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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a dinner for all the Members of Parliament on Thursday.

The dinner will take place at Ashoka Hotel in the national capital, sources said.

The invitation was extended by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi to all members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

It will be the first time that the Prime Minister will be meeting all the MPs after the new government was formed last month.

Meanwhile, Modi will chair a meeting of the presidents of all political parties today to discuss the idea of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-mamata-stalin-and-chandrababu-naidu-decide-to-skip-pm-modis-one-nation-one-election-meeting-today-228537">'One Country, One Election'</a> along with other issues of national importance in both the Houses of Parliament.

During the all-party meet on Sunday, ahead of the start of the 17th Lok&nbsp;Sabha, the Prime Minister had urged all leaders to keep their political differences aside.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a dinner for all the Members of Parliament on Thursday. The dinner will take place at Ashoka Hotel in the national capital, sources said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host a dinner for all the Members of Parliament on Thursday. The dinner will take place at Ashoka Hotel in the national capital, sources said. The invitation was extended by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi to all members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. It will be the first time that the Prime Minister will be meeting all the MPs after the new government was formed last month. Meanwhile, Modi will chair a meeting of the presidents of all political parties today to discuss the idea of 'One Country, One Election' along with other issues of national importance in both the Houses of Parliament. During the all-party meet on Sunday, ahead of the start of the 17th Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister had urged all leaders to keep their political differences aside.

PM Modi to host dinner for all MPs tomorrow

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/om-birla-from-grassroots-politician-to-lok-sabha-speaker-228583">NDA candidate Om Birla</a> on Wednesday becomes the Speaker of the 17th Lok Sabha after PM Narendra Modi moves the motion for his election in Parliament.

Birla's candidature was backed by all NDA allies as also by the YSR Congress Party, the Biju Janata Dal and key opposition parties, including the Congress.&nbsp;

Birla, 57, is a two-term Lok Sabha Member of Parliament. He won from Rajasthan’s Kota-Bundi seat in the just concluded general election&nbsp;where he defeated Congress' Ramnarain Meena by over 2.5 lakh votes.

<img alt="Om Birla" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="15871be6-2ddc-4d45-a26f-e97212842de1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Om-Sumitra.jpg" />

Former Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan garlands BJP MP from Kota Lok Sabha constituency Om Birla during a meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday. (ANI Photo)

Birla was also a Member of Assembly in Rajasthan for three terms and was a parliamentary secretary in the government of Vasundhara Raje between 2003-08.

Birla had the support of 10 parties including BJD and YSRCP which are not part of the NDA. The BJP on its own has 303 MPs and the NDA has 352.

NDA candidate Om Birla on Wednesday becomes the Speaker of the 17th Lok Sabha after PM Narendra Modi moves the motion for his election in Parliament. Birla's candidature was backed by all NDA allies as also by the YSR Congress Party, the Biju Janata Dal and key opposition parties, including the Congress.

NDA candidate Om Birla on Wednesday becomes the Speaker of the 17th Lok Sabha after PM Narendra Modi moves the motion for his election in Parliament. Birla's candidature was backed by all NDA allies as also by the YSR Congress Party, the Biju Janata Dal and key opposition parties, including the Congress. Birla, 57, is a two-term Lok Sabha Member of Parliament. He won from Rajasthan’s Kota-Bundi seat in the just concluded general election where he defeated Congress' Ramnarain Meena by over 2.5 lakh votes. Former Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan garlands BJP MP from Kota Lok Sabha constituency Om Birla during a meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday. (ANI Photo) Birla was also a Member of Assembly in Rajasthan for three terms and was a parliamentary secretary in the government of Vasundhara Raje between 2003-08. Birla had the support of 10 parties including BJD and YSRCP which are not part of the NDA. The BJP on its own has 303 MPs and the NDA has 352.

Om Birla, two-time BJP MP from Rajasthan, becomes Speaker of 17th Lok Sabha

Have you been hearing the words ‘simultaneous elections’ often these days? That’s because there is a proposal to conduct the elections to the Lok Sabha and a State assemblies at the same time.

India Watch: Will simultaneous polls reduce cost?

Security forces engaged in counter-insurgency operations in Assam want the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act or AFSPA to remain in force in the entire state for at least one more year.

India Watch: Will govt extend AFSPA in Assam?

The government will form a committee to study the feasibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "One Nation, One Election", Union Minister Rajnath Singh said after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's all-party meeting today. Most parties, he said, had supported the idea.

India Watch: PM Modi makes 'One Nation One Election' push

India Watch: The case for 'One Nation One Election'

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/om-birla-two-time-bjp-mp-from-rajasthan-becomes-speaker-of-17th-lok-sabha-228575">new Lok Sabha speaker, Om Birla</a>, a two-time BJP MP from Rajasthan, is a relative newcomer for the post traditionally held by seniors.

A surprise pick by the ruling BJP-led NDA, Birla's name was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself for the post, sources said. The 56-year-old leader is considered to be close to both Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah.

Birla's nomination for the Lok Sabha speaker's post also has the backing of non-NDA parties such as the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Starting his political journey as a student leader, Birla was also elected to the Rajasthan Assembly for three consecutive terms in 2003, 2008 and 2013.

He won his first Lok Sabha election in 2014 and was again elected this year from Rajasthan's Kota-Bundi seat. Birla defeated Congress's Ramnarayan Meena with a margin of over 2.5 lakh votes in the recently-concluded general election.

A conscientious parliamentarian, Birla has registered an 86-per cent average attendance in the House, asked 671 questions, participated in 163 debates and introduced six private members' bills in the 16th Lok Sabha.

From 1991 to 2003, he was a key leader in the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) as a state-level president first and then, as a vice-president&nbsp; 
at the national level.

Birla, who holds a Masters degree in commerce, is a member of the Standing Committee on Energy in Parliament, the Committee on Petitions and the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.

He succeeds eight-time MP Sumitra Mahajan as the Lok Sabha speaker, a post traditionally held by senior MPs.

However, this is not the first time that a relative newcomer has occupied the position. In 1996, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader G M C Balayogi, also a two-time MP then, was elected as the speaker in the Lower House of Parliament.

After his death in a helicopter crash in 2002, Shiv Sena leader and first-time MP Manohar Joshi was appointed to the position.&nbsp;

The new Lok Sabha speaker, Om Birla, a two-time BJP MP from Rajasthan, is a relative newcomer for the post traditionally held by seniors. A surprise pick by the ruling BJP-led NDA, Birla's name was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself for the post, sources said.

