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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Finance Anurag Thakur and senior officials of the ministry Saturday observed the symbolic 'Halwa' ceremony to mark the launch of formal printing of documents relating to the Union Budget 2019-20.

The NDA government would on July 5 unveil the full Budget for 2019-20. On February 1, the government had presented an Interim Budget to take Parliament nod for spending till the new government takes charge after the general elections.

Finance Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg, Revenue Secretary Ajay Bhushan Pandey, DIPAM Secretary Atanu Chakraborty and Financial Services Secretary Rajiv Kumar too attended the customary pre-Budget event.

"Halwa ceremony marking the commencement of Budget printing process for the General Budget 2019-20 was held in North Block here today afternoon in the august presence of the Union Minister of Finance &amp; Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman," a Finance Ministry statement said.

As part of the ritual, 'halwa' is prepared in a big 'kadhai' (large frying pot) and served to the entire staff in the ministry.

The significance of the event is that after the sweet dish is served, a large number of officials and support staff, who are directly associated with the Budget making and printing process, are required to stay in the ministry and remain cut off from their families till the presentation of the Budget in the Lok Sabha.

They are not even allowed to contact their near and dear ones through phone or any other form of communication, like e-mail.

Only very senior officials in the finance ministry are permitted to go home.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Finance Anurag Thakur and senior officials of the ministry Saturday observed the symbolic 'Halwa' ceremony to mark the launch of formal printing of documents relating to the Union Budget 2019-20.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Finance Anurag Thakur and senior officials of the ministry Saturday observed the symbolic 'Halwa' ceremony to mark the launch of formal printing of documents relating to the Union Budget 2019-20. The NDA government would on July 5 unveil the full Budget for 2019-20. On February 1, the government had presented an Interim Budget to take Parliament nod for spending till the new government takes charge after the general elections. Finance Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg, Revenue Secretary Ajay Bhushan Pandey, DIPAM Secretary Atanu Chakraborty and Financial Services Secretary Rajiv Kumar too attended the customary pre-Budget event. "Halwa ceremony marking the commencement of Budget printing process for the General Budget 2019-20 was held in North Block here today afternoon in the august presence of the Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman," a Finance Ministry statement said. As part of the ritual, 'halwa' is prepared in a big 'kadhai' (large frying pot) and served to the entire staff in the ministry. The significance of the event is that after the sweet dish is served, a large number of officials and support staff, who are directly associated with the Budget making and printing process, are required to stay in the ministry and remain cut off from their families till the presentation of the Budget in the Lok Sabha. They are not even allowed to contact their near and dear ones through phone or any other form of communication, like e-mail. Only very senior officials in the finance ministry are permitted to go home.

Printing of Budget 2019-20 documents begins with 'Halwa' ceremony

Several persons were injured as fresh clashes were reported in trouble-torn Bhatpara area in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal Saturday as rival groups violated Section 144 imposed there.

Police had to resort to lathi charge to disperse the crowd.

The incident happened moments after a three-member BJP central delegation left the area after their scheduled visit.

As the delegation left, two groups, one led by the BJP and other by TMC, engaged in pitched battle as both sides hurled countrymade bombs and stones at each other.

Several persons were injured in the incident.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> West Bengal: Slogans of "Bengal Police haye haye! Mamata Banerjee haye haye!" raised during the visit of BJP delegation to Bhatpara, North 24 Parganas district. <a href="https://t.co/gVV3WoWgsl">pic.twitter.com/gVV3WoWgsl</a>
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Bhatpara had witnessed clashes between rival groups suspected to be affiliated to TMC and BJP on Thursday in which two persons had died.&nbsp;

A three-member BJP delegation, led by former Union minister S S Ahluwalia, arrived at trouble-torn Bhatpara on Saturday, where two people were killed and seven injured in clashes between two groups believed to be affiliated to the TMC and the BJP.

The BJP central leadership had asked the team led by Ahluwalia, an MP from West Bengal, to visit Bhatpara in North 24 Pargana district.

Two people had died and seven others injured in clashes in Bhatpara between the groups suspected to be attached to TMC and BJP on Thursday. Section 144 has been imposed by the administration in the wake of the clashes.

Earlier in the day, a joint delegation of CPI(M) and Congress headed by Leader of Opposition Abdul Mannan and CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty visited the troubled areas of Baruipara, Jagaddal, Bhatpara. They demanded a CBI inquiry into the killings.

On Friday, the BJP leadership had also demanded a CBI inquiry into the incident to bring out the truth.

A TMC citadel for long, Bhatpara has been witnessing frequent post-poll violence between the rival parties.

The fight intensified ever since TMC MLA Arjun Singh crossed over to the BJP and was elected to Lok Sabha from Barrackpore. Bhatpara comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency.

In the bypoll to the Bhatpara Assembly seat that were held along with the Lok Sabha elections, Arjun Singh's son Pawan Singh had defeated TMC candidate and former state minister Madan Mitra.&nbsp;

Several persons were injured as fresh clashes were reported in trouble-torn Bhatpara area in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal Saturday as rival groups violated Section 144 imposed there.

Several persons were injured as fresh clashes were reported in trouble-torn Bhatpara area in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal Saturday as rival groups violated Section 144 imposed there. Police had to resort to lathi charge to disperse the crowd. The incident happened moments after a three-member BJP central delegation left the area after their scheduled visit. As the delegation left, two groups, one led by the BJP and other by TMC, engaged in pitched battle as both sides hurled countrymade bombs and stones at each other. Several persons were injured in the incident. #WATCH West Bengal: Slogans of "Bengal Police haye haye! Mamata Banerjee haye haye!" raised during the visit of BJP delegation to Bhatpara, North 24 Parganas district. pic.twitter.com/gVV3WoWgsl — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2019 × Bhatpara had witnessed clashes between rival groups suspected to be affiliated to TMC and BJP on Thursday in which two persons had died. A three-member BJP delegation, led by former Union minister S S Ahluwalia, arrived at trouble-torn Bhatpara on Saturday, where two people were killed and seven injured in clashes between two groups believed to be affiliated to the TMC and the BJP. The BJP central leadership had asked the team led by Ahluwalia, an MP from West Bengal, to visit Bhatpara in North 24 Pargana district. Two people had died and seven others injured in clashes in Bhatpara between the groups suspected to be attached to TMC and BJP on Thursday. Section 144 has been imposed by the administration in the wake of the clashes. Earlier in the day, a joint delegation of CPI(M) and Congress headed by Leader of Opposition Abdul Mannan and CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty visited the troubled areas of Baruipara, Jagaddal, Bhatpara. They demanded a CBI inquiry into the killings. On Friday, the BJP leadership had also demanded a CBI inquiry into the incident to bring out the truth. A TMC citadel for long, Bhatpara has been witnessing frequent post-poll violence between the rival parties. The fight intensified ever since TMC MLA Arjun Singh crossed over to the BJP and was elected to Lok Sabha from Barrackpore. Bhatpara comes under the Barrackpore Lok Sabha constituency. In the bypoll to the Bhatpara Assembly seat that were held along with the Lok Sabha elections, Arjun Singh's son Pawan Singh had defeated TMC candidate and former state minister Madan Mitra.

West Bengal: Fresh clashes break out in trouble-hit Bhatpara, many injured

Bihar health department on Saturday gave an order for investigation of the matter where <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-human-skeletal-remains-found-behind-sri-krishna-medical-college-and-hospital-in-muzaffarpur-229451">human skeletal remains</a> were found behind Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital in Muzaffarpur.

Muzaffarpur District Magistrate Alok Ranjan Ghosh seeks report from administration and concerned departments in connection with the matter.

Skeletal remains have been discovered lying in open, in a forest near the government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) here, which is grappling with cases of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES).An investigation team of SKMCH hospital accompanied by policemen visited the spot on Saturday.

Dr Vipin Kumar from the hospital said,&nbsp;"Skeletal remains have been found here. Detailed information will be provided by the Principal."

One or two of the dead bodies were found charred and many skeletons were found strewn on the ground or stuffed into sacks in the forest area.

