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A Delhi court Friday granted bail to AAP leaders Atishi and others in a defamation case filed by the BJP against them for their remarks over deletion of voters' names from electoral rolls in the city.

AAP's Rajya Sabha member Sushil Kumar Gupta, MLA Manoj Kumar were also granted relief on a personal bond of Rs 10,000 each after the three appeared before the court.

However, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal failed to appear before the court Friday. The court directed him to appear on July 16.

BJP leader Rajeev Babbar, who moved the petition on behalf of the party's Delhi unit, sought proceedings against them for "harming" the reputation of the BJP by blaming it for the deletion of the names of "voters" from electoral rolls here.

He claimed the AAP leaders had, during a press conference held in December last year, alleged that on the directions of the BJP names of 30 lakh voters from Bania, Poorvanchali and the Muslim community had been deleted by the Election Commission.

A Delhi court Friday granted bail to AAP leaders Atishi and others in a defamation case filed by the BJP against them for their remarks over deletion of voters' names from electoral rolls in the city.

A Delhi court Friday granted bail to AAP leaders Atishi and others in a defamation case filed by the BJP against them for their remarks over deletion of voters' names from electoral rolls in the city. AAP's Rajya Sabha member Sushil Kumar Gupta, MLA Manoj Kumar were also granted relief on a personal bond of Rs 10,000 each after the three appeared before the court. However, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal failed to appear before the court Friday. The court directed him to appear on July 16. BJP leader Rajeev Babbar, who moved the petition on behalf of the party's Delhi unit, sought proceedings against them for "harming" the reputation of the BJP by blaming it for the deletion of the names of "voters" from electoral rolls here. He claimed the AAP leaders had, during a press conference held in December last year, alleged that on the directions of the BJP names of 30 lakh voters from Bania, Poorvanchali and the Muslim community had been deleted by the Election Commission.

Delhi court grants bail to Atishi, other AAP leaders in defamation case

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/shiv-sena-slams-mamata-banerjee-for-declining-invitation-for-modis-swearing-in-ceremony-222634">inability to attend the scheduled Niti Aayog meeting</a> on June 15, saying it was "fruitless" as the body does not have the power to support state plans.

"Given the fact that the Niti Aayog has no financial powers and the power to support state plans it is fruitless for me to attend the meeting of a body that is bereft of any financial powers," Banerjee said in a letter to the prime minister.

The chief minister also suggested that focus should be shifted to the Inter-State Council (ISC) to deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity.

"The experience of last four-and-half years we had with Niti Aayog brings me back to my earlier suggestion to you that we focus on Inter-State Council constituted under Article 263 of Constitution, with appropriate modifications to enable ISC to discharge its augmented range of functions as the nodal entity of the country," she said.

"This will deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity. May I also reiterate that the National Development Council, which has been a quiet burial, may also be subsumed within the broadened constitutional body of the Inter-State Council," the chief minister said.

Modi is set to chair the fifth meeting of the Niti Aayog's Governing Council on June 15 to discuss various issues regarding the country's development.

Earlier too, Banerjee had skipped meetings of the policy think-tank, expressing displeasure over the dissolution of the Planning Commission and creation of a new structure.

She had sent West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra to represent the state at the meeting.

In her letter, Banerjee said the formation of Niti Aayog was unilaterally announced without any discussion with chief ministers.

She cited examples of statements made by Niti Aayog officials and a former Union minister stressing the need to give the think-tank the power to allocate funds, as part of the efforts to address regional imbalances.

Banerjee's decision of not attending Niti Aayog meeting comes amid heightened political tussle between the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal.

With the saffron party bagging 18 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats in the general elections, its leaders have asserted that they would overthrow the Trinamool Congress government in the 2021 assembly polls.

The TMC, which had won 34 seats in 2014, was able to secure 22 seats this time.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing her inability to attend the scheduled Niti Aayog meeting on June 15, saying it was "fruitless" as the body does not have the power to support state plans.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Friday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing her inability to attend the scheduled Niti Aayog meeting on June 15, saying it was "fruitless" as the body does not have the power to support state plans. "Given the fact that the Niti Aayog has no financial powers and the power to support state plans it is fruitless for me to attend the meeting of a body that is bereft of any financial powers," Banerjee said in a letter to the prime minister. The chief minister also suggested that focus should be shifted to the Inter-State Council (ISC) to deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity. "The experience of last four-and-half years we had with Niti Aayog brings me back to my earlier suggestion to you that we focus on Inter-State Council constituted under Article 263 of Constitution, with appropriate modifications to enable ISC to discharge its augmented range of functions as the nodal entity of the country," she said. "This will deepen cooperative federalism and strengthen federal polity. May I also reiterate that the National Development Council, which has been a quiet burial, may also be subsumed within the broadened constitutional body of the Inter-State Council," the chief minister said. Modi is set to chair the fifth meeting of the Niti Aayog's Governing Council on June 15 to discuss various issues regarding the country's development. Earlier too, Banerjee had skipped meetings of the policy think-tank, expressing displeasure over the dissolution of the Planning Commission and creation of a new structure. She had sent West Bengal Finance Minister Amit Mitra to represent the state at the meeting. In her letter, Banerjee said the formation of Niti Aayog was unilaterally announced without any discussion with chief ministers. She cited examples of statements made by Niti Aayog officials and a former Union minister stressing the need to give the think-tank the power to allocate funds, as part of the efforts to address regional imbalances. Banerjee's decision of not attending Niti Aayog meeting comes amid heightened political tussle between the TMC and the Bharatiya Janata Party in West Bengal. With the saffron party bagging 18 out of 42 Lok Sabha seats in the general elections, its leaders have asserted that they would overthrow the Trinamool Congress government in the 2021 assembly polls. The TMC, which had won 34 seats in 2014, was able to secure 22 seats this time.

'Fruitless' to attend Niti Aayog meeting, Mamata Banerjee writes to PM Modi

Tourism in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir has taken a hit post-Pulwama terror attack and the rising tension between India and Pakistan.

The tourism players are seeing no hope of revival amid the&nbsp;several cancellations by tour groups.&nbsp;

While the rest of India is reeling under a severe heat wave, the weather in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir is pleasant, but there are no usual tourists on the ground. The famous tourist spots are witnessing thin tourist presence with many blaming tension between India and Pakistan as main the reason.&nbsp;

The tourist flow has come down drastically, threatening the livelihood of many associated with the industry. According to one estimate, five lakh people are directly associated with the tourism industry in the state.&nbsp;

The state tourism department says that the industry contributes 16 per cent of the state's total GDP. &nbsp;The United States, the UK, and Australia have already updated their travel advisories for the Kashmir valley, keeping the foreign tourist away too.&nbsp;

"We are fighting the perception that is being created about Kashmir which is that this place isn't safe. We have to fight this and this is our big challenge right now. I want to tell every tourist, come and see our hospitality," says Asif Burza, a reputed hotelier of Kashmir valley.

