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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-prime-minister-abe-set-for-mediation-mission-to-iran-224969">Japanese Prime Minister Abe set for mediation mission to Iran</a>

Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-modi-imran-meeting-planned-on-the-sidelines-of-sco-says-mea-224962">No Modi, Imran meeting planned on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization, says MEA&nbsp;</a>

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-order-uber-ola-to-go-electric-by-april-2026-report-224991">India to order Uber, Ola to go electric by April 2026: Report</a>

India plans to order Uber and Ola to convert 40 per cent of their fleet of cars to electric by April 2026, according to a source and records of government meetings to discuss new rules for clean mobility.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-congress-in-doldrums-as-12-of-its-mlas-defect-to-trs-225012">Telangana Congress in doldrums as 12 of its MLAs defect to TRS</a>

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;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-regrets-south-africa-on-turning-down-ab-de-villiers-approach-224972">'No regrets': South Africa on turning down AB de Villiers' comeback offer</a>

Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available for the Cricket World Cup in England.

Japanese Prime Minister Abe set for mediation mission to Iran Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran.

Japanese Prime Minister Abe set for mediation mission to Iran Shinzo Abe plans to travel to Iran next week, the first visit by a Japanese prime minister in more than four decades, as Tokyo hopes to ease Middle East tension by mediating between Washington and Tehran. No Modi, Imran meeting planned on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization, says MEA Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. India to order Uber, Ola to go electric by April 2026: Report India plans to order Uber and Ola to convert 40 per cent of their fleet of cars to electric by April 2026, according to a source and records of government meetings to discuss new rules for clean mobility. Telangana Congress in doldrums as 12 of its MLAs defect to TRS 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). 'No regrets': South Africa on turning down AB de Villiers' comeback offer Cricket South Africa selection convenor Linda Zondi said on Thursday they have no regrets in turning down an approach from retired batsman AB de Villiers to make himself available for the Cricket World Cup in England.

News brief: Big stories of the day

With two-thirds of the party MLAs seeking merger with ruling TRS in Telangana, Congress state unit head N Uttam Kumar Reddy Thursday lashed out at Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, accusing him of 'purchasing' the legislators.

He also said Congress would now "fight in the courts and on the streets".

In a jolt to the party, twelve of its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-congress-in-doldrums-as-12-of-its-mlas-defect-to-trs-225012">18 MLAs in the state Thursday met Assembly Speaker</a> Pocharam Srinivas Reddy and gave him a representation seeking to merge their group with the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), headed by Rao, popularly known as KCR.

"These Congress MLAs were purchased piece-by-piece by KCR. They are not a group", Reddy said after a dozen lawmakers from his party met the Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy seeking a merger of Congress Legislature Party with TRS.

He alleged KCR had been purchasing these MLAs with his "ill-gotten money from contractors".

Each time a Congress MLA defected to the TRS, the Congress had submitted disqualification petition to the Speaker, he said, adding, each of them should have been disqualified at that point of time itself.

"Now, they kept purchasing and last purchase of MLAs was this morning. They say they are a group, and two-thirds. Supreme Court has held in many cases that Speaker does not have the power to merge a national party into a regional party", Reddy told PTI.

Rohith Reddy, representing Tandur constituency, became the 12th MLA to jump the ship Thursday, boosting the strength of the defectors to two-thirds of the Congress Legislature Party, which would insulate them from action under the anti-defection law.

Earlier, since early March, 11 Congress MLAs had shifted sides.

Congress strength in the 119-member House came down to 18 after Uttam Kumar Reddy Reddy tendered his resignation from the Assembly Wednesday after being elected to the Lok Sabha from Nalgonda in the recent elections.

Uttam Kumar Reddy Thursday said they have been trying to approach the Speaker but he was not "traceable".

"This is a completely illegal act. KCR is cheating the mandate of the people of Telangana", he said.

"We will fight in the courts and on the streets", he said when asked the options that the Congress would pursue now.

The state Congress chief said they had recently filed a petition in the high court on the issue of defection of MLAs.

"High court said there is no urgency of the matter and it will hear it on June 11. We are mentioning in the high court as soon as it assembles tomorrow. If the court does not accept our plea, we will go to the Supreme Court", he added.&nbsp;

With two-thirds of the party MLAs seeking merger with ruling TRS in Telangana, Congress state unit head N Uttam Kumar Reddy Thursday lashed out at Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, accusing him of 'purchasing' the legislators.

With two-thirds of the party MLAs seeking merger with ruling TRS in Telangana, Congress state unit head N Uttam Kumar Reddy Thursday lashed out at Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, accusing him of 'purchasing' the legislators. He also said Congress would now "fight in the courts and on the streets". In a jolt to the party, twelve of its 18 MLAs in the state Thursday met Assembly Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy and gave him a representation seeking to merge their group with the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), headed by Rao, popularly known as KCR. "These Congress MLAs were purchased piece-by-piece by KCR. They are not a group", Reddy said after a dozen lawmakers from his party met the Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy seeking a merger of Congress Legislature Party with TRS. He alleged KCR had been purchasing these MLAs with his "ill-gotten money from contractors". Each time a Congress MLA defected to the TRS, the Congress had submitted disqualification petition to the Speaker, he said, adding, each of them should have been disqualified at that point of time itself. "Now, they kept purchasing and last purchase of MLAs was this morning. They say they are a group, and two-thirds. Supreme Court has held in many cases that Speaker does not have the power to merge a national party into a regional party", Reddy told PTI. Rohith Reddy, representing Tandur constituency, became the 12th MLA to jump the ship Thursday, boosting the strength of the defectors to two-thirds of the Congress Legislature Party, which would insulate them from action under the anti-defection law. Earlier, since early March, 11 Congress MLAs had shifted sides. Congress strength in the 119-member House came down to 18 after Uttam Kumar Reddy Reddy tendered his resignation from the Assembly Wednesday after being elected to the Lok Sabha from Nalgonda in the recent elections. Uttam Kumar Reddy Thursday said they have been trying to approach the Speaker but he was not "traceable". "This is a completely illegal act. KCR is cheating the mandate of the people of Telangana", he said. "We will fight in the courts and on the streets", he said when asked the options that the Congress would pursue now. The state Congress chief said they had recently filed a petition in the high court on the issue of defection of MLAs. "High court said there is no urgency of the matter and it will hear it on June 11. We are mentioning in the high court as soon as it assembles tomorrow. If the court does not accept our plea, we will go to the Supreme Court", he added.

Chandrasekhar Rao 'purchased' party MLAs with 'ill-gotten' money, alleges Telangana Congress

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-former-foreign-secretary-a-surprise-pick-in-team-modi-20-222869">External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar</a> has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries.

Jaishankar termed his conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian as "cordial".

"Had a cordial conversation with the French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian Plenty to look forward to and do in our already strong and successful strategic partnership with France," he said in a tweet.

The ties between Indian and France are on an upswing in the last few years. Both sides are particularly focussing on enhancing defence and security cooperation.&nbsp;

On his talks with Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Jaishankar said it was a warm conversation.

"Had a warm conversation with Foreign Minister of Turkey @MevlutCavusoglu that helped us build a personal and professional bond. Thank you for your good wishes. Look forward to closely working with you.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held telephonic conversations with his French and Turkish counterparts with a focus on enhancing the bilateral ties with the two countries. Jaishankar termed his conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian as "cordial". "Had a cordial conversation with the French Foreign Minister @JY_LeDrian Plenty to look forward to and do in our already strong and successful strategic partnership with France," he said in a tweet. The ties between Indian and France are on an upswing in the last few years. Both sides are particularly focussing on enhancing defence and security cooperation. On his talks with Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, Jaishankar said it was a warm conversation. "Had a warm conversation with Foreign Minister of Turkey @MevlutCavusoglu that helped us build a personal and professional bond. Thank you for your good wishes. Look forward to closely working with you.

S Jaishankar holds telephonic conversations with foreign ministers of France, Turkey

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/piyush-goyal-retains-railways-likely-to-focus-on-safety-non-fare-revenue-223134">Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal</a> will lead the Indian delegation for the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy being held from June 8 to 9 at Tsukuba city along the Ibaraki prefecture in Japan.

He will discuss developments in the global trade situation, WTO matters and digital trade. Goyal will also hold dialogue with other participating trade ministers on current international trade and investments.

For the first time, ministers of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Commerce will participate in a joint session on digital economy, according to a statement issued by the government on Thursday.

The G20 trade ministers deliberations will form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration.

Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations.

Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy.

Digitalisation is expected to continue to create benefits for our economies and societies as a whole and help achieve the inclusive, innovative and human-centred future society 'Society 5.0.'

The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal will lead the Indian delegation for the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy being held from June 8 to 9 at Tsukuba city along the Ibaraki prefecture in Japan.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal will lead the Indian delegation for the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Trade and Digital Economy being held from June 8 to 9 at Tsukuba city along the Ibaraki prefecture in Japan. He will discuss developments in the global trade situation, WTO matters and digital trade. Goyal will also hold dialogue with other participating trade ministers on current international trade and investments. For the first time, ministers of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Commerce will participate in a joint session on digital economy, according to a statement issued by the government on Thursday. The G20 trade ministers deliberations will form part of the G20 summit leaders agenda in the formal discussions and will also be a part of the summit declaration. Ever since G20 was formed, India has been actively participating in the meetings. Although there are no binding commitments in G20, it sets the agenda for multilateral trade relations. Over 50 trade and digital economy ministers will discuss how G20 economies can promote trade and investment and maximise benefits from the development of digital technologies to ensure sustainable growth of the global economy. Digitalisation is expected to continue to create benefits for our economies and societies as a whole and help achieve the inclusive, innovative and human-centred future society 'Society 5.0.' The Trade and Digital Economy meeting is one of the eight ministerial meetings taking place in Japan alongside the 2019 G20 Summit. The G20 members represent two-thirds of the world's people and 85 per cent of its economy.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal to lead Indian delegation for G20 ministerial meet in Japan

The arrival of the monsoon in the national capital is likely to be delayed by two-three days, though the city is expected to receive normal rainfall, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Thursday.

