypoglycaemia and the heat syndrome have played a significant part, the IMA said adding a reduction in body temperature with tepid sponging, increased fluid intake and adequate food intake may prevent this syndrome.

"Tepid sponging, correction of dehydration and hypoglycaemia can start right from home.

"A packaged programme focussed on health awareness, free meals to children especially at night and public availability of ORS (oral rehydration solution) may be simple interventions which may

prevent further catastrophes," the four-member doctors' team said.

Two more children died in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district on Sunday due to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES). The state Health Department put the total number of AES casualties across 20 districts at 152.

In its observations, the IMA team said that no definite conclusions can be made about the aetiology of the syndrome as of now, but "high atmospheric temperature, humidity and malnutrition appear to play a role in the causation of this encephalopathy."

According to the doctors, acute encephalitis syndrome is unlikely to be an infectious cause with the present evidence.

"Litchi consumption cannot be attributed as the major factor as even infants have been affected.

"Persistence of very high atmospheric with temperature humidity throughout the day and night without fluctuations might be causing a heat syndrome in children," they said.&nbsp;

The doctors' body recommended that affected children have to be given IV dextrose for correction of hypoglycaemia to prevent significant brain injury.

Foolproof scientific, epidemiological study and follow up of children who survived in previous episodes (2014, 2015) should be done systematically, they said.

Follow up of these children for assessment of sequelae and MRI brain imaging for changes in the brain should be evaluated, they stated.

They pointed out that an awareness campaign about the preventive measures is essential especially among the rural population and measures to uplift the living conditions of the affected population should be undertaken as an immediate package programme.

"Reduction in the number of cases when the atmospheric temperature has fallen down indicates a possible causal relationship between the high temperature, humidity and the present syndrome," the team added.&nbsp;

Prevailing heat and humidity conditions coupled with malnutrition have "contributed substantially" to the deaths of hundreds of children due to acute encephalitis syndrome in Bihar's Muzaffarpur, an IMA team has said.

Prevailing heat and humidity conditions coupled with malnutrition have "contributed substantially" to the deaths of hundreds of children due to acute encephalitis syndrome in Bihar's Muzaffarpur, an IMA team has said. The team, which analysed the fatalities there, said consumption of 'litchi' cannot be attributed as the major factor as even infants have been affected. Dehydration, hypoglycaemia and the heat syndrome have played a significant part, the IMA said adding a reduction in body temperature with tepid sponging, increased fluid intake and adequate food intake may prevent this syndrome. "Tepid sponging, correction of dehydration and hypoglycaemia can start right from home. "A packaged programme focussed on health awareness, free meals to children especially at night and public availability of ORS (oral rehydration solution) may be simple interventions which may prevent further catastrophes," the four-member doctors' team said. Two more children died in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district on Sunday due to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES). The state Health Department put the total number of AES casualties across 20 districts at 152. In its observations, the IMA team said that no definite conclusions can be made about the aetiology of the syndrome as of now, but "high atmospheric temperature, humidity and malnutrition appear to play a role in the causation of this encephalopathy." According to the doctors, acute encephalitis syndrome is unlikely to be an infectious cause with the present evidence. "Litchi consumption cannot be attributed as the major factor as even infants have been affected. "Persistence of very high atmospheric with temperature humidity throughout the day and night without fluctuations might be causing a heat syndrome in children," they said. The doctors' body recommended that affected children have to be given IV dextrose for correction of hypoglycaemia to prevent significant brain injury. Foolproof scientific, epidemiological study and follow up of children who survived in previous episodes (2014, 2015) should be done systematically, they said. Follow up of these children for assessment of sequelae and MRI brain imaging for changes in the brain should be evaluated, they stated. They pointed out that an awareness campaign about the preventive measures is essential especially among the rural population and measures to uplift the living conditions of the affected population should be undertaken as an immediate package programme. "Reduction in the number of cases when the atmospheric temperature has fallen down indicates a possible causal relationship between the high temperature, humidity and the present syndrome," the team added.

Heat, humidity and malnutrition contributed to children's death due to AES in Bihar: IMA

Close to 1000 schools having less than 10 students on the roll will be shut down in Odisha to tackle the teachers'&nbsp;shortage issue, the government said on Sunday.

"Odisha government has decided to close 966 public schools that have below 10 students," Mass Education Minister Samir Ranjan Das told ANI here.

The minister said that even some of these schools were running with just two to three students.

The closure of these schools will help the government to tackle the teacher shortage problem in the state.

"It is not possible for the government to provide teachers and infrastructure to the students given there is an acute shortage of teachers," he said.

Thousands of teachers teaching in these schools will be transferred to nearby schools.

The students studying in these schools will also be shifted to nearby schools.

Das said, "To encourage these students, the government has decided to pay Rs 3000, Rs 4000 and Rs 6000 as conveyance allowance as per their attendance."

Close to 1000 schools having less than 10 students on the roll will be shut down in Odisha to tackle the teachers' shortage issue, the government said on Sunday.

Close to 1000 schools having less than 10 students on the roll will be shut down in Odisha to tackle the teachers' shortage issue, the government said on Sunday. "Odisha government has decided to close 966 public schools that have below 10 students," Mass Education Minister Samir Ranjan Das told ANI here. The minister said that even some of these schools were running with just two to three students. The closure of these schools will help the government to tackle the teacher shortage problem in the state. "It is not possible for the government to provide teachers and infrastructure to the students given there is an acute shortage of teachers," he said. Thousands of teachers teaching in these schools will be transferred to nearby schools. The students studying in these schools will also be shifted to nearby schools. Das said, "To encourage these students, the government has decided to pay Rs 3000, Rs 4000 and Rs 6000 as conveyance allowance as per their attendance."

Odisha to close nearly 1000 schools having less than 10 students

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-risk-of-conflict-trump-sees-scope-for-deal-229848">Iran warns of risk of conflict, Trump sees scope for deal</a>

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-hit-saudi-airport-killing-one-wounding-21-saudi-led-coalition-229864">Yemen's Houthis hit Saudi airport, killing one, wounding 21: Saudi-led coalition</a>

Yemen's Houthi movement launched an attack on Abha civilian airport in southern Saudi Arabia on Sunday that killed one person and wounded 21 others, the Saudi-led coalition battling the group in Yemen said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huge-crowds-of-protesters-demand-czech-pm-step-down-229851">Huge crowds of protesters demand Czech PM step down</a>

Huge crowds flooded central Prague on Sunday demanding Prime Minister Andrej Babis step down over allegations of graft in a protest that organisers and local media claim drew around 250,000 people, making it the largest since the fall of communism in 1989.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-death-toll-due-to-suspected-acute-encephalitis-rises-to-167-229867">Bihar: Death toll due to suspected acute encephalitis rises to 167</a>

The death toll due to suspected Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) rose to 167 in Bihar, according to the statistics released by the health department on Monday.

&nbsp;

Iran warns of risk of conflict, Trump sees scope for deal US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he was not seeking war with Tehran after a senior Iranian military commander warned any conflict in the Gulf region could spread uncontrollably and threaten the lives of US troops.

Iran warns of risk of conflict, Trump sees scope for deal US President Donald Trump said on Sunday he was not seeking war with Tehran after a senior Iranian military commander warned any conflict in the Gulf region could spread uncontrollably and threaten the lives of US troops. Pompeo says hopes Trump letter to North Korean leader can restart talks US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Sunday that he hopes a letter sent by President Donald Trump to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un can pave the way for new talks aimed at ending North Korea's nuclear program. Yemen's Houthis hit Saudi airport, killing one, wounding 21: Saudi-led coalition Yemen's Houthi movement launched an attack on Abha civilian airport in southern Saudi Arabia on Sunday that killed one person and wounded 21 others, the Saudi-led coalition battling the group in Yemen said. Huge crowds of protesters demand Czech PM step down Huge crowds flooded central Prague on Sunday demanding Prime Minister Andrej Babis step down over allegations of graft in a protest that organisers and local media claim drew around 250,000 people, making it the largest since the fall of communism in 1989. Bihar: Death toll due to suspected acute encephalitis rises to 167 The death toll due to suspected Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) rose to 167 in Bihar, according to the statistics released by the health department on Monday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The death toll due to suspected Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) rose to 167 in Bihar, according to the statistics released by the health department on Monday.

In the worst affected district, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-death-toll-due-to-suspected-acute-encephalitis-rises-to-107-harsh-vardhan-assures-all-help-from-centre-227755">Muzaffarpur, 130 children have died</a> with 110 registered in government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH). In Kejriwal hospital, 20 children have died due to the viral disease.

In Vaishali district, 19 children have died while in Samastipur, five children lost their lives. Other affected districts include Patna, Motihari, Begusarai, and Gopalgunj.

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome is a viral disease, which causes mild flu-like symptoms such as high fever, convulsions and headaches and has been claiming lives in the Bihar districts for the past few weeks.

While the health experts have long been dumbfounded by the root of the encephalitis outbreak, commonly known as brain fever, in Bihar some have suggested that natural toxins in lychees could harm undernourished children by blocking their ability to produce enough blood sugar, which can lead to death.&nbsp;

The link to the fruit, however, is inconclusive as according to report, half of the known cases of encephalitis, the children had not consumed lychees. Dehydration is also said to be a reason for the Encephalitis outbreak.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court will hear a plea today&nbsp;seeking&nbsp;a direction to the Centre to urgently constitute a team of medical experts for the treatment of the children in Bihar's Muzaffarpur, who are suffering from AES.

A vacation bench of justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant will hear the plea.

The plea also sought a direction to the Centre for providing all necessary medical equipment and other supports for the effective treatment of the children suffering from the epidemic disease.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll due to suspected Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) rose to 167 in Bihar, according to the statistics released by the health department on Monday. In the worst affected district, Muzaffarpur, 130 children have died with 110 registered in government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH).