The hotels are empty which has led to a crisis of sorts, as some staff has been laid off and some tourism players looking for alternative opportunities. The all-important sector of the state is now struggling and fighting to revive itself.&nbsp;

"People who come here are our best ambassadors, they should tell others about their experience in the valley," says Asif, adding that GST has also kept tourists away as prices have also gone up.&nbsp;

The state's tourism department is trying to reach out to people in different states of India by organising road shows and pumping money into advertising -- all in the hope that people from these states would head to Kashmir.

"After the Pulwama incident, the inflow of tourists has been affected. Then, airfields were closed, which gave a wrong signal to the tourists, otherwise we had houseboats booked till June this year," says Nasir Wani, the director tourism Kashmir.&nbsp;

Now, people associated with the industry have pinned their hope in the coming month for their better future.&nbsp;

Tourism in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir has taken a hit post-Pulwama terror attack and the rising tension between India and Pakistan. The tourism players are seeing no hope of revival amid the several cancellations by tour groups.

Tourism in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir has taken a hit post-Pulwama terror attack and the rising tension between India and Pakistan. The tourism players are seeing no hope of revival amid the several cancellations by tour groups. While the rest of India is reeling under a severe heat wave, the weather in the Himalayan state of Jammu and Kashmir is pleasant, but there are no usual tourists on the ground. The famous tourist spots are witnessing thin tourist presence with many blaming tension between India and Pakistan as main the reason. The tourist flow has come down drastically, threatening the livelihood of many associated with the industry. According to one estimate, five lakh people are directly associated with the tourism industry in the state. The state tourism department says that the industry contributes 16 per cent of the state's total GDP. The United States, the UK, and Australia have already updated their travel advisories for the Kashmir valley, keeping the foreign tourist away too. "We are fighting the perception that is being created about Kashmir which is that this place isn't safe. We have to fight this and this is our big challenge right now. I want to tell every tourist, come and see our hospitality," says Asif Burza, a reputed hotelier of Kashmir valley. The hotels are empty which has led to a crisis of sorts, as some staff has been laid off and some tourism players looking for alternative opportunities. The all-important sector of the state is now struggling and fighting to revive itself. "People who come here are our best ambassadors, they should tell others about their experience in the valley," says Asif, adding that GST has also kept tourists away as prices have also gone up. The state's tourism department is trying to reach out to people in different states of India by organising road shows and pumping money into advertising -- all in the hope that people from these states would head to Kashmir. "After the Pulwama incident, the inflow of tourists has been affected. Then, airfields were closed, which gave a wrong signal to the tourists, otherwise we had houseboats booked till June this year," says Nasir Wani, the director tourism Kashmir. Now, people associated with the industry have pinned their hope in the coming month for their better future.

Tourism in Kashmir faces tough time, players hopeful of revival

In what could be an unprecedented move, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Friday decided to have five deputy CMs under him in a full 25-member Cabinet.

The new Council of Ministers will be constituted at a public function in Amravati on&nbsp;Saturday.

The Chief Minister held a meeting of the YSR Congress Legislature Party at his residence in the morning where he announced the decision to appoint five deputy chief ministers.

Accordingly, one each from SC, ST, BC, minority and Kapu communities would be made deputy CMs.

He also told his legislators that the Cabinet would predominantly comprise members from the weaker sections, contrary to expectations that the Reddy community would get a lion's share.

He said the Cabinet would be reconstituted two and a half years later after a mid-term review of the government's performance.

In the previous N Chandrababu Naidu government, one each from, Kapu and BC communities was made deputy chief minister.

Japan's decision to have five deputies is seen as a revolutionary step that is aimed at keeping those communities in good humour.&nbsp;

In what could be an unprecedented move, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Friday decided to have five deputy CMs under him in a full 25-member Cabinet.

In what could be an unprecedented move, Andhra Pradesh chief minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy Friday decided to have five deputy CMs under him in a full 25-member Cabinet. The new Council of Ministers will be constituted at a public function in Amravati on Saturday. The Chief Minister held a meeting of the YSR Congress Legislature Party at his residence in the morning where he announced the decision to appoint five deputy chief ministers. Accordingly, one each from SC, ST, BC, minority and Kapu communities would be made deputy CMs. He also told his legislators that the Cabinet would predominantly comprise members from the weaker sections, contrary to expectations that the Reddy community would get a lion's share. He said the Cabinet would be reconstituted two and a half years later after a mid-term review of the government's performance. In the previous N Chandrababu Naidu government, one each from, Kapu and BC communities was made deputy chief minister. Japan's decision to have five deputies is seen as a revolutionary step that is aimed at keeping those communities in good humour.

Andhra Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy to have five deputies in Cabinet

Batting strongly for delimitation of assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir, the Dogra Swabhiman Sangathan (DSS) Thursday demanded grant of eight seats to Jammu region, including six seats for Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) refugees.

Former minister and DSS chairman Choudhary Lal Singh said seats under this process should be granted to Jammu through an administrative order by the governor as has been done in the past.

"We welcome reports in media about move of the centre for delimitation of assembly constituencies in J&amp;K. We demand that six should be granted to refugees of PoK and two seats should be given to displaced Kashmir Pandits in Jammu," Singh told reporters here.

Watch: Significance of government's&nbsp;Delimitation push in J&amp;K

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The BJP in Jammu and Kashmir has been raising the issue of reorganisation of the state so that Jammu gets a larger share of seats in the 87-member state assembly. As of now, Kashmir region has 46 seats followed by Jammu region with 37 and Ladakh with four.

Batting strongly for delimitation of assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir, the Dogra Swabhiman Sangathan (DSS) Thursday demanded grant of eight seats to Jammu region, including six seats for Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) refugees.

Batting strongly for delimitation of assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir, the Dogra Swabhiman Sangathan (DSS) Thursday demanded grant of eight seats to Jammu region, including six seats for Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) refugees. Former minister and DSS chairman Choudhary Lal Singh said seats under this process should be granted to Jammu through an administrative order by the governor as has been done in the past. "We welcome reports in media about move of the centre for delimitation of assembly constituencies in J&K. We demand that six should be granted to refugees of PoK and two seats should be given to displaced Kashmir Pandits in Jammu," Singh told reporters here. Watch: Significance of government's Delimitation push in J&K × The BJP in Jammu and Kashmir has been raising the issue of reorganisation of the state so that Jammu gets a larger share of seats in the 87-member state assembly. As of now, Kashmir region has 46 seats followed by Jammu region with 37 and Ladakh with four.

J&K delimitation: Dogra group demands 8 seats for Jammu region

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-election-watch-bjp-shiv-sena-seem-strong-at-an-organisation-level-213828">Shiv Sena</a> spokesperson Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party has `natural claim` over the position of Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker.&nbsp;

"This is not our demand, it is our natural claim. Shiv Sena has right on this position. Why should we demand it since it is our right?" Raut said while speaking to ANI in Delhi.&nbsp;

Raut`s demand comes amid speculation over the possibility of Naveen Patnaik`s BJD getting the post.&nbsp;

While Raut termed BJD a friend, he questioned how a party that fought against the NDA can get the position.&nbsp;

"We have 18 MPs. But there are talks that the position will be given to some other party, which is also our friend. BJD fought against NDA in the general elections, how can they give this post to them? Only Shiv Sena should get the hold of this position," he asserted.&nbsp;

As per various reports, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has also kept forward the demand for the post before BJP president and Home Minister Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Another BJP ally, JD(U), was given the post of Rajya Sabha`s Deputy Chairman in August last year.

