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The Kerala government Wednesday said the condition of the college student being treated at a private hospital for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-government-confirms-nipah-virus-311-under-observation-224413">Nipah virus</a> is stable while the condition of five others kept under watch was improving.

A total of 311 people from various districts are under observation, Health Minister K K Shailaja said.

"The condition of the student is stable. It has not turned worse," she said, a day after the 23-year old student here was confirmed to be infected with Nipah virus.

A medical bulletin issued by the hospital Tuesday night had said he was admitted on May 30 and "the patient is clinically stable, slowly improving and his fever is subsiding."

Talking to reporters here, Shailaja said samples collected from the five people currently being treated at the isolation ward of Kalamassery Medical College Hospital have been sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune this morning.

"The preliminary assessment of their health shows that they are not in a severe condition. Their health now is better than yesterday. But they are under constant watch of doctors. We expect tests of their blood samples would be negative. But we should wait till the final results come," Shailaja, who is constantly monitoring the situation with medical experts and top health officials, said.

She said treatment for Nipah will start only if their blood test confirm they have contracted the infectious disease.

The results are expected by Thursday evening.

"We should be very careful till the completion of the incubation period of the virus," she said.

At present, they were being treated for fever and sore throat, said the minister.

According to the World Health Organisation, the incubation period (interval from infection to the onset of symptoms) is believed to range from 4 to 14 days.

Shailaja, who has been camping here since Monday to lead the state's fight against the potentially deadly virus, said 311 people from various districts were under observation of health officials and an analysis is being carried out to confirm on how many of them had directly contacted with the student infected with the virus.

A government bulletin had said Tuesday that a list of 311 people, who have interacted with the student, has been prepared and they were under medical observation.

Hailing from North Paravur in Ernakulam, the 23-year-old is studying in a college in Thodupuzha in Idukki district.

The student, who was suffering from fever, had gone to Thrissur district with a group of students to attend a training programme.

The government has urged people not to panic and take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

The administration has launched an awareness campaign through the media to meet the challenge.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had also spoken to Shailaja Tuesday to discuss the situation and assured all support from the Centre to the state.

A control room has also been set up and the Strategic Health Operations Centre of the National Centre for Disease Control has been activated, phone number for which is 011-23978046, a health ministry statement said in New Delhi.

According to state government figures, the Nipah virus had claimed 17 lives -- 14 in Kozhikode and three in neighbouring Malappuram in May last year.

The Kerala government Wednesday said the condition of the college student being treated at a private hospital for Nipah virus is stable while the condition of five others kept under watch was improving.

The Kerala government Wednesday said the condition of the college student being treated at a private hospital for Nipah virus is stable while the condition of five others kept under watch was improving. A total of 311 people from various districts are under observation, Health Minister K K Shailaja said. "The condition of the student is stable. It has not turned worse," she said, a day after the 23-year old student here was confirmed to be infected with Nipah virus. A medical bulletin issued by the hospital Tuesday night had said he was admitted on May 30 and "the patient is clinically stable, slowly improving and his fever is subsiding." Talking to reporters here, Shailaja said samples collected from the five people currently being treated at the isolation ward of Kalamassery Medical College Hospital have been sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune this morning. "The preliminary assessment of their health shows that they are not in a severe condition. Their health now is better than yesterday. But they are under constant watch of doctors. We expect tests of their blood samples would be negative. But we should wait till the final results come," Shailaja, who is constantly monitoring the situation with medical experts and top health officials, said. She said treatment for Nipah will start only if their blood test confirm they have contracted the infectious disease. The results are expected by Thursday evening. "We should be very careful till the completion of the incubation period of the virus," she said. At present, they were being treated for fever and sore throat, said the minister. According to the World Health Organisation, the incubation period (interval from infection to the onset of symptoms) is believed to range from 4 to 14 days. Shailaja, who has been camping here since Monday to lead the state's fight against the potentially deadly virus, said 311 people from various districts were under observation of health officials and an analysis is being carried out to confirm on how many of them had directly contacted with the student infected with the virus. A government bulletin had said Tuesday that a list of 311 people, who have interacted with the student, has been prepared and they were under medical observation. Hailing from North Paravur in Ernakulam, the 23-year-old is studying in a college in Thodupuzha in Idukki district. The student, who was suffering from fever, had gone to Thrissur district with a group of students to attend a training programme. The government has urged people not to panic and take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease. The administration has launched an awareness campaign through the media to meet the challenge. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan had also spoken to Shailaja Tuesday to discuss the situation and assured all support from the Centre to the state. A control room has also been set up and the Strategic Health Operations Centre of the National Centre for Disease Control has been activated, phone number for which is 011-23978046, a health ministry statement said in New Delhi. According to state government figures, the Nipah virus had claimed 17 lives -- 14 in Kozhikode and three in neighbouring Malappuram in May last year.

Condition of Nipah patient stable, says Kerala Health Minister

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/search-operation-is-difficult-because-of-difficult-terrain-using-all-our-means-indian-air-force-on-missing-an-32-aircraft-224334">search operations for the missing AN-32 </a>transport aircraft entered the third day on Wednesday.

"We are putting in all the resources available with us. We have put massive efforts through radar, satellite, visual by helicopters and by ground patrols again today," IAF officials said.

A team of 13 Air Force personnel along with satellites of the ISRO and Naval P-8I spy planes have been pressed into action over parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to locate the missing AN-32 aircraft.

Meanwhile, Su-30MKI, C-130J Super Hercules and other assets at present are carrying out search operation in cloudy weather conditions.

Navy in a statement yesterday said that its Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft P8I took off from INS Rajali in Arakonam, Tamil Nadu at 1 pm to join the search and rescue operation.

Officials said the wreckage of the AN-32 transport aircraft which went missing on Monday in Arunachal Pradesh has not been sighted so far.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is being apprised of the situation by the Air Force on a regular basis.

The Antonov AN-32 with 13 personnel including seven officers and six air warriors on board went missing in Arunachal Pradesh.

The aircraft took off from Jorhat at 12:25 pm and was headed for Menchuka Advance Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh near China border.

The last contact between the aircraft and ground agencies took place at 1 pm.

The Soviet-era aircraft was inducted in the Air Force in the 1980s and has been undergoing upgrades.

Three years ago, on July 22, 2016, an airborne AN-32 aircraft had gone missing with 29 people on board.&nbsp;

The aircraft was travelling from Chennai to Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar when it went missing over the Bay of Bengal.&nbsp;

The search operations for the missing AN-32 transport aircraft entered the third day on Wednesday. "We are putting in all the resources available with us. We have put massive efforts through radar, satellite, visual by helicopters and by ground patrols again today," IAF officials said.

The search operations for the missing AN-32 transport aircraft entered the third day on Wednesday. "We are putting in all the resources available with us. We have put massive efforts through radar, satellite, visual by helicopters and by ground patrols again today," IAF officials said. A team of 13 Air Force personnel along with satellites of the ISRO and Naval P-8I spy planes have been pressed into action over parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to locate the missing AN-32 aircraft. Meanwhile, Su-30MKI, C-130J Super Hercules and other assets at present are carrying out search operation in cloudy weather conditions. Navy in a statement yesterday said that its Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft P8I took off from INS Rajali in Arakonam, Tamil Nadu at 1 pm to join the search and rescue operation. Officials said the wreckage of the AN-32 transport aircraft which went missing on Monday in Arunachal Pradesh has not been sighted so far. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is being apprised of the situation by the Air Force on a regular basis. The Antonov AN-32 with 13 personnel including seven officers and six air warriors on board went missing in Arunachal Pradesh. The aircraft took off from Jorhat at 12:25 pm and was headed for Menchuka Advance Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh near China border. The last contact between the aircraft and ground agencies took place at 1 pm. The Soviet-era aircraft was inducted in the Air Force in the 1980s and has been undergoing upgrades. Three years ago, on July 22, 2016, an airborne AN-32 aircraft had gone missing with 29 people on board. The aircraft was travelling from Chennai to Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar when it went missing over the Bay of Bengal.

Search operations for missing AN-32 aircraft enter third day

A day after the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/samajwadi-party-to-go-solo-in-uttar-pradesh-assembly-bypolls-if-bsp-tie-ends-akhilesh-yadav-224248"> SP and the BSP decided to contest alone </a>on all 11 seats in the upcoming assembly bypolls, their third alliance partner in the recent Lok Sabha elections - RLD - Wednesday announced it too will go solo.