However, Skymet Weather, a private forecaster, said the monsoon may take at least a week longer to reach the city.

On Wednesday, the weather office said that the monsoon was likely to get delayed further and hit the Kerala coast only on June 8.

"Normally, the monsoon reaches Delhi by June 29. Since there's a delay in its onset in the southern peninsula, the wind system is likely to take two-three days longer to reach northwest India," IMD's regional weather forecasting chief Kuldeep Srivastava said.

"The good is news is the factors that aid the progress of the monsoon, including the southwesterly winds and the Somali jet stream, are gradually becoming active," he said.

Northwest India is likely to witness normal rainfall during the monsoon season, Srivastava said.

However, Mahesh Palawat, senior vice president and meteorologist at Skymet Weather, said, "It's difficult to say when will it reach Delhi exactly, but it's expected to get delayed by at least one week."

"After the onset of the monsoon, a low-pressure area is expected to develop over the Arabian Sea and it may intensify into a depression gradually. 
&nbsp;Whenever any such intense weather system develops over the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea, the moisture-laden winds start converging around it, affecting the progress of the monsoon.&nbsp;

"So, the progress of the monsoon will be sluggish due to the formation of the low-pressure area in the Arabian Sea," he added.

"The rainfall is expected to remain on the lower side of normal over Delhi. Since, it's a small area, one or two good spells of rains may make up for the deficit. But any surplus rain is ruled out," Palawat said.&nbsp;

The arrival of the monsoon in the national capital is likely to be delayed by two-three days, though the city is expected to receive normal rainfall, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Thursday.

The arrival of the monsoon in the national capital is likely to be delayed by two-three days, though the city is expected to receive normal rainfall, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Thursday. However, Skymet Weather, a private forecaster, said the monsoon may take at least a week longer to reach the city. On Wednesday, the weather office said that the monsoon was likely to get delayed further and hit the Kerala coast only on June 8. "Normally, the monsoon reaches Delhi by June 29. Since there's a delay in its onset in the southern peninsula, the wind system is likely to take two-three days longer to reach northwest India," IMD's regional weather forecasting chief Kuldeep Srivastava said. "The good is news is the factors that aid the progress of the monsoon, including the southwesterly winds and the Somali jet stream, are gradually becoming active," he said. Northwest India is likely to witness normal rainfall during the monsoon season, Srivastava said. However, Mahesh Palawat, senior vice president and meteorologist at Skymet Weather, said, "It's difficult to say when will it reach Delhi exactly, but it's expected to get delayed by at least one week." "After the onset of the monsoon, a low-pressure area is expected to develop over the Arabian Sea and it may intensify into a depression gradually. Whenever any such intense weather system develops over the Bay of Bengal or the Arabian Sea, the moisture-laden winds start converging around it, affecting the progress of the monsoon. "So, the progress of the monsoon will be sluggish due to the formation of the low-pressure area in the Arabian Sea," he added. "The rainfall is expected to remain on the lower side of normal over Delhi. Since, it's a small area, one or two good spells of rains may make up for the deficit. But any surplus rain is ruled out," Palawat said.

Monsoon may take longer to reach Delhi, normal rainfall likely: IMD

Air quality in Delhi-NCR has improved and the number of days with "bad" air quality has come down by 33 per cent, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said Thursday.

Speaking at an event to mark World Environment Day, which was on June 5, the minister said the situation "is not as bad" as being portrayed in the media.

"Media reports are always creating a picture that lakhs of people are dying of air pollution but it is not as bad. Yes pollution is there but efforts are on," Javadekar said.

"Number of poor air quality days in Delhi in 2016 used to be 246, and in 2014 they used to be around 300, in 2017 it came down to 213 and now it has come down to 206. I am confident that when 2019 figures will come, the number of poor air quality days will further come down. This is a tremendous success. The days of poor quality air have reduced. It is a significant improvement," he said.

He also said that the number of days with 'moderate' to 'good' air quality has increased from 108 in 2016 to 159 in 2018.

"Moderate to good days have increased. 108 days of moderate air quality in 2016 have increased to 152 in 2017 and now they have gone up to 159 days.&nbsp; 
This progress in good air days are the result of concerted efforts of last four years for the capital and NCR," he said, adding that air quality monitoring systems which record the air quality index (AQI) show improvement in air quality.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

Calling for people's participation, the minister said that just wearing masks will not help and every individual has to act responsibly towards environment.

"Just wearing masks won't help. People have to actively participate and act responsible towards environment. We have to save water and electricity, take cycle for distance up to two km, use public transport, maintain vehicles. All these activities will help reduce pollution. We will do better," he said at the event on the theme of 'Beat Air Pollution'.

In his address, Minister of State for Environment Babul Supriyo urged people to use car pool at least once in a week to contribute to the cause of environment and "not be afraid of the alarming figures in the war against pollution".

He also said the ministry has now become a 24-hour working ministry as his senior minister wakes up at 4 am and he sleeps at 4 am.

"With my inclusion in this ministry, it has become a 24-hour ministry because my minister (Javadekar) wakes up at 4 am and I sleep at 4 am," he said.

He said there was a lot that needs to be done for the environment and referred to his daughter's WhatsApp group saying they had a lot of ideas to protect environment.

"My daughter studies in Bombay and she has a WhatsApp group to which I was added and I am amazed to see the ideas they all come up with to protect the planet," he said.

The event was attended by several senior officials of the ministry of environment, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) chairman S P S Parihar and officials from several state pollution control boards.

During the event, MoUs were signed between IITs across the country and respective state pollution control boards for joint efforts in combating air pollution.

The ministry also released several publications, including Orchids of India by Botanical Survey of India which identified over 700 species of orchids in the country.

Another book - Plant Discoveries - was released in which 438 plant species have been added to the Indian flora in 2018.

"I want to congratulate Botanical Survey of India and those who have identified 438 species of plants. I also congratulate the Zoological Survey of India for identifying 179 new species and I appreciate their research. National Tiger Conservation Authority has also made an immense contribution in tiger conservation," Javadekar said.&nbsp;

Air quality in Delhi-NCR has improved and the number of days with "bad" air quality has come down by 33 per cent, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said Thursday.

Air quality in Delhi-NCR has improved and the number of days with "bad" air quality has come down by 33 per cent, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said Thursday. Speaking at an event to mark World Environment Day, which was on June 5, the minister said the situation "is not as bad" as being portrayed in the media. "Media reports are always creating a picture that lakhs of people are dying of air pollution but it is not as bad. Yes pollution is there but efforts are on," Javadekar said. "Number of poor air quality days in Delhi in 2016 used to be 246, and in 2014 they used to be around 300, in 2017 it came down to 213 and now it has come down to 206. I am confident that when 2019 figures will come, the number of poor air quality days will further come down. This is a tremendous success. The days of poor quality air have reduced. It is a significant improvement," he said. He also said that the number of days with 'moderate' to 'good' air quality has increased from 108 in 2016 to 159 in 2018. "Moderate to good days have increased. 108 days of moderate air quality in 2016 have increased to 152 in 2017 and now they have gone up to 159 days. This progress in good air days are the result of concerted efforts of last four years for the capital and NCR," he said, adding that air quality monitoring systems which record the air quality index (AQI) show improvement in air quality. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. Calling for people's participation, the minister said that just wearing masks will not help and every individual has to act responsibly towards environment. "Just wearing masks won't help. People have to actively participate and act responsible towards environment. We have to save water and electricity, take cycle for distance up to two km, use public transport, maintain vehicles. All these activities will help reduce pollution. We will do better," he said at the event on the theme of 'Beat Air Pollution'. In his address, Minister of State for Environment Babul Supriyo urged people to use car pool at least once in a week to contribute to the cause of environment and "not be afraid of the alarming figures in the war against pollution". He also said the ministry has now become a 24-hour working ministry as his senior minister wakes up at 4 am and he sleeps at 4 am. "With my inclusion in this ministry, it has become a 24-hour ministry because my minister (Javadekar) wakes up at 4 am and I sleep at 4 am," he said. He said there was a lot that needs to be done for the environment and referred to his daughter's WhatsApp group saying they had a lot of ideas to protect environment. "My daughter studies in Bombay and she has a WhatsApp group to which I was added and I am amazed to see the ideas they all come up with to protect the planet," he said. The event was attended by several senior officials of the ministry of environment, Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) chairman S P S Parihar and officials from several state pollution control boards. During the event, MoUs were signed between IITs across the country and respective state pollution control boards for joint efforts in combating air pollution. The ministry also released several publications, including Orchids of India by Botanical Survey of India which identified over 700 species of orchids in the country. Another book - Plant Discoveries - was released in which 438 plant species have been added to the Indian flora in 2018. "I want to congratulate Botanical Survey of India and those who have identified 438 species of plants. I also congratulate the Zoological Survey of India for identifying 179 new species and I appreciate their research. National Tiger Conservation Authority has also made an immense contribution in tiger conservation," Javadekar said.

Delhi's 'bad air' days down by 33%: Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-will-try-to-serve-andhra-pradesh-better-than-my-father-chief-minister-jagan-mohan-reddy-224009">YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government</a> Thursday cancelled a controversial government order issued by the previous Chandrababu Naidu-led dispensation, paving the way for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe various cases in Andhra Pradesh.

On November 8, 2018, the ruling Telugu Desam Party had issued a government order (GO) withdrawing the "general consent" accorded to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to carry out investigations and raids in the state.

"In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, the government hereby withdraws the general consent accorded (in GO Ms 109) to all the members of the Delhi Special Police Establishment to exercise the powers and jurisdiction under the said&nbsp; 
Act in the state of Andhra Pradesh," the GO had said.

The then Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa had said the reason to withdraw the consent was allegations against the top officials of the country's premier investigation agency.

The Andhra Pradesh government bestowed powers upon itself to launch a corruption probe against central government employees as well through the state's Anti-Corruption Bureau.

The YSR Congress Party that assumed power on May 30, issued a fresh order Thursday cancelling the GO 176 issued on November 8.

Based on the directions of Jagan Mohan Reddy, Special Chief Secretary Manmohan Singh issued GO 81 to this effect.