The death toll due to suspected Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) rose to 167 in Bihar, according to the statistics released by the health department on Monday. In the worst affected district, Muzaffarpur, 130 children have died with 110 registered in government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH). In Kejriwal hospital, 20 children have died due to the viral disease. In Vaishali district, 19 children have died while in Samastipur, five children lost their lives. Other affected districts include Patna, Motihari, Begusarai, and Gopalgunj. Acute Encephalitis Syndrome is a viral disease, which causes mild flu-like symptoms such as high fever, convulsions and headaches and has been claiming lives in the Bihar districts for the past few weeks. While the health experts have long been dumbfounded by the root of the encephalitis outbreak, commonly known as brain fever, in Bihar some have suggested that natural toxins in lychees could harm undernourished children by blocking their ability to produce enough blood sugar, which can lead to death. The link to the fruit, however, is inconclusive as according to report, half of the known cases of encephalitis, the children had not consumed lychees. Dehydration is also said to be a reason for the Encephalitis outbreak. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court will hear a plea today seeking a direction to the Centre to urgently constitute a team of medical experts for the treatment of the children in Bihar's Muzaffarpur, who are suffering from AES. A vacation bench of justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant will hear the plea. The plea also sought a direction to the Centre for providing all necessary medical equipment and other supports for the effective treatment of the children suffering from the epidemic disease. (With inputs from agencies)

Bihar: Death toll due to suspected acute encephalitis rises to 167

"We all know poverty and malnourishment are some key reasons behind children's deaths but no one will talk officially as it is a very sensitive matter."

A senior doctor at Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital tries to find reasons as to why Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) has devastated so many families in north Bihar's district of Muzaffarpur in a matter of three weeks -- over 125 children have succumbed to the disease till Saturday.

A visit to two facilities -- government-run SKMCH and the Kejriwal hospital, run by a trust -- that are dealing with most of the AES patients in the district makes it clear the doctor was right in his assessment.

At least 130&nbsp;children have died till 4:00&nbsp;pm Sunday -- 107 at SKMCH, 20 at Kejriwal hospital. Most of the patients came from economically poor families, with many being farm labourers or daily wage labourers.

"Majority of the children admitted at the hospital belonged to lower strata on the socioeconomic front," said SKMCH Medical Superintendent Dr Sunil Shahi.&nbsp;

But when asked if the deaths were directly linked to "poverty", he refused a clear answer. "My job is to treat patients," he said, "senior government officials can answer (on the poverty aspect)".

The government has maintained the deaths were caused by hypoglycemia, a condition that leads to a very low level of blood sugar and electrolyte imbalance.

On Saturday, three died at SKMCH though no casualty was reported from Kejriwal hospital. SKMCH's MS Shahi, however, expressed satisfaction that out of 429 patients admitted in the hospital, 188 have been discharged after treatment.

When this correspondent visited SKMCH on Friday afternoon, the gates of the general ward of the paediatric and all the five paediatric ICU, with the capacity to treat 50 patients at a time, were shut for media persons, probably because frequent visits by journalists might have inconvenienced patients and their attendants.

However, the senior doctor spoke to PTI, requesting anonymity. "We all know poverty and malnourishment are some key reasons behind children's deaths but no one will talk officially as it is a very sensitive matter."

At Kejriwal hospital, the administrator said poverty and hot and humid weather of the town are the two main reasons for these deaths.

"99 per cent of children admitted at Kejriwal hospital since June 1 belonged to families whose socioeconomic condition is very poor...Children went to sleep without having dinner. This, coupled with hot and humid weather, brought their blood sugar level down drastically," hospital's administrator V V Giri told PTI.

"It has been my experience that the disease hits poor families. And I have informed both the district magistrate and civil surgeon that poverty and unusual weather conditions are two main reasons for deaths," said the 88-year-old who has been associated with the hospital for around three decades.

"Malnutrition is the obvious result as poor families don't take healthy diet. Had they been taking healthy diet, children would not have died in such large numbers," Giri said.

But he asserted "litchi had a very minor role to play in this".

Dr Arun Shah, one of the leading paediatricians of Muzaffarpur and also a member of the national executive committee of Indian Academy of Paediatricians, also said litchi is not responsible for the disease.

It has been found in a study that when a malnourished child consumes unripe litchis empty stomach "it can bring down blood sugar level as unripe litchi contains toxins like MCPG and Hypoglycene A", Dr Shah said.

Though, he singled out malnutrition.

Referring to his joint paper published in a medical journal 'current science' in 2016, he said, "Our study confirmed that malnourished children are becoming easy prey to the disease and in particular in the months of May-June. Malnutrition is the biggest reason for children's deaths."

Dr Shah, who has been studying this since 1995, asserted "poverty, hot weather, malnutrition, unhygienic conditions are the main reasons."

A study jointly conducted by the National Centre for Disease Control and Centre for Disease Control, Atlanta, USA, and published in renowned journal 'Lancet' in 2017, listed malnutrition as "the cause of children's deaths", he said, adding lack of awareness is also one of them.&nbsp;

A National Centre for Disease Control staff, who was carrying out a survey at Kejriwal hospital, also said, "there seems to be a link with malnourishment".

Majority of the respondents PTI spoke to said they didn't have information on preventive measures. Also, almost all of them complained they did not get anything at Anganwadi centre. The poor hygiene at the hospital didn't help either.

Litter were strewn around the aisle leading to the paediatric's general ward on the ground floor of the SKMCH and the foul stench was difficult to withstand.

"Nothing is available at Anganwadi Kendra, even ORS was not distributed in my village," said 70-year-old Maanmati Devi, a resident of Shitalpatti village, who admitted her grandchild at SKMCH on Monday.&nbsp;

Mohammad Ujale, a farmer at Sutihara village, had come to SKMCH for his niece's treatment. He too had similar Anganwadi centre story to share. He said he didn't come across any advertisement about preventive measures. "Nor did any government agency tell me about it."

However, Akhileshwar Rai of Akhtiarpur Paraiya whose grandchild was being discharged from SKMCH did say he came to know about preventive measures through TV and newspapers.&nbsp;

"We all know poverty and malnourishment are some key reasons behind children's deaths but no one will talk officially as it is a very sensitive matter." A senior doctor at Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital tries to find reasons as to why Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) has devastated so many families in north Bihar's district of Muzaffarpur in a matter of three weeks -- over 125 children have succumbed to the disease till Saturday.

"We all know poverty and malnourishment are some key reasons behind children's deaths but no one will talk officially as it is a very sensitive matter." A senior doctor at Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital tries to find reasons as to why Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) has devastated so many families in north Bihar's district of Muzaffarpur in a matter of three weeks -- over 125 children have succumbed to the disease till Saturday. A visit to two facilities -- government-run SKMCH and the Kejriwal hospital, run by a trust -- that are dealing with most of the AES patients in the district makes it clear the doctor was right in his assessment. At least 130 children have died till 4:00 pm Sunday -- 107 at SKMCH, 20 at Kejriwal hospital. Most of the patients came from economically poor families, with many being farm labourers or daily wage labourers. "Majority of the children admitted at the hospital belonged to lower strata on the socioeconomic front," said SKMCH Medical Superintendent Dr Sunil Shahi. But when asked if the deaths were directly linked to "poverty", he refused a clear answer. "My job is to treat patients," he said, "senior government officials can answer (on the poverty aspect)". The government has maintained the deaths were caused by hypoglycemia, a condition that leads to a very low level of blood sugar and electrolyte imbalance. On Saturday, three died at SKMCH though no casualty was reported from Kejriwal hospital. SKMCH's MS Shahi, however, expressed satisfaction that out of 429 patients admitted in the hospital, 188 have been discharged after treatment. When this correspondent visited SKMCH on Friday afternoon, the gates of the general ward of the paediatric and all the five paediatric ICU, with the capacity to treat 50 patients at a time, were shut for media persons, probably because frequent visits by journalists might have inconvenienced patients and their attendants. However, the senior doctor spoke to PTI, requesting anonymity. "We all know poverty and malnourishment are some key reasons behind children's deaths but no one will talk officially as it is a very sensitive matter." At Kejriwal hospital, the administrator said poverty and hot and humid weather of the town are the two main reasons for these deaths. "99 per cent of children admitted at Kejriwal hospital since June 1 belonged to families whose socioeconomic condition is very poor...Children went to sleep without having dinner. This, coupled with hot and humid weather, brought their blood sugar level down drastically," hospital's administrator V V Giri told PTI. "It has been my experience that the disease hits poor families. And I have informed both the district magistrate and civil surgeon that poverty and unusual weather conditions are two main reasons for deaths," said the 88-year-old who has been associated with the hospital for around three decades. "Malnutrition is the obvious result as poor families don't take healthy diet. Had they been taking healthy diet, children would not have died in such large numbers," Giri said. But he asserted "litchi had a very minor role to play in this". Dr Arun Shah, one of the leading paediatricians of Muzaffarpur and also a member of the national executive committee of Indian Academy of Paediatricians, also said litchi is not responsible for the disease. It has been found in a study that when a malnourished child consumes unripe litchis empty stomach "it can bring down blood sugar level as unripe litchi contains toxins like MCPG and Hypoglycene A", Dr Shah said. Though, he singled out malnutrition. Referring to his joint paper published in a medical journal 'current science' in 2016, he said, "Our study confirmed that malnourished children are becoming easy prey to the disease and in particular in the months of May-June. Malnutrition is the biggest reason for children's deaths." Dr Shah, who has been studying this since 1995, asserted "poverty, hot weather, malnutrition, unhygienic conditions are the main reasons." A study jointly conducted by the National Centre for Disease Control and Centre for Disease Control, Atlanta, USA, and published in renowned journal 'Lancet' in 2017, listed malnutrition as "the cause of children's deaths", he said, adding lack of awareness is also one of them. A National Centre for Disease Control staff, who was carrying out a survey at Kejriwal hospital, also said, "there seems to be a link with malnourishment". Majority of the respondents PTI spoke to said they didn't have information on preventive measures. Also, almost all of them complained they did not get anything at Anganwadi centre. The poor hygiene at the hospital didn't help either. Litter were strewn around the aisle leading to the paediatric's general ward on the ground floor of the SKMCH and the foul stench was difficult to withstand. "Nothing is available at Anganwadi Kendra, even ORS was not distributed in my village," said 70-year-old Maanmati Devi, a resident of Shitalpatti village, who admitted her grandchild at SKMCH on Monday. Mohammad Ujale, a farmer at Sutihara village, had come to SKMCH for his niece's treatment. He too had similar Anganwadi centre story to share. He said he didn't come across any advertisement about preventive measures. "Nor did any government agency tell me about it." However, Akhileshwar Rai of Akhtiarpur Paraiya whose grandchild was being discharged from SKMCH did say he came to know about preventive measures through TV and newspapers.

Bihar: At AES epicentre, experts count reasons, families rue - 'Poverty, malnutrition and lack of awareness'

Huawei has urged India to make an "informed and independent decision" on permitting its 5G trials in the country as the Chinese telecom giant reeled under pressure following the US ban.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-files-lawsuit-against-us-commerce-dept-over-seized-equipment-filing-229447">US has banned Huawei</a>, the world's leader in telecom equipment and the number two smartphone producer, over concerns of security and Washington has been pressuring other countries to restrict the operations of the Chinese telecom firm.