The new Lok Sabha speaker, Om Birla, a two-time BJP MP from Rajasthan, is a relative newcomer for the post traditionally held by seniors. A surprise pick by the ruling BJP-led NDA, Birla's name was proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself for the post, sources said. The 56-year-old leader is considered to be close to both Modi and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah. Birla's nomination for the Lok Sabha speaker's post also has the backing of non-NDA parties such as the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) and the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). Starting his political journey as a student leader, Birla was also elected to the Rajasthan Assembly for three consecutive terms in 2003, 2008 and 2013. He won his first Lok Sabha election in 2014 and was again elected this year from Rajasthan's Kota-Bundi seat. Birla defeated Congress's Ramnarayan Meena with a margin of over 2.5 lakh votes in the recently-concluded general election. A conscientious parliamentarian, Birla has registered an 86-per cent average attendance in the House, asked 671 questions, participated in 163 debates and introduced six private members' bills in the 16th Lok Sabha. From 1991 to 2003, he was a key leader in the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) as a state-level president first and then, as a vice-president at the national level. Birla, who holds a Masters degree in commerce, is a member of the Standing Committee on Energy in Parliament, the Committee on Petitions and the Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. He succeeds eight-time MP Sumitra Mahajan as the Lok Sabha speaker, a post traditionally held by senior MPs. However, this is not the first time that a relative newcomer has occupied the position. In 1996, Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader G M C Balayogi, also a two-time MP then, was elected as the speaker in the Lower House of Parliament. After his death in a helicopter crash in 2002, Shiv Sena leader and first-time MP Manohar Joshi was appointed to the position.

Om Birla: From grassroots politician to Lok Sabha speaker

The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear a plea 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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-encephalitis-deaths-odisha-government-orders-laboratory-test-of-litchi-228533">Acute Encephalitis Syndrome</a> (AES), which has claimed more than 100 lives.

A vacation bench of justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant agreed to hear the plea next Monday after the petitioner's counsel sought an urgent listing of the matter.

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.

The petition filed by advocate Manohar Pratap claimed that he was deeply pained and saddened by the deaths of more than 100 children, mostly in the age group of one to 10 years, in the past week and the figures were rising day by day.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Odisha government&nbsp;has ordered laboratory test of litchi fruit that is being sold in the markets in the state.

''Encephalitis is spreading in Litchi growing areas of Bihar &amp; other parts of country. In view of this, Food Safety Commissioner has been directed to collect&amp;test sample of Litchi being sold in market to ascertain toxic contents,'' Department of Health and Family Welfare said.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear a plea 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 Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), which has claimed more than 100 lives.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday agreed to hear a plea 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 Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), which has claimed more than 100 lives. A vacation bench of justices Deepak Gupta and Surya Kant agreed to hear the plea next Monday after the petitioner's counsel sought an urgent listing of the matter. 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. The petition filed by advocate Manohar Pratap claimed that he was deeply pained and saddened by the deaths of more than 100 children, mostly in the age group of one to 10 years, in the past week and the figures were rising day by day. Meanwhile, the Odisha government has ordered laboratory test of litchi fruit that is being sold in the markets in the state. ''Encephalitis is spreading in Litchi growing areas of Bihar & other parts of country. In view of this, Food Safety Commissioner has been directed to collect&test sample of Litchi being sold in market to ascertain toxic contents,'' Department of Health and Family Welfare said.

Supreme Court to hear plea seeking formation of team for treatment of kids affected by Encephalitis in Bihar

Boost For Made-In-Weapons As Exports Soar. Rise in defence exports is a proof to India's efforts to become a major defence exporter. In fact, India's defence exports have doubled to nearly Rs. 11,000 cr. What led to the surge in export figures? Who are India's biggest customers? Palki explains

Gravitas: India's defence exports double to Rs 11,000 crore in a year

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted out wishes for Congress President Rahul Gandhi on his birthday.

''Best wishes to Shri @RahulGandhi on his birthday. May he be blessed with good health and a long life,'' PM Modi tweeted.

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Best wishes to Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulGandhi</a> on his birthday. May he be blessed with good health and a long life.
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Gandhi, who turned 49 today will meet Congress leaders at the party headquarters later in the day.&nbsp;

Yesterday, after Rahul Gandhi refused to take up the post,&nbsp;Member of Parliament from Baharampur Lok Sabha seat of West Bengal, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-names-adhir-ranjan-chowdhury-party-chief-in-lok-sabha-228280">named&nbsp;party chief in Lok Sabha</a>.

Gandhi-led Congress saw a humiliating defeat against PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the recently held general elections. Though, Gandhi won by 4,31,063 votes against&nbsp;his nearest rival Left Democratic Front (LDF)'s PP Suneer in&nbsp;Wayanad constituency.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted out wishes for Congress President Rahul Gandhi on his birthday. ''Best wishes to Shri @RahulGandhi on his birthday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday tweeted out wishes for Congress President Rahul Gandhi on his birthday. ''Best wishes to Shri @RahulGandhi on his birthday. May he be blessed with good health and a long life,'' PM Modi tweeted. Best wishes to Shri @RahulGandhi on his birthday. May he be blessed with good health and a long life. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2019 × Gandhi, who turned 49 today will meet Congress leaders at the party headquarters later in the day. Yesterday, after Rahul Gandhi refused to take up the post, Member of Parliament from Baharampur Lok Sabha seat of West Bengal, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, was named party chief in Lok Sabha. Gandhi-led Congress saw a humiliating defeat against PM Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the recently held general elections. Though, Gandhi won by 4,31,063 votes against his nearest rival Left Democratic Front (LDF)'s PP Suneer in Wayanad constituency.

PM Modi wishes Congress chief Rahul Gandhi on his birthday

Hitting back at Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy for accusing the BJP of attempting to bribe one of his party MLAs, the&nbsp;party's state chief B S Yeddyurappa Wednesday asked him to name those involved.

If the Chief Minister did not give out the names before levelling such allegations, it would be seen as though he was suspecting his own party MLAs, Yeddyurappa said.

Speaking to reporters here, he said the Chief Minister was making allegations against the BJP "out of desperation."

"We have said we are not involved in such things...18-20 Congress-JD(S) MLAs are disgruntled, take them into confidence and work unitedly towards the development of the state...

Still, 70 per cent of the state has not received any rains, there is severe drought, let's work together, as opposition we will also cooperate, is what we have said," he added.

"Unnecessarily by saying that someone from BJP offered Rs 10 crore to someone in JD(S), why are you bringing down the respect of your own members. What is the benefit from it?" Yeddyurappa asked.

Addressing a public meeting at a village in Ramanagara on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy had said relentless efforts have been made to pull down the government and he knew who have been behind it.

To back his claim, the chief minister said one of the JD(S) MLAs had received a call from a BJP leader on Monday, who said the government's fall was imminent and if he agreed (to switch sides), he would dispatch Rs 10 crore at his location.

Kumaraswamy, who did not reveal any names, said the BJP leader had also claimed that 10 MLAs from the ruling coalition were with them, and the government was going to fall.

After the rout in the Lok Sabha polls, the ruling coalition fears an onslaught by the BJP to destabilise the government by taking advantage of the simmering discontent.