Rashtriya Lok Dal UP president Masood Ahmad, however, expressed hope that the 'gathbandhan' remains intact.

"The Rashtriya Lok Dal will contest the UP assembly bypolls on its own whenever they are held. However, it is too early to comment on the political scene of the state," he told PTI.

Party chief Chaudhary Ajit Singh and Jayant Chaudhary will decide on the number of seats the party will contest and the matter may be discussed during a meeting in the next few days, Ahmad said.

When asked about the RLD's role in the new political landscape of the state, which sends the highest number of 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha, Ahmad said, "The RLD was with the Samajwadi Party. We got the seats from the quota of Akhilesh".

The UP RLD chief said the Congress should also be a part of the 'gathbandhan'.

When asked who will gain from the recent spate of political developments, Ahmad said, "The profit and loss analysis will be done later. Our wish is that the gathbandhan should increase its 'kunbaa' (clan), so that we can emerge as a strong anti-BJP force".

The UP assembly bypolls will be important for the RLD as it has no representation in the UP Legislative Assembly.

In the just concluded Lok Sabha elections, the RLD had contested from three constituencies, but faced defeat on all.

RLD candidates Ajit Singh and his son Jayant Chaudhary lost from Muzaffarnagar and Baghpat Lok Sabha seats respectively, while Kunwar Narendra Singh lost from Mathura.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, RLD candidates had to forfeit their deposits in six of the eight Lok Sabha seats they contested from Uttar Pradesh. The party managed to poll only 0.86 per cent of total votes in the state.

The father-son duo had lost the elections from their respective seats in 2014 as well.

The party's performance was equally dismal in the 2017 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. The RLD contested 277 assembly seats but 266 of its candidates lost their deposits. Only one candidate -- Sahender Singh Ramala from Chhaprauli assembly constituency -- emerged victorious.

But he, too, left the RLD and joined the BJP in April last year.

In the UP Legislative Council, there are no RLD MLCs, as the term of party MLC Chaudhary Mushtaq ended in May last year.

The opposition 'gathbandhan' in Uttar Pradesh unravelled on Tuesday with BSP chief Mayawati declaring her party will fight the assembly bypolls alone, prompting Akhilesh Yadav to say his SP too is ready to go solo.

The Bahujan Samaj Party chief, however, said the break is not permanent and she can work with the Samajwadi Party again if the SP president can "fulfil his duties".

Reacting to her statement, Yadav told reporters in Ghazipur, "If the alliance ends, we will field SP candidates on all 11 seats up for the bypolls after consulting party leaders soon."

Mayawati said she will try to ensure that the BSP-SP relationship stays intact.

A day after the SP and the BSP decided to contest alone on all 11 seats in the upcoming assembly bypolls, their third alliance partner in the recent Lok Sabha elections - RLD - Wednesday announced it too will go solo.

A day after the SP and the BSP decided to contest alone on all 11 seats in the upcoming assembly bypolls, their third alliance partner in the recent Lok Sabha elections - RLD - Wednesday announced it too will go solo. Rashtriya Lok Dal UP president Masood Ahmad, however, expressed hope that the 'gathbandhan' remains intact. "The Rashtriya Lok Dal will contest the UP assembly bypolls on its own whenever they are held. However, it is too early to comment on the political scene of the state," he told PTI. Party chief Chaudhary Ajit Singh and Jayant Chaudhary will decide on the number of seats the party will contest and the matter may be discussed during a meeting in the next few days, Ahmad said. When asked about the RLD's role in the new political landscape of the state, which sends the highest number of 80 MPs to the Lok Sabha, Ahmad said, "The RLD was with the Samajwadi Party. We got the seats from the quota of Akhilesh". The UP RLD chief said the Congress should also be a part of the 'gathbandhan'. When asked who will gain from the recent spate of political developments, Ahmad said, "The profit and loss analysis will be done later. Our wish is that the gathbandhan should increase its 'kunbaa' (clan), so that we can emerge as a strong anti-BJP force". The UP assembly bypolls will be important for the RLD as it has no representation in the UP Legislative Assembly. In the just concluded Lok Sabha elections, the RLD had contested from three constituencies, but faced defeat on all. RLD candidates Ajit Singh and his son Jayant Chaudhary lost from Muzaffarnagar and Baghpat Lok Sabha seats respectively, while Kunwar Narendra Singh lost from Mathura. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, RLD candidates had to forfeit their deposits in six of the eight Lok Sabha seats they contested from Uttar Pradesh. The party managed to poll only 0.86 per cent of total votes in the state. The father-son duo had lost the elections from their respective seats in 2014 as well. The party's performance was equally dismal in the 2017 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. The RLD contested 277 assembly seats but 266 of its candidates lost their deposits. Only one candidate -- Sahender Singh Ramala from Chhaprauli assembly constituency -- emerged victorious. But he, too, left the RLD and joined the BJP in April last year. In the UP Legislative Council, there are no RLD MLCs, as the term of party MLC Chaudhary Mushtaq ended in May last year. The opposition 'gathbandhan' in Uttar Pradesh unravelled on Tuesday with BSP chief Mayawati declaring her party will fight the assembly bypolls alone, prompting Akhilesh Yadav to say his SP too is ready to go solo. The Bahujan Samaj Party chief, however, said the break is not permanent and she can work with the Samajwadi Party again if the SP president can "fulfil his duties". Reacting to her statement, Yadav told reporters in Ghazipur, "If the alliance ends, we will field SP candidates on all 11 seats up for the bypolls after consulting party leaders soon." Mayawati said she will try to ensure that the BSP-SP relationship stays intact.

Now RLD announces it will fight UP assembly bypolls alone

As Yogi Adityanath turned 47 on Wednesday, birthday greetings poured in for the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister.

"Greetings to Uttar Pradesh`s dynamic Chief Minister, @myogiadityanath Ji on his birthday. Yogi Ji has done commendable work in transforming Uttar Pradesh, especially in areas like agriculture, industry as well as in improving law and order. I pray for his long and healthy life," Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on his Twitter handle.

Union Minister Smriti Irani also extended her wishes to Adityanath, terming him as hardworking and a progressive chief minister.

"Happy birthday to Uttar Pradesh`s progressive and hardworking Chief Minister @myogiadityanath ji. Under your guidance, UP will progress in the path of development and will break new records on progress. I also pray for your good health and longevity," she said.

Newly sworn-in Union Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted, "Wishing Sh @myogiadityanath ji a wonderful birthday; he has been working for social progress, economic prosperity and development of his state with decisiveness. Good wishes for your health &amp; happiness."

Karnataka BJP leader Shobha Karandlaje too extended greetings to Adityanath.

"Birthday greetings to Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Sri @myogiadityanath. May God bless him with long healthy life &amp; all success in his endeavours," she tweeted.

Born as Ajay Bisht in Panchur village of Pauri Garhwal district in Uttarakhand in 1972, Adityanath completed his bachelor`s degree in Mathematics from the Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University.

Adityanath joined the Ayodhya Ram temple movement in the 1990s. He also came under the influence of Mahant Avaidyanath, the chief priest of the Gorakhnath Math and became his disciple.

Subsequently, he was given the current name and was designated as the successor of Mahant Avaidyanath.

At 26, Adityanath was the youngest member of the 12th Lok Sabha in 1998. He was a five-time MP from Gorakhpur Lok Sabha constituency.

Adityanath was sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 2017, after BJP swept the Assembly elections in the state, where it won 312 out of 403 seats.

As Yogi Adityanath turned 47 on Wednesday, birthday greetings poured in for the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister. "Greetings to Uttar Pradesh`s dynamic Chief Minister, @myogiadityanath Ji on his birthday.