India, however, is yet to take a call on whether it intends to place curbs on Huawei or allow the Chinese telecom equipment maker to participate in the upcoming 5G trials, that are scheduled to commence in 100 days.

"The Indian Government or any other country must take an independent view to protect its own networks and data through its own standards, test mechanisms and policies. It is important to address cyber security risks through evidence and fact-based approach, introducing checks and balances with monitored participation rather than banning out of fear," Huawei, which is based in Shenzhen, said in a statement to PTI here.

Earlier this month, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said India has its security issues over allowing Huawei to participate in the upcoming 5G trials.

"We will take a firm view on it. There are also security issues...It is not only a matter of technology, as regards their participation in 5G is concerned...Participation of 5G is not conditional upon the trial is started. Whether a particular company is allowed to participate or not, is a complex question including security issues," he had said.

Commenting on the minister's remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry last week said that India should take an independent decision without being guided by the US ban and provide an "unbiased and non-discriminatory" environment for the Chinese businesses.

In its statement, Huawei said that it received full support from India for about two decades for its operations and obtained Department of Telecom (DOT) invitation to conduct 5G trials.

"In India, Huawei has received full support and confidence of the Government during our near 20 years operations in the country," it said in response to questions over the security concerns raised by Prasad.

"In fact, last year, we secured an invitation from DoT to submit our proposal for 5G trials, conveying the Government's confidence in Huawei for an early, efficient and pervasive deployment of 5G," it said.

"Over the past few months, we have proactively engaged with the Indian Government and their feedback has been positive. We are confident that the Indian Government will make an informed decision on 5G, one that provides a level-playing field to all vendors," it said.

Huawei has a long-term strategy for India and will keep investing there in people, business and operations, it said.

Huawei said it recognised the importance of India as a talent base way back in 1999 when it set up its largest overseas R&amp;D centre in Bengaluru.

"Today, with almost two decades of operations in India, India is one of the largest and most localised presence outside China for Huawei," it said.

"We are committed to bringing world-class ICT solutions and products through our widespread presence in India encompassing the R&amp;D Centre, Global Service Centre, the Innovation and Demo Centre, and a nationwide presence with&nbsp;regional and circle offices including the recently launched OpenLab in Gurugram," it added.

Huawei has urged India to make an "informed and independent decision" on permitting its 5G trials in the country as the Chinese telecom giant reeled under pressure following the US ban.

Huawei has urged India to make an "informed and independent decision" on permitting its 5G trials in the country as the Chinese telecom giant reeled under pressure following the US ban. The US has banned Huawei, the world's leader in telecom equipment and the number two smartphone producer, over concerns of security and Washington has been pressuring other countries to restrict the operations of the Chinese telecom firm. India, however, is yet to take a call on whether it intends to place curbs on Huawei or allow the Chinese telecom equipment maker to participate in the upcoming 5G trials, that are scheduled to commence in 100 days. "The Indian Government or any other country must take an independent view to protect its own networks and data through its own standards, test mechanisms and policies. It is important to address cyber security risks through evidence and fact-based approach, introducing checks and balances with monitored participation rather than banning out of fear," Huawei, which is based in Shenzhen, said in a statement to PTI here. Earlier this month, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said India has its security issues over allowing Huawei to participate in the upcoming 5G trials. "We will take a firm view on it. There are also security issues...It is not only a matter of technology, as regards their participation in 5G is concerned...Participation of 5G is not conditional upon the trial is started. Whether a particular company is allowed to participate or not, is a complex question including security issues," he had said. Commenting on the minister's remarks, Chinese Foreign Ministry last week said that India should take an independent decision without being guided by the US ban and provide an "unbiased and non-discriminatory" environment for the Chinese businesses. In its statement, Huawei said that it received full support from India for about two decades for its operations and obtained Department of Telecom (DOT) invitation to conduct 5G trials. "In India, Huawei has received full support and confidence of the Government during our near 20 years operations in the country," it said in response to questions over the security concerns raised by Prasad. "In fact, last year, we secured an invitation from DoT to submit our proposal for 5G trials, conveying the Government's confidence in Huawei for an early, efficient and pervasive deployment of 5G," it said. "Over the past few months, we have proactively engaged with the Indian Government and their feedback has been positive. We are confident that the Indian Government will make an informed decision on 5G, one that provides a level-playing field to all vendors," it said. Huawei has a long-term strategy for India and will keep investing there in people, business and operations, it said. Huawei said it recognised the importance of India as a talent base way back in 1999 when it set up its largest overseas R&D centre in Bengaluru. "Today, with almost two decades of operations in India, India is one of the largest and most localised presence outside China for Huawei," it said. "We are committed to bringing world-class ICT solutions and products through our widespread presence in India encompassing the R&D Centre, Global Service Centre, the Innovation and Demo Centre, and a nationwide presence with regional and circle offices including the recently launched OpenLab in Gurugram," it added.

Huawei asks India to take 'informed and independent decision' on 5G trials

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-protests-sea-lanes-for-other-countries-for-zero-compensation-we-dont-even-need-to-be-there-trump-230043">US protests sea lanes for other countries for zero compensation, we don’t even need to be there: Trump</a>

"China gets 91% of its Oil from the Strait, Japan 62%, &amp; many other countries likewise. All of these countries should be protecting their own ships on what has always been a dangerous journey," Trump said in a tweet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/absolute-possibility-pakistan-could-blacklisted-fatf-president-billingslea-230015">Absolute possibility Pakistan could blacklisted: FATF president Billingslea</a>

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.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/satellite-image-shows-chennais-largest-reservoir-lake-puzhal-going-dry-229994">Satellite image shows Chennai's largest reservoir lake Puzhal going dry</a>

Chennai has been hit by water shortage in the past month due to delay in the monsoon. According to state government data, the city's four major reservoirs have just 0.2% capacity currently.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-beats-india-in-dropped-catches-with-a-huge-margin-in-world-cup-2019-229984">Pakistan 'beat' India in dropped catches with a huge margin in World Cup 2019</a>

The Men in Green won despite dropping at least six catches during the match, and by being consistent in their sloppy fielding in the tournament.Sloppy fielding, almost as regular a feature of Pakistan cricket as dazzling fast bowling, continues to let Pakistan down.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/in-pics-george-clooney-and-wife-amal-vacation-with-the-obamas-in-italy-230051">In pics: George Clooney and wife Amal vacation with the Obamas in Italy</a>

Most recent of the lot are George Clooney and wife Amal as they vacation with Barack and Michelle Obama in Italy. The couples apparently left for a trip soon after Sasha Obama’s high school graduation got over. They started with South of France according to a report published in People.&nbsp;

US protests sea lanes for other countries for zero compensation, we don’t even need to be there: Trump "China gets 91% of its Oil from the Strait, Japan 62%, & many other countries likewise.

US protests sea lanes for other countries for zero compensation, we don’t even need to be there: Trump "China gets 91% of its Oil from the Strait, Japan 62%, & many other countries likewise. All of these countries should be protecting their own ships on what has always been a dangerous journey," Trump said in a tweet. Absolute possibility Pakistan could blacklisted: FATF president Billingslea 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. Satellite image shows Chennai's largest reservoir lake Puzhal going dry Chennai has been hit by water shortage in the past month due to delay in the monsoon. According to state government data, the city's four major reservoirs have just 0.2% capacity currently. Pakistan 'beat' India in dropped catches with a huge margin in World Cup 2019 The Men in Green won despite dropping at least six catches during the match, and by being consistent in their sloppy fielding in the tournament.Sloppy fielding, almost as regular a feature of Pakistan cricket as dazzling fast bowling, continues to let Pakistan down. In pics: George Clooney and wife Amal vacation with the Obamas in Italy Most recent of the lot are George Clooney and wife Amal as they vacation with Barack and Michelle Obama in Italy. The couples apparently left for a trip soon after Sasha Obama’s high school graduation got over. They started with South of France according to a report published in People.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday announced that it is working on chip-enabled e-passports as the ministry pursues reforms to deliver citizen-centric services.

Speaking at the Passport Seva Diwas in Delhi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, "The Ministry has initiated discussions with the India Security Press regarding the project for the issue of chip-enabled e-passports to the citizens."

Explaining that the ministry has proposed to "pursue the manufacture of e-passports on priority" so that a "new passport booklet with advanced security features can be rolled out in the near future."

India Security Press in Nashik will be working on the chip-enabled e-passports which will have security features.

India issues more than one crore passports every year. The Indian government has introduced a number of reforms for the delivery of Passport which includes simplification of passport rules to launch of Passport Seva Kendras.&nbsp;

When it comes to simplification of the passport rule, self-attested documents are now acceptable and India has eased the process of getting passports for minors by their single parent and also for applicants who are either separated or divorced.

MEA along with Department of Posts has opened 505 Passport Seva Kendras since January 2017 so that citizens don't have to travel far to submit passport applications.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday announced that it is working on chip-enabled e-passports as the ministry pursues reforms to deliver citizen-centric services.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday announced that it is working on chip-enabled e-passports as the ministry pursues reforms to deliver citizen-centric services. Speaking at the Passport Seva Diwas in Delhi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said, "The Ministry has initiated discussions with the India Security Press regarding the project for the issue of chip-enabled e-passports to the citizens." Explaining that the ministry has proposed to "pursue the manufacture of e-passports on priority" so that a "new passport booklet with advanced security features can be rolled out in the near future." India Security Press in Nashik will be working on the chip-enabled e-passports which will have security features. India issues more than one crore passports every year. The Indian government has introduced a number of reforms for the delivery of Passport which includes simplification of passport rules to launch of Passport Seva Kendras. When it comes to simplification of the passport rule, self-attested documents are now acceptable and India has eased the process of getting passports for minors by their single parent and also for applicants who are either separated or divorced. MEA along with Department of Posts has opened 505 Passport Seva Kendras since January 2017 so that citizens don't have to travel far to submit passport applications.

India working on chip-enabled e-passports: MEA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 14th G20 summit in Japan’s Osaka city from June 28 to June 29, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press briefing. Watch full video to know more.

PM Narendra Modi to Attend G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka from June 27-29: MEA

The summit of Group of 20 major economies is going to be a crucial one. The summit, to be held from June 28-29 in the western Japanese city of Osaka, should find a solution for global challenges, German ambassador Walter J Lindner has said.