The BJP and Yeddyurappa had earlier predicted the collapse of the coalition after the LS poll results, claiming that 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy and may take "a decision" anytime.

However, subsequently allaying fears that BJP was trying to weaken the JD(S)-Congress government in Karnataka, Yeddyurappa had said central leaders have asked the state unit not to indulge in any activity to "destabilise" the H D Kumaraswamy ministry.

Hitting back at Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy for accusing the BJP of attempting to bribe one of his party MLAs, the party's state chief B S Yeddyurappa Wednesday asked him to name those involved.

Hitting back at Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy for accusing the BJP of attempting to bribe one of his party MLAs, the party's state chief B S Yeddyurappa Wednesday asked him to name those involved. If the Chief Minister did not give out the names before levelling such allegations, it would be seen as though he was suspecting his own party MLAs, Yeddyurappa said. Speaking to reporters here, he said the Chief Minister was making allegations against the BJP "out of desperation." "We have said we are not involved in such things...18-20 Congress-JD(S) MLAs are disgruntled, take them into confidence and work unitedly towards the development of the state... Still, 70 per cent of the state has not received any rains, there is severe drought, let's work together, as opposition we will also cooperate, is what we have said," he added. "Unnecessarily by saying that someone from BJP offered Rs 10 crore to someone in JD(S), why are you bringing down the respect of your own members. What is the benefit from it?" Yeddyurappa asked. Addressing a public meeting at a village in Ramanagara on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy had said relentless efforts have been made to pull down the government and he knew who have been behind it. To back his claim, the chief minister said one of the JD(S) MLAs had received a call from a BJP leader on Monday, who said the government's fall was imminent and if he agreed (to switch sides), he would dispatch Rs 10 crore at his location. Kumaraswamy, who did not reveal any names, said the BJP leader had also claimed that 10 MLAs from the ruling coalition were with them, and the government was going to fall. After the rout in the Lok Sabha polls, the ruling coalition fears an onslaught by the BJP to destabilise the government by taking advantage of the simmering discontent. The BJP and Yeddyurappa had earlier predicted the collapse of the coalition after the LS poll results, claiming that 20 odd Congress MLAs were unhappy and may take "a decision" anytime. However, subsequently allaying fears that BJP was trying to weaken the JD(S)-Congress government in Karnataka, Yeddyurappa had said central leaders have asked the state unit not to indulge in any activity to "destabilise" the H D Kumaraswamy ministry.

Yeddyurappa hits back at Kumaraswamy over toppling bid charge

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday held a preparatory meeting for the upcoming G20 summit slated to be held in Osaka and Japan on June 28 and 29.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das attended the meeting.

Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Das said,&nbsp;"It was a Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) meeting.

We reviewed the current state of the economy, the overall macro-economic situation and global development.

"The RBI Governor further said that various budget-related suggestions and proposals were also discussed.

"Regulators and concerned secretaries of the government were present during the meeting," said Das.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday held a preparatory meeting for the upcoming G20 summit slated to be held in Osaka and Japan on June 28 and 29. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das attended the meeting.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday held a preparatory meeting for the upcoming G20 summit slated to be held in Osaka and Japan on June 28 and 29. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das attended the meeting. Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Das said, "It was a Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) meeting. We reviewed the current state of the economy, the overall macro-economic situation and global development. "The RBI Governor further said that various budget-related suggestions and proposals were also discussed. "Regulators and concerned secretaries of the government were present during the meeting," said Das.

Nirmala Sitharaman holds preparatory meeting for upcoming G20 summit

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday arrested two former executives in connection with its money laundering probe in the IL&amp;FS alleged financial irregularities case, officials said.

They said former joint MD of the company Arun K Saha and MD of transportation network K Ramchand were&nbsp;arrested late evening in Mumbai under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

These are the first arrests in this case by the Enforcement Directorate.

The two will he produced before a special PMLA court in Mumbai on Thursday, they said.

The central agency had filed a money laundering case in February this year and had twice raided a number of former executives in order to obtain additional evidence.

The debt crisis at the infrastructure lender came to light following a series of defaults by its group companies beginning September 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

IL&amp;FS has defaulted on payment of loans to SIDBI and along with its subsidiaries has a combined debt of over Rs91,000 crores.

The ED's case is based on an FIR filed before the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police in December last year.

Ashish Begwani, Director of Enso Infrastructures (P) Ltd, had filed the case against officials of IL&amp;FS Rail Ltd for allegedly causing Rs 70 crore loss to his company by fraudulent means.

Begwani had alleged in his complaint that in August 2010, he was approached by two officials of IL&amp;FS Transportation Networks Ltd and he had invested Rs 170 crore in IL&amp;FS Rail Ltd, a special purpose vehicle for Gurugram Metro project, in order to take its 15 per cent shares.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday arrested two former executives in connection with its money laundering probe in the IL&FS alleged financial irregularities case, officials said.

The Enforcement Directorate on Wednesday arrested two former executives in connection with its money laundering probe in the IL&FS alleged financial irregularities case, officials said. They said former joint MD of the company Arun K Saha and MD of transportation network K Ramchand were arrested late evening in Mumbai under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). These are the first arrests in this case by the Enforcement Directorate. The two will he produced before a special PMLA court in Mumbai on Thursday, they said. The central agency had filed a money laundering case in February this year and had twice raided a number of former executives in order to obtain additional evidence. The debt crisis at the infrastructure lender came to light following a series of defaults by its group companies beginning September 2018. IL&FS has defaulted on payment of loans to SIDBI and along with its subsidiaries has a combined debt of over Rs91,000 crores. The ED's case is based on an FIR filed before the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police in December last year. Ashish Begwani, Director of Enso Infrastructures (P) Ltd, had filed the case against officials of IL&FS Rail Ltd for allegedly causing Rs 70 crore loss to his company by fraudulent means. Begwani had alleged in his complaint that in August 2010, he was approached by two officials of IL&FS Transportation Networks Ltd and he had invested Rs 170 crore in IL&FS Rail Ltd, a special purpose vehicle for Gurugram Metro project, in order to take its 15 per cent shares.

Enforcement Directorate arrests two former IL&FS executives in PMLA probe

Watch India Watch, 19th June 2019. To know more watch the video

Watch India Watch, 19th June 2019

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan came under fire of trolls on social media on Wednesday as he shared an "inspirational" quote on Twitter.

The quote shared by Khan on Twitter read, "I slept and I dreamed that life is all joy. I woke and I saw that life is all service. I served and I saw that service is a joy."

"Those who discover and get to understand the wisdom of Gibran's words cited below, get to live a life of contentment," Khan wrote in the caption.