As Yogi Adityanath turned 47 on Wednesday, birthday greetings poured in for the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister. "Greetings to Uttar Pradesh`s dynamic Chief Minister, @myogiadityanath Ji on his birthday. Yogi Ji has done commendable work in transforming Uttar Pradesh, especially in areas like agriculture, industry as well as in improving law and order. I pray for his long and healthy life," Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on his Twitter handle. Union Minister Smriti Irani also extended her wishes to Adityanath, terming him as hardworking and a progressive chief minister. "Happy birthday to Uttar Pradesh`s progressive and hardworking Chief Minister @myogiadityanath ji. Under your guidance, UP will progress in the path of development and will break new records on progress. I also pray for your good health and longevity," she said. Newly sworn-in Union Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted, "Wishing Sh @myogiadityanath ji a wonderful birthday; he has been working for social progress, economic prosperity and development of his state with decisiveness. Good wishes for your health & happiness." Karnataka BJP leader Shobha Karandlaje too extended greetings to Adityanath. "Birthday greetings to Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Sri @myogiadityanath. May God bless him with long healthy life & all success in his endeavours," she tweeted. Born as Ajay Bisht in Panchur village of Pauri Garhwal district in Uttarakhand in 1972, Adityanath completed his bachelor`s degree in Mathematics from the Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University. Adityanath joined the Ayodhya Ram temple movement in the 1990s. He also came under the influence of Mahant Avaidyanath, the chief priest of the Gorakhnath Math and became his disciple. Subsequently, he was given the current name and was designated as the successor of Mahant Avaidyanath. At 26, Adityanath was the youngest member of the 12th Lok Sabha in 1998. He was a five-time MP from Gorakhpur Lok Sabha constituency. Adityanath was sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in 2017, after BJP swept the Assembly elections in the state, where it won 312 out of 403 seats.

Yogi Adityanath turns 47, leaders extend birthday wishes

DMK leader MK Stalin on Wednesday demanded Tamil be made compulsory in all central government offices in Tamil Nadu.

"Now central government is trying to impose Hindi in the name of triple language system. Tamil should be a governing language. Tamil Language should be compulsory in central government offices," Stalin said.

The DMK leader said this at Quaid-e-Millath's 124th birth anniversary which was celebrated by various political party leaders in Chennai.

Quaid-e-Millath was former member of parliament and President of Indian Union Muslim League (IUML).

Stalin said, "Millath used to say that Constitution should remain as it was formed."

A controversy had earlier broken out in Tamil Nadu on June 1 over the new Draft Education Policy of the government at the Centre that has recommended a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-uproar-over-hindi-imposition-centre-alters-draft-education-policy-223801">three-language formula</a> with political parties opposing "imposition" of Hindi in the state.

"The BJP government should not even think about the three-language policy in Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu, having a two-language policy, is like honeycomb and BJP is trying to throw a stone at it by inflicting a three-language policy again. BJP should not even think about it in their dreams. Such greedy and wrong thing will cause them disaster," Stalin had earlier said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

DMK leader MK Stalin on Wednesday demanded Tamil be made compulsory in all central government offices in Tamil Nadu. "Now central government is trying to impose Hindi in the name of triple language system.

DMK leader MK Stalin on Wednesday demanded Tamil be made compulsory in all central government offices in Tamil Nadu. "Now central government is trying to impose Hindi in the name of triple language system. Tamil should be a governing language. Tamil Language should be compulsory in central government offices," Stalin said. The DMK leader said this at Quaid-e-Millath's 124th birth anniversary which was celebrated by various political party leaders in Chennai. Quaid-e-Millath was former member of parliament and President of Indian Union Muslim League (IUML). Stalin said, "Millath used to say that Constitution should remain as it was formed." A controversy had earlier broken out in Tamil Nadu on June 1 over the new Draft Education Policy of the government at the Centre that has recommended a three-language formula with political parties opposing "imposition" of Hindi in the state. "The BJP government should not even think about the three-language policy in Tamil Nadu. In Tamil Nadu, having a two-language policy, is like honeycomb and BJP is trying to throw a stone at it by inflicting a three-language policy again. BJP should not even think about it in their dreams. Such greedy and wrong thing will cause them disaster," Stalin had earlier said.

Tamil should be made compulsory in Central government offices: Stalin

The Haryana government on Wednesday withdrew the reservation of Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category (EBPG) in jobs and educational institutions in the state stating that it is no more required since Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) reservation has come into effect.

Haryana Chief Secretary Depinder Singh Dhesi today wrote a letter to Administrative Secretaries to Haryana government, Heads of Departments in Haryana, Registrar General of Punjab and Haryana High Court, Deputy Commissioners and Sub Divisional Officers (Civil) in the state, Registrars of all universities in Haryana, and Managing Directors/Chief Administrators of Boards/Corporations/PSUs in the state.

"Since Economically Weaker Sections reservation has come into effect, there is no requirement to continue with reservation of Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category (EBPG) and such reservation is hereby withdrawn," Dhesi said in the letter.

"In case departments had withheld posts of Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category, such posts may be released and requisition for such posts may be sent to appropriate recruitment authority, treating such withheld posts to be under the General/Unreserved category," he added.

The Haryana government had earlier prescribed reservation for Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category at 5 per cent for Group A and B posts and 10 per cent for Group C and D posts.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Haryana government on Wednesday withdrew the reservation of Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category (EBPG) in jobs and educational institutions in the state stating that it is no more required since Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) reservation has come into effect.

The Haryana government on Wednesday withdrew the reservation of Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category (EBPG) in jobs and educational institutions in the state stating that it is no more required since Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) reservation has come into effect. Haryana Chief Secretary Depinder Singh Dhesi today wrote a letter to Administrative Secretaries to Haryana government, Heads of Departments in Haryana, Registrar General of Punjab and Haryana High Court, Deputy Commissioners and Sub Divisional Officers (Civil) in the state, Registrars of all universities in Haryana, and Managing Directors/Chief Administrators of Boards/Corporations/PSUs in the state. "Since Economically Weaker Sections reservation has come into effect, there is no requirement to continue with reservation of Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category (EBPG) and such reservation is hereby withdrawn," Dhesi said in the letter. "In case departments had withheld posts of Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category, such posts may be released and requisition for such posts may be sent to appropriate recruitment authority, treating such withheld posts to be under the General/Unreserved category," he added. The Haryana government had earlier prescribed reservation for Economically Backward Persons in General Caste Category at 5 per cent for Group A and B posts and 10 per cent for Group C and D posts.

Haryana withdraws reservation of Economically Backward in General category

The search and rescue operations by helicopters to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-intensifies-efforts-to-find-missing-an-32-aircraft-operation-to-continue-through-the-night-224651">locate the missing An-32 transport aircraft</a> of the Indian Air Force was called off on Wednesday due to bad weather conditions. The operations by the choppers will resume tomorrow morning.

However, two Sukhoi-30MKI and C-130J special operations aircraft will be carrying out night missions to locate the missing plane.

Earlier in the day, the IAF said that efforts to find the AN-32 have been intensified despite challenges posed by vegetation, inhospitable terrain and poor weather.

"All leads from airborne sensors are being closely assessed and followed-up with search by aircraft and ground teams," the IAF tweeted.

"Search by IAF and Indian Army helicopters was adversely affected by weather during the day today. However, supported by #IndianArmy, #IndianNavy, Police and State Administration the search efforts by ground teams and airborne sensors will continue through the night," Air Force said.

The An-32 aircraft with 13 IAF personnel on board went missing on Monday afternoon over Arunachal Pradesh.

The plane got airborne from Assam's Jorhat and was headed for Mechuka Advance Landing Ground in Arunachal Pradesh.

The last contact between the plane and ground authorities took place at 1300 hours.

A massive search and rescue operation consisting of Su-30MKI, C-130J Super Hercules and several choppers was launched to locate the plane. ISRO satellites and Indian Navy's P-8I aircraft too have been pressed into service.&nbsp;

The search and rescue operations by helicopters to locate the missing An-32 transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force was called off on Wednesday due to bad weather conditions.

The search and rescue operations by helicopters to locate the missing An-32 transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force was called off on Wednesday due to bad weather conditions. The operations by the choppers will resume tomorrow morning. However, two Sukhoi-30MKI and C-130J special operations aircraft will be carrying out night missions to locate the missing plane. Earlier in the day, the IAF said that efforts to find the AN-32 have been intensified despite challenges posed by vegetation, inhospitable terrain and poor weather. "All leads from airborne sensors are being closely assessed and followed-up with search by aircraft and ground teams," the IAF tweeted. "Search by IAF and Indian Army helicopters was adversely affected by weather during the day today. However, supported by #IndianArmy, #IndianNavy, Police and State Administration the search efforts by ground teams and airborne sensors will continue through the night," Air Force said. The An-32 aircraft with 13 IAF personnel on board went missing on Monday afternoon over Arunachal Pradesh. The plane got airborne from Assam's Jorhat and was headed for Mechuka Advance Landing Ground in Arunachal Pradesh. The last contact between the plane and ground authorities took place at 1300 hours. A massive search and rescue operation consisting of Su-30MKI, C-130J Super Hercules and several choppers was launched to locate the plane. ISRO satellites and Indian Navy's P-8I aircraft too have been pressed into service.