"Global problems cannot be solved on a national or unilateral basis. So the G20 summit can contribute to find solutions for global challenges. We have no time to waste. The challenges are immense: Global warming, waste, clean energy, future of work, terrorism, welfare... to name a few," he said.

The agenda for this year's G20 summit is "human-centeredness" and "data free flow with trust" which aims to create a framework for discussion on rules for digital economy.

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.

Substantial discussions on trade, including reform of the World Trade Organisation or WTO, will likely take place at the summit. Japan, which chairs this year's G20 gatherings, will take a neutral stance in the US-China trade row and urge countries to resolve tensions with a multilateral framework.

China and the United States, the world's two largest economies, are in the middle of a costly trade dispute that has pressured financial markets and damaged the world economy.

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.

The summit of Group of 20 major economies is going to be a crucial one. The summit, to be held from June 28-29 in the western Japanese city of Osaka, should find a solution for global challenges, German ambassador Walter J Lindner has said.

The summit of Group of 20 major economies is going to be a crucial one. The summit, to be held from June 28-29 in the western Japanese city of Osaka, should find a solution for global challenges, German ambassador Walter J Lindner has said. "Global problems cannot be solved on a national or unilateral basis. So the G20 summit can contribute to find solutions for global challenges. We have no time to waste. The challenges are immense: Global warming, waste, clean energy, future of work, terrorism, welfare... to name a few," he said. The agenda for this year's G20 summit is "human-centeredness" and "data free flow with trust" which aims to create a framework for discussion on rules for digital economy. 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. Substantial discussions on trade, including reform of the World Trade Organisation or WTO, will likely take place at the summit. Japan, which chairs this year's G20 gatherings, will take a neutral stance in the US-China trade row and urge countries to resolve tensions with a multilateral framework. China and the United States, the world's two largest economies, are in the middle of a costly trade dispute that has pressured financial markets and damaged the world economy. 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 summit should find solutions to global challenges: German Ambassador

Reserve Bank of India Deputy Governor Viral Acharya has put in his papers about six months ahead of the completion of his term.

RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya quits

BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda Monday sought the cooperation of the Opposition to run the House smoothly, saying disruptions affect them the most.

Initiating a debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Rajya Sabha, Nadda said the government wants not just 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' (development and cooperation of all) but also 'Sabka Vishwas' (everybody's trust or faith).

Nadda said, "We should agree to disagree in the House. But we should not disagree just for the sake of disagreement. I appeal. I need all of your support. There were many disruptions in the House in the past. This (disruption affects) the opposition the most".

Outlining the direction of newly formed Modi 2.0, he told the House that this government would work toward improving ease of living in the next five years to further reach out to the commoners in the country.

During his address, Nadda said while in Opposition, he had got the award of the best parliamentarian.

He said the government's focus would be on poor, women and youth in the next five years.

On Prime Minister Narendra Modi getting several international awards, he said: "These are all awards for India. Now India is not just a spectator but also a player in the international scene".

Seconding the motion, BJP member Sampatiya Uikey lauded the NDA government for working for women's progress and improving their lives through various social sector schemes and policies during the past five years.

BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda Monday sought the cooperation of the Opposition to run the House smoothly, saying disruptions affect them the most. Initiating a debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Rajya Sabha, Nadda said the government wants not just 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' (development and cooperation of all) but also 'Sabka Vishwas' (everybody's trust or faith).

BJP working president Jagat Prakash Nadda Monday sought the cooperation of the Opposition to run the House smoothly, saying disruptions affect them the most. Initiating a debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address in Rajya Sabha, Nadda said the government wants not just 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' (development and cooperation of all) but also 'Sabka Vishwas' (everybody's trust or faith). Nadda said, "We should agree to disagree in the House. But we should not disagree just for the sake of disagreement. I appeal. I need all of your support. There were many disruptions in the House in the past. This (disruption affects) the opposition the most". Outlining the direction of newly formed Modi 2.0, he told the House that this government would work toward improving ease of living in the next five years to further reach out to the commoners in the country. During his address, Nadda said while in Opposition, he had got the award of the best parliamentarian. He said the government's focus would be on poor, women and youth in the next five years. On Prime Minister Narendra Modi getting several international awards, he said: "These are all awards for India. Now India is not just a spectator but also a player in the international scene". Seconding the motion, BJP member Sampatiya Uikey lauded the NDA government for working for women's progress and improving their lives through various social sector schemes and policies during the past five years.

Jagat Prakash Nadda seeks Opposition support to run Rajya Sabha smoothly

Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Monday dismissed chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's 'Grama Vastavya' (overnight stay in villages) programme as a "drama" and said people need relief from the "daily street fight" between Congress and JD(S) leaders.

The chief minister is wasting crores of rupees in the name of 'Grama Vastavya', he alleged and claimed that the government spent Rs 1 crore on Kumaraswamy's stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week as part of the programme.

'Grama Vastavya' is aimed at taking the administration to the people.

Internal squabble in the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition has created an atmosphere that the government may collapse any time, Yeddyurappa claimed, asking Kumaraswamy as to when people would get relief from his administration that has lost direction. 
 
"During his stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week- just imagine- he (CM) claims to be a simple man and boasted that state's exchequer will be burdened if he travels by helicopter, Rs 1.22 crore was spent for luxury, food and other things- you (CM) should be ashamed," the BJP leader said

"Preparations are on for the chief minister's Grama Vastavya at Karegudda in Raichur on June 26, here also he will be spending a minimum of Rs 1 crore," Yeddyurappa told reporters, as he hit out at Kumaraswamy for boasting about his simplicity, while "running the administration from a five star hotel."

Kumaraswamy did the first 'Grama Vastavya' at Chandaraki village on Friday, while his stay at Herurvillage in Kalaburagi rural taluk on Saturday was postponed due to heavy rain.

The state BJP on Monday released a book "Grama Vastavya - Zero Performance" that lists out the current status of about 42 villages that Kumaraswamy had visited during his first stint as chief minister in 2006-07.

The leader of the opposition also alleged that 'Grama Vastavya' showed that the chief minister is unable to implement the decisions that are taken in the state capital at the local level.&nbsp;

He has lost control over the bureaucracy and does not have faith in his district in-charge ministers, Yeddyurappa said.

"At the time when science and technology in the country have progressed, why are you playing the 'Grama-Drama' of solving the issues through Grama Vastavya? Isn't this a publicity gimmick? Will you come out with a white paper about your achievements in previous Grama Vastavya," he asked.

Yeddyurappa hit out at Kumaraswamy for allegedly running the administration from a five-star hotel.

"Mr chief minister, when will people get relief from your administration that has lost direction and from the daily street fight of your coalition parties?" he asked.

"Watching and reading about street fighting between Congress-JD(S) leaders, people are cursing. There is loot taking place every day at government departments, still CM is making speeches about developing the state- when is the relief from such illusion?" he said.

To a question, Yeddyurappa said, "Very soon there will be relief (from this government), we will have to wait a bit. Elected representatives have to get that relief. Elected representatives have to respond to concerns of the people, they have to give, who else can give?"

Yeddyurappa after releasing the book, posed questions to the chief minister on a host of issues including farmer suicides, IMA Jewels fraud, government's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land to JSW Steel in Ballari, among others.

"Do you have any answer for 1,500 farmer suicides, when you are running a luxury administration from 5-star hotel? You had promised to waive farmers loan worth Rs 48,000 crore within 24 hours after coming to power, but despite 13 months no loan waiver, also new loans are not available... Do people have to believe in you?" he asked.

Yeddyurappa said while there was a situation of drought in the state and scarcity of water and fodder for animals, the chief minister was indulging in the "drama" of Grama Vastavya.

Claiming that the chief minister ate biriyani with Mohammed Mansoor Khan who was behind the alleged IMA Jewels scam in which thousands of people belonging to the minority community were duped, he questioned Kumaraswamy's silence over the demand by those affected and the opposition for a CBI inquiry.

Yeddyurappa also asked Kumaraswamy as to how much "kick-back" he has received, as he pointed at the state cabinet's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land in Ballari to JSW Steel at the "low price" of Rs 1.22 lakh per acre.&nbsp;

Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Monday dismissed chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's 'Grama Vastavya' (overnight stay in villages) programme as a "drama" and said people need relief from the "daily street fight" between Congress and JD(S) leaders.

Karnataka BJP chief B S Yeddyurappa on Monday dismissed chief minister H D Kumaraswamy's 'Grama Vastavya' (overnight stay in villages) programme as a "drama" and said people need relief from the "daily street fight" between Congress and JD(S) leaders. The chief minister is wasting crores of rupees in the name of 'Grama Vastavya', he alleged and claimed that the government spent Rs 1 crore on Kumaraswamy's stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week as part of the programme. 'Grama Vastavya' is aimed at taking the administration to the people. Internal squabble in the ruling Congress-JD(S) coalition has created an atmosphere that the government may collapse any time, Yeddyurappa claimed, asking Kumaraswamy as to when people would get relief from his administration that has lost direction. "During his stay at Chandaraki village in Yadgir district last week- just imagine- he (CM) claims to be a simple man and boasted that state's exchequer will be burdened if he travels by helicopter, Rs 1.22 crore was spent for luxury, food and other things- you (CM) should be ashamed," the BJP leader said "Preparations are on for the chief minister's Grama Vastavya at Karegudda in Raichur on June 26, here also he will be spending a minimum of Rs 1 crore," Yeddyurappa told reporters, as he hit out at Kumaraswamy for boasting about his simplicity, while "running the administration from a five star hotel." Kumaraswamy did the first 'Grama Vastavya' at Chandaraki village on Friday, while his stay at Herurvillage in Kalaburagi rural taluk on Saturday was postponed due to heavy rain. The state BJP on Monday released a book "Grama Vastavya - Zero Performance" that lists out the current status of about 42 villages that Kumaraswamy had visited during his first stint as chief minister in 2006-07. The leader of the opposition also alleged that 'Grama Vastavya' showed that the chief minister is unable to implement the decisions that are taken in the state capital at the local level. He has lost control over the bureaucracy and does not have faith in his district in-charge ministers, Yeddyurappa said. "At the time when science and technology in the country have progressed, why are you playing the 'Grama-Drama' of solving the issues through Grama Vastavya? Isn't this a publicity gimmick? Will you come out with a white paper about your achievements in previous Grama Vastavya," he asked. Yeddyurappa hit out at Kumaraswamy for allegedly running the administration from a five-star hotel. "Mr chief minister, when will people get relief from your administration that has lost direction and from the daily street fight of your coalition parties?" he asked. "Watching and reading about street fighting between Congress-JD(S) leaders, people are cursing. There is loot taking place every day at government departments, still CM is making speeches about developing the state- when is the relief from such illusion?" he said. To a question, Yeddyurappa said, "Very soon there will be relief (from this government), we will have to wait a bit. Elected representatives have to get that relief. Elected representatives have to respond to concerns of the people, they have to give, who else can give?" Yeddyurappa after releasing the book, posed questions to the chief minister on a host of issues including farmer suicides, IMA Jewels fraud, government's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land to JSW Steel in Ballari, among others. "Do you have any answer for 1,500 farmer suicides, when you are running a luxury administration from 5-star hotel? You had promised to waive farmers loan worth Rs 48,000 crore within 24 hours after coming to power, but despite 13 months no loan waiver, also new loans are not available... Do people have to believe in you?" he asked. Yeddyurappa said while there was a situation of drought in the state and scarcity of water and fodder for animals, the chief minister was indulging in the "drama" of Grama Vastavya. Claiming that the chief minister ate biriyani with Mohammed Mansoor Khan who was behind the alleged IMA Jewels scam in which thousands of people belonging to the minority community were duped, he questioned Kumaraswamy's silence over the demand by those affected and the opposition for a CBI inquiry. Yeddyurappa also asked Kumaraswamy as to how much "kick-back" he has received, as he pointed at the state cabinet's decision to sell 3,667 acres of land in Ballari to JSW Steel at the "low price" of Rs 1.22 lakh per acre.