"The order issued on November 8, 2018 is hereby cancelled under the provisions of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946," it said. 
The CBI will now have all powers to take up corruption and other cases in AP.

The premier investigative agency functions under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act.

Under Section 6 of the Act, a state government "routinely" grants consent to the CBI for exercising its authority in the state and the AP government, too, had issued relevant orders periodically.

Ever since he snapped ties with the Narendra Modi-led NDA government in March last year, Naidu had been alleging that the Centre was misusing agencies like the CBI to target political opponents.

The raids by Income Tax authorities on some business establishments, run by those close to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in the state, had left Naidu red-faced.

Subsequently, he announced that his government would not provide police cover to the IT officials for conducting the raids.

The state government's move was seen as further intensification of confrontation between the Modi government and Naidu, who was striving to forge a non-BJP front to take on the saffron party in 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Opposition parties decried the move and asserted the state government did not have the authority to bar the CBI.

The YSR Congress, the main opposition party then, had alleged the controversial decision was taken only because the chief minister was scared of the CBI.

The YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government Thursday cancelled a controversial government order issued by the previous Chandrababu Naidu-led dispensation, paving the way for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe various cases in Andhra Pradesh.

The YS Jagan Mohan Reddy government Thursday cancelled a controversial government order issued by the previous Chandrababu Naidu-led dispensation, paving the way for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe various cases in Andhra Pradesh. On November 8, 2018, the ruling Telugu Desam Party had issued a government order (GO) withdrawing the "general consent" accorded to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to carry out investigations and raids in the state. "In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946, the government hereby withdraws the general consent accorded (in GO Ms 109) to all the members of the Delhi Special Police Establishment to exercise the powers and jurisdiction under the said Act in the state of Andhra Pradesh," the GO had said. The then Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa had said the reason to withdraw the consent was allegations against the top officials of the country's premier investigation agency. The Andhra Pradesh government bestowed powers upon itself to launch a corruption probe against central government employees as well through the state's Anti-Corruption Bureau. The YSR Congress Party that assumed power on May 30, issued a fresh order Thursday cancelling the GO 176 issued on November 8. Based on the directions of Jagan Mohan Reddy, Special Chief Secretary Manmohan Singh issued GO 81 to this effect. "The order issued on November 8, 2018 is hereby cancelled under the provisions of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946," it said. The CBI will now have all powers to take up corruption and other cases in AP. The premier investigative agency functions under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act. Under Section 6 of the Act, a state government "routinely" grants consent to the CBI for exercising its authority in the state and the AP government, too, had issued relevant orders periodically. Ever since he snapped ties with the Narendra Modi-led NDA government in March last year, Naidu had been alleging that the Centre was misusing agencies like the CBI to target political opponents. The raids by Income Tax authorities on some business establishments, run by those close to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in the state, had left Naidu red-faced. Subsequently, he announced that his government would not provide police cover to the IT officials for conducting the raids. The state government's move was seen as further intensification of confrontation between the Modi government and Naidu, who was striving to forge a non-BJP front to take on the saffron party in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Opposition parties decried the move and asserted the state government did not have the authority to bar the CBI. The YSR Congress, the main opposition party then, had alleged the controversial decision was taken only because the chief minister was scared of the CBI.

Andhra Pradesh CM Jagan Reddy reverses Naidu government order, allows CBI to conduct probe in the state

The Jammu and Kashmir government has set up official panels to implement and monitor the Centre's National Green Crops&nbsp;scheme aimed at spreading environmental awareness among children.

The scheme was formulated by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2001-02 to build up cadres of young children working for environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Then NGC scheme is implemented through eco-clubs set up in schools registered as NGC members, said, officials.

The state-level panel will comprise secretaries of the departments of Forest, Environment and Ecology, School Education, the state's principal chief conservator of forests and the Environment, Ecology &amp; Remote Sensing Department director besides the member secretary of the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), said an official statement.

The district-level panels will have the respective district development commissioners, divisional forest officers, chief medical officers, SPCB district officer and the chief education officer, said the order issued by J&amp;K General Administrative Department Commissioner Farooq Ahmed Lone.&nbsp;

The programme exposes school children to in-depth field experiences and provides them with opportunities to convert their ideas into creative action, they added.

This programme seeks to redirect the consciousness of students towards environment-friendly attitudes and actions and goes beyond schools, promoting school-society interactions to sensitize the society, they said.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir government has set up official panels to implement and monitor the Centre's National Green Crops scheme aimed at spreading environmental awareness among children.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has set up official panels to implement and monitor the Centre's National Green Crops scheme aimed at spreading environmental awareness among children. The scheme was formulated by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2001-02 to build up cadres of young children working for environmental conservation and sustainable development. Then NGC scheme is implemented through eco-clubs set up in schools registered as NGC members, said, officials. The state-level panel will comprise secretaries of the departments of Forest, Environment and Ecology, School Education, the state's principal chief conservator of forests and the Environment, Ecology & Remote Sensing Department director besides the member secretary of the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), said an official statement. The district-level panels will have the respective district development commissioners, divisional forest officers, chief medical officers, SPCB district officer and the chief education officer, said the order issued by J&K General Administrative Department Commissioner Farooq Ahmed Lone. The programme exposes school children to in-depth field experiences and provides them with opportunities to convert their ideas into creative action, they added. This programme seeks to redirect the consciousness of students towards environment-friendly attitudes and actions and goes beyond schools, promoting school-society interactions to sensitize the society, they said.

Jammu and Kashmir sets up panels aimed at spreading environmental awareness among students

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/7-people-suspected-of-nipah-virus-in-hospital-kerala-health-minister-224734">Nipah, a rare and often deadly disease</a> which is back in the news with a student in Kerala diagnosed with the infection, is a zoonotic virus which means it is transmitted from animals such as bats or pigs to humans, and can also spread through contaminated food and people-to-people contact.&nbsp;

Signs and symptoms

Human infections range from asymptomatic (no symptoms) to acute respiratory infection and fatal encephalitis, involving inflammation of the brain, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Infected people initially develop symptoms, including fever, headaches, myalgia (muscle pain), vomiting and sore throat.

This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis.&nbsp;

The incubation period -- interval from infection to the onset of symptoms -- mostly ranges from four to 14 days.&nbsp;

Most people who survive acute encephalitis make a full recovery, but long term neurological conditions have been reported in survivors.

The WHO estimates the case fatality rate at 40 per cent to 75 per cent.&nbsp;

Past outbreaks&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nipah-karnataka-sounds-alert-after-man-infected-with-virus-in-kerala-224932">Nipah virus was first recognised in 1999</a> during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia.&nbsp;

It was also recognised in Bangladesh in 2001, and nearly annual outbreaks have occurred in that country since. The disease has also been identified periodically in India. Last year, the virus killed 17 people in Kerala.

Transmission

During the first recognised outbreak in Malaysia, which also affected Singapore, most human infections resulted from direct contact with sick pigs or their contaminated tissues, according to WHO.

Transmission is thought to have occurred via unprotected exposure to secretions from the pigs, or unprotected contact with the tissue of a sick animal.

In subsequent outbreaks in Bangladesh and India, consumption of fruits or fruit products, such as raw date palm juice, contaminated with urine or saliva from infected fruit bats was the most likely source of infection.

There are currently no studies on viral persistence in bodily fluids or the environment.

Human-to-human transmission of the virus has also been reported among family and caregivers of infected patients.

During later outbreaks in Bangladesh and India, the Nipah virus spread directly from human-to-human through close contact with people's secretions and excretions.&nbsp;

"Once humans consume it, the virus transfers to their body. So, the virus never went anywhere in the first place. This is just a case of seasonal reactivation," explained Dr P Venkata Krishnan, Internal Medicine, Paras Hospital, Gurgaon.

"Avoid travelling to those areas where the Nipah virus has been detected. The cases are localised to particular areas and are not widespread," he told PTI.&nbsp;

Unlike swine flu, its transmission rate is very low, Krishnan said.

Diagnosis

Initial signs and symptoms of the Nipah virus infection are nonspecific, and the diagnosis is often not suspected at the time of presentation.

This can hinder accurate diagnosis and create challenges in outbreak detection, effective and timely infection control measures, and outbreak response activities.

The main tests used are real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) from bodily fluids and antibody detection via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Other tests used include polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, and virus isolation by cell culture.

Treatment

There are currently no drugs or vaccines specific for the infection although WHO has identified the virus as a priority disease for the WHO Research and Development "There is no vaccine available for Nipah right now.&nbsp; 
Ribavirin, an antiviral, may have a role in reducing mortality among patients with encephalitis caused by Nipah virus disease," said Dr Deepak Verma Internal Medicine, Columbia Asia Hospital in Ghaziabad.&nbsp;

"Quarantining infected people and culling infected animals remain the first response. For healthcare professionals, following standard operation procedure and maintaining hygiene are the important steps to prevent human to human transmission',' said Verma.

According to a recent study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, an experimental Ebola drug, remdesivir, protected monkeys against Nipah infection.&nbsp;

Intensive supportive care is recommended for treating severe respiratory and neurologic complications.

Natural host: Fruit bats

Fruit bats of the family Pteropodidae -- particularly species belonging to the Pteropus genus -- are the natural hosts for Nipah virus.&nbsp;

Outbreaks of the Nipah virus in pigs and other domestic animals such as horses, goats, sheep, cats and dogs were first reported during the initial Malaysian outbreak in 1999.

Prevention

If an outbreak is suspected, the animal premises should be quarantined immediately.

Culling of infected animals -- with close supervision of burial or incineration of carcasses -- may be necessary to reduce the risk of transmission to people.

Restricting or banning the movement of animals from infected farms to other areas can reduce the spread of the disease.

In the absence of a vaccine, the only way to reduce or prevent infection in people is by raising awareness of the risk factors and educating people about the measures they can take to reduce exposure to the Nipah virus.&nbsp;

Nipah, a rare and often deadly disease which is back in the news with a student in Kerala diagnosed with the infection, is a zoonotic virus which means it is transmitted from animals such as bats or pigs to humans, and can also spread through contaminated food and people-to-people contact.