Missing An-32 aircraft: Search operations by choppers called off due to bad weather, Su-30s to continue night missions

Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the culmination of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, is being celebrated across the country today.&nbsp;

Scores of Muslims residing in the Aligarh region gathered at Shah Jamal Eidgah on Wednesday to offer "namaz" (prayers) on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr and bid farewell to Ramzan, and welcome a festival that begins with the sighting of the new moon.

Along with middle-aged men, a lot of youngsters were seen offering prayers. Shah Jamal Eidgah is considered to be the biggest congregation in this region. More than 2000 people came today to offer prayers here.

Extending his greetings to the Muslim community around the world on Twitter, President Ram Nath Kovind said, "#EidMubarak to all fellow citizens, especially to our Muslim brothers and sisters in India and abroad. The festival of Idu`l Fitr strengthens our belief in charity, fraternity, and compassion. May this happy occasion bring joy and prosperity to everyone`s lives&nbsp;#PresidentKovind."

Besides Aligarh, thousands of Muslims in Bhopal and Gorakhpur dressed in their finery also offered the special congregational prayers at their nearby mosques.

Ramzan is observed as the community fast from dawn to dusk seeking forgiveness from the god for the past sins.&nbsp;

Chand Raat is the 29th day of Ramadan when Muslims keep an eye out for the crescent moon.&nbsp;

The fasting ends on the first day of the tenth month of Islamic year which is celebrated as Eid.

Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the culmination of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, is being celebrated across the country today. Scores of Muslims residing in the Aligarh region gathered at Shah Jamal Eidgah on Wednesday to offer "namaz" (prayers) on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr and bid farewell to Ramzan, and welcome a festival that begins with the sighting of the new moon.

Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the culmination of the Muslim holy month of Ramzan, is being celebrated across the country today. Scores of Muslims residing in the Aligarh region gathered at Shah Jamal Eidgah on Wednesday to offer "namaz" (prayers) on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr and bid farewell to Ramzan, and welcome a festival that begins with the sighting of the new moon. Along with middle-aged men, a lot of youngsters were seen offering prayers. Shah Jamal Eidgah is considered to be the biggest congregation in this region. More than 2000 people came today to offer prayers here. Extending his greetings to the Muslim community around the world on Twitter, President Ram Nath Kovind said, "#EidMubarak to all fellow citizens, especially to our Muslim brothers and sisters in India and abroad. The festival of Idu`l Fitr strengthens our belief in charity, fraternity, and compassion. May this happy occasion bring joy and prosperity to everyone`s lives #PresidentKovind." Besides Aligarh, thousands of Muslims in Bhopal and Gorakhpur dressed in their finery also offered the special congregational prayers at their nearby mosques. Ramzan is observed as the community fast from dawn to dusk seeking forgiveness from the god for the past sins. Chand Raat is the 29th day of Ramadan when Muslims keep an eye out for the crescent moon. The fasting ends on the first day of the tenth month of Islamic year which is celebrated as Eid.

Eid-ul-Fitr: Devotees offer prayers in Aligarh

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the importance of nature on the occasion of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/world-environment-day-indian-missions-create-awareness-across-the-world-223976">World Environment Day</a>.

In a tweet on Wednesday PM Modi said, "Our planet and environment is something we all cherish greatly. Today on #WorldEnvironmentDay, we reiterate our commitment to ensure a cleaner planet."

"Living in harmony with nature will lead to better future".

The prime minister also posted a video where he emphasised on the importance of planting saplings.

In the video, he said planting saplings is not enough and people have to take care of it till it becomes a tree.

President Ram Nath Kovind also reaffirmed the commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet, adding that living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos.

"On World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet. Living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos. India is committed to addressing climate change and bequeathing a greener, eco-friendly habitat to our children," President Kovind wrote on his Twitter handle.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, BJP leader and former finance minister Arun Jaitley appealed people to plant trees."Plant trees on this World," he tweeted along with an image saying everyone must act as an agent of change and save the Earth and environment for future generations.

World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5.&nbsp;It is the United Nation's principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of our environment. It is organised around a theme in order to draw attention towards pressing environmental issues.

The theme for this year is "Beat Air Pollution" and the host nation is China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the importance of nature on the occasion of World Environment Day. In a tweet on Wednesday PM Modi said, "Our planet and environment is something we all cherish greatly.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated the importance of nature on the occasion of World Environment Day. In a tweet on Wednesday PM Modi said, "Our planet and environment is something we all cherish greatly. Today on #WorldEnvironmentDay, we reiterate our commitment to ensure a cleaner planet." "Living in harmony with nature will lead to better future". The prime minister also posted a video where he emphasised on the importance of planting saplings. In the video, he said planting saplings is not enough and people have to take care of it till it becomes a tree. President Ram Nath Kovind also reaffirmed the commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet, adding that living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos. "On World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to a cleaner and sustainable planet. Living in harmony with nature is a part of the Indian ethos. India is committed to addressing climate change and bequeathing a greener, eco-friendly habitat to our children," President Kovind wrote on his Twitter handle. Meanwhile, BJP leader and former finance minister Arun Jaitley appealed people to plant trees."Plant trees on this World," he tweeted along with an image saying everyone must act as an agent of change and save the Earth and environment for future generations. World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5. It is the United Nation's principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of our environment. It is organised around a theme in order to draw attention towards pressing environmental issues. The theme for this year is "Beat Air Pollution" and the host nation is China. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi, President Kovind commit for cleaner and sustainable planet on World Environment Day

Seven people suspected of having contracted <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/condition-of-nipah-patient-stable-says-kerala-health-minister-224453">Nipah virus</a> have been admitted to a hospital here and the condition of the patient diagnosed with the virus is now stable, Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja said on Wednesday after a review meeting with officials.

The samples of six patients have been sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune and results&nbsp;will be available by Thursday.

Earlier in the day, Shailaja had informed that five more persons were under observation in the wake of a scare over Nipah virus.

On Tuesday, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr Harsh Vardhan said that the Centre had rushed a team of doctors to Kerala for investigation in the wake of the scare of Nipah virus.

He had asserted that he is "very vigorously" following the situation.

Nipah virus, which killed 17 people in Kerala last year, is transmitted from animals to humans and then spreads through people to people contact, causing respiratory illness.

Its symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headache, fever, dizziness and nausea.&nbsp;

Seven people suspected of having contracted Nipah virus have been admitted to a hospital here and the condition of the patient diagnosed with the virus is now stable, Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja said on Wednesday after a review meeting with officials.

Seven people suspected of having contracted Nipah virus have been admitted to a hospital here and the condition of the patient diagnosed with the virus is now stable, Kerala Health Minister K K Shailaja said on Wednesday after a review meeting with officials. The samples of six patients have been sent to National Institute of Virology in Pune and results will be available by Thursday. Earlier in the day, Shailaja had informed that five more persons were under observation in the wake of a scare over Nipah virus. On Tuesday, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr Harsh Vardhan said that the Centre had rushed a team of doctors to Kerala for investigation in the wake of the scare of Nipah virus. He had asserted that he is "very vigorously" following the situation. Nipah virus, which killed 17 people in Kerala last year, is transmitted from animals to humans and then spreads through people to people contact, causing respiratory illness. Its symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headache, fever, dizziness and nausea.

7 people suspected of Nipah virus in hospital: Kerala Health Minister

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has intensified efforts to locate the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/search-operation-is-difficult-because-of-difficult-terrain-using-all-our-means-indian-air-force-on-missing-an-32-aircraft-224334">missing AN-32 transport aircraft</a>, which went missing on Monday in Arunachal Pradesh.

"Despite challenges posed by vegetation, inhospitable terrain and poor weather, the search has been expanded. All leads from airborne sensors are being closely assessed and followed-up with search by aircraft and ground teams," the Air Force said on Twitter.

The IAF said that search by helicopters was adversely affected by the weather on Wednesday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/search-operations-for-missing-an-32-aircraft-enter-third-day-224451">third day of the search operation</a>. But the operation will continue through the night with support from the Indian Army, Navy, police and state administration, the IAF said.