Shiv Sena was granted one ministerial berth in Narendra Modi`s cabinet with party MP Arvind Sawant being given the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.&nbsp;

In the Lok Sabha polls, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-shiv-sena-to-fight-maharashtra-assembly-polls-in-135-seats-each-chandrakant-patil-223679">Shiv Sena-BJP alliance</a> swept the state of Maharashtra with 41 out of the total 48 seats. While Thackery`s party got 18, the BJP got 23.

Arvind Sawant, the lone Shiv Sena union minister, won Mumbai South seat against Congress candidate Milind Deora by a margin of over 1 lakh votes.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party has `natural claim` over the position of Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker. "This is not our demand, it is our natural claim.

Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party has `natural claim` over the position of Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker. "This is not our demand, it is our natural claim. Shiv Sena has right on this position. Why should we demand it since it is our right?" Raut said while speaking to ANI in Delhi. Raut`s demand comes amid speculation over the possibility of Naveen Patnaik`s BJD getting the post. While Raut termed BJD a friend, he questioned how a party that fought against the NDA can get the position. "We have 18 MPs. But there are talks that the position will be given to some other party, which is also our friend. BJD fought against NDA in the general elections, how can they give this post to them? Only Shiv Sena should get the hold of this position," he asserted. As per various reports, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has also kept forward the demand for the post before BJP president and Home Minister Amit Shah. Another BJP ally, JD(U), was given the post of Rajya Sabha`s Deputy Chairman in August last year. Shiv Sena was granted one ministerial berth in Narendra Modi`s cabinet with party MP Arvind Sawant being given the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. In the Lok Sabha polls, Shiv Sena-BJP alliance swept the state of Maharashtra with 41 out of the total 48 seats. While Thackery`s party got 18, the BJP got 23. Arvind Sawant, the lone Shiv Sena union minister, won Mumbai South seat against Congress candidate Milind Deora by a margin of over 1 lakh votes.

Not demand, it is our natural claim: Shiv Sena on Deputy Lok Sabha Speaker post

Addressing his first press conference after taking over as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/proud-to-follow-in-sushma-swarajs-footsteps-says-new-external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-223335">External Affairs Minister</a>&nbsp;S Jaishankar on Thursday emphasised on the importance of focusing on "external aspects" for economic growth.

Speaking at a seminar in Delhi Jaishankar said, "Today, if we want to propel economic change, I think there is a greater responsibility for Indian foreign policy to focus on external aspects of it, to create partnerships and mechanisms which help Indian businesses do their business outside the country".

"There is big responsibility on the External Affairs Ministry to focus on project execution which has strategic significance," he said.

Talking about the Modi government's first five years in power&nbsp;he said, "large&nbsp;majority of people in India have recognised that the country's stature has risen in the world in last five years".

Further talking about the growth of nationalism in the world the EAM said, "Second change I would say is, across the world you have had broadly a growth of nationalism and reasons are very complex, that nationalism has been validated electorally in many places. At one level each is different, but somewhere there is a message out there".

"Third which is actually longer term change is sort of global re-balancing, sharpest manifestation of that is rise of China, to some extent rise of India as well but overall if you look at it in a 20-year time frame, it's very clear relative weights of global economies are changing,"&nbsp;Jaishankar said.

"Today, the emphasis is on tighter integration, the ability for different departments and ministries to work together. I have been a minister for less than a week and I have already spent more time with finance and commerce minister than I may have even spent in my own ministry."

Jaishankar said that India's growth in South Asia was important for the neighbouring countries as it was the largest economy (in South Asia).

"Primary responsibility is on India because we are the largest economy (in South Asia), in that sense our growth can serve as a lifting tide for all our neighbours,if that happens,I don't think we should over-negotiate that. Need to incentivise the cooperation in the neighbourhood, " he said.

"SAARC has certain problems and I think we all know what it is even if you were to put terrorism issue aside, there are connectivity and trade issues. If you look at why BIMSTEC leaders were invited for PM's swearing-in because we see energy, mindset and possibility in BIMSTEC, " the External Affairs Minister said.

(With inputs from ANI)

&nbsp;

Addressing his first press conference after taking over as the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday emphasised on the importance of focusing on "external aspects" for economic growth.

Addressing his first press conference after taking over as the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday emphasised on the importance of focusing on "external aspects" for economic growth. Speaking at a seminar in Delhi Jaishankar said, "Today, if we want to propel economic change, I think there is a greater responsibility for Indian foreign policy to focus on external aspects of it, to create partnerships and mechanisms which help Indian businesses do their business outside the country". "There is big responsibility on the External Affairs Ministry to focus on project execution which has strategic significance," he said. Talking about the Modi government's first five years in power he said, "large majority of people in India have recognised that the country's stature has risen in the world in last five years". Further talking about the growth of nationalism in the world the EAM said, "Second change I would say is, across the world you have had broadly a growth of nationalism and reasons are very complex, that nationalism has been validated electorally in many places. At one level each is different, but somewhere there is a message out there". "Third which is actually longer term change is sort of global re-balancing, sharpest manifestation of that is rise of China, to some extent rise of India as well but overall if you look at it in a 20-year time frame, it's very clear relative weights of global economies are changing," Jaishankar said. "Today, the emphasis is on tighter integration, the ability for different departments and ministries to work together. I have been a minister for less than a week and I have already spent more time with finance and commerce minister than I may have even spent in my own ministry." Jaishankar said that India's growth in South Asia was important for the neighbouring countries as it was the largest economy (in South Asia). "Primary responsibility is on India because we are the largest economy (in South Asia), in that sense our growth can serve as a lifting tide for all our neighbours,if that happens,I don't think we should over-negotiate that. Need to incentivise the cooperation in the neighbourhood, " he said. "SAARC has certain problems and I think we all know what it is even if you were to put terrorism issue aside, there are connectivity and trade issues. If you look at why BIMSTEC leaders were invited for PM's swearing-in because we see energy, mindset and possibility in BIMSTEC, " the External Affairs Minister said. (With inputs from ANI)

For economic growth, foreign policy needs to focus on external aspect: S Jaishankar

India's new External Affairs Minister S.Jaishankar first public speech after taking charge. Watch video to know more.

Foreign Minster S.Jaishankar's first public address

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives.&nbsp;

During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance.

Giving details, Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said, "Visit to Sri Lanka is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of 21st April and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy".

Adding, "PM will very clearly signal his commitment and the intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership."

PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks that killed more than 250 people. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi for his second term.

Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term -- in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the Vesak day celebrations.

During PM's Jaffna visit, India announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year.&nbsp;

India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the Emergency Ambulance Service that was launched in July of 2016 under Indian Grant Assistance of US $ 7.55 million.&nbsp;

India along with Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives. During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives. During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance. Giving details, Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said, "Visit to Sri Lanka is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of 21st April and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy". Adding, "PM will very clearly signal his commitment and the intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership." PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks that killed more than 250 people. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi for his second term. Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term -- in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the Vesak day celebrations. During PM's Jaffna visit, India announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year. India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the Emergency Ambulance Service that was launched in July of 2016 under Indian Grant Assistance of US $ 7.55 million. India along with Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.