Nipah, a rare and often deadly disease which is back in the news with a student in Kerala diagnosed with the infection, is a zoonotic virus which means it is transmitted from animals such as bats or pigs to humans, and can also spread through contaminated food and people-to-people contact. Signs and symptoms Human infections range from asymptomatic (no symptoms) to acute respiratory infection and fatal encephalitis, involving inflammation of the brain, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Infected people initially develop symptoms, including fever, headaches, myalgia (muscle pain), vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis. The incubation period -- interval from infection to the onset of symptoms -- mostly ranges from four to 14 days. Most people who survive acute encephalitis make a full recovery, but long term neurological conditions have been reported in survivors. The WHO estimates the case fatality rate at 40 per cent to 75 per cent. Past outbreaks The Nipah virus was first recognised in 1999 during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia. It was also recognised in Bangladesh in 2001, and nearly annual outbreaks have occurred in that country since. The disease has also been identified periodically in India. Last year, the virus killed 17 people in Kerala. Transmission During the first recognised outbreak in Malaysia, which also affected Singapore, most human infections resulted from direct contact with sick pigs or their contaminated tissues, according to WHO. Transmission is thought to have occurred via unprotected exposure to secretions from the pigs, or unprotected contact with the tissue of a sick animal. In subsequent outbreaks in Bangladesh and India, consumption of fruits or fruit products, such as raw date palm juice, contaminated with urine or saliva from infected fruit bats was the most likely source of infection. There are currently no studies on viral persistence in bodily fluids or the environment. Human-to-human transmission of the virus has also been reported among family and caregivers of infected patients. During later outbreaks in Bangladesh and India, the Nipah virus spread directly from human-to-human through close contact with people's secretions and excretions. "Once humans consume it, the virus transfers to their body. So, the virus never went anywhere in the first place. This is just a case of seasonal reactivation," explained Dr P Venkata Krishnan, Internal Medicine, Paras Hospital, Gurgaon. "Avoid travelling to those areas where the Nipah virus has been detected. The cases are localised to particular areas and are not widespread," he told PTI. Unlike swine flu, its transmission rate is very low, Krishnan said. Diagnosis Initial signs and symptoms of the Nipah virus infection are nonspecific, and the diagnosis is often not suspected at the time of presentation. This can hinder accurate diagnosis and create challenges in outbreak detection, effective and timely infection control measures, and outbreak response activities. The main tests used are real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) from bodily fluids and antibody detection via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Other tests used include polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, and virus isolation by cell culture. Treatment There are currently no drugs or vaccines specific for the infection although WHO has identified the virus as a priority disease for the WHO Research and Development "There is no vaccine available for Nipah right now. Ribavirin, an antiviral, may have a role in reducing mortality among patients with encephalitis caused by Nipah virus disease," said Dr Deepak Verma Internal Medicine, Columbia Asia Hospital in Ghaziabad. "Quarantining infected people and culling infected animals remain the first response. For healthcare professionals, following standard operation procedure and maintaining hygiene are the important steps to prevent human to human transmission',' said Verma. According to a recent study published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, an experimental Ebola drug, remdesivir, protected monkeys against Nipah infection. Intensive supportive care is recommended for treating severe respiratory and neurologic complications. Natural host: Fruit bats Fruit bats of the family Pteropodidae -- particularly species belonging to the Pteropus genus -- are the natural hosts for Nipah virus. Outbreaks of the Nipah virus in pigs and other domestic animals such as horses, goats, sheep, cats and dogs were first reported during the initial Malaysian outbreak in 1999. Prevention If an outbreak is suspected, the animal premises should be quarantined immediately. Culling of infected animals -- with close supervision of burial or incineration of carcasses -- may be necessary to reduce the risk of transmission to people. Restricting or banning the movement of animals from infected farms to other areas can reduce the spread of the disease. In the absence of a vaccine, the only way to reduce or prevent infection in people is by raising awareness of the risk factors and educating people about the measures they can take to reduce exposure to the Nipah virus.

Nipah virus: How it spreads, past outbreaks, what to watch out for

The ED has widened its probe against Robert Vadra and requested its UK counterparts to share details of ownership and related financial transactions of over half-a-dozen assets there that the agency claimed were acquired using laundered money and belonged to him, officials said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/robert-vadra-appears-before-enforcement-directorate-statement-to-be-recorded-224131">Enforcement Directorate</a>&nbsp;has also sought help from financial intelligence units of some countries to unravel the flow of funds used to buy these assets, they said.

The agency is preparing a blueprint to provisionally attach these immovable assets in London and nearby areas under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/money-laundering-case-robert-vadra-appears-before-enforcement-directorate-again-222657">Prevention of Money Laundering</a> Act (PMLA), they said.

The 50-year-old businessman, who is the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, has been grilled multiple times by the ED with regard to a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which it claims is allegedly owned by him.

Sources said the agency has evidence that some more assets in the United Kingdom are "linked" to Vadra. These include two houses -- one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, and six flats.

The federal anti-money laundering agency, the sources said, has detected some alleged undisclosed transactions being made from Cyprus and Dubai for the purchase of these assets by people linked to Vadra.

Questioning of Vadra on his links to these assets has not got the agency much leads. It now wants to put Vadra through sustained interrogation and has moved the court to cancel his anticipatory bail, they said.

The businessman, in his defence, had said that he was being subjected to "sensation and unnecessary drama" by the repeated exercise of summoning him by the ED.

He posted on the social media recently that his life "is unique and I have fought for almost a decade over baseless accusations."&nbsp;

"Physically situations can change, but one's honest mind cannot. I am determined on the truth and it is a book in the making, for the world to read and know clearly my side...," said Vadra, the husband of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

The sources said the agency has asked its UK counterparts to help them get full details of the chain of ownership of these assets apart from documents that legally establish their sale and purchase over a period of time.

The exercise, it is understood, is aimed at ensuring attachment of these assets under the PMLA and prepare a watertight case against Vadra and his other associates.

A main suspect for the Enforcement Directorate in these dealings is NRI businessman C C Thampi who has been charged by the agency in an alleged illegal hawala dealings and land purchase case in the country in 2017.

It had issued a show-cause notice to Thampi for alleged violation of foreign exchange laws to the tune of over Rs 1,000 crore in the purchase of vast tracts of land in Kerala.

Thampi has now been summoned by the agency for questioning about his links with Vadra and absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari.

The agency claims Thampi met Vadra through an aide of his mother-in-law and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, while the businessman has reportedly told the ED that he met him on board an Emirates flight some years ago.

Thampi, during his earlier grilling session with the ED, has claimed that Vadra had stayed at the Bryanston Square property in London, which has been denied by the businessman in his statement made to the agency.

Thampi has sought some more time to appear before the ED as he claims he is unwell, the sources said. Some other people linked to Vadra and Bhandari have also been summoned, they said.

The ED has widened its probe against Robert Vadra and requested its UK counterparts to share details of ownership and related financial transactions of over half-a-dozen assets there that the agency claimed were acquired using laundered money and belonged to him, officials said.

The ED has widened its probe against Robert Vadra and requested its UK counterparts to share details of ownership and related financial transactions of over half-a-dozen assets there that the agency claimed were acquired using laundered money and belonged to him, officials said. The Enforcement Directorate has also sought help from financial intelligence units of some countries to unravel the flow of funds used to buy these assets, they said. The agency is preparing a blueprint to provisionally attach these immovable assets in London and nearby areas under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), they said. The 50-year-old businessman, who is the brother-in-law of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, has been grilled multiple times by the ED with regard to a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which it claims is allegedly owned by him. Sources said the agency has evidence that some more assets in the United Kingdom are "linked" to Vadra. These include two houses -- one worth 5 million GBP and the other valued at 4 million GBP, and six flats. The federal anti-money laundering agency, the sources said, has detected some alleged undisclosed transactions being made from Cyprus and Dubai for the purchase of these assets by people linked to Vadra. Questioning of Vadra on his links to these assets has not got the agency much leads. It now wants to put Vadra through sustained interrogation and has moved the court to cancel his anticipatory bail, they said. The businessman, in his defence, had said that he was being subjected to "sensation and unnecessary drama" by the repeated exercise of summoning him by the ED. He posted on the social media recently that his life "is unique and I have fought for almost a decade over baseless accusations." "Physically situations can change, but one's honest mind cannot. I am determined on the truth and it is a book in the making, for the world to read and know clearly my side...," said Vadra, the husband of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. The sources said the agency has asked its UK counterparts to help them get full details of the chain of ownership of these assets apart from documents that legally establish their sale and purchase over a period of time. The exercise, it is understood, is aimed at ensuring attachment of these assets under the PMLA and prepare a watertight case against Vadra and his other associates. A main suspect for the Enforcement Directorate in these dealings is NRI businessman C C Thampi who has been charged by the agency in an alleged illegal hawala dealings and land purchase case in the country in 2017. It had issued a show-cause notice to Thampi for alleged violation of foreign exchange laws to the tune of over Rs 1,000 crore in the purchase of vast tracts of land in Kerala. Thampi has now been summoned by the agency for questioning about his links with Vadra and absconding arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. The agency claims Thampi met Vadra through an aide of his mother-in-law and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, while the businessman has reportedly told the ED that he met him on board an Emirates flight some years ago. Thampi, during his earlier grilling session with the ED, has claimed that Vadra had stayed at the Bryanston Square property in London, which has been denied by the businessman in his statement made to the agency. Thampi has sought some more time to appear before the ED as he claims he is unwell, the sources said. Some other people linked to Vadra and Bhandari have also been summoned, they said.

Enforcement Directorate requests foreign agencies for details about UK assets linked to Robert Vadra, summons NRI

External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will go on a two-day visit to Bhutan from Friday.

This will be his first foreign trip after appointed as the minister.

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that Jaishankar would meet his Bhutan counterpart Tandi Dorji.

"His visit is in keeping with the tradition that India attaches with bilateral relationship with Bhutan, a close friend and a neighbour," Kumar said.&nbsp;

Earlier today, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/for-economic-growth-foreign-policy-needs-to-focus-on-external-aspect-s-jaishankar-224853">Jaishankar addressed his first press conference</a> at a seminar in Delhi.