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Search by IAF and Indian Army helicopters was adversely affected by weather during the day today. However, supported by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a>, Police and State Administration the search efforts by ground teams and airborne sensors will continue through the night. 2/2
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1136262878762340352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A team of 13 Air Force personnel along with satellites of the ISRO and Naval P-8I spy planes have been pressed into action over parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to locate the missing aircraft. Su-30MKI, C-130J Super Hercules and other assets are also helping in the search operation in cloudy weather conditions.

Arunachal Pradesh’s civil administration set up three ground search parties – first team for Bayor Adi mountain range, second team for the Pari Adi mountain range and the third team for the Sibir Gong mountain range.&nbsp;

“Since the area is completely cut off and is a far-flung area falling near the Indo-China border, we are taking help of the locals who are well versed with the terrain. The place where the aircraft was last spotted does not have any inhabitants, there is no mobile network and there is no motorable road making the operations for the ground search parties extremely difficult,” said a senior officer of Arunachal Pradesh government.&nbsp;

Officials said the wreckage of the AN-32 transport aircraft has not been sighted so far.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is being apprised of the situation by the Air Force on a regular basis.

The Antonov AN-32 with 13 personnel including seven officers and six air warriors on board went missing in Arunachal Pradesh.

The aircraft took off from Jorhat at 12:25pm on Monday and was headed for Menchuka Advance Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh near China border. The last contact between the aircraft and ground agencies took place at 1pm.

Watch: Why the search operation is taking this long

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The Soviet-era aircraft was inducted in the Air Force in the 1980s and has been undergoing upgrades.

Three years ago, on July 22, 2016, an airborne AN-32 aircraft had gone missing with 29 people on board.

The aircraft was travelling from Chennai to Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar when it went missing over the Bay of Bengal.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has intensified efforts to locate the missing AN-32 transport aircraft, which went missing on Monday in Arunachal Pradesh. "Despite challenges posed by vegetation, inhospitable terrain and poor weather, the search has been expanded.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has intensified efforts to locate the missing AN-32 transport aircraft, which went missing on Monday in Arunachal Pradesh. "Despite challenges posed by vegetation, inhospitable terrain and poor weather, the search has been expanded. All leads from airborne sensors are being closely assessed and followed-up with search by aircraft and ground teams," the Air Force said on Twitter. The IAF said that search by helicopters was adversely affected by the weather on Wednesday, the third day of the search operation. But the operation will continue through the night with support from the Indian Army, Navy, police and state administration, the IAF said. Search by IAF and Indian Army helicopters was adversely affected by weather during the day today. However, supported by #IndianArmy, #IndianNavy, Police and State Administration the search efforts by ground teams and airborne sensors will continue through the night. 2/2 — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) June 5, 2019 × A team of 13 Air Force personnel along with satellites of the ISRO and Naval P-8I spy planes have been pressed into action over parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to locate the missing aircraft. Su-30MKI, C-130J Super Hercules and other assets are also helping in the search operation in cloudy weather conditions. Arunachal Pradesh’s civil administration set up three ground search parties – first team for Bayor Adi mountain range, second team for the Pari Adi mountain range and the third team for the Sibir Gong mountain range. “Since the area is completely cut off and is a far-flung area falling near the Indo-China border, we are taking help of the locals who are well versed with the terrain. The place where the aircraft was last spotted does not have any inhabitants, there is no mobile network and there is no motorable road making the operations for the ground search parties extremely difficult,” said a senior officer of Arunachal Pradesh government. Officials said the wreckage of the AN-32 transport aircraft has not been sighted so far. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is being apprised of the situation by the Air Force on a regular basis. The Antonov AN-32 with 13 personnel including seven officers and six air warriors on board went missing in Arunachal Pradesh. The aircraft took off from Jorhat at 12:25pm on Monday and was headed for Menchuka Advance Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh near China border. The last contact between the aircraft and ground agencies took place at 1pm. Watch: Why the search operation is taking this long The Soviet-era aircraft was inducted in the Air Force in the 1980s and has been undergoing upgrades. Three years ago, on July 22, 2016, an airborne AN-32 aircraft had gone missing with 29 people on board. The aircraft was travelling from Chennai to Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar when it went missing over the Bay of Bengal. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Air Force intensifies efforts to find missing AN-32 aircraft, operation to continue through the night

The ED will be questioning senior NCP leader and former aviation minister Praful Patel tomorrow as part of its money laundering probe related to alleged losses suffered by national carrier Air India. Watch full video to know more

ED to question former minister Praful Patel in UPA-era aviation scam tomorrow

In a far-reaching initiative, newly-appointed Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh has issued elaborate directives aimed at curbing subservient behaviour, restricting certain ceremonial practices and ensuring <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/watch-indian-navy-gets-its-first-woman-pilot-6907">equality among the ranks</a>.

The wide-ranging guidelines prescribed having same standards of food, drinks and cutlery by all ranks of Navy personnel at official functions, discontinuing provision of multiple stand-by cars for chief of naval staff and even discouraging presentation of bouquets, officials said.

"As a modern fighting force, it is important that we imbibe contemporary, social and ceremonial practices towards optimal utilisation of manpower and resources," the communication said.

Officials said the directives are being implemented with immediate effect.&nbsp;

"Juniors be encouraged to be disciplined and respectful but not subservient. Refreshment and meals to be simple and devoid of ostentation," according to the communication.

It said full titles of senior officers should not to be used repeatedly in speeches and citing of decorations after name to be restricted only to formal correspondence and occasions.

It also said only senior sailors will be deputed for liaison duty and use of third person in addressing senior officers should be discouraged.&nbsp;

In a far-reaching initiative, newly-appointed Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh has issued elaborate directives aimed at curbing subservient behaviour, restricting certain ceremonial practices and ensuring equality among the ranks.

In a far-reaching initiative, newly-appointed Navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh has issued elaborate directives aimed at curbing subservient behaviour, restricting certain ceremonial practices and ensuring equality among the ranks. The wide-ranging guidelines prescribed having same standards of food, drinks and cutlery by all ranks of Navy personnel at official functions, discontinuing provision of multiple stand-by cars for chief of naval staff and even discouraging presentation of bouquets, officials said. "As a modern fighting force, it is important that we imbibe contemporary, social and ceremonial practices towards optimal utilisation of manpower and resources," the communication said. Officials said the directives are being implemented with immediate effect. "Juniors be encouraged to be disciplined and respectful but not subservient. Refreshment and meals to be simple and devoid of ostentation," according to the communication. It said full titles of senior officers should not to be used repeatedly in speeches and citing of decorations after name to be restricted only to formal correspondence and occasions. It also said only senior sailors will be deputed for liaison duty and use of third person in addressing senior officers should be discouraged.

Navy chief Karambir Singh's directive: Curb subservient behaviour, ceremonial practices

A year after two north Kerala districts were hit by Nipah claiming 17 lives, the disease resurfaced in the state with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-man-tests-positive-for-nipah-virus-infection-224081">23-year-old student here confirmed to be infected</a> with the potentially deadly virus.

The government said 311 people from various districts with whom the student had interacted were under observation.

The student, who is being treated at a private hospital here, is slowly improving and his fever subsiding, according to a medical bulletin.

The results of blood samples of the student, which were tested at the National Institute of Virology in Pune, have confirmed Nipah, state Health minister K K Shailaja said here.

Earlier, blood samples examined at two virology institutes--Manipal Institute of Virology and Kerala Institute of Virology and Infectious Diseases--had indicated Nipah.

Watch: 23-year-old Kerala man tested positive for Nipah

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The government said four people--three who attended to the student initially and one person who studied with him--were suffering from fever and sore throat.

They were shifted to the isolation ward set up at the Kalamassery Medical College Hospital here for detailed medical examination. Their health condition is satisfactory, according to authorities.

Shailaja said the condition of the student is stable and he was not put under any support system like ventilator.

"Good care is being given to the patient. The patient sometimes become restless due to fever...We expect a good result," she told reporters. 
A medical bulletin issued by the hospital late in the night said he was admitted on May 30.

"At present, the patient is clinically stable, slowly improving and his fever is subsiding," it said.&nbsp;

The DMO has supplied the necessary anti-viral medications as soon as the case was notified and the hospital was able to start medications promptly, it said.

The hospital is strictly abiding by all public health protocols as suggested by the district and state health authorities and closely coordinating with them in the best interest of patient and community, it added.

A government bulletin said a list of 311 people, who have interacted with the student, has been prepared and they were under medical observation. 
The student, hailing from North Paravur in Ernakulam, is studying in a college in Thodupuzha in Idukki district.