PM Modi's Sri Lanka visit to show solidarity with people: Foreign secretary 

Search Continues For The Missing IAF AN-32 Aircraft Why is the search for missing AN-32 aircraft taking so much time? What are the challenges before the search & rescue team? Are the slow procurement procedures to blame for the problem? Palki analyses the issue with expert opinion

Gravitas: Search continues for missing Indian Air Force plane

India's New Navy Chief Is Not Someone To Allow Expenditure Of Unnecessary Protocol. Here's A Gist Of Admiral Karambir Singh's Instruction On The Issue

Gravitas: India's Navy Chief takes a stance against unnecessary protocol

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who was added in only two key cabinet committees initially, will now chair the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/home-minister-amit-shah-emerges-as-clear-no-2-224821">Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary</a> Affairs and be a part of the all-important panel on political affairs, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs takes all important political decisions in the ruling dispensation.&nbsp;

Singh was made a member of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) and the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) earlier and he is now a part of six key panels of the government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads various committees except the one on Parliamentary Affairs.&nbsp;

While the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has only Prime Minister Modi and Shah in it, the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) has Modi, Shah and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, besides Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Modi, has Singh, Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Sitharaman as its members.

The panel looks after issues related to national security and foreign affairs.

Shah will head the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, Sitharaman and Goyal are its members.

Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh and Housing and Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Puri are special invitees of the&nbsp; 
accommodation committee.

The key Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will have Singh, Shah, Gadkari, Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister DV Sadananda Gowda, Sitharaman, Tomar, Prasad and Badal among its members.

The others in the CCEA include Jaishankar, Goyal and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, which recommends dates for holding parliament sessions, will be headed by Singh and will have Shah, Sitharaman, Paswan, Tomar, Prasad, Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi as its members.

Ministers of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal and V Muraleedharan are special invitees.

Shah was to head the committee according to a government order earlier, which has since been amended.

The cabinet committees are constituted or reconstituted when a new government takes over or the cabinet undergoes a reshuffle.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who was added in only two key cabinet committees initially, will now chair the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs and be a part of the all-important panel on political affairs, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who was added in only two key cabinet committees initially, will now chair the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs and be a part of the all-important panel on political affairs, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs takes all important political decisions in the ruling dispensation. Singh was made a member of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) and the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) earlier and he is now a part of six key panels of the government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi heads various committees except the one on Parliamentary Affairs. While the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has only Prime Minister Modi and Shah in it, the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA) has Modi, Shah and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, besides Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Modi, has Singh, Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Sitharaman as its members. The panel looks after issues related to national security and foreign affairs. Shah will head the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, Sitharaman and Goyal are its members. Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh and Housing and Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Puri are special invitees of the accommodation committee. The key Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will have Singh, Shah, Gadkari, Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister DV Sadananda Gowda, Sitharaman, Tomar, Prasad and Badal among its members. The others in the CCEA include Jaishankar, Goyal and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, which recommends dates for holding parliament sessions, will be headed by Singh and will have Shah, Sitharaman, Paswan, Tomar, Prasad, Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi as its members. Ministers of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal and V Muraleedharan are special invitees. Shah was to head the committee according to a government order earlier, which has since been amended. The cabinet committees are constituted or reconstituted when a new government takes over or the cabinet undergoes a reshuffle.

Initially left out, Rajnath Singh included in all important Cabinet Committees

The Indian and French air forces will carry out a two-week-long mega air exercise beginning July 1 in France in a boost to military-to-military ties between the two countries, officials said Wednesday.

India, France to hold mega air exercise ‘Garuda’ in July

Former civil aviation minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Praful Patel today requested for another date to depose before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money-laundering probe.

Praful Patel to not appear before ED today

Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) at isolated places is very likely over Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rayalaseema, interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, said India Meteorological Department on Thursday.

The weather forecasting agency also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places is very likely over Northeast states such as Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura. Besides, Gangetic West Bengal, South interior Karnataka, Rayalaseema, Assam and Meghalaya are likely to witness heavy downpour.

In the northern states, heat wave conditions in many parts with a severe heat wave in isolated pockets very likely over Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha; in some parts with severe heat wave in isolated pockets very likely over West Rajasthan.

"Heatwave to severe heat wave conditions in isolated pockets over East Rajasthan. Heat Wave conditions in isolated pockets over South Haryana, south Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin on Thursday.

Squally weather with winds, speed reaching 35-45 kmph, likely to prevail over southeast and southwest Arabian Sea off Somalia Coast, Maldives-Comorin area and Gulf of Mannar.&nbsp;

The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) at isolated places is very likely over Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rayalaseema, interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, said India Meteorological Department on Thursday.

Thunderstorm accompanied with lightning and gusty winds (40-50 kmph) at isolated places is very likely over Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rayalaseema, interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal, said India Meteorological Department on Thursday. The weather forecasting agency also predicted that heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places is very likely over Northeast states such as Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura. Besides, Gangetic West Bengal, South interior Karnataka, Rayalaseema, Assam and Meghalaya are likely to witness heavy downpour. In the northern states, heat wave conditions in many parts with a severe heat wave in isolated pockets very likely over Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha; in some parts with severe heat wave in isolated pockets very likely over West Rajasthan. "Heatwave to severe heat wave conditions in isolated pockets over East Rajasthan. Heat Wave conditions in isolated pockets over South Haryana, south Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh," stated IMD in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin on Thursday. Squally weather with winds, speed reaching 35-45 kmph, likely to prevail over southeast and southwest Arabian Sea off Somalia Coast, Maldives-Comorin area and Gulf of Mannar. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas for the next few days.

MeT Department warns of thunderstorm, lightning in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra

A territorial army man was shot dead by terrorists when he was at home to celebrate Eid with his family in Kashmir.&nbsp;

Terrorists opened fire on Manzoor Ahmad Beg at Sadoora village of south Kashmir's Anantnag district.&nbsp;

Manzoor was rushed to a local hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival.&nbsp;

Sources told WION that Manzoor was posted with army's 34 RR in Shopian district and was at home on leave.&nbsp;

''He was fired upon by the terrorists and sustained critical gunshot injuries in the incident..... he was subsequently evacuated to hospital for treatment were he succumbed. Police is investigating the circumstances of this terror crime,'' police said in a statement.

Security forces have launched an operation in the area to nab the terrorists.

Meanwhile, two cops have gone missing from District Police Lines in south Kashmir’s Pulwama along with their weapons.&nbsp;

Sources have identified them as Special Police Officers (SPO), Shabir Ahmad of Tujan Pulwama and Salman Ahmad Uthmula Shopian.&nbsp;

''Two SPOs have not reported back to Lines Pulwama. The matter is being investigated,'' police said.&nbsp;

An encounter is also underway in between terrorists and security forces in Panjran area of Lassipora of South Kashmir's Pulwama district.