Watch:&nbsp;Foreign Minster S Jaishankar's first public address

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foreign-minster-sjaishankars-first-public-address-224849/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Jaishankar emphasised on the importance of focusing on "external aspects" for economic growth.

"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," he said.

External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will go on a two-day visit to Bhutan from Friday. This will be his first foreign trip after appointed as the minister.

External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar will go on a two-day visit to Bhutan from Friday. This will be his first foreign trip after appointed as the minister. MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said that Jaishankar would meet his Bhutan counterpart Tandi Dorji. "His visit is in keeping with the tradition that India attaches with bilateral relationship with Bhutan, a close friend and a neighbour," Kumar said. Earlier today, Jaishankar addressed his first press conference at a seminar in Delhi. Watch: Foreign Minster S Jaishankar's first public address Jaishankar emphasised on the importance of focusing on "external aspects" for economic growth. "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," he said.

External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to go on two-day visit to Bhutan

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Badal met Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday to demand a proper inquiry into Operation Bluestar - the military operation carried out in 1984 to flush out heavily-armed terrorists holed up in Sikh holy shrine Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Thursday marks 35 years since Operation Bluestar.

Badal's wife and Union minister Harsimrat Kaur had earlier asked for a similiar inquiry. Speaking to some mediapersons, she said the government must investigate the conspiracy angle in storming of Sikhs' holy shrine.

Markets around the Golden Temple in Punjab's Amritsar remained closed for several hours amid protests by Sikh hardliners in the complex on Thursday. Later in the afternoon, the shops around the temple and in the main markets started reopening.

The partial bandh was observed in the city on a call given by a radical Sikh outfit.

The Akal Takht also organised prayers in memory of those killed in the military operation and some people raised slogans at the end.

Policemen in civil clothes were deployed along with the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee's (SGPC) task force to thwart any attempt to disturb law and order. The SGPC is the apex religious body of the Sikhs.

There was heavy barricading around the Akal Takht in the premises of the Golden Temple to prevent any untoward incident. More than 3,000 security were deployed to maintain law and order.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Badal met Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday to demand a proper inquiry into Operation Bluestar - the military operation carried out in 1984 to flush out heavily-armed terrorists holed up in Sikh holy shrine Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Sukhbir Badal met Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday to demand a proper inquiry into Operation Bluestar - the military operation carried out in 1984 to flush out heavily-armed terrorists holed up in Sikh holy shrine Golden Temple in Amritsar. Thursday marks 35 years since Operation Bluestar. Badal's wife and Union minister Harsimrat Kaur had earlier asked for a similiar inquiry. Speaking to some mediapersons, she said the government must investigate the conspiracy angle in storming of Sikhs' holy shrine. Markets around the Golden Temple in Punjab's Amritsar remained closed for several hours amid protests by Sikh hardliners in the complex on Thursday. Later in the afternoon, the shops around the temple and in the main markets started reopening. The partial bandh was observed in the city on a call given by a radical Sikh outfit. The Akal Takht also organised prayers in memory of those killed in the military operation and some people raised slogans at the end. Policemen in civil clothes were deployed along with the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee's (SGPC) task force to thwart any attempt to disturb law and order. The SGPC is the apex religious body of the Sikhs. There was heavy barricading around the Akal Takht in the premises of the Golden Temple to prevent any untoward incident. More than 3,000 security were deployed to maintain law and order.

Sukhbir Badal meets Home Minister Amit Shah, demands proper inquiry into Operation Bluestar

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-servers-cause-problems-for-youtube-snapchat-in-us-223726">YouTube Thursday tightened its policies</a> to combat hateful and supremacist content, as it resolved to protect the platform from being used to incite hatred, harassment, discrimination and violence.

"Today, we're taking another step in our hate speech policy by specifically prohibiting videos alleging that a group is superior in order to justify discrimination, segregation or exclusion based on qualities like age, gender, race, caste, religion, sexual orientation or veteran status," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-servers-cause-problems-for-youtube-snapchat-in-us-223726">YouTube</a> said in a blog post.

Citing examples, it said this would include videos that promote or glorify Nazi ideology, which is inherently discriminatory. Also, YouTube will remove content denying that well-documented violent events, like the Holocaust or the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, took place.

The latest move assumes significance as digital platforms and social media companies have come under increased global scrutiny on issues like hate content, fake news and data privacy. India, too, has taken a tough stance on these burning issues.

Earlier this week, IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had warned that misuse of digital platforms will not be tolerated in India. The IT Ministry has already begun work on tightening rules for social media and online companies, for which it already held wide public consultations.

The YouTube blog post said that it has been investing in policies, resources and products needed to protect the YouTube community from harmful content.

"In 2017, we introduced a tougher stance towards videos with supremacist content, including limiting recommendations and features like comments and the ability to share the video," it said, adding that the step dramatically reduced views to these videos, on average 80 per cent.

The company said it will begin enforcing the updated policy (on tacking hateful and supremacist content)&nbsp;on Thursday, but it will take time for the systems to fully ramp up. YouTube will gradually expand the coverage over the next several months.

"We recognize some of this content has value to researchers and NGOs looking to understand hate in order to combat it, and we are exploring options to make it available to them in the future. And as always, context matters, so some videos could remain up because they discuss topics like pending legislation, aim to condemn or expose hate, or provide analysis of current events," it added.

YouTube noted it is critical that the monetisation systems reward trusted creators who add value to the platform.

"We have longstanding advertiser-friendly guidelines that prohibit ads from running on videos that include hateful content and we enforce these rigorously, In the case of hate speech, we are strengthening enforcement of our existing YouTube partner program policies," it added.

Channels that repeatedly brush up against its hate speech policies will be suspended from the YouTube Partner program. This means they cannot run ads on their channel or use other monetisation features like SuperChat, it added.

The openness of YouTube's platform has helped creativity and access to information thrive, the blog noted.

"It's our responsibility to protect that, and prevent our platform from being used to incite hatred, harassment, discrimination and violence," YouTube added.&nbsp;

YouTube Thursday tightened its policies to combat hateful and supremacist content, as it resolved to protect the platform from being used to incite hatred, harassment, discrimination and violence.

YouTube Thursday tightened its policies to combat hateful and supremacist content, as it resolved to protect the platform from being used to incite hatred, harassment, discrimination and violence. "Today, we're taking another step in our hate speech policy by specifically prohibiting videos alleging that a group is superior in order to justify discrimination, segregation or exclusion based on qualities like age, gender, race, caste, religion, sexual orientation or veteran status," YouTube said in a blog post. Citing examples, it said this would include videos that promote or glorify Nazi ideology, which is inherently discriminatory. Also, YouTube will remove content denying that well-documented violent events, like the Holocaust or the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, took place. The latest move assumes significance as digital platforms and social media companies have come under increased global scrutiny on issues like hate content, fake news and data privacy. India, too, has taken a tough stance on these burning issues. Earlier this week, IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad had warned that misuse of digital platforms will not be tolerated in India. The IT Ministry has already begun work on tightening rules for social media and online companies, for which it already held wide public consultations. The YouTube blog post said that it has been investing in policies, resources and products needed to protect the YouTube community from harmful content. "In 2017, we introduced a tougher stance towards videos with supremacist content, including limiting recommendations and features like comments and the ability to share the video," it said, adding that the step dramatically reduced views to these videos, on average 80 per cent. The company said it will begin enforcing the updated policy (on tacking hateful and supremacist content) on Thursday, but it will take time for the systems to fully ramp up. YouTube will gradually expand the coverage over the next several months. "We recognize some of this content has value to researchers and NGOs looking to understand hate in order to combat it, and we are exploring options to make it available to them in the future. And as always, context matters, so some videos could remain up because they discuss topics like pending legislation, aim to condemn or expose hate, or provide analysis of current events," it added. YouTube noted it is critical that the monetisation systems reward trusted creators who add value to the platform. "We have longstanding advertiser-friendly guidelines that prohibit ads from running on videos that include hateful content and we enforce these rigorously, In the case of hate speech, we are strengthening enforcement of our existing YouTube partner program policies," it added. Channels that repeatedly brush up against its hate speech policies will be suspended from the YouTube Partner program. This means they cannot run ads on their channel or use other monetisation features like SuperChat, it added. The openness of YouTube's platform has helped creativity and access to information thrive, the blog noted. "It's our responsibility to protect that, and prevent our platform from being used to incite hatred, harassment, discrimination and violence," YouTube added.

YouTube tightens policy to remove hateful, supremacist content

After losing the Lok Sabha election, 12 MLAs from Congress party in Telangana met Assembly Speaker P Srinivas Reddy and gave him a representation to merge the Congress Legislature Party with the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS).

The Telangana state Congress chief Uttam Kumar Reddy tendered his resignation from the Assembly on Thursday after being elected to Lok Sabha from Nalgonda.

On meeting with speaker Uttam Kumar said,&nbsp;Congress will fight it democratically, we are looking for the Speaker since morning, he is missing. You people help us in finding him.''

On March 11, Congress MLAs had announced that they would join the TRS.

"We 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," Senior Congress legislator Gandra Venkata Ramana Reddy said.

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If the Speaker accepts their request, the Congress may lose the Opposition party status as its strength will come down to just six.

(With inputs from PTI)

After losing the Lok Sabha election, 12 MLAs from Congress party in Telangana met Assembly Speaker P Srinivas Reddy and gave him a representation to merge the Congress Legislature Party with the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS).