"After postmortem, all the bodies are dumped in the forest behind the hospital. I never tried to ask the authorities about these skeletons" caretaker of SKMCH, Janak Paswan told ANI.The abandoned skeletons have neither been burned nor buried."

The postmortem department takes care of the dead bodies. This is really inhuman if they have dumped the bodies in open. We will ask their department head to call an inquiry regarding the matter" Superintendent SK Shahi told ANI.

When a hospital receives any dead body, it has to immediately contact the nearest police station and file a report in this connection.

The corpse has to be kept in the postmortem room for 72 hours after the report has been filed.

If no family member arrives for identification of the body within 72 hours, it is the duty of the postmortem department to bury or burn the body following the stipulated procedure, Shahi said.

SKMCH is currently battling with an influx of cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). The death toll due to the vector-borne disease mounted to 128 on Saturday.

Bihar health department on Saturday gave an order for investigation of the matter where human skeletal remains were found behind Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital in Muzaffarpur.

Bihar health department on Saturday gave an order for investigation of the matter where human skeletal remains were found behind Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital in Muzaffarpur. Muzaffarpur District Magistrate Alok Ranjan Ghosh seeks report from administration and concerned departments in connection with the matter. Skeletal remains have been discovered lying in open, in a forest near the government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) here, which is grappling with cases of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES).An investigation team of SKMCH hospital accompanied by policemen visited the spot on Saturday. Dr Vipin Kumar from the hospital said, "Skeletal remains have been found here. Detailed information will be provided by the Principal." One or two of the dead bodies were found charred and many skeletons were found strewn on the ground or stuffed into sacks in the forest area. "After postmortem, all the bodies are dumped in the forest behind the hospital. I never tried to ask the authorities about these skeletons" caretaker of SKMCH, Janak Paswan told ANI.The abandoned skeletons have neither been burned nor buried." The postmortem department takes care of the dead bodies. This is really inhuman if they have dumped the bodies in open. We will ask their department head to call an inquiry regarding the matter" Superintendent SK Shahi told ANI. When a hospital receives any dead body, it has to immediately contact the nearest police station and file a report in this connection. The corpse has to be kept in the postmortem room for 72 hours after the report has been filed. If no family member arrives for identification of the body within 72 hours, it is the duty of the postmortem department to bury or burn the body following the stipulated procedure, Shahi said. SKMCH is currently battling with an influx of cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). The death toll due to the vector-borne disease mounted to 128 on Saturday.

Human skeletons near SKMCH hospital: Bihar health department calls for investigation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday congratulated those who have been conferred with the Prime Minister's Award for Outstanding Contribution for Promotion and Development of Yoga, 2019.&nbsp;

"We are immensely proud of their rich work to ensure more people embrace Yoga and our planet becomes healthier," PM Modi&nbsp;tweeted.

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Congratulations to those who have been conferred the Prime Minister’s Awards for Outstanding Contribution for Promotion and Development of Yoga -2019. 
 
We are immensely proud of their rich work to ensure more people embrace Yoga and our planet becomes healthier. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaDay2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaDay2019</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1142311078287704065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi posted the congratulatory message on Twitter in Spanish, French, Arabic, Russian, Japanese and English.

Founded in 1980, the Japan Yoga Niketan has popularised yoga across Japan. It runs many yoga training institutes and courses. They have been able to draw people from all sections of Japanese society, Modi said.

Founded by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, the Bihar School of Yoga, Munger has been actively working for over 50 years.&nbsp;

"They merge ancient wisdom with modern trends with an aim to improve fitness. Their yoga programmes and publications are widely popular," the PM said.

Modi also referred to Antonietta Rozzi, who belongs to Italy and has been practising Yoga for over four decades. She founded the Sarva Yoga International and popularised Yoga across Europe.&nbsp;

"We are proud of dedicated individuals like her," he tweeted.

The prime minister said Swami Rajarshi Muni, who hails from Gujarat's Limbdi, has made remarkable efforts to spread yoga. Most notably, he founded the LIFE Mission and is associated with Lakulish Yoga University that mentors students, he said.&nbsp;

"His commitment to social service is also outstanding," Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday congratulated those who have been conferred with the Prime Minister's Award for Outstanding Contribution for Promotion and Development of Yoga, 2019.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday congratulated those who have been conferred with the Prime Minister's Award for Outstanding Contribution for Promotion and Development of Yoga, 2019. "We are immensely proud of their rich work to ensure more people embrace Yoga and our planet becomes healthier," PM Modi tweeted. Congratulations to those who have been conferred the Prime Minister’s Awards for Outstanding Contribution for Promotion and Development of Yoga -2019. We are immensely proud of their rich work to ensure more people embrace Yoga and our planet becomes healthier. #YogaDay2019 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 22, 2019 × Modi posted the congratulatory message on Twitter in Spanish, French, Arabic, Russian, Japanese and English. Founded in 1980, the Japan Yoga Niketan has popularised yoga across Japan. It runs many yoga training institutes and courses. They have been able to draw people from all sections of Japanese society, Modi said. Founded by Swami Satyananda Saraswati, the Bihar School of Yoga, Munger has been actively working for over 50 years. "They merge ancient wisdom with modern trends with an aim to improve fitness. Their yoga programmes and publications are widely popular," the PM said. Modi also referred to Antonietta Rozzi, who belongs to Italy and has been practising Yoga for over four decades. She founded the Sarva Yoga International and popularised Yoga across Europe. "We are proud of dedicated individuals like her," he tweeted. The prime minister said Swami Rajarshi Muni, who hails from Gujarat's Limbdi, has made remarkable efforts to spread yoga. Most notably, he founded the LIFE Mission and is associated with Lakulish Yoga University that mentors students, he said. "His commitment to social service is also outstanding," Modi said.

Narendra Modi congratulates those conferred PM's Award for Outstanding Contribution for Promotion of Yoga

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Saturday successfully underwent a surgery for trigger finger at the government-run Hamidia Hospital here.

He is likely to be discharged from the hospital by evening, doctors said.

"The chief minister was admitted to Hamidia Hospital around 9 am on Saturday. A team of doctors performed a surgery for a medical condition of trigger finger," Aruna Kumar, dean of Gandhi Medical College (Hamidia Hospital) said.

"He has been kept under the observation for a few hours and is likely to be discharged by evening," she added.

An official said that the surgey was performed on Nath's right hand.

Medical tests had been conducted on him at Hamidia Hospital on Friday evening, after which he was sent home and called for the surgery in the morning.

Trigger finger is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a sensation of locking or catching while bending or straightening a finger.

Meanwhile, state Congress media cell coordinator Narendra Saluja said Nath has appealed to the party workers not to visit him at the hospital to avoid inconvenience to other patients and the staff.

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan welcomed Nath's decision to undergo treatment at the government-run hospital.

"Kamal Nath ji, my best wishes to you for healthy life. Your decision to avail treatment at Hamidia (hospital) is welcome and commendable. At the same time, I want the facilities you got there should also be extended to the common people so that they don't have to run around for this," he said.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Saturday successfully underwent a surgery for trigger finger at the government-run Hamidia Hospital here. He is likely to be discharged from the hospital by evening, doctors said.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Saturday successfully underwent a surgery for trigger finger at the government-run Hamidia Hospital here. He is likely to be discharged from the hospital by evening, doctors said. "The chief minister was admitted to Hamidia Hospital around 9 am on Saturday. A team of doctors performed a surgery for a medical condition of trigger finger," Aruna Kumar, dean of Gandhi Medical College (Hamidia Hospital) said. "He has been kept under the observation for a few hours and is likely to be discharged by evening," she added. An official said that the surgey was performed on Nath's right hand. Medical tests had been conducted on him at Hamidia Hospital on Friday evening, after which he was sent home and called for the surgery in the morning. Trigger finger is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a sensation of locking or catching while bending or straightening a finger. Meanwhile, state Congress media cell coordinator Narendra Saluja said Nath has appealed to the party workers not to visit him at the hospital to avoid inconvenience to other patients and the staff. Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan welcomed Nath's decision to undergo treatment at the government-run hospital. "Kamal Nath ji, my best wishes to you for healthy life. Your decision to avail treatment at Hamidia (hospital) is welcome and commendable. At the same time, I want the facilities you got there should also be extended to the common people so that they don't have to run around for this," he said.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath undergoes trigger finger surgery at government hospital

Several human skeletal remains were found behind <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-more-die-of-encephalitis-in-muzaffarpur-toll-reaches-139-229362">Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur</a>, Bihar where around 139 died due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES).

