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Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the National War Memorial in New Delhi today, shortly before taking charge of the Defence Ministry. He paid tribute to soldiers who laid down their lives for the country post-independence.

New Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pays homage to Martyrs

As India's<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-moves-to-south-block-gets-defence-ministry-223127"> new defence minister, Rajnath Singh</a>'s most crucial challenge will be to speed up the long-delayed modernisation of the three services besides ensuring overall coherence in their combat readiness.&nbsp;

His another challenge will be to ensure peace and tranquillity along the frontier with China while developing required military infrastructure to deal with any possible Chinese hostility.&nbsp;

As he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-20-rajnath-singh-is-defence-minister-amit-shah-home-nirmala-sitharaman-gets-finace-223084">takes charge of the ministry</a> just three months after India carried out <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/130-170-terrorists-died-following-balakot-airstrikes-says-award-winning-italian-journalist-217030">air strikes on a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot</a>, it is expected that he will continue with the policy of hot pursuit in dealing with cross border terrorism.

Containing infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan will be another key focus area.

As the Defence Minister, Singh will face the challenge of strengthening the combat capabilities of the Army, Navy and the Air Force due to changing regional security matrix and geopolitical dynamics.

The forces have been pressing for equipping them to deal with hybrid warfare and Singh will have to attend to this crucial demand.

The government has been focusing on domestic defence production and Singh will have to carry forward a number of big-ticket reform initiatives, including implementing the ambitious "strategic partnership" model.

Under the new model, select Indian private firms will be roped in to build military platforms like submarines and fighter jets in India in partnership with foreign defence majors.

Watch: Rajnath Singh in Modi's New Cabinet

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Singh also faces the challenge of modernising the defence research organisations and various other defence public sector undertakings so that they can produce state-of-the-art military hardware to match the requirement of the forces.

He is expected to focus on simplification of the acquisition process as the majority of the military modernisation programmes are delayed due to administrative hurdles.

Singh, who was Home Minister in the previous government, will also have to oversee carrying out of major reforms in the 12-lakh strong Army.

The Army has already finalised a blueprint for its reform including right-sizing of the force.&nbsp;

His predecessor Nirmala Sitharaman had taken on the opposition head-on with her fiery defence of the Rafale fighter jet deal and it will be interesting to see how Singh deals with the issue.

Officials said Singh will take charge as defence minister on Saturday.&nbsp;

As India's new defence minister, Rajnath Singh's most crucial challenge will be to speed up the long-delayed modernisation of the three services besides ensuring overall coherence in their combat readiness.

As India's new defence minister, Rajnath Singh's most crucial challenge will be to speed up the long-delayed modernisation of the three services besides ensuring overall coherence in their combat readiness. His another challenge will be to ensure peace and tranquillity along the frontier with China while developing required military infrastructure to deal with any possible Chinese hostility. As he takes charge of the ministry just three months after India carried out air strikes on a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot, it is expected that he will continue with the policy of hot pursuit in dealing with cross border terrorism. Containing infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan will be another key focus area. As the Defence Minister, Singh will face the challenge of strengthening the combat capabilities of the Army, Navy and the Air Force due to changing regional security matrix and geopolitical dynamics. The forces have been pressing for equipping them to deal with hybrid warfare and Singh will have to attend to this crucial demand. The government has been focusing on domestic defence production and Singh will have to carry forward a number of big-ticket reform initiatives, including implementing the ambitious "strategic partnership" model. Under the new model, select Indian private firms will be roped in to build military platforms like submarines and fighter jets in India in partnership with foreign defence majors. Watch: Rajnath Singh in Modi's New Cabinet × Singh also faces the challenge of modernising the defence research organisations and various other defence public sector undertakings so that they can produce state-of-the-art military hardware to match the requirement of the forces. He is expected to focus on simplification of the acquisition process as the majority of the military modernisation programmes are delayed due to administrative hurdles. Singh, who was Home Minister in the previous government, will also have to oversee carrying out of major reforms in the 12-lakh strong Army. The Army has already finalised a blueprint for its reform including right-sizing of the force. His predecessor Nirmala Sitharaman had taken on the opposition head-on with her fiery defence of the Rafale fighter jet deal and it will be interesting to see how Singh deals with the issue. Officials said Singh will take charge as defence minister on Saturday.

As defence minister, major challenges await Rajnath Singh

BJP will have to elect a new president, as incumbent Amit Shah has been inducted into PM Modi’s Cabinet, going by the ‘one man one post’ principle the party usually follows. The BJP rank and file expect the replacement to be someone who has the complete trust of Modi and Shah.