After losing the Lok Sabha election, 12 MLAs from Congress party in Telangana met Assembly Speaker P Srinivas Reddy and gave him a representation to merge the Congress Legislature Party with the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS). The Telangana state Congress chief Uttam Kumar Reddy tendered his resignation from the Assembly on Thursday after being elected to Lok Sabha from Nalgonda. On meeting with speaker Uttam Kumar said, Congress will fight it democratically, we are looking for the Speaker since morning, he is missing. You people help us in finding him.'' On March 11, Congress MLAs had announced that they would join the TRS. "We 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," Senior Congress legislator Gandra Venkata Ramana Reddy said. Hyderabad: 12 Congress MLAs met Telangana Assembly Speaker, Pocharam Srinivas Reddy and gave him a representation to merge the Congress Legislature Party with the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samithi. pic.twitter.com/oex4TZpZ8i — ANI (@ANI) June 6, 2019 × If the Speaker accepts their request, the Congress may lose the Opposition party status as its strength will come down to just six. (With inputs from PTI)

Twelve Congress MLAs join Telangana Rashtra Samithi

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, said, "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek."

Speculations were&nbsp;rife that both leaders may meet, especially with the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India.

MEA also clarified on his visit saying it was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between Pak FS and any Indian official.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his election victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi asked Pak PM to create an environment free of terror.

Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

India has been asking Pakistan to act on terror and Modi government's policy in its first tenure has been talks and terror cant go together.

On cross border terror, the spokesperson said Pakistan needs to "walk the talk" and take action against terrorist on its territory.

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, said, "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek." Speculations were rife that both leaders may meet, especially with the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India. MEA also clarified on his visit saying it was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between Pak FS and any Indian official. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his election victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi asked Pak PM to create an environment free of terror. Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack. India has been asking Pakistan to act on terror and Modi government's policy in its first tenure has been talks and terror cant go together. On cross border terror, the spokesperson said Pakistan needs to "walk the talk" and take action against terrorist on its territory.

No Modi, Imran meeting planned on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization, says MEA 

The Tamil Nadu Government has issued an order permitting shops and establishments to remain open for 24 hours, all days of the year. Prior to the passing of this order, only certain establishments such as &nbsp;IT companies, hospitals, pharmacies and factories could stay open all day and all year.&nbsp;

The order comes as a boon to Shopkeepers and traders associations that had been urging the government to permit 24-hour operations.

Ravi, president of Chennai hotel association said that he viewed this development in a positive light for the hoteliers and traders alike.&nbsp;

''For over 20 years we have been fighting to get this permission and a case was also filed in the Madras High Court, as some shopkeepers are asked to shut their shops by the police after 10pm. Henceforth, there will be an increase in our income and we will make necessary arrangements for additional staff, night shift to provide freshly cooked food and refreshments in the wee hours as well,'' Ravi added.

However, this order is for a period of three years and could undergo changes and also has clauses on increasing protection for women workers. The conditions also state that every employee shall be given one day holiday in a week, employees should be provided with restrooms, washroom, safety lockers and other basic amenities.

To enhance women’s safety it is stated that women employees shall not be required to work beyond 8pm on any day in normal circumstances. Provided that the employer after obtaining the written consent of a woman employee shall allow her to work between 8pm and 6am subject to providing adequate protection of her dignity, honour and safety.&nbsp;

It also mentions that, ''Transport arrangements shall be provided to the woman employee who works in shifts. A notice to this effect shall be exhibited at the main entrance of the establishment indicating the availability of transport.''

The announcement was met with equal enthusiasm from the employees working late hours, night-shifts and those that prefer to venture out for a late-night meal.

''It will definitely be very helpful for IT employees, when we get back home very late we can’t go cook and we only look at restaurants. Hereafter, we don’t have to restrict ourselves to the handful that are open,'' said J Sowmya, a techie. Maybe those that work in the wee hours can take a break and step out for a meal. It also feels safer while walking on the roads late in the night, when shops are open and there’s a considerable crowd.&nbsp;

With eateries and restaurants all set to benefit from the increased revenues from longer hours, the government can cheer about better productivity and higher tax revenues, while customers also have a reason to relish as they could grab their favourite meal or urgent groceries at a time of their choosing.

The Tamil Nadu Government has issued an order permitting shops and establishments to remain open for 24 hours, all days of the year. Prior to the passing of this order, only certain establishments such as IT companies, hospitals, pharmacies and factories could stay open all day and all year.

The Tamil Nadu Government has issued an order permitting shops and establishments to remain open for 24 hours, all days of the year. Prior to the passing of this order, only certain establishments such as IT companies, hospitals, pharmacies and factories could stay open all day and all year. The order comes as a boon to Shopkeepers and traders associations that had been urging the government to permit 24-hour operations. Ravi, president of Chennai hotel association said that he viewed this development in a positive light for the hoteliers and traders alike. ''For over 20 years we have been fighting to get this permission and a case was also filed in the Madras High Court, as some shopkeepers are asked to shut their shops by the police after 10pm. Henceforth, there will be an increase in our income and we will make necessary arrangements for additional staff, night shift to provide freshly cooked food and refreshments in the wee hours as well,'' Ravi added. However, this order is for a period of three years and could undergo changes and also has clauses on increasing protection for women workers. The conditions also state that every employee shall be given one day holiday in a week, employees should be provided with restrooms, washroom, safety lockers and other basic amenities. To enhance women’s safety it is stated that women employees shall not be required to work beyond 8pm on any day in normal circumstances. Provided that the employer after obtaining the written consent of a woman employee shall allow her to work between 8pm and 6am subject to providing adequate protection of her dignity, honour and safety. It also mentions that, ''Transport arrangements shall be provided to the woman employee who works in shifts. A notice to this effect shall be exhibited at the main entrance of the establishment indicating the availability of transport.'' The announcement was met with equal enthusiasm from the employees working late hours, night-shifts and those that prefer to venture out for a late-night meal. ''It will definitely be very helpful for IT employees, when we get back home very late we can’t go cook and we only look at restaurants. Hereafter, we don’t have to restrict ourselves to the handful that are open,'' said J Sowmya, a techie. Maybe those that work in the wee hours can take a break and step out for a meal. It also feels safer while walking on the roads late in the night, when shops are open and there’s a considerable crowd. With eateries and restaurants all set to benefit from the increased revenues from longer hours, the government can cheer about better productivity and higher tax revenues, while customers also have a reason to relish as they could grab their favourite meal or urgent groceries at a time of their choosing.

Now shops and establishments can remain open 24x7 in Tamil Nadu, all-year round

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ready-for-floor-test-madhya-pradesh-chief-minister-kamal-nath-220240">Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath</a> Thursday called on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/narendra-modi-20-would-propel-affordable-housing-in-india-224832">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and discussed issues pertaining to his state.

The meeting at the prime minister's residence lasted about half an hour during which Nath wished Modi for assuming office for the second term, a statement from the Madhya Pradesh government said.

Nath, a senior Congress leader, also discussed in detail about various issues pending with the central government for approval and release of funds to the state government, it said.&nbsp;

He urged Modi to intervene in the matter and get the pending issues cleared and fund released at the earliest, it said.&nbsp;

Modi assured Nath that he will instruct the ministries concerned to clear various pending issues and disburse the funds as early as possible. He further assured him of all possible help in future too, the statement added.

The Prime Minister's Office later posted a photograph of the two on its Twitter handle.

Nath was sworn in as the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh in December 2018.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Thursday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed issues pertaining to his state. The meeting at the prime minister's residence lasted about half an hour during which Nath wished Modi for assuming office for the second term, a statement from the Madhya Pradesh government said.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath Thursday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed issues pertaining to his state. The meeting at the prime minister's residence lasted about half an hour during which Nath wished Modi for assuming office for the second term, a statement from the Madhya Pradesh government said. Nath, a senior Congress leader, also discussed in detail about various issues pending with the central government for approval and release of funds to the state government, it said. He urged Modi to intervene in the matter and get the pending issues cleared and fund released at the earliest, it said. Modi assured Nath that he will instruct the ministries concerned to clear various pending issues and disburse the funds as early as possible. He further assured him of all possible help in future too, the statement added. The Prime Minister's Office later posted a photograph of the two on its Twitter handle. Nath was sworn in as the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh in December 2018.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath calls on PM Modi, discusses issues concerning his state

Anju Ghosh, a famous Bangladeshi film actress, joined the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) in presence of the party's state president Dilip Ghosh in Kolkata on Wednesday. 
&nbsp; 
During the event, Ghosh was handed over a BJP flag. 
&nbsp; 
The actress, however, refused to answer queries as to whether she was still a Bangladeshi citizen or has been given any such status by the Indian authorities. 
&nbsp; 
In mid-April, there was a huge furore after Bangladesh actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning for Trinamool’s Raiganj constituency candidate, Kanaia Lal Agarwal. 
&nbsp; 
The Central government cancelled Ferdous's visa and blacklisted him. 
&nbsp; 
In 1989, her film 'Beder Meye Josna' made a record of being the highest grossing film in Bangladesh film history.

Anju Ghosh, a famous Bangladeshi film actress, joined the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) in presence of the party's state president Dilip Ghosh in Kolkata on Wednesday.

Anju Ghosh, a famous Bangladeshi film actress, joined the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) in presence of the party's state president Dilip Ghosh in Kolkata on Wednesday. During the event, Ghosh was handed over a BJP flag. The actress, however, refused to answer queries as to whether she was still a Bangladeshi citizen or has been given any such status by the Indian authorities. In mid-April, there was a huge furore after Bangladesh actor Ferdous Ahmed was seen campaigning for Trinamool’s Raiganj constituency candidate, Kanaia Lal Agarwal. The Central government cancelled Ferdous's visa and blacklisted him. In 1989, her film 'Beder Meye Josna' made a record of being the highest grossing film in Bangladesh film history.

Bangladeshi actress Anju Ghosh joins BJP

New home minister and BJP president Amit Shah has emerged as a clear number two in PM Modi's&nbsp;2.0 government. All-powerful and important <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-s-jaishankar-enter-cabinet-committee-on-security-224609">Cabinet Committees</a> reconstituted by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi are either headed by him or Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is present in most of the ministries whereas presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is limited to two sub committees. In fact, Rajnath Singh is absent from both Cabinet Committee of Political Affairs and Cabinet Committee of Parliamentary Affairs.

The Cabinet Committee of appointments which deals with the appointment of senior bureaucrats and constitutional bodies only constitutes of Prime Minister and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-pm-modis-right-hand-man-is-indias-new-home-minister-223085">Amit Shah</a>. The Cabinet Committees on Parliamentary Affairs and Accommodation is being headed by Amit Shah himself.