Sources said that one terrorist was killed in the encounter and gunfire was ongoing. Earlier, a joint team army's 44RR, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched cordon and search operation in the area.

A territorial army man was shot dead by terrorists when he was at home to celebrate Eid with his family in Kashmir. Terrorists opened fire on Manzoor Ahmad Beg at Sadoora village of south Kashmir's Anantnag district.

A territorial army man was shot dead by terrorists when he was at home to celebrate Eid with his family in Kashmir. Terrorists opened fire on Manzoor Ahmad Beg at Sadoora village of south Kashmir's Anantnag district. Manzoor was rushed to a local hospital where doctors declared him dead on arrival. Sources told WION that Manzoor was posted with army's 34 RR in Shopian district and was at home on leave. ''He was fired upon by the terrorists and sustained critical gunshot injuries in the incident..... he was subsequently evacuated to hospital for treatment were he succumbed. Police is investigating the circumstances of this terror crime,'' police said in a statement. Security forces have launched an operation in the area to nab the terrorists. Meanwhile, two cops have gone missing from District Police Lines in south Kashmir’s Pulwama along with their weapons. Sources have identified them as Special Police Officers (SPO), Shabir Ahmad of Tujan Pulwama and Salman Ahmad Uthmula Shopian. ''Two SPOs have not reported back to Lines Pulwama. The matter is being investigated,'' police said. An encounter is also underway in between terrorists and security forces in Panjran area of Lassipora of South Kashmir's Pulwama district. Sources said that one terrorist was killed in the encounter and gunfire was ongoing. Earlier, a joint team army's 44RR, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched cordon and search operation in the area.

Jammu and Kashmir: Army man shot dead by terrorists, two cops missing

In a bid to spur investment and create new employment opportunities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday set up two Cabinet committees to deal with the two crucial issues.

PM Modi forms two cabinet panels to spur investment and employment

Traffic flow in Mumbai is the worst in the world, while Delhi is close behind at fourth position, according to a new report detailing the traffic situation in 56 countries. In the financial capital of India, journey during rush-hour takes 65 per cent longer. In Delhi it is 58 per cent longer, the report prepared by location technology specialist TomTom, which also supplies maps for Apple and Uber, said on Tuesday.

Mumbai most traffic congested city in world, Delhi fourth

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be visiting India from June&nbsp;25-27.&nbsp;

US envoy to India Kenneth Jester speaking at the American Independence Day celebrations in Delhi announced that Pompeo will visit India later this month.

Pompeo last visited India in September of 2018 for the ''2+2 dialogue'' between the then Indian defence and foreign ministers with their American counterparts.

The visit will come just days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meet with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan from June 28-29.

After Trump's congratulatory call to Modi after re-election, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "The two leaders agreed to meet at the forthcoming G-20 Summit in Japan, to discuss bilateral relations and global matters."

Trump, Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met for the first meet of JAI--Japan, America and India grouping--on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December 2018.

Lauding India-US ties, American envoy said, "US-India partnership is durable and effective because it is based on the foundation of common values are societies cherish, like individual liberties, free enterprise, human rights, open societies and rule of law"

India-US ties have grown in last few years, but thorny issues, especially on trade, remains. On Wednesday, Washington's Generalized System of Preference (GSP) which is a trade preference programme for developing countries came to an end for New Delhi. India was the largest beneficiary of GSP in 2017 and was able to export $5.7 billion Indian goods to US duty-free.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be visiting India from June 25-27. US envoy to India Kenneth Jester speaking at the American Independence Day celebrations in Delhi announced that Pompeo will visit India later this month.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be visiting India from June 25-27. US envoy to India Kenneth Jester speaking at the American Independence Day celebrations in Delhi announced that Pompeo will visit India later this month. Pompeo last visited India in September of 2018 for the ''2+2 dialogue'' between the then Indian defence and foreign ministers with their American counterparts. The visit will come just days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meet with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan from June 28-29. After Trump's congratulatory call to Modi after re-election, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "The two leaders agreed to meet at the forthcoming G-20 Summit in Japan, to discuss bilateral relations and global matters." Trump, Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met for the first meet of JAI--Japan, America and India grouping--on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December 2018. Lauding India-US ties, American envoy said, "US-India partnership is durable and effective because it is based on the foundation of common values are societies cherish, like individual liberties, free enterprise, human rights, open societies and rule of law" India-US ties have grown in last few years, but thorny issues, especially on trade, remains. On Wednesday, Washington's Generalized System of Preference (GSP) which is a trade preference programme for developing countries came to an end for New Delhi. India was the largest beneficiary of GSP in 2017 and was able to export $5.7 billion Indian goods to US duty-free.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to visit India later this month

The government Thursday announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-new-cabinet-committees-formed-to-spur-growth-employment-224568">constitution of various Cabinet committees</a>, including the one on economic affairs.

On Wednesday, the government had constituted committees on investment and growth to spur the economic growth, and on employment and skill development to deal with the issues of unemployment.

It was perhaps for the first time that the Cabinet committees on the two issues have been set up.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-s-jaishankar-enter-cabinet-committee-on-security-224609">key committee on security </a>was also set up Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will the head of the Committee, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be its members.

The panel looks after the issues related to national security and foreign affairs.

Among the panels announced Thursday is the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) to be headed by the prime minister with Shah as the other member.

Shah will head the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation. Road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkari, Sitharaman and Railway and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal are its members.

Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh and Housing and Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Puri are special invitees of the Accommodation committee.

The key Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will be headed by the PM and will have Rajnath Singh, Shah, Gadkari, Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister DV Sadananda Gowda, Sitharaman, Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Communication Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister for Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal as its members.

The others in the CCEA include, S Jaishankar, Goyal and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, which recommends dates for holding parliament sessions, will be headed by Shah and will have Sitharaman, Consumer Affairs Minister Ramvilas Paswan, Tomar, Prasad, Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi as its members.

Ministers of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal and V Muraleedharan are special invitees.

The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, which helps the government take important policy decisions, will be headed by the prime minister.

Shah, Gadkari, Sitharaman, Goyal, Paswan, Tomar, Prasad, Harsimrar Kaur, Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, Heavy Industries Minister Arvind Sawant and Joshi will be its members.&nbsp;

The Cabinet committees are constituted or reconstituted when a new government takes over or the cabinet undergoes a reshuffle.

The government Thursday announced the constitution of various Cabinet committees, including the one on economic affairs. On Wednesday, the government had constituted committees on investment and growth to spur the economic growth, and on employment and skill development to deal with the issues of unemployment.