Who will be Bhartiya Janata Party's new President

Narendra Modi has kept up his propensity for surprise by inducting Subrahmanyam Jaishankar into the Cabinet. When the 1977 batch IFS officer took the oath on Thursday to be part of the NDA-2’s Council of Ministers, there were wide expectations that he would be handed the Ministry of External Affairs portfolio.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-to-end-trade-privileges-for-india-on-june-5-223286">US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5</a>

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disgruntled-city-employee-kills-11-in-virginia-suspect-also-killed-223288">11 killed in mass shooting at government building in Virginia Beach</a>

A disgruntled public utility employee opened fire on co-workers at city offices in Virginia Beach, Virginia, on Friday afternoon, killing 11 people and wounding at least six others before he was fatally shot by police, authorities said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-boris-johnson-would-be-very-good-as-next-uk-prime-minister-223289">Trump says Boris Johnson would be 'very good' as next UK prime minister</a>

US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/committed-to-ensure-women-empowerment-children-welfare-smriti-irani-223291">Committed to ensure women empowerment, children welfare: Smriti Irani</a>

Newly-appointed Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani Friday said she is "committed to take all appropriate steps" to ensure women empowerment and welfare of children in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-preparing-antitrust-probe-of-google-report-223296">US preparing antitrust probe of Google: Report</a>

The US Department of Justice is preparing an antitrust investigation of Internet titan Google, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.

&nbsp;

US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5 In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5 In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters. 11 killed in mass shooting at government building in Virginia Beach A disgruntled public utility employee opened fire on co-workers at city offices in Virginia Beach, Virginia, on Friday afternoon, killing 11 people and wounding at least six others before he was fatally shot by police, authorities said. Trump says Boris Johnson would be 'very good' as next UK prime minister US President Donald Trump threw his weight behind Boris Johnson's campaign to be Britain's next prime minister and urged all candidates to pledge to boost defence spending, in a striking intervention ahead of his state visit next week. Committed to ensure women empowerment, children welfare: Smriti Irani Newly-appointed Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani Friday said she is "committed to take all appropriate steps" to ensure women empowerment and welfare of children in the country. US preparing antitrust probe of Google: Report The US Department of Justice is preparing an antitrust investigation of Internet titan Google, the Wall Street Journal reported on Friday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The new government of India is now assigned with their tasks and respective departments with new portfolios. The massive mandate of BJP is the supreme key towards nation building and to now focus on foreign policy too.

PM Modi's govt likely to focus on 'Act-East' policy

As the Modi-led government returns to power, we take a look at the profiles of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his new council of ministers.

PM Modi's cabinet 2.0; Great powers, great responsibilities

Newly-elected Lok Sabha MPs of the Congress will meet for the first time on Saturday and are likely to elect the leader of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP).

The CPP is currently chaired by Sonia Gandhi and all 52 Lok Sabha MPs will be present at the meeting, besides its members in the Rajya Sabha, sources said.

The meeting will be held in the central hall of Parliament and MPs will also chalk out its strategy for the upcoming session of Parliament, they said.

In its first meeting after the constitution of the 17th Lok Sabha, the Congress MPs are also likely to elect their leader in the Lower House, the sources said.

They said this will be the first official meeting that Congress president Rahul Gandhi will attend after the meeting of the party's working committee held on May 25, where he offered to quit as Congress chief.&nbsp;

The CWC has already rejected his offer to resign and unanimously passed a resolution authorising him to bring structural changes in the party at all levels in a bid to revamp it.&nbsp;

Newly-elected Lok Sabha MPs of the Congress will meet for the first time on Saturday and are likely to elect the leader of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP).

Newly-elected Lok Sabha MPs of the Congress will meet for the first time on Saturday and are likely to elect the leader of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP). The CPP is currently chaired by Sonia Gandhi and all 52 Lok Sabha MPs will be present at the meeting, besides its members in the Rajya Sabha, sources said. The meeting will be held in the central hall of Parliament and MPs will also chalk out its strategy for the upcoming session of Parliament, they said. In its first meeting after the constitution of the 17th Lok Sabha, the Congress MPs are also likely to elect their leader in the Lower House, the sources said. They said this will be the first official meeting that Congress president Rahul Gandhi will attend after the meeting of the party's working committee held on May 25, where he offered to quit as Congress chief. The CWC has already rejected his offer to resign and unanimously passed a resolution authorising him to bring structural changes in the party at all levels in a bid to revamp it.

Congress Parliamentary Party to meet on Saturday, likely to elect leader

Newly-appointed Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani Friday said she is "committed to take all appropriate steps" to ensure women empowerment and welfare of children in the country.

Congratulating her colleague and the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Debasree Chaudhuri, Irani sent her best wishes to the lawmaker from West Bengal's Raiganj.

"Best wishes to my colleague in the Ministry of Women and Child Development Debasree Chaudhuri on assuming charge today. We are committed to take all appropriate steps to ensure women empowerment and development and welfare of children in the context of nation building," she tweeted.&nbsp;

From tackling malnutrition and stunted growth among children to drafting the regulations for sexual harassment at the workplace, a host of challenges await Smriti Irani, who was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/smriti-irani-becomes-part-of-team-modi-20-takes-oath-as-minister-222864">appointed as the Women and Child Development Minister</a> on Friday.&nbsp;

Irani, the youngest face in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Cabinet at 43, emerged as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/smriti-irani-the-return-of-giant-slayer-222868">'giant slayer'</a> after defeating Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi.