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Those who discover and get to understand the wisdom of Gibran's words, cited below, get to live a life of contentment. <a href="https://t.co/BdmIdqGxeL">pic.twitter.com/BdmIdqGxeL</a>
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1141279452388896768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Under the text, the quote was attributed to Lebanese author and poet, Kahlil Gibran. Twitterati started trolling Pakistan Prime Minister claiming that&nbsp;it belongs to the Nobel laureate&nbsp;and Indian writer Rabindranath Tagore.

As Khan shared the quote, people in no time started trolling the&nbsp;Pakistan prime minister.

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Prime Minister, I think these are Tagore’s words
— Azhar Abbas (@AzharAbbas3) <a href="https://twitter.com/AzharAbbas3/status/1141295281197277184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Khalil Gibran is no doubt a very wise and motivating author-poet <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a>, but this is by our Nobel Laureate Shri Rabindranath Tagore. 
 
Proud Indian. World Famous. Thank you for being inspired <a href="https://t.co/qtq4AWpmui">https://t.co/qtq4AWpmui</a>
— Meghna Girish (@megirish2001) <a href="https://twitter.com/megirish2001/status/1141320844204838917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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These are not the words of Khalil Jibran . There are words of " Rabindranath Tagore " who is an Indian poet. Please google !
— Dr Ayesha (@DrAyeshaSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrAyeshaSpeaks/status/1141313716568412160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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From the person who won Asia’s first Nobel Prize - <a href="https://t.co/irIn1qwsO7">pic.twitter.com/irIn1qwsO7</a>
— Velociraptor 🇮🇳 (@raptorsworld) <a href="https://twitter.com/raptorsworld/status/1141302349266214912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Another gem from Imran Khan's trove of knowledge, shares Tagore's work and calls it work of Kahlil Gibran <a href="https://t.co/ggujgodKaZ">pic.twitter.com/ggujgodKaZ</a>
— Observer (@upbeat_69) <a href="https://twitter.com/upbeat_69/status/1141295715848613888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time Imran Khan has come under the fire of Twitterati. In April, Khan was trolled as he mixed up island nation in East Asia, Japan with France while he was addressing a gathering.&nbsp; He was giving an example of how the country set up joint industries in the border region to strengthen economic ties with Germany.

After the second world war, France and Germany joined the hands to lay the foundation of the European Union.

Last year in December, Khan had called Africa an "emerging country" at the foreign envoys' conference.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan came under fire of trolls on social media on Wednesday as he shared an "inspirational" quote on Twitter. The quote shared by Khan on Twitter read, "I slept and I dreamed that life is all joy.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan came under fire of trolls on social media on Wednesday as he shared an "inspirational" quote on Twitter. The quote shared by Khan on Twitter read, "I slept and I dreamed that life is all joy. I woke and I saw that life is all service. I served and I saw that service is a joy." "Those who discover and get to understand the wisdom of Gibran's words cited below, get to live a life of contentment," Khan wrote in the caption. Those who discover and get to understand the wisdom of Gibran's words, cited below, get to live a life of contentment. pic.twitter.com/BdmIdqGxeL — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) June 19, 2019 × Under the text, the quote was attributed to Lebanese author and poet, Kahlil Gibran. Twitterati started trolling Pakistan Prime Minister claiming that it belongs to the Nobel laureate and Indian writer Rabindranath Tagore. As Khan shared the quote, people in no time started trolling the Pakistan prime minister. Prime Minister, I think these are Tagore’s words — Azhar Abbas (@AzharAbbas3) June 19, 2019 × Khalil Gibran is no doubt a very wise and motivating author-poet @ImranKhanPTI, but this is by our Nobel Laureate Shri Rabindranath Tagore. Proud Indian. World Famous. Thank you for being inspired https://t.co/qtq4AWpmui — Meghna Girish (@megirish2001) June 19, 2019 × These are not the words of Khalil Jibran . There are words of " Rabindranath Tagore " who is an Indian poet. Please google ! — Dr Ayesha (@DrAyeshaSpeaks) June 19, 2019 × From the person who won Asia’s first Nobel Prize - pic.twitter.com/irIn1qwsO7 — Velociraptor 🇮🇳 (@raptorsworld) June 19, 2019 × Another gem from Imran Khan's trove of knowledge, shares Tagore's work and calls it work of Kahlil Gibran pic.twitter.com/ggujgodKaZ — Observer (@upbeat_69) June 19, 2019 × This is not the first time Imran Khan has come under the fire of Twitterati. In April, Khan was trolled as he mixed up island nation in East Asia, Japan with France while he was addressing a gathering. He was giving an example of how the country set up joint industries in the border region to strengthen economic ties with Germany. After the second world war, France and Germany joined the hands to lay the foundation of the European Union. Last year in December, Khan had called Africa an "emerging country" at the foreign envoys' conference.

Now, Pakistan PM Imran Khan trolled over Kahlil Gibran's quote

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin,&nbsp;former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and&nbsp;Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal&nbsp;will not attend the meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament today.

''PM Modi has invited the party presidents of all parties to the Parliament on June 19 to interact and exchange views with the government,'' Parliamentary Minister Prahlad Joshi said.

''He will discuss the issue of 'one nation, one election' with them,'' Joshi added.

Prime Minister will also discuss the celebration of 75 years of India's independence in 2022, 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year.

Raghav Chadha will&nbsp;represent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Parliament.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-meeting-with-party-chiefs-congress-discusses-strategy-on-key-matters-228215">Ahead of PM Modi's meeting</a>, a meeting of the Congress top brass, including Sonia Gandhi and party chief Rahul Gandhi, was held to decide the strategy on key matters such as Lok Sabha speaker's election and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to discuss the ''one nation, one election'' issue.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Joshi saying that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-not-to-attend-tomorrows-all-party-meeting-228338">she will not be able to attend the meeting</a>.

"Response on such a sensitive and serious subject like 'One Country and One Election' in such a short time would not do justice to the subject it deserves," Mamata said.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin, former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not attend the meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament today.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin, former Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will not attend the meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament today. ''PM Modi has invited the party presidents of all parties to the Parliament on June 19 to interact and exchange views with the government,'' Parliamentary Minister Prahlad Joshi said. ''He will discuss the issue of 'one nation, one election' with them,'' Joshi added. Prime Minister will also discuss the celebration of 75 years of India's independence in 2022, 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year. Raghav Chadha will represent Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the Parliament. Ahead of PM Modi's meeting, a meeting of the Congress top brass, including Sonia Gandhi and party chief Rahul Gandhi, was held to decide the strategy on key matters such as Lok Sabha speaker's election and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to discuss the ''one nation, one election'' issue. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday wrote to Joshi saying that she will not be able to attend the meeting. "Response on such a sensitive and serious subject like 'One Country and One Election' in such a short time would not do justice to the subject it deserves," Mamata said.

After Mamata, Kejriwal, Stalin and Chandrababu to skip PM Modi's 'one nation, one election' meeting today

India and Russia are planning to open new route connecting India's east coast with Russia's far east. It is expected to connect India to Russia's resource and energy-rich districts.&nbsp;

It was one of the focus areas when Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Trutnev came to India on a five-day visit from June 15 to 19.