Congress-JD(S) leaders engage in 'daily street fight', people need relief: BJP leader Yeddyurappa

Samajwadi Party leader Ramashankar Vidyarthi Monday said BSP supremo Mayawati's decision of going solo in all future elections will "weaken" the fight for social justice.

Mayawati on Monday declared that her party in the future will contest all elections "small and big" on its own, signalling the end of the much-discussed Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Samajwadi Party (SP) alliance forged for the Lok Sabha polls.

"She is speaking against the Samajwadi Party in haste and due to the Dalit support to the SP and its leader Akhilesh Yadav. She is weakening the fight for social justice," Vidyarthi told reporters

The SP national general secretary said the 'Dalit samaj' is getting connected with the Samajwadi Party and its chief Akhilesh Yadav in a big way. "People know the reality about what the 'malkin' of the alliance has done," he said.

Mayawati's announcement came a day after she held a meeting with party workers to review the BSP's performance in the recent Lok Sabha polls.

"Everyone is aware that forgetting everything of the past as also the anti-BSP and anti-Dalit decisions like reservation in promotions and bad law and order during the SP rule in 2012-2017, BSP adhered to the 'gathbandhan dharma' with the Samajwadi Party in the interest of the country," she tweeted in Hindi.

"But the SP's attitude after the elections has forced the BSP to think, will it be possible to defeat the BJP in the future? This is not possible," she said.

"Therefore, in the interest of the party and the movement, the party will contest all small and big elections on its own strength," Mayawati added.

The BSP entered into an electoral alliance with Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) and Chaudhary Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) in Uttar Pradesh for the Lok Sabha polls.

The alliance, however, failed to make an impact in the politically crucial state. While the BSP managed to win ten seats, SP got five seats and RLD drew a blank.

Samajwadi Party leader Ramashankar Vidyarthi Monday said BSP supremo Mayawati's decision of going solo in all future elections will "weaken" the fight for social justice.

Samajwadi Party leader Ramashankar Vidyarthi Monday said BSP supremo Mayawati's decision of going solo in all future elections will "weaken" the fight for social justice. Mayawati on Monday declared that her party in the future will contest all elections "small and big" on its own, signalling the end of the much-discussed Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Samajwadi Party (SP) alliance forged for the Lok Sabha polls. "She is speaking against the Samajwadi Party in haste and due to the Dalit support to the SP and its leader Akhilesh Yadav. She is weakening the fight for social justice," Vidyarthi told reporters The SP national general secretary said the 'Dalit samaj' is getting connected with the Samajwadi Party and its chief Akhilesh Yadav in a big way. "People know the reality about what the 'malkin' of the alliance has done," he said. Mayawati's announcement came a day after she held a meeting with party workers to review the BSP's performance in the recent Lok Sabha polls. "Everyone is aware that forgetting everything of the past as also the anti-BSP and anti-Dalit decisions like reservation in promotions and bad law and order during the SP rule in 2012-2017, BSP adhered to the 'gathbandhan dharma' with the Samajwadi Party in the interest of the country," she tweeted in Hindi. "But the SP's attitude after the elections has forced the BSP to think, will it be possible to defeat the BJP in the future? This is not possible," she said. "Therefore, in the interest of the party and the movement, the party will contest all small and big elections on its own strength," Mayawati added. The BSP entered into an electoral alliance with Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) and Chaudhary Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) in Uttar Pradesh for the Lok Sabha polls. The alliance, however, failed to make an impact in the politically crucial state. While the BSP managed to win ten seats, SP got five seats and RLD drew a blank.

Mayawati weakening fight for social justice, says SP after BSP's alliance snub

Earther, a US-based website, has posted a satellite image of lake Puzhal located in Tamil Nadu's capital Chennai&nbsp;going dry. Lake Puzhal&nbsp;is the city's largest reservoir.

Chennai has been hit by water shortage in the past month due to delay in the monsoon. According to state government data, the city's four major reservoirs have&nbsp;just 0.2% capacity currently.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Satellite images reveal just how fast Chennai's water has disappeared <a href="https://t.co/XccaXS3Mz8">https://t.co/XccaXS3Mz8</a> <a href="https://t.co/4KGbqtHpWl">pic.twitter.com/4KGbqtHpWl</a>
— Earther (@EARTH3R) <a href="https://twitter.com/EARTH3R/status/1142202715965218816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The acute water shortage hit the city in December after low rainfall in the last three months of 2018. Hotels are now running the risk of being shut down and major companies have been&nbsp;asked to cut down on water consumption.

Earther in its report said reservoirs had turned into "muddy splats on the landscape" blaming it on "poor management, overusing groundwater&nbsp;and a shifting climate turning the hydrological cycle on its head".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-water-crisis-intensifies-in-chennai-229370/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

Nityananda Jayaraman, an environmentalist said: “We don't place much value on water, that is very evident from the state of any of the water bodies. This year we have the problem of successive monsoon failures."&nbsp;

"Earth is parched and there is no moisture at all… added to this is the historical mismanagement of water,” he added.

Several states including Maharashtra, Gurajat, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have also experienced water scarcity. People have been forced to buy water from water tankers with the price of water nearly doubling in the last two months.

“What needs to be done is to design the city from the point of view of water… prioritise the right of water to stay, flow and percolate… prioritise open unbuilt spaces… every construction must have three&nbsp;times the amount of open space around it,” Jayaraman said.

&nbsp;

Although the monsoon was expected to hit Kerala coast on June 1, it was delayed until June 6 leading to water shortages in the southern state.

Earther said the city's "reservoir capacity remains well below what’s needed to serve the population". It said that the city has "no water metering program in place" with the problem extending "beyond low rainfall".

The report claimed that Chennai is no longer able to sustain 4.65 million citizens due to the depleting water in its reservoirs.

Earther, a US-based website, has posted a satellite image of lake Puzhal located in Tamil Nadu's capital Chennai going dry. Lake Puzhal is the city's largest reservoir.

Earther, a US-based website, has posted a satellite image of lake Puzhal located in Tamil Nadu's capital Chennai going dry. Lake Puzhal is the city's largest reservoir. Chennai has been hit by water shortage in the past month due to delay in the monsoon. According to state government data, the city's four major reservoirs have just 0.2% capacity currently. Satellite images reveal just how fast Chennai's water has disappeared https://t.co/XccaXS3Mz8 pic.twitter.com/4KGbqtHpWl — Earther (@EARTH3R) June 21, 2019 × The acute water shortage hit the city in December after low rainfall in the last three months of 2018. Hotels are now running the risk of being shut down and major companies have been asked to cut down on water consumption. Earther in its report said reservoirs had turned into "muddy splats on the landscape" blaming it on "poor management, overusing groundwater and a shifting climate turning the hydrological cycle on its head". Nityananda Jayaraman, an environmentalist said: “We don't place much value on water, that is very evident from the state of any of the water bodies. This year we have the problem of successive monsoon failures." "Earth is parched and there is no moisture at all… added to this is the historical mismanagement of water,” he added. Several states including Maharashtra, Gurajat, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have also experienced water scarcity. People have been forced to buy water from water tankers with the price of water nearly doubling in the last two months. “What needs to be done is to design the city from the point of view of water… prioritise the right of water to stay, flow and percolate… prioritise open unbuilt spaces… every construction must have three times the amount of open space around it,” Jayaraman said. Although the monsoon was expected to hit Kerala coast on June 1, it was delayed until June 6 leading to water shortages in the southern state. Earther said the city's "reservoir capacity remains well below what’s needed to serve the population". It said that the city has "no water metering program in place" with the problem extending "beyond low rainfall". The report claimed that Chennai is no longer able to sustain 4.65 million citizens due to the depleting water in its reservoirs.

Satellite image shows Chennai's largest reservoir lake Puzhal going dry

Amid uncertainty over Rahul Gandhi continuing as the Congress president, All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Monday dissolved all district committees of the party in Uttar Pradesh.

AICC has also formed a two-member team to oversee preparations and management in All Vidhan Sabha seats of UP East and West where byelections are taking place.

"AICC has approved the following proposals submitted by the General Secretaries in UP East and West," said the statement issued by AICC. 
 
The statement further said that the party will form a three-member disciplinary committee to examine complaints of indiscipline in the party during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. 
 
The development comes after&nbsp;Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Jyotiraditya Scindia, in-charge of eastern and western Uttar Pradesh respectively, met party leaders to discuss the party's rout in the Lok Sabha elections in the state.

The Congress, which won two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh in 2014, was reduced to just one seat in the recent elections.&nbsp;

Last week, Congress had dissolved its unit in Karnataka while retaining its president and working president. Rumblings within the Karnataka Congress unit have grown amid the reports of differences over the functioning of the Congress-JD(S) government in the state. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Amid uncertainty over Rahul Gandhi continuing as the Congress president, All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Monday dissolved all district committees of the party in Uttar Pradesh.