The student, who was suffering from fever, had gone to Thrissur district with a group of students to attend a training programme.

The government urged people not to panic and take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease.

Watch: As Nipah strikes again in Kerala, state to strengthen preventive measures

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"We have confidence that we can face it. We have faced it in Kozhikode last year and contained it," Shailaja said trying to instil confidence among people.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said there was no need to panic as the health network would rise up to the challenge.

"We are in constant contact with the Union ministry for health. A team of experts have arrived in Kochi.Their guidelines will also be used to tackle the virus outbreak," Vijayan said in a Facebook Post.

Under the supervision of the state health minister, all necessary preparations have been completed, Vijayan said, adding those who came in contact with the infected person, have been traced and are under observation.

Extending all assistance to the state government to deal with the situation, the Centre rushed a six-member team comprising an epidemiologist to Kerala.

Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan also spoke to Shailaja to discuss the current situation and assured all support from the Centre to the state.

A control room has also been set up and the Strategic Health Operations Centre of the National Centre for Disease Control has been activated, phone number for which is 011-23978046, a health ministry statement said in New Delhi.

According to state government figures, the Nipah virus had claimed 17 lives -- 14 in Kozhikode and three in neighbouring Malappuram in May last year.

Appealing to social media users not to spread panic among the public, Shailaja said stringent action would be taken against those indulging in such acts.

Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, Ramesh Chennithala, who met Shailaja here, promised all support to the state government to unitedly fight the disease.

Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are the natural host of the Nipah virus.

Nipah virus can be transmitted to humans from animals (such as bats or pigs), or contaminated foods and can also be transmitted directly from human-to-human.

On May 19, 2018, Nipah virus disease (NiV) outbreak was reported from Kozhikode.

Health experts from Kozhikode, who have experience in fighting the disease, have reached Kochi.

According to the WHO, Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), the flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans.

It takes its name from Sungai Nipah, a village in Malaysia where it was first identified.

Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection (mild, severe), and fatal encephalitis.

Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, myalgia, vomiting and sore throat.

This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis.

Some people can also experience atypical pneumonia and severe respiratory problems, including acute respiratory distress. Encephalitis and seizures occur in severe cases, progressing to coma within 24 to 48 hours.

&nbsp;

A year after two north Kerala districts were hit by Nipah claiming 17 lives, the disease resurfaced in the state with a 23-year-old student here confirmed to be infected with the potentially deadly virus.

A year after two north Kerala districts were hit by Nipah claiming 17 lives, the disease resurfaced in the state with a 23-year-old student here confirmed to be infected with the potentially deadly virus. The government said 311 people from various districts with whom the student had interacted were under observation. The student, who is being treated at a private hospital here, is slowly improving and his fever subsiding, according to a medical bulletin. The results of blood samples of the student, which were tested at the National Institute of Virology in Pune, have confirmed Nipah, state Health minister K K Shailaja said here. Earlier, blood samples examined at two virology institutes--Manipal Institute of Virology and Kerala Institute of Virology and Infectious Diseases--had indicated Nipah. Watch: 23-year-old Kerala man tested positive for Nipah × The government said four people--three who attended to the student initially and one person who studied with him--were suffering from fever and sore throat. They were shifted to the isolation ward set up at the Kalamassery Medical College Hospital here for detailed medical examination. Their health condition is satisfactory, according to authorities. Shailaja said the condition of the student is stable and he was not put under any support system like ventilator. "Good care is being given to the patient. The patient sometimes become restless due to fever...We expect a good result," she told reporters. A medical bulletin issued by the hospital late in the night said he was admitted on May 30. "At present, the patient is clinically stable, slowly improving and his fever is subsiding," it said. The DMO has supplied the necessary anti-viral medications as soon as the case was notified and the hospital was able to start medications promptly, it said. The hospital is strictly abiding by all public health protocols as suggested by the district and state health authorities and closely coordinating with them in the best interest of patient and community, it added. A government bulletin said a list of 311 people, who have interacted with the student, has been prepared and they were under medical observation. The student, hailing from North Paravur in Ernakulam, is studying in a college in Thodupuzha in Idukki district. The student, who was suffering from fever, had gone to Thrissur district with a group of students to attend a training programme. The government urged people not to panic and take precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease. Watch: As Nipah strikes again in Kerala, state to strengthen preventive measures × "We have confidence that we can face it. We have faced it in Kozhikode last year and contained it," Shailaja said trying to instil confidence among people. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said there was no need to panic as the health network would rise up to the challenge. "We are in constant contact with the Union ministry for health. A team of experts have arrived in Kochi.Their guidelines will also be used to tackle the virus outbreak," Vijayan said in a Facebook Post. Under the supervision of the state health minister, all necessary preparations have been completed, Vijayan said, adding those who came in contact with the infected person, have been traced and are under observation. Extending all assistance to the state government to deal with the situation, the Centre rushed a six-member team comprising an epidemiologist to Kerala. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan also spoke to Shailaja to discuss the current situation and assured all support from the Centre to the state. A control room has also been set up and the Strategic Health Operations Centre of the National Centre for Disease Control has been activated, phone number for which is 011-23978046, a health ministry statement said in New Delhi. According to state government figures, the Nipah virus had claimed 17 lives -- 14 in Kozhikode and three in neighbouring Malappuram in May last year. Appealing to social media users not to spread panic among the public, Shailaja said stringent action would be taken against those indulging in such acts. Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, Ramesh Chennithala, who met Shailaja here, promised all support to the state government to unitedly fight the disease. Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family are the natural host of the Nipah virus. Nipah virus can be transmitted to humans from animals (such as bats or pigs), or contaminated foods and can also be transmitted directly from human-to-human. On May 19, 2018, Nipah virus disease (NiV) outbreak was reported from Kozhikode. Health experts from Kozhikode, who have experience in fighting the disease, have reached Kochi. According to the WHO, Nipah virus is a newly emerging disease that can be transmitted from its reservoir (natural wildlife host), the flying foxes (fruit bats), to both animals and humans. It takes its name from Sungai Nipah, a village in Malaysia where it was first identified. Symptoms range from asymptomatic infection, acute respiratory infection (mild, severe), and fatal encephalitis. Infected people initially develop influenza-like symptoms of fever, headache, myalgia, vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs that indicate acute encephalitis. Some people can also experience atypical pneumonia and severe respiratory problems, including acute respiratory distress. Encephalitis and seizures occur in severe cases, progressing to coma within 24 to 48 hours.

Kerala government confirms Nipah virus; 311 under observation

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India Watch; 05th June 2019

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Eleven people died during the climbing season that ended this week, as record numbers lined the route to the summit. Although overcrowding was blamed for at least four deaths, many say inexperience is a bigger killer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-willing-to-sign-no-spy-agreement-with-us-government-chairman-224403">Huawei willing to sign 'no-spy agreement' with US government: Chairman Liang Hua</a>

In response to years of allegations by the United States and its allies that Huawei`s products could be accessed by Chinese Intelligence Agencies for spying, the company said on Tuesday that it is willing to sign a "no-spy agreement" with the US government if the opportunity opens up.

Will take unprecedented action to ensure supply of rare earths critical to tech, military: US The United States will take "unprecedented actions" to ensure the supply of strategic minerals and rare earth critical to the tech sector and the military, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Tuesday.

Will take unprecedented action to ensure supply of rare earths critical to tech, military: US The United States will take "unprecedented actions" to ensure the supply of strategic minerals and rare earth critical to the tech sector and the military, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said Tuesday. Pak PM Imran Khan announces military's 'voluntary cut' in defence expenditure amid financial crisis Pakistan PM Imran Khan announced today that the country's military has decided on "unprecedented voluntary initiative of stringent cuts in its defence expenditures" due to the critical financial situation prevailing in the country. World Cup 2019: Virat Kohli's India begins campaign against 'stunned' South Africa Virat Kohli-led Team India will start their 2019 World Cup campaign against South Africa today at Southampton. All the participating teams have played at least one match in the ongoing edition and now the 'Men in Blue' will begin their quest to win the World Cup for the third time. Nepal may limit access to Everest after mountaineering deaths Eleven people died during the climbing season that ended this week, as record numbers lined the route to the summit. Although overcrowding was blamed for at least four deaths, many say inexperience is a bigger killer. Huawei willing to sign 'no-spy agreement' with US government: Chairman Liang Hua In response to years of allegations by the United States and its allies that Huawei`s products could be accessed by Chinese Intelligence Agencies for spying, the company said on Tuesday that it is willing to sign a "no-spy agreement" with the US government if the opportunity opens up.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Economic Census is the complete count of all establishment located within the geographical boundary of India. The Economic Census provides disaggregated information on various operational and structural variables of all establishments of the country. Economic Census also provides valuable insight into geographical spread/clusters of economic activities, ownership pattern, persons engaged, etc. of all economic establishments in the country.