She has retained the charge of Textiles Ministry, a portfolio she held during the first term of the Narendra Modi government.&nbsp;

Preparation has already started at the Women and Child Development Ministry to welcome Irani, who is likely to take charge on Monday, sources said.&nbsp;

However, her junior in the ministry, Chaudhury, has already assumed charge.&nbsp;

Among the several issues that await her are completing the registration of child care institutions and ensuring that the anti-trafficking bill passes the Rajya Sabha hurdle.&nbsp;

Irani succeeds outgoing WCD minister Maneka Gandhi, who was dropped from the Union council of ministers this time.&nbsp;

She has also held portfolios of Human Resource Development and Information and Broadcasting during the first term of the Modi government.&nbsp;

The popular TV actor-turned-politician had her first brush with electoral politics in 2004 when she contested the Lok Sabha elections from the Chandni Chowk seat in Delhi, but lost to Congress heavyweight Kapil Sibal.

Newly-appointed Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani Friday said she is "committed to take all appropriate steps" to ensure women empowerment and welfare of children in the country.

Newly-appointed Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani Friday said she is "committed to take all appropriate steps" to ensure women empowerment and welfare of children in the country. Congratulating her colleague and the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Debasree Chaudhuri, Irani sent her best wishes to the lawmaker from West Bengal's Raiganj. "Best wishes to my colleague in the Ministry of Women and Child Development Debasree Chaudhuri on assuming charge today. We are committed to take all appropriate steps to ensure women empowerment and development and welfare of children in the context of nation building," she tweeted. From tackling malnutrition and stunted growth among children to drafting the regulations for sexual harassment at the workplace, a host of challenges await Smriti Irani, who was appointed as the Women and Child Development Minister on Friday. Irani, the youngest face in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Cabinet at 43, emerged as a 'giant slayer' after defeating Congress president Rahul Gandhi in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi. She has retained the charge of Textiles Ministry, a portfolio she held during the first term of the Narendra Modi government. Preparation has already started at the Women and Child Development Ministry to welcome Irani, who is likely to take charge on Monday, sources said. However, her junior in the ministry, Chaudhury, has already assumed charge. Among the several issues that await her are completing the registration of child care institutions and ensuring that the anti-trafficking bill passes the Rajya Sabha hurdle. Irani succeeds outgoing WCD minister Maneka Gandhi, who was dropped from the Union council of ministers this time. She has also held portfolios of Human Resource Development and Information and Broadcasting during the first term of the Modi government. The popular TV actor-turned-politician had her first brush with electoral politics in 2004 when she contested the Lok Sabha elections from the Chandni Chowk seat in Delhi, but lost to Congress heavyweight Kapil Sibal.

Committed to ensure women empowerment, children welfare: Smriti Irani

All temporary restrictions imposed on all air routes, in the country's air space have been lifted, the Indian Air Force said.

The move comes immediately after Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/cabinet-20-most-ministers-retain-earlier-ministries-check-complete-list-223154">Narendra Modi began his second term in office</a>.

"Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed," the IAF tweeted on Friday.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Information?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Information</a> : Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed.
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The IAF said it had removed restrictions that were imposed on all routes a day after its 12 Mirage 2000s crossed over to Pakistan and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-to-move-air-defence-units-closer-to-pakistan-border-post-balakot-strikes-218676">attacked a JeM terrorist training camp</a> in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The strikes were in response to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/virtual-sims-used-in-pulwama-terror-attack-india-to-approach-us-for-help-205320">terror attack in Pulwama</a>, in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives on February 14.

Pakistan on Wednesday extended the ban on India using its airspace for commercial flights till June 14.

Since then, foreign carriers using Indian airspace have been forced to take costly detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure mainly affects flights from Europe to Southeast Asia.

Pakistan lies in the middle of a vital aviation corridor whereby the airspace restrictions, which have been continuing since a long time, impacts hundreds of commercial flights each day, extending flight timings for passengers, as well as fuel costs for airlines.

All temporary restrictions imposed on all air routes, in the country's air space have been lifted, the Indian Air Force said. The move comes immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term in office.