During his visit, he met National Security Advisor(NSA) Ajit Doval, external affairs minister S. Jaishankar, minister of petroleum and natural gas Dharmendra Pradhan and vice chairman of NITI Aayog Rajiv Kumar.

Yury Trutnev is also Putin's Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District which is the largest of eight federal districts of Russia and rich in mineral resources.

Both sides agreed to explore bilateral cooperation in the sectors of diamond-processing, petroleum and natural gas, coal and mining, agro-processing and tourism.

The visit comes ahead of the fifth Eastern Economic Forum which will be held in the eastern coastal city of Vladivostok in September in which PM Modi will be participating.

Deputy Prime Minister Trutnev had earlier visited India in March 2017.

India and Russia are planning to open new route connecting India's east coast with Russia's far east. It is expected to connect India to Russia's resource and energy-rich districts.

India and Russia are planning to open new route connecting India's east coast with Russia's far east. It is expected to connect India to Russia's resource and energy-rich districts. It was one of the focus areas when Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Trutnev came to India on a five-day visit from June 15 to 19. During his visit, he met National Security Advisor(NSA) Ajit Doval, external affairs minister S. Jaishankar, minister of petroleum and natural gas Dharmendra Pradhan and vice chairman of NITI Aayog Rajiv Kumar. Yury Trutnev is also Putin's Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District which is the largest of eight federal districts of Russia and rich in mineral resources. Both sides agreed to explore bilateral cooperation in the sectors of diamond-processing, petroleum and natural gas, coal and mining, agro-processing and tourism. The visit comes ahead of the fifth Eastern Economic Forum which will be held in the eastern coastal city of Vladivostok in September in which PM Modi will be participating. Deputy Prime Minister Trutnev had earlier visited India in March 2017.

Deputy PM Trutnev's focus: Plans to connect India's east coast with Russia's energy-rich far east

Germany's Ambassador to India - Walter Lindner - presented his credentials to India's President Ram Nath Kovind in Hindi last month, just before assuming office. WION spoke to the envoy about the many facets of his colourful personality - from his passion for music, to his love of being driven around new Delhi in a shiny red ambassador car. we'll bring you the full interview tomorrow at 8:30 pm on the diplomacy show, but for now, watch some highlights of the interview. this is the story of the German ambassador to India- Walter l Lindner.

On ‘The Diplomacy Show’, WION caught up with Walter J Lindner, Ambassador of Germ

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-formally-kicks-off-the-2020-reelection-campaign-at-orlando-rally-in-florida-228522">Donald Trump formally kicks off the 2020 reelection campaign, with vow to 'keep America great'</a>

United States President Donald Trump formally launched his 2020 re-election campaign today in front of a large crowd in Orlando, Florida.

"With every ounce of heart and might and sweat and soul, we're going to keep making America great again and then we will indeed keep America great," Trump said during the rally.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-fends-off-dwindling-british-pm-rivals-in-tv-debate-228529">Boris Johnson fends off dwindling British PM rivals in TV debate</a>

Brexit figurehead Boris Johnson said Tuesday that Britain "must come out" of the EU by the new October deadline as he fended off his four remaining UK leadership race rivals in his first TV debate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eyeing-global-groundswell-of-hate-speech-un-launches-action-plan-to-combat-228527">Eyeing global 'groundswell' of hate speech, UN launches action plan to combat</a>

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday launched an action plan to curb rising hate speech in the world arena and warned that the world is in danger of forgetting the impact of hate speech.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-asks-new-york-times-to-disclose-sources-that-us-is-ramping-up-cyber-attacks-on-russia-228519">Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia</a>

US President Donald Trump has asked The New York Times to disclose its sources behind the report that claimed that his government was ramping up cyber attacks on Russia's electric power grid as a sign of warning to President Vladimir Putin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-china-cooperation-factor-of-peace-and-stability-in-region-imran-khan-228523">Pakistan, China cooperation factor of peace and stability in region: Imran Khan</a>

Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday that close cooperation between Pakistan and China was a factor of peace and stability in the region.

He was talking to General Han Weiguo, Commander People's Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Forces, who called on him.

Donald Trump formally kicks off the 2020 reelection campaign, with vow to 'keep America great' United States President Donald Trump formally launched his 2020 re-election campaign today in front of a large crowd in Orlando, Florida.

Donald Trump formally kicks off the 2020 reelection campaign, with vow to 'keep America great' United States President Donald Trump formally launched his 2020 re-election campaign today in front of a large crowd in Orlando, Florida. "With every ounce of heart and might and sweat and soul, we're going to keep making America great again and then we will indeed keep America great," Trump said during the rally. Boris Johnson fends off dwindling British PM rivals in TV debate Brexit figurehead Boris Johnson said Tuesday that Britain "must come out" of the EU by the new October deadline as he fended off his four remaining UK leadership race rivals in his first TV debate. Eyeing global 'groundswell' of hate speech, UN launches action plan to combat United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday launched an action plan to curb rising hate speech in the world arena and warned that the world is in danger of forgetting the impact of hate speech. Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia US President Donald Trump has asked The New York Times to disclose its sources behind the report that claimed that his government was ramping up cyber attacks on Russia's electric power grid as a sign of warning to President Vladimir Putin. Pakistan, China cooperation factor of peace and stability in region: Imran Khan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday that close cooperation between Pakistan and China was a factor of peace and stability in the region. He was talking to General Han Weiguo, Commander People's Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Forces, who called on him.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Odisha government on Tuesday has ordered laboratory test of litchi fruit that is being sold in the markets in the state.

''Encephalitis is spreading in Litchi growing areas of Bihar &amp; other parts of country. In view of this, Food Safety Commissioner has been directed to collect&amp;test sample of Litchi being sold in market to ascertain toxic contents,'' Department of Health and Family Welfare said.

The government's action came following reports that litchi consumption was one of the factors behind the spread of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES).

So far, over 100 children had died due to AES.

Watch: Bihar health minister admits AES outbreak

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bihar-health-minister-admits-aes-outbreak-227282/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Bihar Chief Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/protests-greet-nitish-kumar-during-muzaffarpur-hospital-visit-toll-climbs-to-111-228479"> Nitish Kumar on Tuesday visited</a> Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur, where more than 300 children have been admitted with complaints of AES since June 1 and close to 90 of them died.

In the meantime, scores of people gathered outside the hospital and started shouting slogans like "Nitish Kumar go back", as they vent their anger over the chief minister for visiting the area after the number of casualties had crossed the three-digit mark.

The Odisha government on Tuesday has ordered laboratory test of litchi fruit that is being sold in the markets in the state. ''Encephalitis is spreading in Litchi growing areas of Bihar & other parts of country.