India Watch: What is an Economic census?

Two Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) supporters were arrested by the police on Wednesday in connection with Trinamool Congress leader Nirmal Kundu’s murder.&nbsp;

Kundu, president of ward number 6 of Dum Dum Municipality in West Bengal, was shot at by miscreants on Tuesday evening at Nimta in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.&nbsp;

Two bike-borne youths appeared in front of Kundu and opened fire at him when he was on his way to the Trinamool Congress party office. Kundu immediately fell on the ground after receiving bullet injuries on his head.&nbsp;

Immediately, the locals gathered and rushed him to the hospital where he was declared as dead.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the Barrackpore Commissionerate arrested two persons – Sumon Kundu and Sujoy Das - from a house in Uttarpara. The police recovered a single shooter firearm along with three cartridges besides a bike from their possession.&nbsp;

According to sources in the police, Das who hails from Murshidabad district of Bengal is a contract or a supari killer who was hired to kill Kundu. However, the actual mastermind and the reason behind the killing is yet to be known.&nbsp;

“We have arrested two persons in connection with the murder. We have also recovered a murder weapon which is a firearm from their possession. The reason behind the murder is not known yet. An investigation is on,” said Ananda Roy, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone II, Barrackpore Commissionerate.&nbsp;

While Trinamool Congress leaders claimed that BJP supporters killed Kundu, BJP ruled out this allegation and termed factional feud in the Trinamool Congress as a reason behind the murder. BJP also said that their party supporters were falsely implicated.&nbsp;

“Our party supporters have nothing to do with this murder. They are not involved at all. This murder is a cause of Trinamool Congress’ factional fight. Each time they arrest our party supporters and put them behind bars by falsely implicating them,” said Bengal BJP president and MP from Midnapore seat Dilip Ghosh.&nbsp;

As per sources in the Trinamool Congress, the party supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with other party leaders, will visit the slain party leader’s residence and meet the family members of the deceased.&nbsp;

Two Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) supporters were arrested by the police on Wednesday in connection with Trinamool Congress leader Nirmal Kundu’s murder. Kundu, president of ward number 6 of Dum Dum Municipality in West Bengal, was shot at by miscreants on Tuesday evening at Nimta in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.

Two Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) supporters were arrested by the police on Wednesday in connection with Trinamool Congress leader Nirmal Kundu’s murder. Kundu, president of ward number 6 of Dum Dum Municipality in West Bengal, was shot at by miscreants on Tuesday evening at Nimta in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. Two bike-borne youths appeared in front of Kundu and opened fire at him when he was on his way to the Trinamool Congress party office. Kundu immediately fell on the ground after receiving bullet injuries on his head. Immediately, the locals gathered and rushed him to the hospital where he was declared as dead. On Wednesday, the Barrackpore Commissionerate arrested two persons – Sumon Kundu and Sujoy Das - from a house in Uttarpara. The police recovered a single shooter firearm along with three cartridges besides a bike from their possession. According to sources in the police, Das who hails from Murshidabad district of Bengal is a contract or a supari killer who was hired to kill Kundu. However, the actual mastermind and the reason behind the killing is yet to be known. “We have arrested two persons in connection with the murder. We have also recovered a murder weapon which is a firearm from their possession. The reason behind the murder is not known yet. An investigation is on,” said Ananda Roy, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone II, Barrackpore Commissionerate. While Trinamool Congress leaders claimed that BJP supporters killed Kundu, BJP ruled out this allegation and termed factional feud in the Trinamool Congress as a reason behind the murder. BJP also said that their party supporters were falsely implicated. “Our party supporters have nothing to do with this murder. They are not involved at all. This murder is a cause of Trinamool Congress’ factional fight. Each time they arrest our party supporters and put them behind bars by falsely implicating them,” said Bengal BJP president and MP from Midnapore seat Dilip Ghosh. As per sources in the Trinamool Congress, the party supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, along with other party leaders, will visit the slain party leader’s residence and meet the family members of the deceased.

West Bengal: Two BJP supporters arrested in connection with Trinamool Congress leader’s murder 

Rifts in the Rajasthan Congress resurfaced June 4 with two party leaders criticising Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for suggesting that State unit president Sachin Pilot should take responsibility for his son Vaibhav Gehlot’s election defeat.

India Watch: Rifts widen among opposition parties

Troubles mounted for the ruling combine in Karnataka with JD(S) state president A.H. Vishwanath resigning from his post Tuesday flaying the coalition’s functioning and two senior Congress MLAs slamming the party state leaders for the Lok Sabha poll debacle.

India Watch: JD(S)-Congress alliance in trouble?

ISRO satellites have been deployed along Naval P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft to locate the wreckage of the missing AN-32 aircraft which went missing on Monday afternoon with 13 IAF personnel.

India Watch: Retd. Air Marshal Nirdosh Tyagi over missing AN-32 aircraft

Indian Air Force in association with the Army and Indo Tibetan Border Police on Tuesday resumed the search operation for the AN-32 aircraft that has remained missing from the sky of Arunachal Pradesh.

India Watch: Third day of search operations for IAF's AN-32 aircraft

IAF said on Wednesday that it faced several challenges while conducting search operations due to rugged terrain and poor weather conditions. However, officers in charge of the operations said that the search has been expanded and all leads from airborne sensors are being closely assessed.

India Watch: Why did the AN-32 go missing?

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel is expected to depose before the ED on Thursday in connection with a money-laundering probe related to the losses suffered by national carrier Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore-rupee aviation scam.

Patel (62) has also been named in a recent charge sheet filed by the federal agency before a court as a person known to alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, who was in charge of the civil aviation ministry between 2004 and 2011, has not been mentioned as an accused in the case.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED), sources said, had already questioned a number of people in the senior management of the state-owned airline and the aviation ministry.

Patel was expected to be quizzed about the statements and revelations made by Talwar, they added.

The statement of Patel, a Rajya Sabha MP, will also be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The four-time MP from the Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seat in Maharashtra had earlier told that he would be happy to cooperate with the ED for their understanding of the complexities of the aviation industry.

The central agency has recently filed a chargesheet in the case, naming Talwar and claiming that he was in regular touch with Patel.

It has alleged that Talwar finalised various communications addressed to Patel on behalf of Emirates and Air Arabia.

According to the chargesheet, Talwar obtained undue favours for the private airlines using his contacts.

The agency has also alleged that Talwar was engaged in lobbying with politicians, ministers, other public servants and officials in the civil aviation ministry for Emirates, Air Arabia and Qatar Airways in order to secure undue benefits to these airlines.

"He (Talwar) illegally managed to secure favourable traffic rights for these airlines during 2008-09 at the cost of the national carrier, Air India," the ED has claimed.

It has also been alleged that in lieu of securing favourable traffic rights, these airlines made payments to the tune of Rs 272 crore to Talwar during 2008-09.

"He created a web of his own entities and used the companies of his son, Aditya Talwar, in India and international offshore havens to launder Rs 272 crore received from foreign airlines. Part of these payments were made to a bank account in the Bank of Singapore, belonging to a company called Asiafield Limited, registered in the British Virgin Islands and beneficially owned by Deepak Talwar," the agency has said in the chargesheet.

The ED had also told the court earlier that it was trying to find out the names of the officials in the civil aviation ministry, the National Aviation Company of India Ltd and Air India, who favoured foreign airlines, including Qatar Airways, Emirates and Air Arabia, by making Air India give up profit-making routes and timings.

Talwar was booked by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in criminal cases of corruption in August 2017, while the Income-Tax department had charged him with tax evasion.

Talwar was arrested by the ED early this year after he was deported from Dubai.&nbsp;

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel is expected to depose before the ED on Thursday in connection with a money-laundering probe related to the losses suffered by national carrier Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore-rupee aviation scam.