All temporary restrictions imposed on all air routes, in the country's air space have been lifted, the Indian Air Force said. The move comes immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his second term in office. "Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed," the IAF tweeted on Friday. #Information : Temporary restrictions on all air routes in the Indian airspace, imposed by the Indian Air Force on 27 Feb 19, have been removed. — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) May 31, 2019 × The IAF said it had removed restrictions that were imposed on all routes a day after its 12 Mirage 2000s crossed over to Pakistan and attacked a JeM terrorist training camp in Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The strikes were in response to the terror attack in Pulwama, in which about 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives on February 14. Pakistan on Wednesday extended the ban on India using its airspace for commercial flights till June 14. Since then, foreign carriers using Indian airspace have been forced to take costly detours because they cannot fly over Pakistan. The closure mainly affects flights from Europe to Southeast Asia. Pakistan lies in the middle of a vital aviation corridor whereby the airspace restrictions, which have been continuing since a long time, impacts hundreds of commercial flights each day, extending flight timings for passengers, as well as fuel costs for airlines.

Indian Air Force lifts temporary airspace restrictions, imposed after Balakot strike

A Pune court on Saturday sent Vikram Dhawe and advocate Sanjeev Punalekar, the two accused in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-lawyer-arrested-in-narendra-dabholkar-murder-case-221669">Narendra Dabholkar murder case</a>, to CBI custody.

After hearing the arguments, Additional Sessions Judge AV Rotte sent the two accused to CBI custody till June 4.During the course of hearing, Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) Prakash Suryavanshi, appearing for the CBI submitted before the court that Punalekar crossed all his limits as an advocate and advised Kalaskar to destroy the weapons used in the murder of Dabholka, following which four pistols were thrown and destroyed.

SPP Suryavanshi contended that accused Vikram Bhave showed the way of escape to assailants.

"It is a big chain of conspiracy, hence, 5 days of time is not enough. Sanjeev Punalekar's custody is required. He is not cooperating in the investigation. He knows what he has done but is not sharing it during the interrogation. Hence we want more time to investigate him," the public prosecutor told the court.

"Mobile and two laptops have been recovered from the possession of Punalekar. The data analysis for the same is on and we want to confront him on this data," Suryavanshi contended.

The investigation agency further submitted that forensic psychology analysis and statement analysis tests were conducted on Punalekar and the results of the same are still awaited.

Suryavanshi submitted, "We want to know from Vikram Bhave whether more people were involved in the recce as the vehicle used in the killing is not yet recovered."

Concluding his arguments, the public prosecutor demanded for 14 days custody of the two accused.

"It's a big conspiracy and as per the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act we are entitled to avail 30 days of custody, however, we need only 14 days custody of the accused persons," CBI's counsel contended. Commencing his arguments, Sanjeev Punalekar through his counsel Subhash Jha submitted before the court that his advice to Kalaskar is not illegal.

"If some client comes to me seeking advice it's my right to have privilege communication under section 126 of the Indian Evidence Act and that is not illegal," he submitted.

While advocate Ghanshyam Upadhyay appearing for another accused Vikram Bhawe told the court that both the accused persons were interrogated by CBI for two days before the arrest.

Inspite of that they could not get any material for making any arrest.

"The investigation agency has got no justification to arrest the accused persons. The statement of Sharad Kalaskar based on which the duo is arrested is taken in some other case and is not related to this case," Upadhyay submitted before the court.

He added that the probe agency has issued summons to the two accused on Whatsapp and no legal summons were served to them.

The agency had arrested Punalekar and Bhave from Mumbai on May 25 in connection with the murder case.

Punalekar is also an advocate for the case and has been advocating for many right-wing accused in different cases.

Founder of the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS), Dabholkar was shot by bike-borne assailants while returning home from a morning walk on August 20, 2013.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A Pune court on Saturday sent Vikram Dhawe and advocate Sanjeev Punalekar, the two accused in Narendra Dabholkar murder case, to CBI custody. After hearing the arguments, Additional Sessions Judge AV Rotte sent the two accused to CBI custody till June 4.

A Pune court on Saturday sent Vikram Dhawe and advocate Sanjeev Punalekar, the two accused in Narendra Dabholkar murder case, to CBI custody. After hearing the arguments, Additional Sessions Judge AV Rotte sent the two accused to CBI custody till June 4.During the course of hearing, Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) Prakash Suryavanshi, appearing for the CBI submitted before the court that Punalekar crossed all his limits as an advocate and advised Kalaskar to destroy the weapons used in the murder of Dabholka, following which four pistols were thrown and destroyed. SPP Suryavanshi contended that accused Vikram Bhave showed the way of escape to assailants. "It is a big chain of conspiracy, hence, 5 days of time is not enough. Sanjeev Punalekar's custody is required. He is not cooperating in the investigation. He knows what he has done but is not sharing it during the interrogation. Hence we want more time to investigate him," the public prosecutor told the court. "Mobile and two laptops have been recovered from the possession of Punalekar. The data analysis for the same is on and we want to confront him on this data," Suryavanshi contended. The investigation agency further submitted that forensic psychology analysis and statement analysis tests were conducted on Punalekar and the results of the same are still awaited. Suryavanshi submitted, "We want to know from Vikram Bhave whether more people were involved in the recce as the vehicle used in the killing is not yet recovered." Concluding his arguments, the public prosecutor demanded for 14 days custody of the two accused. "It's a big conspiracy and as per the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act we are entitled to avail 30 days of custody, however, we need only 14 days custody of the accused persons," CBI's counsel contended. Commencing his arguments, Sanjeev Punalekar through his counsel Subhash Jha submitted before the court that his advice to Kalaskar is not illegal. "If some client comes to me seeking advice it's my right to have privilege communication under section 126 of the Indian Evidence Act and that is not illegal," he submitted. While advocate Ghanshyam Upadhyay appearing for another accused Vikram Bhawe told the court that both the accused persons were interrogated by CBI for two days before the arrest. Inspite of that they could not get any material for making any arrest. "The investigation agency has got no justification to arrest the accused persons. The statement of Sharad Kalaskar based on which the duo is arrested is taken in some other case and is not related to this case," Upadhyay submitted before the court. He added that the probe agency has issued summons to the two accused on Whatsapp and no legal summons were served to them. The agency had arrested Punalekar and Bhave from Mumbai on May 25 in connection with the murder case. Punalekar is also an advocate for the case and has been advocating for many right-wing accused in different cases. Founder of the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS), Dabholkar was shot by bike-borne assailants while returning home from a morning walk on August 20, 2013.