The Odisha government on Tuesday has ordered laboratory test of litchi fruit that is being sold in the markets in the state. ''Encephalitis is spreading in Litchi growing areas of Bihar & other parts of country. In view of this, Food Safety Commissioner has been directed to collect&test sample of Litchi being sold in market to ascertain toxic contents,'' Department of Health and Family Welfare said. The government's action came following reports that litchi consumption was one of the factors behind the spread of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). So far, over 100 children had died due to AES. Watch: Bihar health minister admits AES outbreak Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday visited Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur, where more than 300 children have been admitted with complaints of AES since June 1 and close to 90 of them died. In the meantime, scores of people gathered outside the hospital and started shouting slogans like "Nitish Kumar go back", as they vent their anger over the chief minister for visiting the area after the number of casualties had crossed the three-digit mark.

Bihar Encephalitis deaths: Odisha government orders laboratory test of litchi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to set up a panel to give suggestions on issues related to '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-chaired-all-party-meeting-over-one-nation-one-election-underway-at-parliament-228677">One nation, One election</a>' proposal, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday after the meeting of heads of various political parties to discuss the 'Simultaneous Elections' concept.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address, said that a committee will be constituted to give its suggestions on the subject (One Nation, One Election) in a time-bound manner," Rajnath Singh said&nbsp;while speaking to the media after the meeting.

NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI-M's Sitaram Yechury, Bihar Chief Minister and JD (U) leader Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti, NCP chief Farooq Abdullah and BJD leader Naveen Patnaik and National People's Party leader Conard Sangma were among the leaders who attended the meeting chaired by PM Modi.

"Most parties gave their support to One Nation, One Election," Rajnath Singh said.

"CPI(M) and CPI had a difference of opinion but they didn't oppose the idea, just the implementation of it," he added.

Meanwhile, several opposition parties, including the Congress, skipped the all-party meeting. Those joining the Congress in not attending the meeting included Shiv Sena, Samajwadi Party (SP), the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), the DMK, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Trinamool Congress.

The concept of 'One Nation, One Election', which was part of BJP's 2019 manifesto, was recommended by the Law Commission last year in August to save public money.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to set up a panel to give suggestions on issues related to 'One nation, One election' proposal, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday after the meeting of heads of various political parties to discuss the 'Simultaneous Elections' concept.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi to set up a panel to give suggestions on issues related to 'One nation, One election' proposal, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday after the meeting of heads of various political parties to discuss the 'Simultaneous Elections' concept. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address, said that a committee will be constituted to give its suggestions on the subject (One Nation, One Election) in a time-bound manner," Rajnath Singh said while speaking to the media after the meeting. NCP leader Sharad Pawar, CPI-M's Sitaram Yechury, Bihar Chief Minister and JD (U) leader Nitish Kumar, SAD leader Sukhbir Singh Badal, PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti, NCP chief Farooq Abdullah and BJD leader Naveen Patnaik and National People's Party leader Conard Sangma were among the leaders who attended the meeting chaired by PM Modi. "Most parties gave their support to One Nation, One Election," Rajnath Singh said. "CPI(M) and CPI had a difference of opinion but they didn't oppose the idea, just the implementation of it," he added. Meanwhile, several opposition parties, including the Congress, skipped the all-party meeting. Those joining the Congress in not attending the meeting included Shiv Sena, Samajwadi Party (SP), the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), the DMK, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Trinamool Congress. The concept of 'One Nation, One Election', which was part of BJP's 2019 manifesto, was recommended by the Law Commission last year in August to save public money.

PM Modi to form committee for 'one nation, one election'

The Congress on Tuesday suspended MLA R Roshan Baig from the party with immediate effect for his ''anti-party'' activities.

Shivajinagar MLA had held Siddaramaiah's "arrogance" and KPCC President Dinesh Gundu Rao's "immaturity" responsible for the defeat of Congress party in the recently held general elections.

Baig also hinted on quitting the party and requesting Muslims to "compromise" with the situation, on NDA returning to power.

"All India Congress Committee has approved the proposal sent by KPCC to take action against R Roshan Baig, MLA on account of his anti-party activities," the state Congress said in a release.

"He has been suspended from the party with immediate effect, on the basis of inquiry conducted on this matter," it said.

According to sources, Baig has not responded to show cause notice for his conduct issued by Karnataka PCC.

Baig, a seven-time MLA and a former minister, has been expressing displeasure against the Congress party leadership on not being included in the coalition cabinet headed by H D Kumaraswamy.

The Congress on Tuesday suspended MLA R Roshan Baig from the party with immediate effect for his ''anti-party'' activities. Shivajinagar MLA had held Siddaramaiah's "arrogance" and KPCC President Dinesh Gundu Rao's "immaturity" responsible for the defeat of Congress party in the recently held general elections.

The Congress on Tuesday suspended MLA R Roshan Baig from the party with immediate effect for his ''anti-party'' activities. Shivajinagar MLA had held Siddaramaiah's "arrogance" and KPCC President Dinesh Gundu Rao's "immaturity" responsible for the defeat of Congress party in the recently held general elections. Baig also hinted on quitting the party and requesting Muslims to "compromise" with the situation, on NDA returning to power. "All India Congress Committee has approved the proposal sent by KPCC to take action against R Roshan Baig, MLA on account of his anti-party activities," the state Congress said in a release. "He has been suspended from the party with immediate effect, on the basis of inquiry conducted on this matter," it said. According to sources, Baig has not responded to show cause notice for his conduct issued by Karnataka PCC. Baig, a seven-time MLA and a former minister, has been expressing displeasure against the Congress party leadership on not being included in the coalition cabinet headed by H D Kumaraswamy.

Congress suspends Karnataka MLA Roshan Baig for 'anti-party' activities

The death toll of children due to suspected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-deputy-cm-sushil-modi-refuses-to-answer-questions-on-deaths-due-to-encephalitis-in-conference-228669">Acute Encephalitis Syndrome</a> (AES) in Bihar reached 128 on Sunday, news agency ANI reported citing Bihar Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme.

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, said Alok Ghosh, the Muzaffarpur district magistrate, who said that in about half of the known cases of encephalitis, the children had not consumed lychees, news agency Reuters reported.

But as a heat wave sweeps India, dehydration is also said to be a reason for the Encephalitis outbreak.

Meanwhile, Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea 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 next Monday after the petitioner's counsel sought an urgent listing of the matter.

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.

The death toll of children due to suspected Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Bihar reached 128 on Sunday, news agency ANI reported citing Bihar Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme.

The death toll of children due to suspected Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Bihar reached 128 on Sunday, news agency ANI reported citing Bihar Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme. 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, said Alok Ghosh, the Muzaffarpur district magistrate, who said that in about half of the known cases of encephalitis, the children had not consumed lychees, news agency Reuters reported. But as a heat wave sweeps India, dehydration is also said to be a reason for the Encephalitis outbreak. Meanwhile, Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea 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 next Monday after the petitioner's counsel sought an urgent listing of the matter. 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.