The government Thursday announced the constitution of various Cabinet committees, including the one on economic affairs. On Wednesday, the government had constituted committees on investment and growth to spur the economic growth, and on employment and skill development to deal with the issues of unemployment. It was perhaps for the first time that the Cabinet committees on the two issues have been set up. The key committee on security was also set up Wednesday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will the head of the Committee, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be its members. The panel looks after the issues related to national security and foreign affairs. Among the panels announced Thursday is the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) to be headed by the prime minister with Shah as the other member. Shah will head the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation. Road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkari, Sitharaman and Railway and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal are its members. Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh and Housing and Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Puri are special invitees of the Accommodation committee. The key Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) will be headed by the PM and will have Rajnath Singh, Shah, Gadkari, Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister DV Sadananda Gowda, Sitharaman, Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Communication Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister for Food Processing Harsimrat Kaur Badal as its members. The others in the CCEA include, S Jaishankar, Goyal and Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs, which recommends dates for holding parliament sessions, will be headed by Shah and will have Sitharaman, Consumer Affairs Minister Ramvilas Paswan, Tomar, Prasad, Social Justice Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot, Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Prahlad Joshi as its members. Ministers of State for Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal and V Muraleedharan are special invitees. The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs, which helps the government take important policy decisions, will be headed by the prime minister. Shah, Gadkari, Sitharaman, Goyal, Paswan, Tomar, Prasad, Harsimrar Kaur, Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, Heavy Industries Minister Arvind Sawant and Joshi will be its members. The Cabinet committees are constituted or reconstituted when a new government takes over or the cabinet undergoes a reshuffle.

Government announces constitution of various Cabinet panels

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, who reviewed the public health measures put in place in Kerala after a college student tested positive for<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/7-people-suspected-of-nipah-virus-in-hospital-kerala-health-minister-224734"> Nipah virus</a>, Wednesday said the situation is under control and people need not panic.

The 21-year-old college student's case is this year's first in Kerala. Last year, Nipah virus killed 17 people in the state.

"I urge the people not to panic as the government is leaving no stone unturned to remedy the situation. I am personally reviewing the situation with Health Minister of Kerala, K K Shailaja, on a regular basis,"Vardhan said.

The key focus of Wednesday's review meeting was updating of contact list (line listing with contact details), daily follow-up for symptoms and self-monitoring, the health ministry said in a statement.

The team also discussed SOPs for quarantine of symptomatic contacts, sample collection or testing and dedicated isolation facility with trained health staff for care of cases and epidemiological investigation by multi-disciplinary central team to ascertain the possible source of infection and history of exposure.

The Centre had on Tuesday rushed a six-member team comprising an epidemiologist to Kerala to conduct contact tracing for early detection of suspects and review of isolation facilities.

The team also stressed on the need for proper record-keeping in the district control room with daily sharing of information, the statement stated.

A designated control room has been established at the district collector's office and an isolation ward has been established at Government Medical College Ernakulam, the statement said.

Isolation facilities have also been ensured at Medical Colleges at Calicut, Thrissur and Kottayam, it said.

All healthcare facilities have been asked to ensure high index of suspicion in cases with similar symptoms and also ensure availability of isolation and emergency management facilities before referral, the ministry said.

The statement said that the condition of the college student, a resident of Paravur, is now stable and a total of 314 contacts are being followed up on daily basis.

Five symptomatic contacts have been admitted in quarantine facility at the medical college and samples have been sent for testing, it said.

According to the statement, the student got fever on May 23 when he was in district Thrissur. He visited a physician there but returned to his family in Ernakulum as he had high fever.

"He consulted a private hospital in Ernakulum on May 25 and was treated with antibiotics. He was referred to another private hospital on night of May 30 as he developed slight disorientation and gait imbalance," it said.

"Throat swab, CSF blood and urine samples were sent to the National institute of Virology Alapuzha on June 2 which tested Nipah positive. The patient is stable, conscious and oriented at present. All three other family members are healthy," it added.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), the flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans.

It takes its name from Sungai Nipah, a village in Malaysia where it was first identified.

Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection (mild, severe), and fatal encephalitis.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, myalgia, vomiting and sore throat.

This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis.

Some people can also experience a typical pneumonia and severe respiratory problems, including acute respiratory distress.

Encephalitis and seizures occur in severe cases, progressing to coma within 24 to 48 hours.&nbsp;

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, who reviewed the public health measures put in place in Kerala after a college student tested positive for Nipah virus, Wednesday said the situation is under control and people need not panic.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, who reviewed the public health measures put in place in Kerala after a college student tested positive for Nipah virus, Wednesday said the situation is under control and people need not panic. The 21-year-old college student's case is this year's first in Kerala. Last year, Nipah virus killed 17 people in the state. "I urge the people not to panic as the government is leaving no stone unturned to remedy the situation. I am personally reviewing the situation with Health Minister of Kerala, K K Shailaja, on a regular basis,"Vardhan said. The key focus of Wednesday's review meeting was updating of contact list (line listing with contact details), daily follow-up for symptoms and self-monitoring, the health ministry said in a statement. The team also discussed SOPs for quarantine of symptomatic contacts, sample collection or testing and dedicated isolation facility with trained health staff for care of cases and epidemiological investigation by multi-disciplinary central team to ascertain the possible source of infection and history of exposure. The Centre had on Tuesday rushed a six-member team comprising an epidemiologist to Kerala to conduct contact tracing for early detection of suspects and review of isolation facilities. The team also stressed on the need for proper record-keeping in the district control room with daily sharing of information, the statement stated. A designated control room has been established at the district collector's office and an isolation ward has been established at Government Medical College Ernakulam, the statement said. Isolation facilities have also been ensured at Medical Colleges at Calicut, Thrissur and Kottayam, it said. All healthcare facilities have been asked to ensure high index of suspicion in cases with similar symptoms and also ensure availability of isolation and emergency management facilities before referral, the ministry said. The statement said that the condition of the college student, a resident of Paravur, is now stable and a total of 314 contacts are being followed up on daily basis. Five symptomatic contacts have been admitted in quarantine facility at the medical college and samples have been sent for testing, it said. According to the statement, the student got fever on May 23 when he was in district Thrissur. He visited a physician there but returned to his family in Ernakulum as he had high fever. "He consulted a private hospital in Ernakulum on May 25 and was treated with antibiotics. He was referred to another private hospital on night of May 30 as he developed slight disorientation and gait imbalance," it said. "Throat swab, CSF blood and urine samples were sent to the National institute of Virology Alapuzha on June 2 which tested Nipah positive. The patient is stable, conscious and oriented at present. All three other family members are healthy," it added. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), the flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans. It takes its name from Sungai Nipah, a village in Malaysia where it was first identified. Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection (mild, severe), and fatal encephalitis. Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, myalgia, vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis. Some people can also experience a typical pneumonia and severe respiratory problems, including acute respiratory distress. Encephalitis and seizures occur in severe cases, progressing to coma within 24 to 48 hours.

Nipah virus: Harsh Vardhan reviews public health measures, says situation under control

An exchange of fire took place&nbsp;between terrorists and security forces in Lassipora of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, news agency ANI reported.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Panjran area of&nbsp;Pulwama following information about the presence of militants there, a police official said.

He said a gunfight broke out as the militants opened fire at security personnel, forcing them to retaliate.

There was no report of any casualty so far, he added.

This comes days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/security-forces-terrorists-exchange-fire-in-shopian-1-dead-223737">two terrorists were killed during an exchange of fire</a> with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district.

Earlier, the security forces had got a major breakthrough when one of the most wanted terrorists, Zakir Musa, was killed in an encounter in Tral in Pulwama on May 24.

An exchange of fire took place between terrorists and security forces in Lassipora of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, news agency ANI reported. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Panjran area of Pulwama following information about the presence of militants there, a police official said.