An investigation team of SKMCH&nbsp;visited&nbsp;the spot where skeletal remains were found.

SKMCH's Dr Vipin Kumar&nbsp;said, "Skeletal remains have been found here. Detailed information will be provided by the Principal."

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Bihar: Human skeletal remains found behind Sri Krishna Medical College &amp; Hospital, Muzaffarpur. 108 people have died at SKMCH due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). <a href="https://t.co/ICRcg3Be1e">pic.twitter.com/ICRcg3Be1e</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1142330622460989441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Hundreds of children are admitted to hospitals -- mostly at Muzaffarpur's SKMCH for treatment of AES which is characterized by sudden onset of high fever and convulsions.

The Bihar health department had on Thursday released state-wide figures putting the total toll following the outbreak, which has spread across 16 districts, at 139.

To accommodate the rising number of encephalitis patients, SKMCH in Muzaffarpur has converted prisoners' ward into an ICU.

Encephalitis is a viral infection, which causes mild flu-like symptoms such as a fever or a headache. &nbsp;

Several human skeletal remains were found behind Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur, Bihar where around 139 died due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES).

Several human skeletal remains were found behind Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur, Bihar where around 139 died due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). An investigation team of SKMCH visited the spot where skeletal remains were found. SKMCH's Dr Vipin Kumar said, "Skeletal remains have been found here. Detailed information will be provided by the Principal." Bihar: Human skeletal remains found behind Sri Krishna Medical College & Hospital, Muzaffarpur. 108 people have died at SKMCH due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). pic.twitter.com/ICRcg3Be1e — ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2019 × Hundreds of children are admitted to hospitals -- mostly at Muzaffarpur's SKMCH for treatment of AES which is characterized by sudden onset of high fever and convulsions. The Bihar health department had on Thursday released state-wide figures putting the total toll following the outbreak, which has spread across 16 districts, at 139. To accommodate the rising number of encephalitis patients, SKMCH in Muzaffarpur has converted prisoners' ward into an ICU. Encephalitis is a viral infection, which causes mild flu-like symptoms such as a fever or a headache.

Bihar: Human skeletal remains found behind Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital in Muzaffarpur

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-helped-get-yoga-international-recognition-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-229081">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Friday said that ''yoga for heart care'' will be the theme for this year and that world is accepting yoga practices.

Modi addressed around 30,000 people at Prabhat Tara ground in Ranchi on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-baba-ramdev-cm-fadnavis-perform-yoga-on-5th-international-yoga-day-229059">International Day of Yoga</a>.

''I extend my good wishes to all of you, in India &amp; across the globe, on the occasion of &nbsp;#InternationalDayofYoga. Today, lakhs of people have gathered in different parts of the world to celebrate Yoga Day,'' PM Modi said.

''We all know the importance of Yoga very well. It has always been an important part of our culture. But now we all have to take the practice of Yoga to another level,'' PM Modi added.

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Yoga for peace, harmony and progress! Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaDay2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaDay2019</a> programme from Ranchi. <a href="https://t.co/nP8xHWMVYi">https://t.co/nP8xHWMVYi</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1141873745528672257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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''I thank people across the world for joining Yoga Day celebrations, world over the first rays of the sun are being welcomed by dedicated yoga practitioners, it is a beautiful sight. I urge you all to embrace yoga and make it an integral part of your daily routine,'' PM Modi said.

"Now, I have to take the journey of modern yoga from the cities to the villages, to the poor and tribal's house. I have to make yoga an integral part of the life of poor and tribal. Because it is poor who gets the most pain due to illness," Prime minister&nbsp;said while addressing an event in Ranchi.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and various other ministers were present in the event.

Watch: PM Modi performs Yoga along with public at Ranchi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/international-yoga-day-2019-pm-modi-performs-yoga-along-with-public-at-ranchi-229061/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Gates were opened at 3am with free bus service, which started on Thursday night.

A total of 28 display screens have been installed at the venue for live telecast of the event.

Earlier in the day, Yoga guru Baba Ramdev performed yoga along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his followers in Nanded.

The first International Day of Yoga was observed all over the world on June 21, 2015, when over 30,000 people including Prime Minister Modi performed yoga at the Rajpath in New Delhi.

The idea of International Day of Yoga was first proposed by PM Modi during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, 2014.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that ''yoga for heart care'' will be the theme for this year and that world is accepting yoga practices. Modi addressed around 30,000 people at Prabhat Tara ground in Ranchi on the occasion of International Day of Yoga.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that ''yoga for heart care'' will be the theme for this year and that world is accepting yoga practices. Modi addressed around 30,000 people at Prabhat Tara ground in Ranchi on the occasion of International Day of Yoga. ''I extend my good wishes to all of you, in India & across the globe, on the occasion of #InternationalDayofYoga. Today, lakhs of people have gathered in different parts of the world to celebrate Yoga Day,'' PM Modi said. ''We all know the importance of Yoga very well. It has always been an important part of our culture. But now we all have to take the practice of Yoga to another level,'' PM Modi added. Yoga for peace, harmony and progress! Watch #YogaDay2019 programme from Ranchi. https://t.co/nP8xHWMVYi — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 21, 2019 × ''I thank people across the world for joining Yoga Day celebrations, world over the first rays of the sun are being welcomed by dedicated yoga practitioners, it is a beautiful sight. I urge you all to embrace yoga and make it an integral part of your daily routine,'' PM Modi said. "Now, I have to take the journey of modern yoga from the cities to the villages, to the poor and tribal's house. I have to make yoga an integral part of the life of poor and tribal. Because it is poor who gets the most pain due to illness," Prime minister said while addressing an event in Ranchi. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das and various other ministers were present in the event. Watch: PM Modi performs Yoga along with public at Ranchi Gates were opened at 3am with free bus service, which started on Thursday night. A total of 28 display screens have been installed at the venue for live telecast of the event. Earlier in the day, Yoga guru Baba Ramdev performed yoga along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his followers in Nanded. The first International Day of Yoga was observed all over the world on June 21, 2015, when over 30,000 people including Prime Minister Modi performed yoga at the Rajpath in New Delhi. The idea of International Day of Yoga was first proposed by PM Modi during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 27, 2014.

Yoga for 'heart care' this year's theme: PM Modi in Ranchi

The Financial Action Task Force(FATF) has announced that Pakistan will remain on the greylist and asked Islamabad to take steps to "address its strategic counter-terrorist financing-related deficiencies" which basically means to act on the financing of terrorism after failing to meet deadline twice.

Being on the greylist impacts the Pakistani economy which loses $10 billion annually.

In a statement issued after the end of the week-long <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/panama-placed-back-on-fatf-list-economy-minister-varela-229355">plenary of FATF in Orlando</a>, Florida, the grouping "expressed concern that not only did Pakistan fail to complete its action plan items with January deadlines, it also failed to complete its action plan items due May 2019."&nbsp;

It strongly urged "Pakistan to swiftly complete its action plan by October 2019 when the last set of action plan items are set to expire."&nbsp;

Warning, if Islamabad doesn't comply by October 2019, "FATF will decide the next step at that time for insufficient progress" which mean a possible blacklisting.

FATF's Asia-Pacific Group (APG) which had met in China in mid-May wasn't impressed by Pakistan's action on terror financing.

FATF asked Pakistan to work on implementing its ten-point action plan given after June 2018 greylisting to address its strategic deficiencies which include "demonstrating its proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by the terrorist groups" and "demonstrating that facilities and services owned or controlled by designated person are deprived of their resources and the usage of the resources."

This is a strong message by FATF to Pakistan where a number of UN listed persons such 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed roam&nbsp;freely.&nbsp;

Islamabad was put on the greylist&nbsp;last year which means the country comes under financial jurisdiction with "structural deficiencies"&nbsp;in anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) or simply -&nbsp;supports the financing of terror.