Dabholkar murder case: Two accused sent to CBI custody till June 4

The Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday banned ministers from carrying their mobile phones in cabinet meetings.

The ban on mobile phones has reportedly been put at the behest of the Chief Minister Yogi.

All ministers will now have to leave their phones outside while a cabinet meeting or an official meeting with Adityanath is in progress.

The last cabinet meeting of the UP cabinet was held on May 28, the rule will become applicable from the next meeting as and when it is called by the UP Chief Minister.&nbsp;

The Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday banned ministers from carrying their mobile phones in cabinet meetings. The ban on mobile phones has reportedly been put at the behest of the Chief Minister Yogi.

The Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday banned ministers from carrying their mobile phones in cabinet meetings. The ban on mobile phones has reportedly been put at the behest of the Chief Minister Yogi. All ministers will now have to leave their phones outside while a cabinet meeting or an official meeting with Adityanath is in progress. The last cabinet meeting of the UP cabinet was held on May 28, the rule will become applicable from the next meeting as and when it is called by the UP Chief Minister.

No ministers should carry mobile phones during cabinet meetings: Yogi Adityanath

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) summit in Mecca condemned a "terrorist attack" on Saudi Arabia's oil pumping stations which targeted global oil supplies, its final statement said on Saturday. The summit also condemned "sabotage operations" against four vessels near the territorial waters of the United Arab Emirates, which it said threatened international maritime traffic safety.

OIC condemns 'terrorist attack' on Saudi oil pumping stations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-people-missing-after-blasts-at-russian-military-plant-22-injured-223432">Two people missing after blasts at Russian military plant, 22 injured</a>

At least two people were missing on Saturday after blasts at the explosives plant Kristall in the central Russian town of Dzerzhinsk, Interfax and RIA news agencies reported. Some 22 people were injured, Interfax news agency reported citing a source. An official at the local health ministry said earlier that most of the injured have fragment wounds.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-will-have-no-walkover-in-parliament-rahul-gandhi-223399">BJP will have no walkover in Parliament: Rahul Gandhi</a>

Asserting that the 52 newly-elected Congress MPs will work like "a pride of brave-hearted lions", Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that his party will continue to work "fearlessly" and that the BJP cannot have a "walk over" in parliament.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/wont-stake-claim-in-lok-sabha-for-leader-of-opposition-congress-223378">Won't stake claim in Lok Sabha for Leader of Opposition: Congress</a>

The Congress party on Saturday said that it will not stake a claim for the post of the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha as it is falling short of two seats and is not able to reach the required number of 54.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-eyes-steps-to-cut-immigrant-flows-to-us-border-official-223382">Mexico eyes steps to cut immigrant flows to US border: Official</a>

Mexico wants to sharpen existing measures in its bid to narrow a flood of Central American migrants to the US border, a top Mexican official said on Friday, ahead of planned meetings in Washington over tariffs threatened by President Donald Trump.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-chinese-defence-chiefs-discuss-sanctions-enforcement-on-north-korea-223376">US, Chinese defence chiefs discuss sanctions enforcement on North Korea</a>

Patrick Shanahan, the acting US Defence Secretary, and Wei Fenghe, the Chinese Defence Minister, discussed ways to better enforce UN sanctions on North Korea during a "constructive and productive" meeting held on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum here on Friday.

Two people missing after blasts at Russian military plant, 22 injured At least two people were missing on Saturday after blasts at the explosives plant Kristall in the central Russian town of Dzerzhinsk, Interfax and RIA news agencies reported.