Former civil aviation minister and NCP leader Praful Patel is expected to depose before the ED on Thursday in connection with a money-laundering probe related to the losses suffered by national carrier Air India as part of an alleged multi-crore-rupee aviation scam. Patel (62) has also been named in a recent charge sheet filed by the federal agency before a court as a person known to alleged aviation lobbyist Deepak Talwar. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader, who was in charge of the civil aviation ministry between 2004 and 2011, has not been mentioned as an accused in the case. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), sources said, had already questioned a number of people in the senior management of the state-owned airline and the aviation ministry. Patel was expected to be quizzed about the statements and revelations made by Talwar, they added. The statement of Patel, a Rajya Sabha MP, will also be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The four-time MP from the Bhandara-Gondia Lok Sabha seat in Maharashtra had earlier told that he would be happy to cooperate with the ED for their understanding of the complexities of the aviation industry. The central agency has recently filed a chargesheet in the case, naming Talwar and claiming that he was in regular touch with Patel. It has alleged that Talwar finalised various communications addressed to Patel on behalf of Emirates and Air Arabia. According to the chargesheet, Talwar obtained undue favours for the private airlines using his contacts. The agency has also alleged that Talwar was engaged in lobbying with politicians, ministers, other public servants and officials in the civil aviation ministry for Emirates, Air Arabia and Qatar Airways in order to secure undue benefits to these airlines. "He (Talwar) illegally managed to secure favourable traffic rights for these airlines during 2008-09 at the cost of the national carrier, Air India," the ED has claimed. It has also been alleged that in lieu of securing favourable traffic rights, these airlines made payments to the tune of Rs 272 crore to Talwar during 2008-09. "He created a web of his own entities and used the companies of his son, Aditya Talwar, in India and international offshore havens to launder Rs 272 crore received from foreign airlines. Part of these payments were made to a bank account in the Bank of Singapore, belonging to a company called Asiafield Limited, registered in the British Virgin Islands and beneficially owned by Deepak Talwar," the agency has said in the chargesheet. The ED had also told the court earlier that it was trying to find out the names of the officials in the civil aviation ministry, the National Aviation Company of India Ltd and Air India, who favoured foreign airlines, including Qatar Airways, Emirates and Air Arabia, by making Air India give up profit-making routes and timings. Talwar was booked by the ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in criminal cases of corruption in August 2017, while the Income-Tax department had charged him with tax evasion. Talwar was arrested by the ED early this year after he was deported from Dubai.

Praful Patel expected to depose before ED in money-laundering probe on Thursday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union Cabinet is set to undertake the exercise of conducting a massive Economic Survey which, for the first time, will include hawkers, vendors, peddlers and small stall holders. &nbsp;

According to reports, the survey will be conducted similar to the population survey and will aim to gauge the contemporary economic and unemployment situation in the country.&nbsp;

It is being reported that over 25 crore households and 7 crore establishments will fall into the purview of the survey.&nbsp;

The process related to the conduct of the survey is likely to begin by the end of this month and the reports are expected to be out in 6 months.

The Economic Survey helps the government analyse and review the developments in the economy as well as assess the performance of various programmes, schemes and policy initiatives. It is presented to both the houses of the Parliament during the Budget Session.

Meanwhile, PM Modi on Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-new-cabinet-committees-formed-to-spur-growth-employment-224568">constituted two new Cabinet committees</a> under his chairmanship to spur economic growth, investment and employment.

The five-member Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth includes Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Road Transport and Highways and of MSME Minister Nitin Gadkari and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Another 10-member Cabinet Committee on Employment and Skill Development has been formed which includes Shah, Sitharaman, Goyal, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Narendra Singh Tomar, Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank', Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister Skill and Entrepreneurship Mahendra Nath Pandey and Ministers of State Santosh Kumar Gangwar (Labour) and Hardeep Singh Puri (Housing and Urban Affairs).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union Cabinet is set to undertake the exercise of conducting a massive Economic Survey which, for the first time, will include hawkers, vendors, peddlers and small stall holders.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Union Cabinet is set to undertake the exercise of conducting a massive Economic Survey which, for the first time, will include hawkers, vendors, peddlers and small stall holders. According to reports, the survey will be conducted similar to the population survey and will aim to gauge the contemporary economic and unemployment situation in the country. It is being reported that over 25 crore households and 7 crore establishments will fall into the purview of the survey. The process related to the conduct of the survey is likely to begin by the end of this month and the reports are expected to be out in 6 months. The Economic Survey helps the government analyse and review the developments in the economy as well as assess the performance of various programmes, schemes and policy initiatives. It is presented to both the houses of the Parliament during the Budget Session. Meanwhile, PM Modi on Wednesday constituted two new Cabinet committees under his chairmanship to spur economic growth, investment and employment. The five-member Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth includes Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Road Transport and Highways and of MSME Minister Nitin Gadkari and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, news agency ANI reported. Another 10-member Cabinet Committee on Employment and Skill Development has been formed which includes Shah, Sitharaman, Goyal, Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Narendra Singh Tomar, Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank', Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister Skill and Entrepreneurship Mahendra Nath Pandey and Ministers of State Santosh Kumar Gangwar (Labour) and Hardeep Singh Puri (Housing and Urban Affairs).

In a first, Centre's mega Economic Survey to cover street vendors, hawkers

Monsoon rains are likely to enter through the southern coast around June 8, the state-run India Meteorological Department said on Wednesday, marking the start of the four-month rainy season that is crucial for the country's farm-dependent economy.

Monsoon rains usually arrive in Kerala around June 1 and retreat from Rajasthan by September.

The IMD had earlier forecast arrival of monsoon rains over Kerala on June 6.

People are desperately awaiting overdue monsoon rains as they struggle to secure drinking water amid a heat wave that is rapidly drying up reservoirs and sending temperatures soaring across the country.

The country is likely to see average monsoon rains this year, the weather office said last week, which should support agricultural production and economic growth in Asia's third-biggest economy, where half of the farmland lacks irrigation.

Meanwhile, private weather forecast agency Skymet on Wednesday said that monsoon will reach Kerala in next 48 hours, while people in the national capital region (NCR) will have to wait for some more days for the monsoon rain.&nbsp;

According to Skymet, normal dates of monsoon for Delhi and its adjoining regions is last week of June. It may, however, be delayed by some 10-15 days.

The monsoon will be weak due to El Nino and global warming, Skymet said.

ANI quoting Skymet's Chaudhary stated that this year is going to be the second driest year in the last 65 years.

Normal rainfall for pre-monsoon is 131.5 mm whereas the recorded rainfall till now is 99 mm. This condition is due to prevailing El Nino over the areas which will affect the landfall of monsoon, he said.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) defines average or normal rainfall as between 96 per cent and 104 per cent of a 50-year average of 89 centimetres for the entire four-month season beginning June.

(With inputs from ANI)

Monsoon rains are likely to enter through the southern coast around June 8, the state-run India Meteorological Department said on Wednesday, marking the start of the four-month rainy season that is crucial for the country's farm-dependent economy.

Monsoon rains are likely to enter through the southern coast around June 8, the state-run India Meteorological Department said on Wednesday, marking the start of the four-month rainy season that is crucial for the country's farm-dependent economy. Monsoon rains usually arrive in Kerala around June 1 and retreat from Rajasthan by September. The IMD had earlier forecast arrival of monsoon rains over Kerala on June 6. People are desperately awaiting overdue monsoon rains as they struggle to secure drinking water amid a heat wave that is rapidly drying up reservoirs and sending temperatures soaring across the country. The country is likely to see average monsoon rains this year, the weather office said last week, which should support agricultural production and economic growth in Asia's third-biggest economy, where half of the farmland lacks irrigation. Meanwhile, private weather forecast agency Skymet on Wednesday said that monsoon will reach Kerala in next 48 hours, while people in the national capital region (NCR) will have to wait for some more days for the monsoon rain. According to Skymet, normal dates of monsoon for Delhi and its adjoining regions is last week of June. It may, however, be delayed by some 10-15 days. The monsoon will be weak due to El Nino and global warming, Skymet said. ANI quoting Skymet's Chaudhary stated that this year is going to be the second driest year in the last 65 years. Normal rainfall for pre-monsoon is 131.5 mm whereas the recorded rainfall till now is 99 mm. This condition is due to prevailing El Nino over the areas which will affect the landfall of monsoon, he said. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) defines average or normal rainfall as between 96 per cent and 104 per cent of a 50-year average of 89 centimetres for the entire four-month season beginning June. (With inputs from ANI)

Monsoon rains to arrive on southern coast around June 8: IMD

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