The FATF in its February meet had come hard on Pakistan saying it has not demonstrated a proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by "Da’esh, AQ, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, HQN, and persons affiliated with the Taliban."

The Financial Action Task Force(FATF) has announced that Pakistan will remain on the greylist and asked Islamabad to take steps to "address its strategic counter-terrorist financing-related deficiencies" which basically means to act on the financing of terrorism after failing to meet deadline twice.

The Financial Action Task Force(FATF) has announced that Pakistan will remain on the greylist and asked Islamabad to take steps to "address its strategic counter-terrorist financing-related deficiencies" which basically means to act on the financing of terrorism after failing to meet deadline twice. Being on the greylist impacts the Pakistani economy which loses $10 billion annually. In a statement issued after the end of the week-long plenary of FATF in Orlando, Florida, the grouping "expressed concern that not only did Pakistan fail to complete its action plan items with January deadlines, it also failed to complete its action plan items due May 2019." It strongly urged "Pakistan to swiftly complete its action plan by October 2019 when the last set of action plan items are set to expire." Warning, if Islamabad doesn't comply by October 2019, "FATF will decide the next step at that time for insufficient progress" which mean a possible blacklisting. FATF's Asia-Pacific Group (APG) which had met in China in mid-May wasn't impressed by Pakistan's action on terror financing. FATF asked Pakistan to work on implementing its ten-point action plan given after June 2018 greylisting to address its strategic deficiencies which include "demonstrating its proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by the terrorist groups" and "demonstrating that facilities and services owned or controlled by designated person are deprived of their resources and the usage of the resources." This is a strong message by FATF to Pakistan where a number of UN listed persons such 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed roam freely. Islamabad was put on the greylist last year which means the country comes under financial jurisdiction with "structural deficiencies" in anti-money laundering (AML) and combating the financing of terrorism (CFT) or simply - supports the financing of terror. The FATF in its February meet had come hard on Pakistan saying it has not demonstrated a proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by "Da’esh, AQ, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, HQN, and persons affiliated with the Taliban."

Pakistan gets FATF rap after failing to meet deadline twice; stays on greylist

Three more children with symptoms of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/acute-encephalitis-syndrome-bihar-chief-minister-nitish-kumar-evades-question-on-rising-deaths-229257">Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES)</a> died at a hospital in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district Friday taking the toll to 139.

According to the Muzaffarpur district administration, all three deaths were reported from the government-run SKMCH hospital, which alone has accounted for 104 casualties since June 1.

The Bihar health department had on Thursday released state-wide figures putting the total toll following the outbreak, which has spread across 16 districts, at 136.

With the latest three casualties the death toll rose to 139 though unconfirmed reports claim that the number has crossed 150.

Hundreds of children are admitted to hospitals -- mostly at Muzaffarpur's SKMCH and privately-owned Kejriwal hospital -- for treatment of AES which is characterized by sudden onset of high fever and convulsions.

The high number of deaths this year has been blamed on hypoglycemia or sudden drop in blood sugar levels, which some experts attribute to malnutrition and consumption of unripe litchi -- a fruit grown in abundance in north Bihar -- on an empty stomach and failure to administer glucose within four hours of the onset of fever and other symptoms.

The Muzaffarpur administration said that 13.5 lakh packets of oral rehydration solution (ORS) have been distributed across the district and health workers are carrying out an intensive awareness programme, as part of which 8.5 lakh pamphlets have been distributed.

In Patna, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar refused to take queries from journalists when they tried to seek his reaction on the outbreak which had rocked both Houses of parliament.

Kumar was approached with queries outside the state Assembly premises which he had visited to accompany Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha by-poll.

Opposition RJD leader Bhai Virendra alleged that Kumar's reproach to photo and video journalists inside the Returning Officer's chamber - when they started leaning on the backs of officials present inside - was "nothing else but giving vent to frustration over his government's inability to control the epidemic and having nothing to say to the media on the issue".

Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai, who also heads the state BJP unit, told reporters, "Our party has resolved to do its bit and all BJP Lok Sabha members in the state shall be donating Rs 25 lakh to the Sadar hospitals in their respective constituencies for setting up of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)".

The state BJP office also circulated copies of a letter by Rai, dated June 19, whereby he informed the collector of Samastipur district -- wherein his constituency Ujiyarpur falls -- that he has decided to contribute Rs 25 lakh from his MPLAD fund for PICU.

The BJP has the highest number of 17 Lok Sabha members in Bihar where the total number of seats is 40.

Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, at a pre-budget meeting of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with finance ministers of states, raised the issue of AES outbreak and sought a grant of Rs 100 crore for setting up a 100-bed pediatric ICU, a research centre and building a new AIIMS besides upgrading the state's medical colleges to a level comparable with the AIIMS.

Three more children with symptoms of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) died at a hospital in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district Friday taking the toll to 139. According to the Muzaffarpur district administration, all three deaths were reported from the government-run SKMCH hospital, which alone has accounted for 104 casualties since June 1.

Three more children with symptoms of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) died at a hospital in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district Friday taking the toll to 139. According to the Muzaffarpur district administration, all three deaths were reported from the government-run SKMCH hospital, which alone has accounted for 104 casualties since June 1. The Bihar health department had on Thursday released state-wide figures putting the total toll following the outbreak, which has spread across 16 districts, at 136. With the latest three casualties the death toll rose to 139 though unconfirmed reports claim that the number has crossed 150. Hundreds of children are admitted to hospitals -- mostly at Muzaffarpur's SKMCH and privately-owned Kejriwal hospital -- for treatment of AES which is characterized by sudden onset of high fever and convulsions. The high number of deaths this year has been blamed on hypoglycemia or sudden drop in blood sugar levels, which some experts attribute to malnutrition and consumption of unripe litchi -- a fruit grown in abundance in north Bihar -- on an empty stomach and failure to administer glucose within four hours of the onset of fever and other symptoms. The Muzaffarpur administration said that 13.5 lakh packets of oral rehydration solution (ORS) have been distributed across the district and health workers are carrying out an intensive awareness programme, as part of which 8.5 lakh pamphlets have been distributed. In Patna, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar refused to take queries from journalists when they tried to seek his reaction on the outbreak which had rocked both Houses of parliament. Kumar was approached with queries outside the state Assembly premises which he had visited to accompany Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who filed his nomination papers for the Rajya Sabha by-poll. Opposition RJD leader Bhai Virendra alleged that Kumar's reproach to photo and video journalists inside the Returning Officer's chamber - when they started leaning on the backs of officials present inside - was "nothing else but giving vent to frustration over his government's inability to control the epidemic and having nothing to say to the media on the issue". Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai, who also heads the state BJP unit, told reporters, "Our party has resolved to do its bit and all BJP Lok Sabha members in the state shall be donating Rs 25 lakh to the Sadar hospitals in their respective constituencies for setting up of a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)". The state BJP office also circulated copies of a letter by Rai, dated June 19, whereby he informed the collector of Samastipur district -- wherein his constituency Ujiyarpur falls -- that he has decided to contribute Rs 25 lakh from his MPLAD fund for PICU. The BJP has the highest number of 17 Lok Sabha members in Bihar where the total number of seats is 40. Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi, at a pre-budget meeting of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with finance ministers of states, raised the issue of AES outbreak and sought a grant of Rs 100 crore for setting up a 100-bed pediatric ICU, a research centre and building a new AIIMS besides upgrading the state's medical colleges to a level comparable with the AIIMS.

Three more die of Encephalitis in Bihar, toll reaches 139

Indo-Tibetan border police celebrated this yoga day. Army men celebrated yoga amid heavy snowfall. Watch this video to know more.

International Yoga Day 2019: Yoga At Sub-zero Temperatures

The United States said that it has no plans to cap&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-has-no-plans-to-cap-h-1b-work-visa-program-state-department-229065">H-1B work visas</a> for nations that "force foreign companies to store data locally."