Two people missing after blasts at Russian military plant, 22 injured At least two people were missing on Saturday after blasts at the explosives plant Kristall in the central Russian town of Dzerzhinsk, Interfax and RIA news agencies reported. Some 22 people were injured, Interfax news agency reported citing a source. An official at the local health ministry said earlier that most of the injured have fragment wounds. BJP will have no walkover in Parliament: Rahul Gandhi Asserting that the 52 newly-elected Congress MPs will work like "a pride of brave-hearted lions", Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said that his party will continue to work "fearlessly" and that the BJP cannot have a "walk over" in parliament. Won't stake claim in Lok Sabha for Leader of Opposition: Congress The Congress party on Saturday said that it will not stake a claim for the post of the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha as it is falling short of two seats and is not able to reach the required number of 54. Mexico eyes steps to cut immigrant flows to US border: Official Mexico wants to sharpen existing measures in its bid to narrow a flood of Central American migrants to the US border, a top Mexican official said on Friday, ahead of planned meetings in Washington over tariffs threatened by President Donald Trump. US, Chinese defence chiefs discuss sanctions enforcement on North Korea Patrick Shanahan, the acting US Defence Secretary, and Wei Fenghe, the Chinese Defence Minister, discussed ways to better enforce UN sanctions on North Korea during a "constructive and productive" meeting held on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum here on Friday.

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspension-of-preferential-trade-status-for-india-under-gsp-is-done-deal-us-222997">preferential trade treatment </a>for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

Trump had announced his intention to remove India from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program in early March.

"I have determined that India has not assured the United States that India will provide <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-not-a-tariff-king-has-the-right-to-protect-specific-sectors-under-wto-experts-212214">equitable and reasonable</a> access to its markets," Reuters report said Trump as saying in a statement on Friday.

India is the biggest beneficiary of the GSP, which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from the South Asian nation, the report added.

Indian officials have raised the prospect of higher import duties on more than 20 US goods if Trump drops India from the programme.

Twenty-four members of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-lawmakers-urge-trump-administration-to-not-end-indias-trade-privileges-215783">US Congress</a> sent the administration a letter on May 3 urging it not to terminate India's access to the GSP.

Trump had time and again called India&nbsp;&nbsp;'tariff king'&nbsp;and imposes "tremendously high" import duties on American goods.

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters.

In a blow to India, US President Donald Trump on Friday said that the United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5, reported news agency Reuters. Trump had announced his intention to remove India from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program in early March. "I have determined that India has not assured the United States that India will provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets," Reuters report said Trump as saying in a statement on Friday. India is the biggest beneficiary of the GSP, which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from the South Asian nation, the report added. Indian officials have raised the prospect of higher import duties on more than 20 US goods if Trump drops India from the programme. Twenty-four members of the US Congress sent the administration a letter on May 3 urging it not to terminate India's access to the GSP. Trump had time and again called India 'tariff king' and imposes "tremendously high" import duties on American goods.

US President Trump to end trade privileges for India on June 5

Congress president Rahul Gandhi today said the Congress may have just 52 MPs in the Lok Sabha but they are strong enough to take on the BJP [which has 303 members]. Speaking at the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) meeting, Rahul Gandhi said, "We are 52 MPs. I guarantee you that these 52 MPs will fight against BJP every single inch. We are enough to make BJP jump everyday."

52 Congress Lok Sabha MPs enough to make BJP jump everyday, says Rahul Gandhi

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warned of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-sizzles-at-45-degrees-as-heatwave-continues-its-spell-223345">severe heat wave in the national capital</a> and its adjoining states for the next few days.

Maximum temperature in the national capital will hover at 46 degree Celsius during the coming days.

Speaking exclusively to ANI, M Mohapatra, Director General, IMD's meteorology, said, "Severe heatwave condition is persisting in many parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, southern Uttar Pradesh, northern Madhya Pradesh and some parts of Jharkhand."

"We are expecting this to continue for the next two days. In Delhi, we are not expecting rain. As per our forecast, the maximum temperature here can be as high as 46-degrees. It will gradually come down," he said.

Mahapatra also predicted that around June 6, monsoon will be hitting Kerala. The southwest monsoon is expected to hit Odisha coast within two weeks after its onset in Kerala.

"Expecting monsoon to arrive near Kerala around June 6. At present, monsoon has covered some extreme southern parts of the Arabian Sea and parts of southwest-southeast-east central Bay of Bengal, the Andaman sea, and Andaman Nicobar islands. In the next 2-3 days it will cover more parts of Arabian Sea," he said.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warned of a severe heat wave in the national capital and its adjoining states for the next few days. Maximum temperature in the national capital will hover at 46 degree Celsius during the coming days.