The character of Cabinet Committee of Security remains the same where along with Prime Minister, all top four ministers are present including Rajnath Singh. Rajnath Singh is also part of Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.

Additionally, the Prime Minister has created Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth and Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Employment which are being headed by Prime Minister Modi himself.

In most of the Cabinet Committees, Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Railways and Commerce Minister Piyush Goel have been well represented.

New home minister and BJP president Amit Shah has emerged as a clear number two in PM Modi's 2.0 government. All-powerful and important Cabinet Committees reconstituted by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi are either headed by him or Amit Shah.

New home minister and BJP president Amit Shah has emerged as a clear number two in PM Modi's 2.0 government. All-powerful and important Cabinet Committees reconstituted by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi are either headed by him or Amit Shah. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is present in most of the ministries whereas presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is limited to two sub committees. In fact, Rajnath Singh is absent from both Cabinet Committee of Political Affairs and Cabinet Committee of Parliamentary Affairs. The Cabinet Committee of appointments which deals with the appointment of senior bureaucrats and constitutional bodies only constitutes of Prime Minister and Amit Shah. The Cabinet Committees on Parliamentary Affairs and Accommodation is being headed by Amit Shah himself. The character of Cabinet Committee of Security remains the same where along with Prime Minister, all top four ministers are present including Rajnath Singh. Rajnath Singh is also part of Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs. Additionally, the Prime Minister has created Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth and Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Employment which are being headed by Prime Minister Modi himself. In most of the Cabinet Committees, Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Railways and Commerce Minister Piyush Goel have been well represented.

Home Minister Amit Shah emerges as clear number 2 in Modi government 2.0

Days after a 23-year-old student was diagnosed with the potentially deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nipah-virus-harsh-vardhan-reviews-public-health-measures-says-situation-under-control-224822">Nipah virus</a> in Kerala, the Karnataka government has sounded alert in eight districts, including those on the borders of the neighbouring state.

The condition of the college student, diagnosed with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/7-people-suspected-of-nipah-virus-in-hospital-kerala-health-minister-224734">Nipah infection</a>, is stable, hospital authorities said.

A total of 314 persons who were in touch with the infected person have been kept under observation, officials said.

Following the Nipah outbreak report, the Health Department in Karnataka issued a circular asking administration in Chamarajanagar, Mysuru, Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru districts to immediately convene inter-departmental coordination committee meetings, including veterinary department, Indian Medical Association and Indian Academy of Pediatrics.

Authorities in these eight districts have been directed to identify two isolation beds to quarantine suspected human cases.

They have been asked to keep all the logistics available at all levels, read the circular.

The department has also asked district authorities to direct government and private hospitals to keep an eye on suspected cases.

Once a patient shows symptoms of Nipah, the hospitals have to monitor acute encephalitis syndrome, check all vital parameters and take travel history of patients.

The district hospitals should have an ICU with ventilator facilities and capacity to receive emergency cases, it read.

The department asked the districts to furnish daily outbreak report regarding Nipah virus.

It also directed authorities to sensitise health assistants and ASHA workers.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans.

Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection and encephalitis.

Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, vomiting and sore throat.

This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis.

Days after a 23-year-old student was diagnosed with the potentially deadly Nipah virus in Kerala, the Karnataka government has sounded alert in eight districts, including those on the borders of the neighbouring state.

Days after a 23-year-old student was diagnosed with the potentially deadly Nipah virus in Kerala, the Karnataka government has sounded alert in eight districts, including those on the borders of the neighbouring state. The condition of the college student, diagnosed with Nipah infection, is stable, hospital authorities said. A total of 314 persons who were in touch with the infected person have been kept under observation, officials said. Following the Nipah outbreak report, the Health Department in Karnataka issued a circular asking administration in Chamarajanagar, Mysuru, Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru districts to immediately convene inter-departmental coordination committee meetings, including veterinary department, Indian Medical Association and Indian Academy of Pediatrics. Authorities in these eight districts have been directed to identify two isolation beds to quarantine suspected human cases. They have been asked to keep all the logistics available at all levels, read the circular. The department has also asked district authorities to direct government and private hospitals to keep an eye on suspected cases. Once a patient shows symptoms of Nipah, the hospitals have to monitor acute encephalitis syndrome, check all vital parameters and take travel history of patients. The district hospitals should have an ICU with ventilator facilities and capacity to receive emergency cases, it read. The department asked the districts to furnish daily outbreak report regarding Nipah virus. It also directed authorities to sensitise health assistants and ASHA workers. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans. Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection and encephalitis. Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis.

Nipah: Karnataka sounds alert after man infected with virus in Kerala

The ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu Thursday claimed that efforts were being made to create a rift in its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/m-k-stalins-magananimity-ensured-bjp-aiadmk-rout-in-tamil-nadu-222257">alliance with the BJP</a>, but indicated the two parties were ideologically inclined beyond mere friendship.

The party also claimed that "misinformation" was being spread about the Centre trying to "impose a three-language formula" in the country, a reference to the state opposition parties' stand against the imposition of Hindi.

"Though the AIADMK-BJP alliance for the Lok Sabha polls was an extension of (their) friendship, the two speak in one voice on primary intent like patriotism and worship of God," AIADMK mouthpiece "Namathu Amma," said.

The write-up comes amidst reports of differences between the two alliance partners post the Lok Sabha drubbing where the combine could win just the Theni Parliamentary seat.

The write-up in the party organ slammed efforts by a section of "family-owned media", an apparent reference to those of the DMK, to "create rift between the leaf and flower."

While the AIADMK's symbol is the Two Leaves, that of the BJP is a Lotus.

The friendship between the high command of the two parties, beyond politics, was "unblemished", it said.

The AIADMK-BJP alliance winning the lone Theni Lok Sabha seat or the ruling party netting nine of the 22 Assembly seats where by-polls were held in April was a "public evaluation" of the combine, it added.

This evaluation was being "accepted wholeheartedly" to take efforts to ensure a better performance for the alliance in the future, it said.

It also alleged that "misinformation" was being carried out regarding the draft education policy of the Union HRD Ministry that the Centre was trying to impose a three-language formula in the country.

"But people have started to see through their designs," it said.

The opposition in Tamil Nadu led by the DMK is up in arms against any "imposition" of Hindi in the state, an emotive issue that found great resonance with the citizens of the state in the 1960s, leading to the anti-Hindi agitation.

DMK leader MK Stalin and other opposition leaders in the state have claimed the Centre was trying to impose Hindi under the three-language formula and that it withdrew its decision following opposition from Tamils.

The ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu Thursday claimed that efforts were being made to create a rift in its alliance with the BJP, but indicated the two parties were ideologically inclined beyond mere friendship.

The ruling AIADMK in Tamil Nadu Thursday claimed that efforts were being made to create a rift in its alliance with the BJP, but indicated the two parties were ideologically inclined beyond mere friendship. The party also claimed that "misinformation" was being spread about the Centre trying to "impose a three-language formula" in the country, a reference to the state opposition parties' stand against the imposition of Hindi. "Though the AIADMK-BJP alliance for the Lok Sabha polls was an extension of (their) friendship, the two speak in one voice on primary intent like patriotism and worship of God," AIADMK mouthpiece "Namathu Amma," said. The write-up comes amidst reports of differences between the two alliance partners post the Lok Sabha drubbing where the combine could win just the Theni Parliamentary seat. The write-up in the party organ slammed efforts by a section of "family-owned media", an apparent reference to those of the DMK, to "create rift between the leaf and flower." While the AIADMK's symbol is the Two Leaves, that of the BJP is a Lotus. The friendship between the high command of the two parties, beyond politics, was "unblemished", it said. The AIADMK-BJP alliance winning the lone Theni Lok Sabha seat or the ruling party netting nine of the 22 Assembly seats where by-polls were held in April was a "public evaluation" of the combine, it added. This evaluation was being "accepted wholeheartedly" to take efforts to ensure a better performance for the alliance in the future, it said. It also alleged that "misinformation" was being carried out regarding the draft education policy of the Union HRD Ministry that the Centre was trying to impose a three-language formula in the country. "But people have started to see through their designs," it said. The opposition in Tamil Nadu led by the DMK is up in arms against any "imposition" of Hindi in the state, an emotive issue that found great resonance with the citizens of the state in the 1960s, leading to the anti-Hindi agitation. DMK leader MK Stalin and other opposition leaders in the state have claimed the Centre was trying to impose Hindi under the three-language formula and that it withdrew its decision following opposition from Tamils.

AIADMK slams efforts to create rift in alliance with BJP

Medical aspirants from Tamil Nadu bettered their 2018 performance in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for admissions, with the state’s overall pass percentage at around 48.57 per cent, against the previous year’s 39.56 per cent.&nbsp;

However, the major political parties in the state, the ruling AIADMK and the opposition DMK renewed call&nbsp;for its abolition from the state.

The demand has come after two medical students took an&nbsp;extreme step and committed suicide allegedly owing to poor scores.

Hours after the results were declared on Wednesday, two aspirants, Rithushree of Tiruppur district and Vaishya of Pattukottai&nbsp;committed suicide.

As word spread about the students’ suicide, the political leaders renewed their calls for NEET exemption for Tamil Nadu or having it abolished in the state.

&nbsp;Reacting to the news, DMK President and Tamil Nadu’s leader of the opposition MK Stalin tweeted, "It is heart-breaking to know of the suicides, keeping in line with the principles of federalism, the Central government must perform its duty and responsibilities by abolishing NEET and respecting the sentiments and wishes of the State Governments."

In a statement, Stalin also assured that DMK Members of Parliament would raise the issue when the House is in session and attempt to get the issue resolved.

“How many more lives is NEET going to claim? How many more dreams are to be crushed by it? Over two years ago the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed amendments, what happened to the ordinance that was sent to the Central government”, tweeted RK Nagar MLA and AMMK leader TTV Dinakaran.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said,"It was saddening to know the suicides of the medical aspirant."