The development comes days ahead of US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo's India visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are also set to meet on the sidelines of G20 summit in Japan on June 28-29.&nbsp;

The State Department in a statement said, "Trump Administration’s buy American Hire American Executive Order called for a broad review of US worker visa programs, including the H-1B program."

Clarifying, the review is "not targeted at a specific country" and is "completely separate from our <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-tells-india-it-is-considering-caps-on-h-1b-visas-to-deter-data-rules-sources-228844">ongoing discussions</a> with India about the importance of ensuring the free flow of data across borders."

US had raised concerns over India's data localisation along with other issues.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, India, "remains engaged with the US administration, with US Congress, emphasised time and again at high-level interaction, the contribution of Indian skilled professionals to growth and development of US economy"

On data localisation, he said, New Delhi remains engaged with the US "and see how we can dispel any misconception on data localisation."

Data localisation is the use of data of a country's nationals on how it is collected and stored within the country or sent outside.&nbsp;

New Delhi has been saying that US companies should store data of Indian nationals in India.

The United States said that it has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that "force foreign companies to store data locally." The development comes days ahead of US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo's India visit.

The United States said that it has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that "force foreign companies to store data locally." The development comes days ahead of US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo's India visit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are also set to meet on the sidelines of G20 summit in Japan on June 28-29. The State Department in a statement said, "Trump Administration’s buy American Hire American Executive Order called for a broad review of US worker visa programs, including the H-1B program." Clarifying, the review is "not targeted at a specific country" and is "completely separate from our ongoing discussions with India about the importance of ensuring the free flow of data across borders." US had raised concerns over India's data localisation along with other issues. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, India, "remains engaged with the US administration, with US Congress, emphasised time and again at high-level interaction, the contribution of Indian skilled professionals to growth and development of US economy" On data localisation, he said, New Delhi remains engaged with the US "and see how we can dispel any misconception on data localisation." Data localisation is the use of data of a country's nationals on how it is collected and stored within the country or sent outside. New Delhi has been saying that US companies should store data of Indian nationals in India.

US says H-1B visa programme and data localisation not linked  

A major fire broke out at an under-construction warship of the Navy at Mazgaon Dockyard in Mumbai on Friday evening.

One contract worker succumbed to his injuries, while another has sustained minor burns.

The fire took place on Yard 12704 (Visakhapatnam), the first class of Project 15 B during operations in tank at MDL.

The fire which broke out at around 5:44 pm was brought under control by 7 pm.

About eight fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the fire which did not spread to any other deck except for the second and the third.&nbsp;

The authorities have launched an enquiry to ascertain the cause of the fire.

"Under-construction warship 'Visakhapatnam' caught fire at 5.44 pm. The blaze erupted on the second deck of the ship," said P S Rahangdale, the chief of city fire brigade.

Eight fire-fighting engines, along with quick-response vehicle, have been pressed into service to extinguish the blaze, he said.

"Fire is confined to second and third deck of the warship. Fire-fighting operation is underway along with Dockyard fire-fighters. Smoke has spread in the warship," Rahangdale said.

"The cause of the fire will be ascertained after a proper inquiry, but the first priority is to douse the fire with a minimum loss," another fire brigade official said.

Mazgaon Dockyard is the only facility in India having the capability to build submarines. Visakhapatnam, the largest warship of its class, was unveiled for construction in Mazgaon Docks in April 2015.

It is the first of the four stealth guided missile destroyers to be built under Project 15-B Class.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A major fire broke out at an under-construction warship of the Navy at Mazgaon Dockyard in Mumbai on Friday evening. One contract worker succumbed to his injuries, while another has sustained minor burns.

A major fire broke out at an under-construction warship of the Navy at Mazgaon Dockyard in Mumbai on Friday evening. One contract worker succumbed to his injuries, while another has sustained minor burns. The fire took place on Yard 12704 (Visakhapatnam), the first class of Project 15 B during operations in tank at MDL. The fire which broke out at around 5:44 pm was brought under control by 7 pm. About eight fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the fire which did not spread to any other deck except for the second and the third. The authorities have launched an enquiry to ascertain the cause of the fire. "Under-construction warship 'Visakhapatnam' caught fire at 5.44 pm. The blaze erupted on the second deck of the ship," said P S Rahangdale, the chief of city fire brigade. Eight fire-fighting engines, along with quick-response vehicle, have been pressed into service to extinguish the blaze, he said. "Fire is confined to second and third deck of the warship. Fire-fighting operation is underway along with Dockyard fire-fighters. Smoke has spread in the warship," Rahangdale said. "The cause of the fire will be ascertained after a proper inquiry, but the first priority is to douse the fire with a minimum loss," another fire brigade official said. Mazgaon Dockyard is the only facility in India having the capability to build submarines. Visakhapatnam, the largest warship of its class, was unveiled for construction in Mazgaon Docks in April 2015. It is the first of the four stealth guided missile destroyers to be built under Project 15-B Class. (With inputs from agencies)

Fire breaks out at under-construction Navy warship in Mumbai, 1 dead

The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu, which is facing a water crisis, but the latter has declined it, saying there was "no need for the help at present."

"Since the major water bodies of Chennai has been facing acute water shortage, the Kerala government decided to extend a helping hand," a release issued from the Kerala Chief Minister's office said.

Though chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan's office contacted the Tamil Nadu CMO on the offer, the neighbouring state informed that "at present, there is no need for the help, it said.

Kerala was prepared to transport 20 lakh litres of drinking water from Thiruvananthapuram to Chennai through train, the release added.

Tamil Nadu Municipal Administration minister S P Velumani told reporters in Coimbatore in that deficiency in some groundwater conservation projects were identified at various places, including Chennai, and were being attended to.

He said Tamil Nadu was facing the worst-ever drought. Rains were expected in a few days, he said.

As far as Chennai was concerned, he said there was depletion of groundwater as the city had witnessed rains 190 days ago.

Water was being supplied through lorries and borewells are being dug wherever the water problem prevails, he added.

The Tamil Nadu government has said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet requirements till the onset of the northeast monsoon in October.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami has said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media.

The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu, which is facing a water crisis, but the latter has declined it, saying there was "no need for the help at present.

The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu, which is facing a water crisis, but the latter has declined it, saying there was "no need for the help at present." "Since the major water bodies of Chennai has been facing acute water shortage, the Kerala government decided to extend a helping hand," a release issued from the Kerala Chief Minister's office said. Though chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan's office contacted the Tamil Nadu CMO on the offer, the neighbouring state informed that "at present, there is no need for the help, it said. Kerala was prepared to transport 20 lakh litres of drinking water from Thiruvananthapuram to Chennai through train, the release added. Tamil Nadu Municipal Administration minister S P Velumani told reporters in Coimbatore in that deficiency in some groundwater conservation projects were identified at various places, including Chennai, and were being attended to. He said Tamil Nadu was facing the worst-ever drought. Rains were expected in a few days, he said. As far as Chennai was concerned, he said there was depletion of groundwater as the city had witnessed rains 190 days ago. Water was being supplied through lorries and borewells are being dug wherever the water problem prevails, he added. The Tamil Nadu government has said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet requirements till the onset of the northeast monsoon in October. Chief Minister K Palaniswami has said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media.

Tamil Nadu rejects Kerala's offer of 20 lakh litres drinking water

After a 4-year-old boy who was found positive for the Japanese Encephalitis died at the Jagdalpur Medical College in Chhattisgarh's Bastar on Thursday, the government issued orders for making necessary arrangements and providing proper treatment to patients at all health centre's spread across the district.

One child was found positive for the "Japanese Encephalitis" at Jagdalpur Medical College, Dimrapal where three children suffering from fever were admitted.

"After test, it was found that one child is positive for JE while 2 are found negative," said the press release.

The child was suffering from fever since June 10 and was brought for treatment at the community health centre at Bastar.

However, he was referred to Medical College Dimrapal after his condition showed no improvement on June 18.

He&nbsp;died on June 20 during treatment at the hospital.

Following which 88 persons including 18 who had come in contact with the child were tested for the Japanese Encephalitis but were not found positive, informed the press release from Chhattisgarh government.

The deadly disease originates from pigs and spreads to humans, mostly children, through mosquitoes.&nbsp;

Symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis include fever, nausea and fatigue.