An exchange of fire took place between terrorists and security forces in Lassipora of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district, news agency ANI reported. Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Panjran area of Pulwama following information about the presence of militants there, a police official said. He said a gunfight broke out as the militants opened fire at security personnel, forcing them to retaliate. There was no report of any casualty so far, he added. This comes days after two terrorists were killed during an exchange of fire with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district. Earlier, the security forces had got a major breakthrough when one of the most wanted terrorists, Zakir Musa, was killed in an encounter in Tral in Pulwama on May 24.

Jammu and Kashmir: Exchange of fire between terrorists, security forces in Lassipora of Pulwama district

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-relocates-staff-from-sudan-death-toll-rises-to-108-224799">UN relocates staff from Sudan, death toll rises to 108</a>

The United Nations is moving some of its staff from Sudan, a spokeswoman said Wednesday, as the&nbsp;death toll from a crackdown on protesters soared to more than 100.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/4-bodies-11-tonne-garbage-collected-in-mount-everest-clean-up-operation-224812">4 bodies, 11 tonne garbage picked in Mount Everest clean-up operation</a>

Nepali climbers have retrieved four bodies and collected some&nbsp;11 tonnes of decades-old garbage&nbsp;from Mount Everest and its approach below the base camp as part of a drive to clean up the world's highest mountain, the government said on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/global-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-not-allowed-to-lead-eid-prayers-at-his-favourite-venue-in-lahore-224810">Global terrorist Hafiz Saeed not allowed to lead Eid prayers at his 'favourite' venue in Lahore</a>

For the first time in years, Mumbai attack mastermind and Jammat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief&nbsp;Hafiz Saeed&nbsp;was not allowed by the government on Wednesday to lead Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at his favourite venue Qaddafi Stadium here, an official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailands-parliament-elects-coup-leader-prayut-chan-ocha-as-prime-minister-224805">Thailand's Parliament elects coup leader Prayut Chan-ocha as prime minister</a>

Thailand's junta chief Prayut Chan-ocha&nbsp;was elected late on Wednesday as the kingdom's first civilian prime minister since the 2014 coup he led, in a vote by a parliament stacked with appointed allies of the&nbsp;conservative, arch-royalist army.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danish-centre-left-opposition-wins-election-on-welfare-pledges-224808">Danish centre-left opposition wins election on welfare pledges</a>

Denmark appeared set to become the third Nordic country in a year to form a leftist government as voters in Wednesday`s&nbsp;parliamentary election&nbsp;rebelled against austerity measures and dealt a blow to right-wing nationalists.

UN relocates staff from Sudan, death toll rises to 108 The United Nations is moving some of its staff from Sudan, a spokeswoman said Wednesday, as the death toll from a crackdown on protesters soared to more than 100.

UN relocates staff from Sudan, death toll rises to 108 The United Nations is moving some of its staff from Sudan, a spokeswoman said Wednesday, as the death toll from a crackdown on protesters soared to more than 100. 4 bodies, 11 tonne garbage picked in Mount Everest clean-up operation Nepali climbers have retrieved four bodies and collected some 11 tonnes of decades-old garbage from Mount Everest and its approach below the base camp as part of a drive to clean up the world's highest mountain, the government said on Wednesday. Global terrorist Hafiz Saeed not allowed to lead Eid prayers at his 'favourite' venue in Lahore For the first time in years, Mumbai attack mastermind and Jammat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed was not allowed by the government on Wednesday to lead Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at his favourite venue Qaddafi Stadium here, an official said. Thailand's Parliament elects coup leader Prayut Chan-ocha as prime minister Thailand's junta chief Prayut Chan-ocha was elected late on Wednesday as the kingdom's first civilian prime minister since the 2014 coup he led, in a vote by a parliament stacked with appointed allies of the conservative, arch-royalist army. Danish centre-left opposition wins election on welfare pledges Denmark appeared set to become the third Nordic country in a year to form a leftist government as voters in Wednesday`s parliamentary election rebelled against austerity measures and dealt a blow to right-wing nationalists.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-modi-imran-meeting-planned-on-the-sidelines-of-sco-says-mea-224962">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Thursday reconstituted the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog retaining Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and three other members. Names of high profile member Bibek Debroy and Chief Executive Officer Amitabh Kant do not figure in the new team.

An official release said that Modi who will continue to be Chairman has retained VK Saraswat, Ramesh Chand and Dr VK Paul.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar will be ex-officio members of the reconstituted body while Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Social Justice Minister Thaawar Chand Gehlot, and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will be special invitees.

Minister of State for the Ministry of Statistics, Rao Inderjit Singh, will also be a special invitee.

The reconstitution comes ahead of the first meeting of NITI Aayog's Governing Council on June 15, after the Modi government returned to power following the elections.

Chief Ministers of all states, Governors, Lieutenant-Governors, Union Ministers, and senior officials are slated to participate in the meeting.

The National Institution for Transforming India Aayog was formed via a resolution of the Union Cabinet on January 1, 2015, by the Modi government after scrapping the Planning Commission, which was instituted in 1950.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday reconstituted the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog retaining Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and three other members.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday reconstituted the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog retaining Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and three other members. Names of high profile member Bibek Debroy and Chief Executive Officer Amitabh Kant do not figure in the new team. An official release said that Modi who will continue to be Chairman has retained VK Saraswat, Ramesh Chand and Dr VK Paul. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar will be ex-officio members of the reconstituted body while Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Social Justice Minister Thaawar Chand Gehlot, and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will be special invitees. Minister of State for the Ministry of Statistics, Rao Inderjit Singh, will also be a special invitee. The reconstitution comes ahead of the first meeting of NITI Aayog's Governing Council on June 15, after the Modi government returned to power following the elections. Chief Ministers of all states, Governors, Lieutenant-Governors, Union Ministers, and senior officials are slated to participate in the meeting. The National Institution for Transforming India Aayog was formed via a resolution of the Union Cabinet on January 1, 2015, by the Modi government after scrapping the Planning Commission, which was instituted in 1950.

PM Modi reconstitutes NITI Aayog, Rajiv Kumar to continue as vice chairman

It's a double whammy for Indian National Congress ( INC ) in Telangana.

After the rout in the 2018 Assembly Elections, the recently concluded general elections gave a glimmer of hope to the Congress party in Telangana where it managed to win three parliamentary seats. But that hope has been dashed with 12 of its MLAs pledging loyalty to Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS).&nbsp;

The 12 Congress MLAs, some of whom perceived to be close to party high command and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, met Telangana Legislative Assembly Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy and gave a representation stating they are joining TRS ''inspired'' by the leadership of Chief Minister K.Chandrashekar Rao.&nbsp;

With the latest development, the grand old party of India, which had 18 MLAs in the Telangana Legislative Assembly, is now left with only 6.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in a swift development, a bulletin released by the Telangana Legislative Assembly says, ``the speaker has taken note of 12 members of the Congress Legislature Party who constitute two-thirds of its total members in the Telangana Legislative Assembly are deemed to have been merged with the TRS&nbsp;Legislature party as per Paragraph four&nbsp;of the Tenth Schedule of&nbsp;the Constitution of India. Accordingly, seats are allotted to them alongwith members of TRS party in the House.''&nbsp;

The total strength of the Telangana Assembly is 119 but it reduced to 118 as Telangana Congress President and MLA Capt Uttam Kumar Reddy recently got elected to Lok Sabha from Nalgonda constituency.