India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warned of a severe heat wave in the national capital and its adjoining states for the next few days. Maximum temperature in the national capital will hover at 46 degree Celsius during the coming days. Speaking exclusively to ANI, M Mohapatra, Director General, IMD's meteorology, said, "Severe heatwave condition is persisting in many parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, southern Uttar Pradesh, northern Madhya Pradesh and some parts of Jharkhand." "We are expecting this to continue for the next two days. In Delhi, we are not expecting rain. As per our forecast, the maximum temperature here can be as high as 46-degrees. It will gradually come down," he said. Mahapatra also predicted that around June 6, monsoon will be hitting Kerala. The southwest monsoon is expected to hit Odisha coast within two weeks after its onset in Kerala. "Expecting monsoon to arrive near Kerala around June 6. At present, monsoon has covered some extreme southern parts of the Arabian Sea and parts of southwest-southeast-east central Bay of Bengal, the Andaman sea, and Andaman Nicobar islands. In the next 2-3 days it will cover more parts of Arabian Sea," he said.

Intense heat wave to continue in Delhi: IMD

A special MP-MLA court on Saturday reserved its order till July 10 on the issuance of summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a defamation complaint filed by a BJP leader.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a petition filed by BJP legal cell convenor Rajesh Kumar against Kejriwal for posting a tweet on September 30 last year, accusing BJP workers of raping Hindu girls.

Kumar in his plea had requested the court to issue summons to Kejriwal on the charges of defamation and promoting enmity between different groups.

In the last hearing on May 16, the court had recorded the statement of Kumar and two other witnesses in connection with this case.

In his petition, Kumar had submitted that he was shocked and surprised after seeing a tweet in which Kejriwal had allegedly said that "BJP members keep roaming and raping Hindu girls around the country."

"Mr. Kejriwal has successfully dented the reputation of the complainant in particular and his party," the complaint, moved through counsel Saurabh Kansal, had stated.

Kumar said that he wanted to file a complaint immediately but he thought the people have a better sense of judgment and no one will take the tweet seriously.

"The tweet has caused embarrassment to the complainant on several occasions as some people in small social gatherings raise the issue to tease him," the complaint had said.

"The tweet has not only caused defamation to the complainant but to crores of members of BJP and the accused cannot be permitted to let go for such an offence," it contended.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A special MP-MLA court on Saturday reserved its order till July 10 on the issuance of summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a defamation complaint filed by a BJP leader.

A special MP-MLA court on Saturday reserved its order till July 10 on the issuance of summons to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in a defamation complaint filed by a BJP leader. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Samar Vishal was hearing a petition filed by BJP legal cell convenor Rajesh Kumar against Kejriwal for posting a tweet on September 30 last year, accusing BJP workers of raping Hindu girls. Kumar in his plea had requested the court to issue summons to Kejriwal on the charges of defamation and promoting enmity between different groups. In the last hearing on May 16, the court had recorded the statement of Kumar and two other witnesses in connection with this case. In his petition, Kumar had submitted that he was shocked and surprised after seeing a tweet in which Kejriwal had allegedly said that "BJP members keep roaming and raping Hindu girls around the country." "Mr. Kejriwal has successfully dented the reputation of the complainant in particular and his party," the complaint, moved through counsel Saurabh Kansal, had stated. Kumar said that he wanted to file a complaint immediately but he thought the people have a better sense of judgment and no one will take the tweet seriously. "The tweet has caused embarrassment to the complainant on several occasions as some people in small social gatherings raise the issue to tease him," the complaint had said. "The tweet has not only caused defamation to the complainant but to crores of members of BJP and the accused cannot be permitted to let go for such an offence," it contended.

Court reserves order on issuance of summons to Kejriwal in defamation case

Rajanth Singh took charge as the Defence Minister or Raksha Mantri and immediately held a meeting with the top military brass. Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik, Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and top officials of the ministry accorded a warm welcome to Mr Singh.

Rajnath Singh takes charge as Defence minister

Asserting that the strategic partnership between<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-to-end-trade-privileges-for-india-on-june-5-223286"> India and the US </a>has strengthened significantly during the past two decades, the Pentagon on Friday told the Congress that both countries recognise the importance of the Indo-Pacific to global trade and commerce and share a common outlook on the region.

The Indo-Pacific region contributes two-thirds of global growth in the gross domestic product (GDP) and accounts for 60 per cent of the global GDP.&nbsp;

This region includes the world's largest economies- the United States, China and Japan- and six of the world's fastest-growing economies - India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal and the Philippines.

A quarter of US exports go to the Indo-Pacific. Exports to India and China have more than doubled over the past decade due to free and open trade routes through the air, sea, land, space and cyber commons that form the current global system.

"Both countries recognise the importance of the Indo-Pacific to global trade and commerce and acknowledge that developments in this region will shape the larger trajectory of the rules-based international order,"&nbsp;the Pentagon said in an Indo-Pacific Strategy Report to the Congress amidst China flexing its muscles in the South China Sea.