On the other hand, Acute Encephalitis Syndrome so far has claimed the lives of 122 children in Bihar.

As per the data, a total of 101 deaths were reported at government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital while 20 children died at Kejriwal hospital in the Muzaffarpur due to the vector-borne disease today.&nbsp;

After a 4-year-old boy who was found positive for the Japanese Encephalitis died at the Jagdalpur Medical College in Chhattisgarh's Bastar on Thursday, the government issued orders for making necessary arrangements and providing proper treatment to patients at all health centre's spread across the district.

After a 4-year-old boy who was found positive for the Japanese Encephalitis died at the Jagdalpur Medical College in Chhattisgarh's Bastar on Thursday, the government issued orders for making necessary arrangements and providing proper treatment to patients at all health centre's spread across the district. One child was found positive for the "Japanese Encephalitis" at Jagdalpur Medical College, Dimrapal where three children suffering from fever were admitted. "After test, it was found that one child is positive for JE while 2 are found negative," said the press release. The child was suffering from fever since June 10 and was brought for treatment at the community health centre at Bastar. However, he was referred to Medical College Dimrapal after his condition showed no improvement on June 18. He died on June 20 during treatment at the hospital. Following which 88 persons including 18 who had come in contact with the child were tested for the Japanese Encephalitis but were not found positive, informed the press release from Chhattisgarh government. The deadly disease originates from pigs and spreads to humans, mostly children, through mosquitoes. Symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis include fever, nausea and fatigue. On the other hand, Acute Encephalitis Syndrome so far has claimed the lives of 122 children in Bihar. As per the data, a total of 101 deaths were reported at government-run Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital while 20 children died at Kejriwal hospital in the Muzaffarpur due to the vector-borne disease today.

Chhattisgarh: Government orders 'necessary arrangements' after 4-yr-old dies of Japanese Encephalitis

On the 5th International Yoga Day on Friday, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in an early morning yoga session at Rajpath here and said that yoga was one of the biggest achievements of cultural diplomacy by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-for-heart-care-this-years-theme-pm-modi-in-ranchi-229057">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>.

"It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who helped get Yoga international recognition. This was one of the biggest achievements of his cultural diplomacy," Rajnath said here after attending the yoga session along with a large number of people.

The Union Minister also took to Twitter to say: "I urge everyone to make Yoga an integral part of their lives."

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On <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaDay2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaDay2019</a> I urge everyone to make Yoga an integral part of their lives. Join us live from Rajpath, New Delhi on my YouTube channel : <a href="https://t.co/XkgAaG7Ekf">https://t.co/XkgAaG7Ekf</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1141885605699149824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Yoga Day in Jharkhand's capital Ranchi, Union Ministers, BJP leaders and top government functionaries are participating in similar events across the country.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar performed Yoga in Rohtak.

Newly-elected Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla took part in an event on the premises of the Parliament House complex along with parliamentarians and parliament staff.

BJP working president JP Nadda also performed yoga, along with other party leaders and workers at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay park near the party's headquarters here.

On the 5th International Yoga Day on Friday, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in an early morning yoga session at Rajpath here and said that yoga was one of the biggest achievements of cultural diplomacy by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On the 5th International Yoga Day on Friday, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participated in an early morning yoga session at Rajpath here and said that yoga was one of the biggest achievements of cultural diplomacy by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "It was Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who helped get Yoga international recognition. This was one of the biggest achievements of his cultural diplomacy," Rajnath said here after attending the yoga session along with a large number of people. The Union Minister also took to Twitter to say: "I urge everyone to make Yoga an integral part of their lives." On #YogaDay2019 I urge everyone to make Yoga an integral part of their lives. Join us live from Rajpath, New Delhi on my YouTube channel : https://t.co/XkgAaG7Ekf — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 21, 2019 × While Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Yoga Day in Jharkhand's capital Ranchi, Union Ministers, BJP leaders and top government functionaries are participating in similar events across the country. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar performed Yoga in Rohtak. Newly-elected Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla took part in an event on the premises of the Parliament House complex along with parliamentarians and parliament staff. BJP working president JP Nadda also performed yoga, along with other party leaders and workers at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay park near the party's headquarters here.

PM Modi helped get yoga international recognition: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-has-no-plans-to-cap-h-1b-work-visa-program-state-department-229065">US has no plans to cap H-1B work visa programme: State Department</a>

The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-hard-to-believe-iranian-shooting-down-of-us-drone-was-intentional-229050">Trump says hard to believe Iranian shooting down of US drone was intentional</a>

US President Donald Trump played down Iran's downing of a US military surveillance drone on Thursday, saying he suspected it was shot by mistake and "it would have made a big difference" to him had the remotely controlled aircraft been piloted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-for-heart-care-this-years-theme-pm-modi-in-ranchi-229057">Yoga for 'heart care' this year's theme: PM Modi in Ranchi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that ''yoga for heart care'' will be the theme for this year and that world is accepting yoga practices.

Modi addressed around 30,000 people at Prabhat Tara ground in Ranchi on the occasion of International Day of Yoga.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-kim-say-boosting-china-north-korea-ties-good-for-regional-peace-report-229051">Xi, Kim say boosting China-North Korea ties good for regional peace: Report</a>

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed that amid "serious and complicated" international affairs strengthening bilateral ties was good for both countries and regional peace, North Korean state media KCNA said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-india-visit-pompeo-makes-congratulatory-call-to-jaishankar-229056">Ahead of India visit, Pompeo makes congratulatory call to Jaishankar&nbsp;</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Thursday spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and underscored the Trump administration's strong commitment to work closely with India to advance the bilateral strategic partnership, a top official has said.

US has no plans to cap H-1B work visa programme: State Department The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday.

US has no plans to cap H-1B work visa programme: State Department The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday. Trump says hard to believe Iranian shooting down of US drone was intentional US President Donald Trump played down Iran's downing of a US military surveillance drone on Thursday, saying he suspected it was shot by mistake and "it would have made a big difference" to him had the remotely controlled aircraft been piloted. Yoga for 'heart care' this year's theme: PM Modi in Ranchi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that ''yoga for heart care'' will be the theme for this year and that world is accepting yoga practices. Modi addressed around 30,000 people at Prabhat Tara ground in Ranchi on the occasion of International Day of Yoga. Xi, Kim say boosting China-North Korea ties good for regional peace: Report North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed that amid "serious and complicated" international affairs strengthening bilateral ties was good for both countries and regional peace, North Korean state media KCNA said on Friday. Ahead of India visit, Pompeo makes congratulatory call to Jaishankar US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Thursday spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and underscored the Trump administration's strong commitment to work closely with India to advance the bilateral strategic partnership, a top official has said.

News brief: Big stories of the day

PM Modi completes his yoga from Ranchi for today. He departs from the ground where he performed Yoga.Watch this video to know more.

International Yoga Day: 2019: PM Modi departs from Yoga ground of Ranchi

Know the importance of Yoga in your daily life. Watch how India and World performed on this day.

5th International Yoga Day: World Marks International Yoga Day 2019

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Thursday issued elaborate instructions to deal with the intense heat wave conditions in the state which has claimed more than 100 lives so far.

According to the control room set up by the state's disaster management department, 101 people have died due to heat stroke and the casualties have been spread across three districts of Aurangabad, Gaya and Nawada.

At 58, Aurangabad has reported the highest number of casualties, followed by Gaya (39) and Nawada (14), the control room said.

After recording a maximum temperature of 40.4 degrees, Gaya received light rainfall bringing respite to the people. The weather department has forecast "overcast sky and thundershowers" for Friday.

However, residents of the state capital, which simmered at 40.2 degrees, are unlikely to get any relief as heat wave is likely to persist over the next 24 hours, the Met office said.

At the meeting held at ANMCH hospital in Gaya, the chief minister instructed the officials to ensure that those admitted upon suffering a heat stroke were provided with the best possible treatment and awareness was spread for prevention.

He also directed administrative officials of Gaya, Nawada and Aurangabad, who were present at the meeting, to ensure that ex gratia was paid at the earliest to the family members of those who have lost their lives.