Bihar: Death toll due to suspected acute encephalitis rises to 128

The meeting of the heads of political parties under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the concept of '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-mamata-stalin-and-chandrababu-naidu-decide-to-skip-pm-modis-one-nation-one-election-meeting-today-228537">One Nation, One Election</a>'&nbsp;among other things including NITI Aayog's proposal for developing 'Aspirational districts'&nbsp;is undergoing at Parliament today.

JDU's Nitish Kumar, NC's Farooq Abdullah, SAD's Sukhbir Singh Badal, BJD's Naveen Patnaik, PDP's Mehbooba Mufti, and YSRCP's Jagan Mohan Reddy are among those who are attending the meeting.

The Congress-led UPA and the Trinamool Congress have opposed the concept.

Newly appointed leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha Ahir Ranjan Choudhary told reporters after a meeting of the UPA chaired by Sonia Gandhi here on Tuesday that the parties were opposed to the idea in principle.

Since some issues are to be sorted out, the UPA will meet again on Wednesday morning to discuss the issue further and take a common stand at the meeting called by Modi in the evening, said Chaudhary.

DMK, the second largest party in the UPA, and other Congress allies like NCP, IUML attended the meeting.

Prominent leaders who attended the meeting included UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Adhir Ranjan Choudhary, K Suresh, all from the Congress party, TR Baalu, Kanimozhi of DMK, Supriya Sule of NCP, Farooq Abdullah of NC, Thirumaavalan Thol (VCK), NK Premachandran ( RSP), PK Kunhalikutty (IUML), and Thomas Chazhikadan of KC-M.

Banerjee has written to the government saying that she would not be able to attend the meeting called to discuss the issue of 'One Nation, One Election'&nbsp;idea.

In her letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, she said, "Response on such a sensitive and serious subject like 'One Country and One Election'&nbsp;in such a short time would not do justice to the subject it deserves."

She said that the matter required consultations with the Constitutional experts, election experts, and all the party members.

"Instead of doing the matter hurriedly, I would like to request you to kindly circulate a white paper on the subject to all political parties inviting their views by providing adequate time."

"If you only do so, we will be able to give concrete suggestions on this important subject," the letter further read.

Moreover, talking about the Aspirational Districts Programme, Banerjee said,&nbsp;"We have recently conveyed our views to NITI Aayog during its meeting, stating that we are not in support of selection of a few districts as Aspirational Districts as it would not conform to the overall objectives of achieving balanced and uniform development of all the districts of the State."

The letter also said that the party will "whole-heartedly participate in the most befitting manner" in the celebration of 75 years of India's Independence and 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

The meeting of the heads of political parties under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the concept of 'One Nation, One Election' among other things including NITI Aayog's proposal for developing 'Aspirational districts' is undergoing at Parliament today.

The meeting of the heads of political parties under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the concept of 'One Nation, One Election' among other things including NITI Aayog's proposal for developing 'Aspirational districts' is undergoing at Parliament today. JDU's Nitish Kumar, NC's Farooq Abdullah, SAD's Sukhbir Singh Badal, BJD's Naveen Patnaik, PDP's Mehbooba Mufti, and YSRCP's Jagan Mohan Reddy are among those who are attending the meeting. The Congress-led UPA and the Trinamool Congress have opposed the concept. Newly appointed leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha Ahir Ranjan Choudhary told reporters after a meeting of the UPA chaired by Sonia Gandhi here on Tuesday that the parties were opposed to the idea in principle. Since some issues are to be sorted out, the UPA will meet again on Wednesday morning to discuss the issue further and take a common stand at the meeting called by Modi in the evening, said Chaudhary. DMK, the second largest party in the UPA, and other Congress allies like NCP, IUML attended the meeting. Prominent leaders who attended the meeting included UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Adhir Ranjan Choudhary, K Suresh, all from the Congress party, TR Baalu, Kanimozhi of DMK, Supriya Sule of NCP, Farooq Abdullah of NC, Thirumaavalan Thol (VCK), NK Premachandran ( RSP), PK Kunhalikutty (IUML), and Thomas Chazhikadan of KC-M. Banerjee has written to the government saying that she would not be able to attend the meeting called to discuss the issue of 'One Nation, One Election' idea. In her letter to Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi, she said, "Response on such a sensitive and serious subject like 'One Country and One Election' in such a short time would not do justice to the subject it deserves." She said that the matter required consultations with the Constitutional experts, election experts, and all the party members. "Instead of doing the matter hurriedly, I would like to request you to kindly circulate a white paper on the subject to all political parties inviting their views by providing adequate time." "If you only do so, we will be able to give concrete suggestions on this important subject," the letter further read. Moreover, talking about the Aspirational Districts Programme, Banerjee said, "We have recently conveyed our views to NITI Aayog during its meeting, stating that we are not in support of selection of a few districts as Aspirational Districts as it would not conform to the overall objectives of achieving balanced and uniform development of all the districts of the State." The letter also said that the party will "whole-heartedly participate in the most befitting manner" in the celebration of 75 years of India's Independence and 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

PM Narendra Modi holds all-party meeting over 'One Nation, One Election' at Parliament

In a bid to boost India's relations with its neighbours, the government has signed agreements with Bangladesh and South Korea, under which Doordarshan India will be available in those countries, while their state channels will be shown on DD Free Dish.

The government has decided to show BTV World, a channel owned by Bangladesh TV, on the Doordarshan Free Dish which will be available for the viewers of Doordarshan in India, an official statement said.

At the same time, DD India would be made available in Bangladesh, it said.

"India has entered into an agreement with Bangladesh so that DD India will be shown on Bangladesh TV. In return, Bangladesh's official channel will also be available in India on DD Free Dish. DD Free dish is available in 35 million households," Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said.

The move is part of a robust cultural exchange in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Act East policy, he said.

The government has also approved the proposal of Prasar Bharati for making available the KBS World, an English 24x7 channel of the government of the Republic of South Korea on the DD Free Dish for the Indian viewers. Simultaneously, people of South Korea would be able to view DD India in their country.

The arrangement with Bangladesh is as a result of an MoU signed between Prasar Bharati and Bangladesh TV (BTV) May 7, 2019.

BTV World would be of special interest to the viewers of eastern India and the decision marks an important watershed moment in the strengthening of ties between the two countries, the statement said.

The pact comes after an earlier decision taken by the two governments to co-produce a film on Banga Bandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which will be directed by eminent film director/producer Shyam Benegal.

Talking about the World Yoga Day, Javadekar said the government's decision to honour media houses for their contribution towards promoting healthy living through yoga has been well received and several media houses had shown enthusiasm in promoting the ancient Indian practice.