He also reiterated that the AIADMK Government was keen on having Tamil Nadu exempt from NEET, political and legal measures are being taken to ensure the same. "Suicide is not a solution for any issue, we must face any challenge with self-confidence," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu’s Health Minister Vijayabaskar refused to answer a question on NEET and walked away.

The recent suicides brought back the memories of Anita, another NEET aspirant from Tamil Nadu who had committed suicide after she failed to qualify the examination. Her death had triggered state-wide outrage with political parties and students who protested expressing their anger.

NEET was and is being opposed in Tamil Nadu on the grounds that it puts the students from rural areas and economically weaker sections at a disadvantage, as they would not be able to afford the specialised coaching that is required to crack the exam.

Earlier, the medical admissions process in Tamil Nadu was based on the score that students obtained in Class XII board exams.

Though there has been a significant improvement in the performance of medical students from Tamil Nadu, the state’s pass percentage is lower than the national average which is around 56 per cent. 
&nbsp;

Medical aspirants from Tamil Nadu bettered their 2018 performance in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for admissions, with the state’s overall pass percentage at around 48.

Medical aspirants from Tamil Nadu bettered their 2018 performance in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for admissions, with the state’s overall pass percentage at around 48.57 per cent, against the previous year’s 39.56 per cent. However, the major political parties in the state, the ruling AIADMK and the opposition DMK renewed call for its abolition from the state. The demand has come after two medical students took an extreme step and committed suicide allegedly owing to poor scores. Hours after the results were declared on Wednesday, two aspirants, Rithushree of Tiruppur district and Vaishya of Pattukottai committed suicide. As word spread about the students’ suicide, the political leaders renewed their calls for NEET exemption for Tamil Nadu or having it abolished in the state. Reacting to the news, DMK President and Tamil Nadu’s leader of the opposition MK Stalin tweeted, "It is heart-breaking to know of the suicides, keeping in line with the principles of federalism, the Central government must perform its duty and responsibilities by abolishing NEET and respecting the sentiments and wishes of the State Governments." In a statement, Stalin also assured that DMK Members of Parliament would raise the issue when the House is in session and attempt to get the issue resolved. “How many more lives is NEET going to claim? How many more dreams are to be crushed by it? Over two years ago the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed amendments, what happened to the ordinance that was sent to the Central government”, tweeted RK Nagar MLA and AMMK leader TTV Dinakaran. Speaking to reporters, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Minister D. Jayakumar said,"It was saddening to know the suicides of the medical aspirant." He also reiterated that the AIADMK Government was keen on having Tamil Nadu exempt from NEET, political and legal measures are being taken to ensure the same. "Suicide is not a solution for any issue, we must face any challenge with self-confidence," he added. Tamil Nadu’s Health Minister Vijayabaskar refused to answer a question on NEET and walked away. The recent suicides brought back the memories of Anita, another NEET aspirant from Tamil Nadu who had committed suicide after she failed to qualify the examination. Her death had triggered state-wide outrage with political parties and students who protested expressing their anger. NEET was and is being opposed in Tamil Nadu on the grounds that it puts the students from rural areas and economically weaker sections at a disadvantage, as they would not be able to afford the specialised coaching that is required to crack the exam. Earlier, the medical admissions process in Tamil Nadu was based on the score that students obtained in Class XII board exams. Though there has been a significant improvement in the performance of medical students from Tamil Nadu, the state’s pass percentage is lower than the national average which is around 56 per cent.

Tamil Nadu students perform better at NEET, but leaders call for its abolition after students' suicide

The search operations for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-an-32-aircraft-with-13-passengers-on-board-goes-missing-after-takeoff-223865">Indian Air Force AN-32 </a>transport aircraft, which went missing over Arunachal Pradesh, entered the fourth day on Thursday.

While bad weather conditions on Wednesday had put a halt to the search operations by helicopters, two Sukhoi-30 MKI combat jets and one C 130J aircraft carried out missions to locate the missing plane.

Satellites and other assets have also been pressed into service.

The AN-32 aircraft with 13 IAF personnel on board went missing on Monday afternoon.&nbsp;

The plane had taken off from Assam`s Jorhat and was headed for Mechuka Advance Landing Ground in Arunachal Pradesh.

The search operations for the Indian Air Force AN-32 transport aircraft, which went missing over Arunachal Pradesh, entered the fourth day on Thursday. While bad weather conditions on Wednesday had put a halt to the search operations by helicopters, two Sukhoi-30 MKI combat jets and one C 130J aircraft carried out missions to locate the missing plane.

The search operations for the Indian Air Force AN-32 transport aircraft, which went missing over Arunachal Pradesh, entered the fourth day on Thursday. While bad weather conditions on Wednesday had put a halt to the search operations by helicopters, two Sukhoi-30 MKI combat jets and one C 130J aircraft carried out missions to locate the missing plane. Satellites and other assets have also been pressed into service. The AN-32 aircraft with 13 IAF personnel on board went missing on Monday afternoon. The plane had taken off from Assam`s Jorhat and was headed for Mechuka Advance Landing Ground in Arunachal Pradesh.

Search operations for missing IAF aircraft enters fourth day

The Reserve Bank of India is likely to cement its position as Asia’s most dovish central bank with a third straight interest-rate cut Thursday. The six-member monetary policy committee led by Governor Shaktikanta Das will reduce the repurchase rate by 25 basis points to 5.75 per cent on Thursday, say 31 of 43 economists

WION Wallet: RBI cuts repo rate by 25 bps to 5.75%, Changes policy as GDP slows to 5-year lowv

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Police Committee Thursday unanimously cut repo rate — the rate at which it lends to banks — by 25 basis points from 6 per cent to 5.75 per cent.

RBI slahes Repo rates again; cuts by 0.25%

Operation Daredevils, the Indian Air Force mission to retrieve&nbsp;the mortal remains of&nbsp;<a href="Eight climbers - four from Britain, two from the United States, and one each from Australia and India - were reported missing last Friday after they failed to return to their base camp near Nanda Devi, India's second highest mountain.">missing foreign tourists</a>&nbsp;from the Nanda Devi base camp&nbsp;was halted on Wednesday due to terrain elevations and limitations of the helicopter.

The IAF helicopter was back in Pithoragarh, Uttrakhand after three failed attempts due to height.&nbsp;

The authorities are now deliberating on the next strategy for the mission.

The operation was joined by 4 ITBP trekkers and 5 Air Force personnel who took off from Munsyari today at 5 am in an ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter).

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Uttarakhand:4 highly trained mountaineers of ITBP to be heli-dropped by IAF chopper at 18,000-20,000 feet near Nanda Devi East. One ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) took off from Pithoragarh today at 5 AM to join search op of missing foreign tourists at Nanda Devi Base Camp <a href="https://t.co/UFaUDRDzcb">pic.twitter.com/UFaUDRDzcb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1136121727941992448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Eight mountaineers, including from the US, the UK and Australia, were reported missing after they left Munsiyari on May 13 to scale the peak, but did not return to the base camp on the scheduled date of May 25.&nbsp;

The team was led by British mountaineer Martin Moran to the 7,434-metre peak.

It was a twelve-member group and four of them were rescued on Sunday.

IAF choppers spotted five bodies on Monday during their second day of aerial search.

The missing mountaineers comprised seven from the UK, the US and Australia, and a liaison officer from Delhi's Indian Mountaineering Foundation.

They have been identified as team leader Martin Moran, members John McLaren, Richard Payne, Rupert Havel (from the UK); Anthony Sudekum and Rachel Bimmel (from the US); Ruth Macrain (from Australia); and liaison officer Chetan Pandey.

More than 20 people have been killed in the mountains, including 11 on Mount Everest, the world`s highest peak that has been plagued by poor weather, inexperienced climbers and overcrowding.

Nanda Devi, at 7,816 metres (25,643 feet), and its sister mountain, Nanda Devi East, are among the world's most challenging peaks and only a handful of people have climbed them.

(With inputs from agencies)

Operation Daredevils, the Indian Air Force mission to retrieve the mortal remains of missing foreign tourists from the Nanda Devi base camp was halted on Wednesday due to terrain elevations and limitations of the helicopter.

Operation Daredevils, the Indian Air Force mission to retrieve the mortal remains of missing foreign tourists from the Nanda Devi base camp was halted on Wednesday due to terrain elevations and limitations of the helicopter. The IAF helicopter was back in Pithoragarh, Uttrakhand after three failed attempts due to height. The authorities are now deliberating on the next strategy for the mission. The operation was joined by 4 ITBP trekkers and 5 Air Force personnel who took off from Munsyari today at 5 am in an ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter). #WATCH Uttarakhand:4 highly trained mountaineers of ITBP to be heli-dropped by IAF chopper at 18,000-20,000 feet near Nanda Devi East. One ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter) took off from Pithoragarh today at 5 AM to join search op of missing foreign tourists at Nanda Devi Base Camp pic.twitter.com/UFaUDRDzcb — ANI (@ANI) June 5, 2019 × Eight mountaineers, including from the US, the UK and Australia, were reported missing after they left Munsiyari on May 13 to scale the peak, but did not return to the base camp on the scheduled date of May 25. The team was led by British mountaineer Martin Moran to the 7,434-metre peak. It was a twelve-member group and four of them were rescued on Sunday. IAF choppers spotted five bodies on Monday during their second day of aerial search. The missing mountaineers comprised seven from the UK, the US and Australia, and a liaison officer from Delhi's Indian Mountaineering Foundation. They have been identified as team leader Martin Moran, members John McLaren, Richard Payne, Rupert Havel (from the UK); Anthony Sudekum and Rachel Bimmel (from the US); Ruth Macrain (from Australia); and liaison officer Chetan Pandey. More than 20 people have been killed in the mountains, including 11 on Mount Everest, the world`s highest peak that has been plagued by poor weather, inexperienced climbers and overcrowding. Nanda Devi, at 7,816 metres (25,643 feet), and its sister mountain, Nanda Devi East, are among the world's most challenging peaks and only a handful of people have climbed them. (With inputs from agencies)

Mission to recover climbers' bodies from Nanda Devi hampered by technical problems

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