A presentation was also made before Kumar, apprising him of the health care arrangements in the three districts affected by intense heat wave.

Deliberations were also held on prevention of encephalitis, of which the state has witnessed a massive outbreak, resulting in deaths of more than 130 children.&nbsp;

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Thursday issued elaborate instructions to deal with the intense heat wave conditions in the state which has claimed more than 100 lives so far.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Thursday issued elaborate instructions to deal with the intense heat wave conditions in the state which has claimed more than 100 lives so far. According to the control room set up by the state's disaster management department, 101 people have died due to heat stroke and the casualties have been spread across three districts of Aurangabad, Gaya and Nawada. At 58, Aurangabad has reported the highest number of casualties, followed by Gaya (39) and Nawada (14), the control room said. After recording a maximum temperature of 40.4 degrees, Gaya received light rainfall bringing respite to the people. The weather department has forecast "overcast sky and thundershowers" for Friday. However, residents of the state capital, which simmered at 40.2 degrees, are unlikely to get any relief as heat wave is likely to persist over the next 24 hours, the Met office said. At the meeting held at ANMCH hospital in Gaya, the chief minister instructed the officials to ensure that those admitted upon suffering a heat stroke were provided with the best possible treatment and awareness was spread for prevention. He also directed administrative officials of Gaya, Nawada and Aurangabad, who were present at the meeting, to ensure that ex gratia was paid at the earliest to the family members of those who have lost their lives. A presentation was also made before Kumar, apprising him of the health care arrangements in the three districts affected by intense heat wave. Deliberations were also held on prevention of encephalitis, of which the state has witnessed a massive outbreak, resulting in deaths of more than 130 children.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar meets officials as heat wave claims over 100 lives

The Trump administration has no plans to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-tells-india-it-is-considering-caps-on-h-1b-visas-to-deter-data-rules-sources-228844">cap H-1B work visas</a> for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday.

Reports suggested on Thursday&nbsp;that the United States had told India it was considering restricting the H-1B visa programmes for countries with the data storage requirement. The H-1B programme issues US&nbsp;visas to skilled foreign workers.

"The Trump Administration has no plans to place caps on H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally," a State Department spokeswoman said in a statement in response to the Reuters article.

While an administration's "Buy American Hire American" executive order calls for a broad review of US worker visa programs, including the H-1B programme, it was not targeted at a specific country, the spokeswoman said.

It is "completely separate from our ongoing discussions with India about the importance of ensuring the free flow of data across borders," the spokeswoman added.

Earlier on Thursday, India said it was in talks with the United States on H-1B visas, but foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar told a news conference: "We have not heard anything officially from the US government" on capping such permits for Indians.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to visit New Delhi next week for talks that will include areas of disagreement between the two countries over trade.

Two senior Indian officials told Reuters on Wednesday they had been briefed last week on a US plan to cap the number of H-1B visas given annually to Indians at between 10% and 15% of the total number issued.

There is no country-specific limit on the 85,000 H-1B work visas the United States issues every year, and an estimated 70% of them go to Indians.

The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday.

The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday. Reports suggested on Thursday that the United States had told India it was considering restricting the H-1B visa programmes for countries with the data storage requirement. The H-1B programme issues US visas to skilled foreign workers. "The Trump Administration has no plans to place caps on H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally," a State Department spokeswoman said in a statement in response to the Reuters article. While an administration's "Buy American Hire American" executive order calls for a broad review of US worker visa programs, including the H-1B programme, it was not targeted at a specific country, the spokeswoman said. It is "completely separate from our ongoing discussions with India about the importance of ensuring the free flow of data across borders," the spokeswoman added. Earlier on Thursday, India said it was in talks with the United States on H-1B visas, but foreign ministry spokesman Raveesh Kumar told a news conference: "We have not heard anything officially from the US government" on capping such permits for Indians. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is scheduled to visit New Delhi next week for talks that will include areas of disagreement between the two countries over trade. Two senior Indian officials told Reuters on Wednesday they had been briefed last week on a US plan to cap the number of H-1B visas given annually to Indians at between 10% and 15% of the total number issued. There is no country-specific limit on the 85,000 H-1B work visas the United States issues every year, and an estimated 70% of them go to Indians.

US has no plans to cap H-1B work visa programme: State Department

On the occasion of fifth International Yoga Day, Yoga guru Baba Ramdev on Friday performed yoga here along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his followers.

Thousands of people participated in the event and performed various yoga asanas. Fadnavis was also seen following various yoga postures.

Ramdev's organisation Patanjali has today organized programs in one lakh villages across India.

The theme of 5th International Yoga Day 2019 is "Climate Action".

The word "Yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root 'yuj' meaning "to join", "to yoke" or "to unite". Yoga is based on an extremely subtle science which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. Yoga works on one's body, mind, emotion and energy.

The main Yoga Day was&nbsp;being held in Jharkhand's Ranchi where Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-for-heart-care-this-years-theme-pm-modi-in-ranchi-229057">Narendra Modi performed Yoga</a> along with the other participants.

Around&nbsp;30,000 people participated&nbsp;in the event, for which security was beefed up across the city.

Several departments of the defence are conducting Yoga programmes on the fifth international yoga day. The striking yogic poses have now become a norm amongst the defence personnel in India.

Personnel of 9th Battalion of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) also performed 'River Yoga' in Digaru river near Teju, Lohitpur this morning.

In the United Nation, Yoga day was celebrated on Thursday that would be followed by a panel of discussion today.

On the occasion of fifth International Yoga Day, Yoga guru Baba Ramdev on Friday performed yoga here along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his followers.

On the occasion of fifth International Yoga Day, Yoga guru Baba Ramdev on Friday performed yoga here along with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his followers. Thousands of people participated in the event and performed various yoga asanas. Fadnavis was also seen following various yoga postures. Ramdev's organisation Patanjali has today organized programs in one lakh villages across India. The theme of 5th International Yoga Day 2019 is "Climate Action". The word "Yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit root 'yuj' meaning "to join", "to yoke" or "to unite". Yoga is based on an extremely subtle science which focuses on bringing harmony between mind and body. Yoga works on one's body, mind, emotion and energy. The main Yoga Day was being held in Jharkhand's Ranchi where Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed Yoga along with the other participants. Around 30,000 people participated in the event, for which security was beefed up across the city. Several departments of the defence are conducting Yoga programmes on the fifth international yoga day. The striking yogic poses have now become a norm amongst the defence personnel in India. Personnel of 9th Battalion of Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) also performed 'River Yoga' in Digaru river near Teju, Lohitpur this morning. In the United Nation, Yoga day was celebrated on Thursday that would be followed by a panel of discussion today.

Maharashtra: Baba Ramdev, CM Fadnavis perform yoga on 5th International Yoga Day

The death toll in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-25-killed-in-bus-accident-in-kullu-himachal-pradesh-229003">bus accident in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh</a> has risen to 44 while over 30 have suffered injuries in the incident.

"It seems that the bus was overloaded. Rescue operations will continue tomorrow as well. Chief Minister will be visiting tomorrow. A magisterial investigation into the incident has been ordered," Himachal Pradesh Transport Minister, Govind Singh Thakur, said on Thursday while speaking to media persons here.

The chief minister has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident, the official said, adding that Thakur also asked the administration to provide best possible medicare to the injured passengers.

The bus carrying around 50 passengers fell into the over 300-metre-deep nullah near the Dhoth Morh in Banjar tehsil of the district, Kullu Superintendent of Police Shalini Agnihotri said, adding the vehicle was en route Gada Gushaini.

The Kullu district administration announced an immediate relief of Rs 50,000 to the kin of each of the deceased and the injured.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.

"Deeply saddened by the bus accident in Kullu. Condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. I hope the injured recover soon. The Himachal Pradesh Government is providing all possible assistance that is required," said Prime Minister Modi on the official twitter handle of PMO India.

(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll in the bus accident in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh has risen to 44 while over 30 have suffered injuries in the incident. "It seems that the bus was overloaded.