Amid uncertainty over Rahul Gandhi continuing as the Congress president, All India Congress Committee (AICC) on Monday dissolved all district committees of the party in Uttar Pradesh. AICC has also formed a two-member team to oversee preparations and management in All Vidhan Sabha seats of UP East and West where byelections are taking place. "AICC has approved the following proposals submitted by the General Secretaries in UP East and West," said the statement issued by AICC. The statement further said that the party will form a three-member disciplinary committee to examine complaints of indiscipline in the party during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The development comes after Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Jyotiraditya Scindia, in-charge of eastern and western Uttar Pradesh respectively, met party leaders to discuss the party's rout in the Lok Sabha elections in the state. The Congress, which won two Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh in 2014, was reduced to just one seat in the recent elections. Last week, Congress had dissolved its unit in Karnataka while retaining its president and working president. Rumblings within the Karnataka Congress unit have grown amid the reports of differences over the functioning of the Congress-JD(S) government in the state. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress dissolves all district committees in Uttar Pradesh

Hearing in the defamation case filed by BJP leader Vijender Gupta against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was on Monday deferred for June 26 by the Rouse Avenue Court here.

Now the pre-summoning of evidence will be recorded by the court on June 26. Earlier while hearing the case on June 6, Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal had admitted the matter and fixed June 24 as the date for the examination of Gupta and his witnesses'&nbsp;statements for proving charges against AAP's top two leaders.

Gupta had filed a defamation suit filed against the duo for allegedly "maligning" his image after they accused him of being part of an alleged "conspiracy" to kill the AAP chief.&nbsp;

The defamation suit has been filed under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for "willfully, deliberately, intentionally and maliciously" defaming the complainant, "on wholly and completely false, frivolous, unjustifiable and scandalous grounds and thereby, harming the goodwill and reputation of the complainant, within the political fraternity, media, friends, family, colleagues and in society at large."

Earlier on May 21, Gupta had sent a legal notice to Kejriwal and Sisodia for allegedly attempting to "frame him" in an alleged assassination plot against the Chief Minister.&nbsp;

Hearing in the defamation case filed by BJP leader Vijender Gupta against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was on Monday deferred for June 26 by the Rouse Avenue Court here.

Hearing in the defamation case filed by BJP leader Vijender Gupta against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia was on Monday deferred for June 26 by the Rouse Avenue Court here. Now the pre-summoning of evidence will be recorded by the court on June 26. Earlier while hearing the case on June 6, Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal had admitted the matter and fixed June 24 as the date for the examination of Gupta and his witnesses' statements for proving charges against AAP's top two leaders. Gupta had filed a defamation suit filed against the duo for allegedly "maligning" his image after they accused him of being part of an alleged "conspiracy" to kill the AAP chief. The defamation suit has been filed under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for "willfully, deliberately, intentionally and maliciously" defaming the complainant, "on wholly and completely false, frivolous, unjustifiable and scandalous grounds and thereby, harming the goodwill and reputation of the complainant, within the political fraternity, media, friends, family, colleagues and in society at large." Earlier on May 21, Gupta had sent a legal notice to Kejriwal and Sisodia for allegedly attempting to "frame him" in an alleged assassination plot against the Chief Minister.

Hearing in the defamation case against Kejriwal, Sisodia deferred for June 26

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-you-need-to-know-about-mirage-2000-fighter-jets-which-destroyed-terror-camps-across-loc-199785">Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)</a> has delivered 150th gun bay door for the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet manufactured at its facility in Bengaluru.

The aerospace major had awarded HAL the contract in 2007. The Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet is a twin-engine supersonic all-weather, carrier-capable multirole combat jet delivering cutting-edge, next-generation multi-role strike fighter capability.

HAL has been Boeing's long-term supplier in India for over 25 years. "This delivery of the 150th gun bay door for the Super Hornet demonstrates that Indian suppliers are an integral part of Boeing's global supply chain," said Boeing India's President Salil Gupte.

"This milestone is yet another endorsement of our commitment to India, which is well recognised today because we have been investing and making in India for several years now," he said in a statement.

"Our investments in India are robust and ongoing, spanning technology, hi-tech innovation, production capacity, establishing a supply chain network, and developing skilling centres for aerospace manufacturing in India."HAL's Chairman and Managing Director R Madhavan said.

"HAL is committed to strengthening aerospace manufacturing in India. This delivery is not just an important milestone for HAL, but also for Boeing and the Indian industry. We thank Boeing for their support and commitment to Make in India."

Boeing has offered to build a 21st-century aerospace ecosystem in India for manufacturing the F/A-18 Super Hornet with Indian partners, HAL and Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS).&nbsp;

This production will create thousands of jobs and hundreds of suppliers in India, similar to the largest Boeing aerospace ecosystem that exists in the United States, to help realise the Make in India vision to its full potential.

&nbsp;Boeing`s sourcing from India now stands at one billion dollars with over 160 existing industrial partners.&nbsp;

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered 150th gun bay door for the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet manufactured at its facility in Bengaluru. The aerospace major had awarded HAL the contract in 2007.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has delivered 150th gun bay door for the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet manufactured at its facility in Bengaluru. The aerospace major had awarded HAL the contract in 2007. The Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet is a twin-engine supersonic all-weather, carrier-capable multirole combat jet delivering cutting-edge, next-generation multi-role strike fighter capability. HAL has been Boeing's long-term supplier in India for over 25 years. "This delivery of the 150th gun bay door for the Super Hornet demonstrates that Indian suppliers are an integral part of Boeing's global supply chain," said Boeing India's President Salil Gupte. "This milestone is yet another endorsement of our commitment to India, which is well recognised today because we have been investing and making in India for several years now," he said in a statement. "Our investments in India are robust and ongoing, spanning technology, hi-tech innovation, production capacity, establishing a supply chain network, and developing skilling centres for aerospace manufacturing in India."HAL's Chairman and Managing Director R Madhavan said. "HAL is committed to strengthening aerospace manufacturing in India. This delivery is not just an important milestone for HAL, but also for Boeing and the Indian industry. We thank Boeing for their support and commitment to Make in India." Boeing has offered to build a 21st-century aerospace ecosystem in India for manufacturing the F/A-18 Super Hornet with Indian partners, HAL and Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS). This production will create thousands of jobs and hundreds of suppliers in India, similar to the largest Boeing aerospace ecosystem that exists in the United States, to help realise the Make in India vision to its full potential. Boeing`s sourcing from India now stands at one billion dollars with over 160 existing industrial partners.

Indian suppliers are an integral part of global supply chain: Boeing

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), has said that there has been a 39 percent deficit in rains this season in India. Watch the full video to know more.

MET Dept: 39 per cent deficit rains this season in India

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, in a surprise development, ordered demolition of "Praja Vedika'' (government building ) which was temporarily built by former Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu on the banks of Krishna River to conduct official meetings.

Ironically, today, YS Jagan was&nbsp;conducting a collectors'&nbsp;conference in the same building. While reviewing official matters, Jagan announced in the meeting, "the very building and premises where we are holding this meeting is illegal, was built flouting all rules and norms,'' said Jagan and ordered the demolition of the building within next couple of days.&nbsp;

He also said ''this is the last official meeting in this building''.

Ever since YS Jagan took over as chief minister he has reversed several decisions of his predecessor Naidu.&nbsp;

YS Jagan had earlier shot down a request of Chandrababu Naidu to retain the official residence saying it is also built violating all the norms.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, in a surprise development, ordered demolition of "Praja Vedika'' (government building ) which was temporarily built by former Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu on the banks of Krishna River to conduct official meetings.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, in a surprise development, ordered demolition of "Praja Vedika'' (government building ) which was temporarily built by former Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu on the banks of Krishna River to conduct official meetings. Ironically, today, YS Jagan was conducting a collectors' conference in the same building. While reviewing official matters, Jagan announced in the meeting, "the very building and premises where we are holding this meeting is illegal, was built flouting all rules and norms,'' said Jagan and ordered the demolition of the building within next couple of days. He also said ''this is the last official meeting in this building''. Ever since YS Jagan took over as chief minister he has reversed several decisions of his predecessor Naidu. YS Jagan had earlier shot down a request of Chandrababu Naidu to retain the official residence saying it is also built violating all the norms.

YS Jagan orders demolition of government building built by predecessor Chandrababu Naidu 

With the progress of monsoon still remaining sluggish, 84 per cent of the meteorological subdivisions have recorded deficient rainfall, MeT department data shows.

According to the Central Water Commission data, of the 91 major reservoirs in the country, 80 per cent have storage below normal. Of these, 11 have zero per cent storage, making the water crisis acute.

The official rainfall season starts from June 1 to September 30, but the overall monsoon deficiency until June 22 still remains around 39 per cent.&nbsp;

Of the 36 meteorological subdivisions, 25 per cent have recorded "deficient" rainfall, while six subdivisions recorded precipitation classified under the "large deficient" category.

Odisha and Lakshadweep subdivisions have recorded "normal" rainfall. While Jammu Kashmir and East Rajasthan recorded "excess" rainfall, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands-registered rainfall under the "large excess" category.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department has four divisions east and the northeast, south peninsula, central India and northwest India.

The east and northeast India division comprise northeastern states and eastern states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal and all have registered deficient rainfall. 
Of the 10 subdivisions of central India, Odisha is the only one to receive normal rainfall.&nbsp;

Four subdivisions, including three from Maharashtra&nbsp;Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra&nbsp;have recorded rainfall in the category of "large deficient". The east Madhya Pradesh subdivision has also recorded rainfall in the same category.&nbsp;

Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra subdivisions have been facing a drought-like situation, with water levels in reservoirs reaching extremely low levels.

Although the Gujarat and Saurashtra and the Kutch subdivisions under central India have recorded "deficient" rainfall, Cyclone Vayu helped bring down some of the shortfalls.

The deficiency in these two subdivisions was 100 per cent until June 9, but it went down to 50 and 26 per cent respectively.&nbsp;

Of ten divisions in the south peninsula division, eight are deficient. The Andaman and Nicobar Island subdivision recorded "large excess" rainfall, the only one under this category in the country, while Lakshadweep recorded "normal" rainfall.

With Chennai reeling under a severe water crisis, the Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal subdivision has a deficiency of nearly 38 per cent.

Monsoon reached Kerala on June 8, a week after its normal onset date. Its progress was halted for more than a week due to Cyclone Vayu in the Arabian Sea, causing delay in its advancement in several parts.&nbsp;

The situation, however, is likely to improve. The IMD on Sunday said monsoon has further advanced into east Uttar Pradesh, some parts of central Maharashtra, most parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha.

With the progress of monsoon still remaining sluggish, 84 per cent of the meteorological subdivisions have recorded deficient rainfall, MeT department data shows.