Javadekar had earlier this month announced 33 awards -- 11 for each newspaper organisations, TV and radio channels. A six-member jury will consider the entries in all 23 official languages.

"This (yoga) has become a public movement in India. We declared one scheme for media houses that have been well received," he said.

"As far as yesterday's decision on a dance reality show is concerned, it has been well received by all sections of the society," Javadekar said, adding that psychologists and choreographers have lauded the move.

The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has asked all private satellite TV channels to avoid showing children in an indecent, suggestive and inappropriate manner in dance reality shows or other such programmes.

In a bid to boost India's relations with its neighbours, the government has signed agreements with Bangladesh and South Korea, under which Doordarshan India will be available in those countries, while their state channels will be shown on DD Free Dish.

In a bid to boost India's relations with its neighbours, the government has signed agreements with Bangladesh and South Korea, under which Doordarshan India will be available in those countries, while their state channels will be shown on DD Free Dish. The government has decided to show BTV World, a channel owned by Bangladesh TV, on the Doordarshan Free Dish which will be available for the viewers of Doordarshan in India, an official statement said. At the same time, DD India would be made available in Bangladesh, it said. "India has entered into an agreement with Bangladesh so that DD India will be shown on Bangladesh TV. In return, Bangladesh's official channel will also be available in India on DD Free Dish. DD Free dish is available in 35 million households," Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar said. The move is part of a robust cultural exchange in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Act East policy, he said. The government has also approved the proposal of Prasar Bharati for making available the KBS World, an English 24x7 channel of the government of the Republic of South Korea on the DD Free Dish for the Indian viewers. Simultaneously, people of South Korea would be able to view DD India in their country. The arrangement with Bangladesh is as a result of an MoU signed between Prasar Bharati and Bangladesh TV (BTV) May 7, 2019. BTV World would be of special interest to the viewers of eastern India and the decision marks an important watershed moment in the strengthening of ties between the two countries, the statement said. The pact comes after an earlier decision taken by the two governments to co-produce a film on Banga Bandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which will be directed by eminent film director/producer Shyam Benegal. Talking about the World Yoga Day, Javadekar said the government's decision to honour media houses for their contribution towards promoting healthy living through yoga has been well received and several media houses had shown enthusiasm in promoting the ancient Indian practice. Javadekar had earlier this month announced 33 awards -- 11 for each newspaper organisations, TV and radio channels. A six-member jury will consider the entries in all 23 official languages. "This (yoga) has become a public movement in India. We declared one scheme for media houses that have been well received," he said. "As far as yesterday's decision on a dance reality show is concerned, it has been well received by all sections of the society," Javadekar said, adding that psychologists and choreographers have lauded the move. The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has asked all private satellite TV channels to avoid showing children in an indecent, suggestive and inappropriate manner in dance reality shows or other such programmes.

DD India to be available in Bangladesh, South Korea

Film actor and Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol has been asked to explain his poll expenditure during the recent Lok Sabha elections after it was found to have crossed the statutory limit of Rs 70 lakh, an official said on Wednesday.

The notice to Deol to "reconcile" his poll expenditure account was issued by Gurdaspur District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner Vipul Ujjwal.

"His poll expenditure was found to be more than Rs 70 lakh limit," said Ujjwal.

Deol was elected MP from Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat. He defeated Congress nominee Sunil Jakhar with a margin of 82,459 votes.

Though Ujjwal refused to comment on the election expenditure figure, official sources said as per preliminary calculations, Deol's poll expenditure was found to be Rs 86 lakh.

Ujjwal said the amount of Deol's poll expenditure was not a "final" figure.

"We have issued a notice to him (Deol) for reconciliation of accounts and the final figure of the poll expenditure will be known only after the reconciliation and settlement of the accounts," he said.&nbsp;

"It is too early to comment on the overspending right now," added Ujjwal.

For Lok Sabha candidates, the statutory poll expenditure limit has been fixed at Rs 70 lakh.

Deol's poll expenditure was found to be in excess of the limit among all other candidates in the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha constituency, officials said.&nbsp;

The reconciliation of accounts is likely to continue till June 22 and 23.

Ujjwal further said after the elections, every candidate was issued notice for the reconciliation of their accounts.&nbsp;

"It is a normal statutory notice," he added.&nbsp;

Earlier on May 15, the Election Commission had issued directions for adding Rs 1.74 lakh to Deol's poll expenditure after he failed to respond to its query about a Facebook page being run in his support.

The order had come on a complaint by the Punjab Congress, which claimed the Facebook page, 'Fans of Sunny Deol', was being run without any prior permission of the poll watchdog.

The BJP had fielded 59-year-old Deol from Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat in 2019 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Earlier, late actor Vinod Khanna had represented Gurdaspur constituency four times - in 1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014.

Film actor and Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol has been asked to explain his poll expenditure during the recent Lok Sabha elections after it was found to have crossed the statutory limit of Rs 70 lakh, an official said on Wednesday.

Film actor and Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol has been asked to explain his poll expenditure during the recent Lok Sabha elections after it was found to have crossed the statutory limit of Rs 70 lakh, an official said on Wednesday. The notice to Deol to "reconcile" his poll expenditure account was issued by Gurdaspur District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner Vipul Ujjwal. "His poll expenditure was found to be more than Rs 70 lakh limit," said Ujjwal. Deol was elected MP from Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat. He defeated Congress nominee Sunil Jakhar with a margin of 82,459 votes. Though Ujjwal refused to comment on the election expenditure figure, official sources said as per preliminary calculations, Deol's poll expenditure was found to be Rs 86 lakh. Ujjwal said the amount of Deol's poll expenditure was not a "final" figure. "We have issued a notice to him (Deol) for reconciliation of accounts and the final figure of the poll expenditure will be known only after the reconciliation and settlement of the accounts," he said. "It is too early to comment on the overspending right now," added Ujjwal. For Lok Sabha candidates, the statutory poll expenditure limit has been fixed at Rs 70 lakh. Deol's poll expenditure was found to be in excess of the limit among all other candidates in the Gurdaspur Lok Sabha constituency, officials said. The reconciliation of accounts is likely to continue till June 22 and 23. Ujjwal further said after the elections, every candidate was issued notice for the reconciliation of their accounts. "It is a normal statutory notice," he added. Earlier on May 15, the Election Commission had issued directions for adding Rs 1.74 lakh to Deol's poll expenditure after he failed to respond to its query about a Facebook page being run in his support. The order had come on a complaint by the Punjab Congress, which claimed the Facebook page, 'Fans of Sunny Deol', was being run without any prior permission of the poll watchdog. The BJP had fielded 59-year-old Deol from Gurdaspur Lok Sabha seat in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Earlier, late actor Vinod Khanna had represented Gurdaspur constituency four times - in 1998, 1999, 2004 and 2014.

Gurdaspur MP Sunny Deol's poll expenditure found to have crossed Rs 70 lakh limit: Election officer

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