The death toll in the bus accident in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh has risen to 44 while over 30 have suffered injuries in the incident. "It seems that the bus was overloaded. Rescue operations will continue tomorrow as well. Chief Minister will be visiting tomorrow. A magisterial investigation into the incident has been ordered," Himachal Pradesh Transport Minister, Govind Singh Thakur, said on Thursday while speaking to media persons here. The chief minister has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident, the official said, adding that Thakur also asked the administration to provide best possible medicare to the injured passengers. The bus carrying around 50 passengers fell into the over 300-metre-deep nullah near the Dhoth Morh in Banjar tehsil of the district, Kullu Superintendent of Police Shalini Agnihotri said, adding the vehicle was en route Gada Gushaini. The Kullu district administration announced an immediate relief of Rs 50,000 to the kin of each of the deceased and the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident. "Deeply saddened by the bus accident in Kullu. Condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. I hope the injured recover soon. The Himachal Pradesh Government is providing all possible assistance that is required," said Prime Minister Modi on the official twitter handle of PMO India. (With inputs from agencies)

Death toll rises to 44 in bus accident in Himachal Pradesh, over 30 injured

In this video Watch PM Modi performing Yoga on 5th International Yoga Day at Ranchi.

International Yoga Day 2019: PM Modi performs Yoga along with public at Ranchi

The G20 summit is scheduled for June 28 and 29 in Osaka, Japan. This will be PM Modi's sixth appearance&nbsp;in the G20.

Head of the summit, India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-g20-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-expresses-concern-over-citizenship-by-investment-scheme-for-economic-offenders-225812">G20</a> Sherpa Suresh Prabhu spoke exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal on what will be India's focus areas. Sherpa is a person who leads negotiations at multilateral groupings on behalf of a country.

Speaking to WION, Prabhu said climate change, energy and environment will be India's major highlight in the summit. Besides this, the summit will also discuss on ensuring no safe havens to the economic offenders and holders of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-black-money-battle-how-india-plans-to-nab-economic-offenders-204394">black money</a>.

Suresh Prabhu said, "We are keen that the economic offenders and those who are the perpetrators of economic crime, holders of black money should be brought to book. Those are running away from India should be brought back and no country should provide them shelter."

"We are very keen, economic growth should happen on a faster basis, and support should come from all global community. Climate change, energy, environment are very important issues. Global community should join to create a world-class infrastructure that should be quality in nature. So we are working on all these issues, " he added.

Answering a question on protectionism, Prabhu said global trade should be free from any restrictions and added that multilateral should be followed with respect to World Trade Organisation.

"India is of the strong view that global trade should be free from any restrictions. Multilateral should prevail, it should happen under WTO. Reforming WTO is necessary but it should happen in a way that all the countries in the world should have the right to decide. WTO should be forum for growth, equity and inclusiveness," he added.

The G20 summit is scheduled for June 28 and 29 in Osaka, Japan. This will be PM Modi's sixth appearance in the G20. Head of the summit, India's G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu spoke exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal on what will be India's focus areas.

The G20 summit is scheduled for June 28 and 29 in Osaka, Japan. This will be PM Modi's sixth appearance in the G20. Head of the summit, India's G20 Sherpa Suresh Prabhu spoke exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal on what will be India's focus areas. Sherpa is a person who leads negotiations at multilateral groupings on behalf of a country. Speaking to WION, Prabhu said climate change, energy and environment will be India's major highlight in the summit. Besides this, the summit will also discuss on ensuring no safe havens to the economic offenders and holders of black money. Suresh Prabhu said, "We are keen that the economic offenders and those who are the perpetrators of economic crime, holders of black money should be brought to book. Those are running away from India should be brought back and no country should provide them shelter." "We are very keen, economic growth should happen on a faster basis, and support should come from all global community. Climate change, energy, environment are very important issues. Global community should join to create a world-class infrastructure that should be quality in nature. So we are working on all these issues, " he added. Answering a question on protectionism, Prabhu said global trade should be free from any restrictions and added that multilateral should be followed with respect to World Trade Organisation. "India is of the strong view that global trade should be free from any restrictions. Multilateral should prevail, it should happen under WTO. Reforming WTO is necessary but it should happen in a way that all the countries in the world should have the right to decide. WTO should be forum for growth, equity and inclusiveness," he added.

No country should provide shelter to economic offenders: India's G20 Sherpa to WION

Today is 5th International Yoga Day, PM Modi Leads on Yoga Day from Ranchi. Watch this video to listen to him.

International Yoga Day 2019: PM Modi Leads on 5th International Yoga Day From Ranchi

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Thursday spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and underscored the Trump administration's strong commitment to work closely with India to advance the bilateral strategic partnership, a top official has said.

Pompeo, who will be visiting India from June 25-27, spoke with Jaishankar to congratulate the External Affairs Minister on his appointment, State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said.

The congratulatory call from Pompeo comes nearly three weeks after Jaishankar was appointed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as his External Affairs Minister.

"Pompeo underscored the strong US commitment to working closely with the new Indian Government to advance our strategic partnership," Ortagus said in a readout of the call, which took a long time ? possibly the longest in at least a decade.

"Secretary Pompeo and Minister Jaishankar also discussed shared US and Indian objectives in safeguarding a free and open Indo-Pacific, US India security cooperation, and the US-India economic partnership," Ortagus said.

Pompeo's visit to India will be the first high-level engagement between the two countries since the general election.

Earlier, Pompeo said his upcoming visit to New Delhi will be focused on advancing America's "incredibly important" ties with India which is a significant part of President Donald Trump's strategy to advance the shared goal of a "free and open" Indo-Pacific region, where China is flexing its muscles.

India, the US and several other world powers have been talking about the need to ensure a free, open and thriving Indo-Pacific in the backdrop of China's rising military maneuvering in the region.

China has been trying to expand its military presence in the Indo-Pacific, which is a biogeographic region, comprising the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea.

China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the sea.

China has expanded through reclamation or built entirely new man-made islands atop coral reefs and has equipped many of them with military installations and airfields.

Prime Minister Modi during his recent visit to the Maldives underscored India's firm commitment to make the strategic Indo-Pacific an area for shared economic growth, saying it has been "our lifeline, and also the highway for trade and prosperity."&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Thursday spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and underscored the Trump administration's strong commitment to work closely with India to advance the bilateral strategic partnership, a top official has said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Thursday spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and underscored the Trump administration's strong commitment to work closely with India to advance the bilateral strategic partnership, a top official has said. Pompeo, who will be visiting India from June 25-27, spoke with Jaishankar to congratulate the External Affairs Minister on his appointment, State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus said. The congratulatory call from Pompeo comes nearly three weeks after Jaishankar was appointed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as his External Affairs Minister. "Pompeo underscored the strong US commitment to working closely with the new Indian Government to advance our strategic partnership," Ortagus said in a readout of the call, which took a long time ? possibly the longest in at least a decade. "Secretary Pompeo and Minister Jaishankar also discussed shared US and Indian objectives in safeguarding a free and open Indo-Pacific, US India security cooperation, and the US-India economic partnership," Ortagus said. Pompeo's visit to India will be the first high-level engagement between the two countries since the general election. Earlier, Pompeo said his upcoming visit to New Delhi will be focused on advancing America's "incredibly important" ties with India which is a significant part of President Donald Trump's strategy to advance the shared goal of a "free and open" Indo-Pacific region, where China is flexing its muscles. India, the US and several other world powers have been talking about the need to ensure a free, open and thriving Indo-Pacific in the backdrop of China's rising military maneuvering in the region. China has been trying to expand its military presence in the Indo-Pacific, which is a biogeographic region, comprising the Indian Ocean and the western and central Pacific Ocean, including the South China Sea. China claims almost all of the South China Sea. Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have counter claims over the sea. China has expanded through reclamation or built entirely new man-made islands atop coral reefs and has equipped many of them with military installations and airfields. Prime Minister Modi during his recent visit to the Maldives underscored India's firm commitment to make the strategic Indo-Pacific an area for shared economic growth, saying it has been "our lifeline, and also the highway for trade and prosperity."

Ahead of India visit, Pompeo makes congratulatory call to Jaishankar 

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