With the progress of monsoon still remaining sluggish, 84 per cent of the meteorological subdivisions have recorded deficient rainfall, MeT department data shows. According to the Central Water Commission data, of the 91 major reservoirs in the country, 80 per cent have storage below normal. Of these, 11 have zero per cent storage, making the water crisis acute. The official rainfall season starts from June 1 to September 30, but the overall monsoon deficiency until June 22 still remains around 39 per cent. Of the 36 meteorological subdivisions, 25 per cent have recorded "deficient" rainfall, while six subdivisions recorded precipitation classified under the "large deficient" category. Odisha and Lakshadweep subdivisions have recorded "normal" rainfall. While Jammu Kashmir and East Rajasthan recorded "excess" rainfall, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands-registered rainfall under the "large excess" category. The India Meteorological Department has four divisions east and the northeast, south peninsula, central India and northwest India. The east and northeast India division comprise northeastern states and eastern states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal and all have registered deficient rainfall. Of the 10 subdivisions of central India, Odisha is the only one to receive normal rainfall. Four subdivisions, including three from Maharashtra Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra have recorded rainfall in the category of "large deficient". The east Madhya Pradesh subdivision has also recorded rainfall in the same category. Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra subdivisions have been facing a drought-like situation, with water levels in reservoirs reaching extremely low levels. Although the Gujarat and Saurashtra and the Kutch subdivisions under central India have recorded "deficient" rainfall, Cyclone Vayu helped bring down some of the shortfalls. The deficiency in these two subdivisions was 100 per cent until June 9, but it went down to 50 and 26 per cent respectively. Of ten divisions in the south peninsula division, eight are deficient. The Andaman and Nicobar Island subdivision recorded "large excess" rainfall, the only one under this category in the country, while Lakshadweep recorded "normal" rainfall. With Chennai reeling under a severe water crisis, the Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal subdivision has a deficiency of nearly 38 per cent. Monsoon reached Kerala on June 8, a week after its normal onset date. Its progress was halted for more than a week due to Cyclone Vayu in the Arabian Sea, causing delay in its advancement in several parts. The situation, however, is likely to improve. The IMD on Sunday said monsoon has further advanced into east Uttar Pradesh, some parts of central Maharashtra, most parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha.

84% of IMD's subdivisions record deficient rainfall; 80% reservoirs have below normal storage

Chief Judicial Magistrate, Suryakant Tiwari of Bihar' Muzaffarpur district ordered an investigation against Union Health Minister Harshvardhan and Bihar health Minister Mangal Pandey on Monday in a case filed earlier against them alleging negligence leading to the death of over hundred children due to&nbsp;encephalitis outbreak.

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Bihar: Muzaffarpur Chief Judicial Magistrate, Suryakant Tiwari orders investigation against Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan&amp;Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey, in a case of negligence registered against them, in connection with deaths of children in Muzaffarpur due to AES <a href="https://t.co/343Uds6yQd">pic.twitter.com/343Uds6yQd</a>
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On June 20, a social worker Tamanna Hashmi had filed a case against Harsh Vardhan and Mangal Pandey. The petition alleged negligence in taking adequate steps to control the outbreak of AES.

"The death of children could have been minimised or prevented had the government taken steps to spread awareness about encephalitis when there was time. Being the Central and State minister for health, it is the responsibility of Harsh Vardhan and Mangal Pandey to spread awareness and prevent the area do the disease," news agency ANI quoted her as saying.

"A large number of children died due to negligence and lack of infrastructure to give them timely proper treatment", Hashmi added.

The case was filed under the 323, 308 and 504 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome is a viral disease, which causes mild flu-like symptoms such as high fever, convulsions and headaches and has been claiming lives in the Bihar districts for the past few weeks.

The death toll reached 167, according to the statistics released by the health department on Monday.

In the worst affected district, Muzaffarpur, 130 children have died with 110 registered in government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH). In Kejriwal hospital, 20 children have died due to the viral disease.

In Vaishali district, 19 children have died while in Samastipur, five children lost their lives. Other affected districts include Patna, Motihari, Begusarai, and Gopalgunj.

While the health experts have long been dumbfounded by the root of the encephalitis outbreak, commonly known as brain fever, in Bihar some have suggested that natural toxins in lychees could harm undernourished children by blocking their ability to produce enough blood sugar, which can lead to death. The link to the fruit, however, is inconclusive.

Chief Judicial Magistrate, Suryakant Tiwari of Bihar' Muzaffarpur district ordered an investigation against Union Health Minister Harshvardhan and Bihar health Minister Mangal Pandey on Monday in a case filed earlier against them alleging negligence leading to the death of over hundred children due to encephalitis outbreak.

Chief Judicial Magistrate, Suryakant Tiwari of Bihar' Muzaffarpur district ordered an investigation against Union Health Minister Harshvardhan and Bihar health Minister Mangal Pandey on Monday in a case filed earlier against them alleging negligence leading to the death of over hundred children due to encephalitis outbreak. Bihar: Muzaffarpur Chief Judicial Magistrate, Suryakant Tiwari orders investigation against Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan&Bihar Health Minister Mangal Pandey, in a case of negligence registered against them, in connection with deaths of children in Muzaffarpur due to AES pic.twitter.com/343Uds6yQd — ANI (@ANI) June 24, 2019 × On June 20, a social worker Tamanna Hashmi had filed a case against Harsh Vardhan and Mangal Pandey. The petition alleged negligence in taking adequate steps to control the outbreak of AES. "The death of children could have been minimised or prevented had the government taken steps to spread awareness about encephalitis when there was time. Being the Central and State minister for health, it is the responsibility of Harsh Vardhan and Mangal Pandey to spread awareness and prevent the area do the disease," news agency ANI quoted her as saying. "A large number of children died due to negligence and lack of infrastructure to give them timely proper treatment", Hashmi added. The case was filed under the 323, 308 and 504 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Acute Encephalitis Syndrome is a viral disease, which causes mild flu-like symptoms such as high fever, convulsions and headaches and has been claiming lives in the Bihar districts for the past few weeks. The death toll reached 167, according to the statistics released by the health department on Monday. In the worst affected district, Muzaffarpur, 130 children have died with 110 registered in government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH). In Kejriwal hospital, 20 children have died due to the viral disease. In Vaishali district, 19 children have died while in Samastipur, five children lost their lives. Other affected districts include Patna, Motihari, Begusarai, and Gopalgunj. While the health experts have long been dumbfounded by the root of the encephalitis outbreak, commonly known as brain fever, in Bihar some have suggested that natural toxins in lychees could harm undernourished children by blocking their ability to produce enough blood sugar, which can lead to death. The link to the fruit, however, is inconclusive.

Bihar encephalitis deaths: Harsh Vardhan, Mangal Pandey face inquiry over negligence

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-will-prove-to-be-the-gamechanger-for-iaf-air-chief-marshal-bs-dhanoa-221975">Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa</a> on Monday said that Pakistan closing its airspace was a problem for them and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-carries-out-major-readiness-exercise-along-pak-border-203434">Indian Air Force (IAF)</a> never stopped the civil air traffic in the country.&nbsp;

"They (Pakistan) have closed their airspace that is their problem. Our economy is vibrant and air traffic is a very important part. You have noticed that the Air Force has never stopped our civil air traffic," he said at a press conference here.&nbsp;

Pakistan extended the ban on its airspace for all Indian flights till June 28. The country had fully shut its airspace on the eastern border with India after the IAF carried out aerial airstrikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot on February 26.&nbsp;

The strikes were in response to the terror attack in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-can-india-respond-like-israel-197942">Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama</a>, in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives on February 14. In March, Pakistan partially opened its airspace for all flights but not for Indian flights.&nbsp;

Since then, foreign carriers using the Indian airspace have been forced to take long detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure has mainly affected flights from Europe to Southeast Asia.&nbsp;

Dhanoa recalled: "Only on February 27 (this year) we had stopped Srinagar airspace for two-three hours. We did not allow tension with Pakistan to dictate our civil aviation because our economy is much bigger and much stronger as compared to theirs."

He was speaking at the press meet after the IAF at its Gwalior airbase recreated the Tiger Hill attack and displayed the aircraft used during the `Operation Vijay` to commemorate 20 years of the Kargil conflict.

"The purpose of our attack has always been to show our resolve and capability. The message has been given to the person who is being hit. On August 2, 2002, the message was given to the person who was being hit as that person never returned," said the Air Chief Marshal.&nbsp;

Dhanoa said that Pakistan Air Force planes did not cross the Line of Control (LoC) during the February 27 dogfight in the aftermath of the air strike on a JeM terror camp in Balakot, a military objective, which India achieved.

"Pakistan did not come into our airspace. Our objective was to strike terror camps. Their objective was to target army places. None of them crossed the border. We achieved our military objective. None of them crossed the Line of Control into our territory," he said.&nbsp;

The IAF organised a seminar on `Air operations in Kargil war, lessons learnt and way forward` at Air Force Station Gwalior. The focus of the seminar was conducting air operations at high altitude by fighters, transports, and helicopters of IAF employing contemporary equipment and innovative strategies.&nbsp;

To celebrate the event, a flypast by various aircraft like SU-30 MKI, M 2000, MiG -21 Bison, Jaguar, and Advanced Light Helicopter was also undertaken. The Kargil conflict was an intense border clash fought between India and Pakistan in the mountains of Kashmir in 1999.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Monday said that Pakistan closing its airspace was a problem for them and the Indian Air Force (IAF) never stopped the civil air traffic in the country.

Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa on Monday said that Pakistan closing its airspace was a problem for them and the Indian Air Force (IAF) never stopped the civil air traffic in the country. "They (Pakistan) have closed their airspace that is their problem. Our economy is vibrant and air traffic is a very important part. You have noticed that the Air Force has never stopped our civil air traffic," he said at a press conference here. Pakistan extended the ban on its airspace for all Indian flights till June 28. The country had fully shut its airspace on the eastern border with India after the IAF carried out aerial airstrikes on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot on February 26. The strikes were in response to the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir`s Pulwama, in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives on February 14. In March, Pakistan partially opened its airspace for all flights but not for Indian flights. Since then, foreign carriers using the Indian airspace have been forced to take long detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure has mainly affected flights from Europe to Southeast Asia. Dhanoa recalled: "Only on February 27 (this year) we had stopped Srinagar airspace for two-three hours. We did not allow tension with Pakistan to dictate our civil aviation because our economy is much bigger and much stronger as compared to theirs." He was speaking at the press meet after the IAF at its Gwalior airbase recreated the Tiger Hill attack and displayed the aircraft used during the `Operation Vijay` to commemorate 20 years of the Kargil conflict. "The purpose of our attack has always been to show our resolve and capability. The message has been given to the person who is being hit. On August 2, 2002, the message was given to the person who was being hit as that person never returned," said the Air Chief Marshal. Dhanoa said that Pakistan Air Force planes did not cross the Line of Control (LoC) during the February 27 dogfight in the aftermath of the air strike on a JeM terror camp in Balakot, a military objective, which India achieved. "Pakistan did not come into our airspace. Our objective was to strike terror camps. Their objective was to target army places. None of them crossed the border. We achieved our military objective. None of them crossed the Line of Control into our territory," he said. The IAF organised a seminar on `Air operations in Kargil war, lessons learnt and way forward` at Air Force Station Gwalior. The focus of the seminar was conducting air operations at high altitude by fighters, transports, and helicopters of IAF employing contemporary equipment and innovative strategies. To celebrate the event, a flypast by various aircraft like SU-30 MKI, M 2000, MiG -21 Bison, Jaguar, and Advanced Light Helicopter was also undertaken. The Kargil conflict was an intense border clash fought between India and Pakistan in the mountains of Kashmir in 1999.

'If Pakistan closed airspace, that's their problem': Air Chief Marshal BS  Dhanoa

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Monday met the grieving family of those killed and injured in an accident during a religious programme in Barmer.

At least 14 people were killed and about 50 injured after a 'pandal' fell on them due to strong winds and heavy rains during 'Ram Katha' programme in the district on Sunday.&nbsp;

Gehlot along with state health minister Raghu Sharma, revenue minister Harish Chaudhary, energy minister B D Kalla and others visited Jasol village and paid floral tributes to those who lost their lives in the incident.&nbsp;

"The incident is very unfortunate. An inquiry will be conducted," the chief minister told reporters. He also directed officials to ensure that proper treatment is provided to the injured.&nbsp;

Earlier, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Barmer MP Kailash Chaudhary visited hospitals to enquire about the condition of the injured.&nbsp;

A 'Ram Katha' was organised at a school ground near Rani Bhatiyani temple in Jasol village of the district on Sunday. The pandal was uprooted by strong winds, trapping the people sitting under it, police said, adding that hundreds of devotees were attending the programme. 
&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Monday met the grieving family of those killed and injured in an accident during a religious programme in Barmer. At least 14 people were killed and about 50 injured after a 'pandal' fell on them due to strong winds and heavy rains during 'Ram Katha' programme in the district on Sunday.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Monday met the grieving family of those killed and injured in an accident during a religious programme in Barmer. At least 14 people were killed and about 50 injured after a 'pandal' fell on them due to strong winds and heavy rains during 'Ram Katha' programme in the district on Sunday. Gehlot along with state health minister Raghu Sharma, revenue minister Harish Chaudhary, energy minister B D Kalla and others visited Jasol village and paid floral tributes to those who lost their lives in the incident. "The incident is very unfortunate. An inquiry will be conducted," the chief minister told reporters. He also directed officials to ensure that proper treatment is provided to the injured. Earlier, Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Barmer MP Kailash Chaudhary visited hospitals to enquire about the condition of the injured. A 'Ram Katha' was organised at a school ground near Rani Bhatiyani temple in Jasol village of the district on Sunday. The pandal was uprooted by strong winds, trapping the people sitting under it, police said, adding that hundreds of devotees were attending the programme.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot meets kin of Barmer pandal collapse incident victims

Brandishing empty pots that read “Pot is here, where is water“?, DMK party functionaries, cadre and womenfolk led by Tamil Nadu’s Opposition Party Leader &nbsp;MK Stalin gathered in large numbers to protest against Chief Minister Edappadi K&nbsp;Palaniswami-led AIADMK government’s handling of the prevailing water crisis in Chennai and Tamil Nadu that only seems to be getting worse.&nbsp;

Addressing the gathering DMK president Stalin said such protests and agitations condemning the government are not limited to Chennai but are happening all across Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

Accusing the government of facing a crisis in every realm Stalin said, “the government is facing a fund crunch, lack of employment opportunities, shortage in number of industries, law and order is in a bad state, but the senior AIADMK leaders including the CM, his deputy and the ministers choose to remain ignorant about it.”

<img alt="MKS" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd0fa3d2-f8d3-4e02-8c6b-41ce2ecc7e44" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IMG-20190624-WA0059.jpg" />

Stating that the prevailing water crisis is not a sudden phenomenon, the DMK president said in the last one year, all the lakes, reservoirs that store water in the vicinity of Chennai have been drying up and I highlighted evidence for the same in the Assembly, but it fell on deaf ears.

Lashing out at the AIADMK leaders who said that the water crisis was being exaggerated, Stalin said, women are waiting on the streets with buckets and pots and the state ministers are conducting special Poojas for rains. But these Poojas are not for water or rains, but for the incumbents to ensure the survival of their government, he added.&nbsp;

Making a mention about the TN Assembly that is to convene on 28 May, Stalin said “We have already issued a notice for initiating no-confidence proceedings against the Speaker, but we also believe that it is CM Palaniswami that must be ousted. Even without an election, we can oust this government and what the people expect is going to happen”

Watch:&nbsp;Severe Water Crisis in India

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Responding to the DMK’s charges Tamil Nadu’s Fisheries Minister D&nbsp;Jayakumar quoted the Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and said, “We are facing a water shortage and not a crisis, the government is taking adequate measures to tide over it.”

Hitting back at the DMK, over the party treasurer Durai Murugan’s comments opposing the plan of bringing water to Chennai from nearby districts, he said, “Stalin and Duraimurugan live in Chennai and drink the water drawn from here, but why are they saying that water from Jolarpet should not be brought to Chennai? Is it not betraying the people of Chennai?”&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Brandishing empty pots that read “Pot is here, where is water“?, DMK party functionaries, cadre and womenfolk led by Tamil Nadu’s Opposition Party Leader MK Stalin gathered in large numbers to protest against Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami-led AIADMK government’s handling of the prevailing water crisis in Chennai and Tamil Nadu that only seems to be getting worse.

Brandishing empty pots that read “Pot is here, where is water“?, DMK party functionaries, cadre and womenfolk led by Tamil Nadu’s Opposition Party Leader MK Stalin gathered in large numbers to protest against Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami-led AIADMK government’s handling of the prevailing water crisis in Chennai and Tamil Nadu that only seems to be getting worse. Addressing the gathering DMK president Stalin said such protests and agitations condemning the government are not limited to Chennai but are happening all across Tamil Nadu. Accusing the government of facing a crisis in every realm Stalin said, “the government is facing a fund crunch, lack of employment opportunities, shortage in number of industries, law and order is in a bad state, but the senior AIADMK leaders including the CM, his deputy and the ministers choose to remain ignorant about it.” Stating that the prevailing water crisis is not a sudden phenomenon, the DMK president said in the last one year, all the lakes, reservoirs that store water in the vicinity of Chennai have been drying up and I highlighted evidence for the same in the Assembly, but it fell on deaf ears. Lashing out at the AIADMK leaders who said that the water crisis was being exaggerated, Stalin said, women are waiting on the streets with buckets and pots and the state ministers are conducting special Poojas for rains. But these Poojas are not for water or rains, but for the incumbents to ensure the survival of their government, he added. Making a mention about the TN Assembly that is to convene on 28 May, Stalin said “We have already issued a notice for initiating no-confidence proceedings against the Speaker, but we also believe that it is CM Palaniswami that must be ousted. Even without an election, we can oust this government and what the people expect is going to happen” Watch: Severe Water Crisis in India × × Responding to the DMK’s charges Tamil Nadu’s Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar quoted the Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam and said, “We are facing a water shortage and not a crisis, the government is taking adequate measures to tide over it.” Hitting back at the DMK, over the party treasurer Durai Murugan’s comments opposing the plan of bringing water to Chennai from nearby districts, he said, “Stalin and Duraimurugan live in Chennai and drink the water drawn from here, but why are they saying that water from Jolarpet should not be brought to Chennai? Is it not betraying the people of Chennai?”

Stalin leads protest over Chennai water crisis, says 'can oust AIADMK government without election'

Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to Central government, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh governments asking them to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-to-hear-plea-on-muzaffarpur-encephalitis-outbreak-today-229879"> file affidavits</a> within seven days giving details of facilities dealing with public health, nutrition and sanitation, for treatment of children suffering from Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Muzaffarpur, reported news agency ANI.

The apex court order came following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by two lawyers, in connection with the outbreak of the Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district in which 130 children have lost their lives.

The plea, filed by advocates Manohar Pratap and Sanpreet Singh Ajmani, sought a direction to urgently constitute a team of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-death-toll-due-to-suspected-acute-encephalitis-rises-to-167-229867">medical experts</a> for treatment of children suffering from encephalitis.

Watch: Families in Bihar flee villages as brain fever unleashes mayhem

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A vacation bench of Justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant heard the plea.

The PIL said that the disease is completely curable and lives of children are being lost due to the "inaction" of the state machinery, which "failed" to take any steps to prevent the outbreak.

Despite the death of more than 100 children, the state government has shown "no prompt" steps to prevent the spread of the disease in adjoining districts, the plea contended.

&nbsp;

Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to Central government, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh governments asking them to file affidavits within seven days giving details of facilities dealing with public health, nutrition and sanitation, for treatment of children suffering from Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Muzaffarpur, reported news agency ANI.

Supreme Court on Monday issued notices to Central government, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh governments asking them to file affidavits within seven days giving details of facilities dealing with public health, nutrition and sanitation, for treatment of children suffering from Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Muzaffarpur, reported news agency ANI. The apex court order came following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by two lawyers, in connection with the outbreak of the Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district in which 130 children have lost their lives. The plea, filed by advocates Manohar Pratap and Sanpreet Singh Ajmani, sought a direction to urgently constitute a team of medical experts for treatment of children suffering from encephalitis. Watch: Families in Bihar flee villages as brain fever unleashes mayhem × A vacation bench of Justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant heard the plea. The PIL said that the disease is completely curable and lives of children are being lost due to the "inaction" of the state machinery, which "failed" to take any steps to prevent the outbreak. Despite the death of more than 100 children, the state government has shown "no prompt" steps to prevent the spread of the disease in adjoining districts, the plea contended.

Encephalitis deaths in Bihar: Supreme Court directs Centre, state govts to file response within 7 days

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Encephalitis deaths in Bihar: Supreme Court directs Centre, state govts to file response within 7 days