Following is the break-up of parties position in Telangana Legislative Assembly.

1) TRS &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;- 90 
2) AIMIM &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 7 
3) Congress &nbsp;-18 ( 12 defected to TRS today ) 
4) TDP &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 2 
5) BJP &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; - 1

&nbsp; &nbsp;Total &nbsp;- &nbsp; &nbsp;118

This is for the second time such defections are taking place. Earlier, after the 2014 Assembly elections, TRS got a decent majority. However, many of the MLAs, mainly from Congress and TDP, defected to TRS. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
As soon as 12 of their MLAs pledged support to TRS today, state Congress president Capt Uttam Kumar Reddy along with remaining MLAs and other senior party leaders staged dharna in front of Assembly. ``This is undemocratic and shows how TRS party is indulging in horse trading,'' said Captain Uttam Kumar Reddy.&nbsp;

The party is getting ready for a legal battle, he added.

Meanwhile, rebel Congress legislator from Warangal, Gandra Venkata Ramana Reddy, said the 12 MLAs decided to work with the chief minister for the development of the state.

Gandra confirmed that they gave a representation to the Speaker requesting him to merge them with the TRS.

" All of us (12 MLAs) held a special meeting of the Congress Legislature Party. The 12 members supported the leadership of Chief Minister KCR and wanted to work with him. We gave a representation to the Speaker and requested him to merge us with the TRS," Reddy said.

As 12 MLAs account for two-thirds of the Congress Legislature Party, which has an effective strength of 18, they will not attract provisions of the anti-defection law, official sources said.

It's a double whammy for Indian National Congress ( INC ) in Telangana. After the rout in the 2018 Assembly Elections, the recently concluded general elections gave a glimmer of hope to the Congress party in Telangana where it managed to win three parliamentary seats.

It's a double whammy for Indian National Congress ( INC ) in Telangana. After the rout in the 2018 Assembly Elections, the recently concluded general elections gave a glimmer of hope to the Congress party in Telangana where it managed to win three parliamentary seats. But that hope has been dashed with 12 of its MLAs pledging loyalty to Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS). The 12 Congress MLAs, some of whom perceived to be close to party high command and Congress president Rahul Gandhi, met Telangana Legislative Assembly Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy and gave a representation stating they are joining TRS ''inspired'' by the leadership of Chief Minister K.Chandrashekar Rao. With the latest development, the grand old party of India, which had 18 MLAs in the Telangana Legislative Assembly, is now left with only 6. Meanwhile, in a swift development, a bulletin released by the Telangana Legislative Assembly says, ``the speaker has taken note of 12 members of the Congress Legislature Party who constitute two-thirds of its total members in the Telangana Legislative Assembly are deemed to have been merged with the TRS Legislature party as per Paragraph four of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India. Accordingly, seats are allotted to them alongwith members of TRS party in the House.'' The total strength of the Telangana Assembly is 119 but it reduced to 118 as Telangana Congress President and MLA Capt Uttam Kumar Reddy recently got elected to Lok Sabha from Nalgonda constituency. Following is the break-up of parties position in Telangana Legislative Assembly. 1) TRS - 90 2) AIMIM - 7 3) Congress -18 ( 12 defected to TRS today ) 4) TDP - 2 5) BJP - 1 Total - 118 This is for the second time such defections are taking place. Earlier, after the 2014 Assembly elections, TRS got a decent majority. However, many of the MLAs, mainly from Congress and TDP, defected to TRS. As soon as 12 of their MLAs pledged support to TRS today, state Congress president Capt Uttam Kumar Reddy along with remaining MLAs and other senior party leaders staged dharna in front of Assembly. ``This is undemocratic and shows how TRS party is indulging in horse trading,'' said Captain Uttam Kumar Reddy. The party is getting ready for a legal battle, he added. Meanwhile, rebel Congress legislator from Warangal, Gandra Venkata Ramana Reddy, said the 12 MLAs decided to work with the chief minister for the development of the state. Gandra confirmed that they gave a representation to the Speaker requesting him to merge them with the TRS. " All of us (12 MLAs) held a special meeting of the Congress Legislature Party. The 12 members supported the leadership of Chief Minister KCR and wanted to work with him. We gave a representation to the Speaker and requested him to merge us with the TRS," Reddy said. As 12 MLAs account for two-thirds of the Congress Legislature Party, which has an effective strength of 18, they will not attract provisions of the anti-defection law, official sources said.

Telangana Congress in doldrums as 12 of its MLAs defect to TRS

India on Thursday rejected Donald Trump' statement on India's pollution and cleanliness and said US President's remark exposed his ''ignorance''.

“China, India, Russia, many other nations, they have not very good air, not very good water in the sense of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-india-russia-do-not-have-very-good-air-they-are-not-very-good-with-pollution-and-cleanliness-trump-224835">pollution and cleanliness</a>,” Trump had said in an interview to UK television channel.&nbsp;

Trump claimed that New Delhi has not been doing enough to control climate change.

In the interview, Trump also accused China and Russia along with India of not fulfilling their responsibilities towards the environment.

Not only that, Trump absolved the US of any responsibility towards the environment, he also claimed the US was among the most environment-friendly nations in the world.

Ironically, US president's remarks on India's 'uncleanliness' came on the day when the country's Swacch Bharat or nationwide cleanliness programme got the UNICEF's approval.

In a report, the UNICEF said that the Swachh Bharat initiative has led to a reduction in groundwater contamination.

After coming to power, Trump has often taken anti-environment stand. Most notably, the US pulled out of the Paris climate change accord.&nbsp;

India on Thursday rejected Donald Trump' statement on India's pollution and cleanliness and said US President's remark exposed his ''ignorance''. “China, India, Russia, many other nations, they have not very good air, not very good water in the sense of pollution and cleanliness,” Trump had said in an interview to UK television channel.

India on Thursday rejected Donald Trump' statement on India's pollution and cleanliness and said US President's remark exposed his ''ignorance''. “China, India, Russia, many other nations, they have not very good air, not very good water in the sense of pollution and cleanliness,” Trump had said in an interview to UK television channel. Trump claimed that New Delhi has not been doing enough to control climate change. In the interview, Trump also accused China and Russia along with India of not fulfilling their responsibilities towards the environment. Not only that, Trump absolved the US of any responsibility towards the environment, he also claimed the US was among the most environment-friendly nations in the world. Ironically, US president's remarks on India's 'uncleanliness' came on the day when the country's Swacch Bharat or nationwide cleanliness programme got the UNICEF's approval. In a report, the UNICEF said that the Swachh Bharat initiative has led to a reduction in groundwater contamination. After coming to power, Trump has often taken anti-environment stand. Most notably, the US pulled out of the Paris climate change accord.

India rejects Trump's 'ignorant' remarks on pollution, cleanliness 

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