India, through its "Act East"&nbsp;policy, continues to make significant security, economic and development investments to secure the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, said the report which is a comprehensive articulation of its role within a whole-of-government strategy for the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

As an implementation document, the report provides clarity on the US National Defence Strategy as it applies to the region and highlights the role of allies and partners in implementing our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Noting that the Indian Ocean Region is at the nexus of global trade and commerce, with nearly half of the world's 90,000 commercial vessels and two thirds of global oil trade travelling through its sea lanes, it said the region boasts some of the fastest-growing economies on Earth and is home to a quarter of the world's population.

While the region offers unprecedented opportunity, it is also confronting a myriad of security challenges, including terrorism, transnational crime, trafficking-in-persons, and illicit drugs.&nbsp;

To combat these challenges, the United States seeks opportunities to broaden and strengthen partnerships with India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bangladesh and Nepal to respond to shared regional challenges, the report said.

The US and India maintain a broad-based strategic partnership, underpinned by shared interests, democratic values and strong people-to-people ties, it said.

"The US-India strategic partnership has strengthened significantly during the past two decades, based on a convergence of strategic interests, and the United States and India continue to use their deepening relationship to build new partnerships within and beyond the Indo-Pacific,"&nbsp;the Pentagon said.

Noting that in June 2016, the US designated India a "Major Defense Partner,"&nbsp;a status unique to India, the Pentagon said the designation seeks to elevate the US defence partnership with India to a level commensurate with that of the United States' closest allies and partners.

The establishment of the US-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September 2018 also serves as a tangible demonstration of our commitment to promoting the shared principles of a free and open Indo-Pacific, it said.

According to the Pentagon, the US continues to pursue a range of initiatives with India to enable cooperation, strengthen their inter-operability, and establish a strong foundation for defence trade, technology sharing, industrial collaboration, and broader cooperation on defence innovation.

The signing of the Communications, Compatibility and Security Agreement in 2018 represents a significant development in our military-to-military relationship, facilitating greater inter-operability and real-time secure information-sharing. Department of Defense and the Indian Ministry of Defence are increasing the scope, complexity, and frequency of our military exercises.

Later this year, the US and India will conduct their first tri-service exercise, it said.&nbsp;

Asserting that the strategic partnership between India and the US has strengthened significantly during the past two decades, the Pentagon on Friday told the Congress that both countries recognise the importance of the Indo-Pacific to global trade and commerce and share a common outlook on the region.

Asserting that the strategic partnership between India and the US has strengthened significantly during the past two decades, the Pentagon on Friday told the Congress that both countries recognise the importance of the Indo-Pacific to global trade and commerce and share a common outlook on the region. The Indo-Pacific region contributes two-thirds of global growth in the gross domestic product (GDP) and accounts for 60 per cent of the global GDP. This region includes the world's largest economies- the United States, China and Japan- and six of the world's fastest-growing economies - India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal and the Philippines. A quarter of US exports go to the Indo-Pacific. Exports to India and China have more than doubled over the past decade due to free and open trade routes through the air, sea, land, space and cyber commons that form the current global system. "Both countries recognise the importance of the Indo-Pacific to global trade and commerce and acknowledge that developments in this region will shape the larger trajectory of the rules-based international order," the Pentagon said in an Indo-Pacific Strategy Report to the Congress amidst China flexing its muscles in the South China Sea. India, through its "Act East" policy, continues to make significant security, economic and development investments to secure the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, said the report which is a comprehensive articulation of its role within a whole-of-government strategy for the Indo-Pacific region. As an implementation document, the report provides clarity on the US National Defence Strategy as it applies to the region and highlights the role of allies and partners in implementing our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. Noting that the Indian Ocean Region is at the nexus of global trade and commerce, with nearly half of the world's 90,000 commercial vessels and two thirds of global oil trade travelling through its sea lanes, it said the region boasts some of the fastest-growing economies on Earth and is home to a quarter of the world's population. While the region offers unprecedented opportunity, it is also confronting a myriad of security challenges, including terrorism, transnational crime, trafficking-in-persons, and illicit drugs. To combat these challenges, the United States seeks opportunities to broaden and strengthen partnerships with India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Bangladesh and Nepal to respond to shared regional challenges, the report said. The US and India maintain a broad-based strategic partnership, underpinned by shared interests, democratic values and strong people-to-people ties, it said. "The US-India strategic partnership has strengthened significantly during the past two decades, based on a convergence of strategic interests, and the United States and India continue to use their deepening relationship to build new partnerships within and beyond the Indo-Pacific," the Pentagon said. Noting that in June 2016, the US designated India a "Major Defense Partner," a status unique to India, the Pentagon said the designation seeks to elevate the US defence partnership with India to a level commensurate with that of the United States' closest allies and partners. The establishment of the US-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September 2018 also serves as a tangible demonstration of our commitment to promoting the shared principles of a free and open Indo-Pacific, it said. According to the Pentagon, the US continues to pursue a range of initiatives with India to enable cooperation, strengthen their inter-operability, and establish a strong foundation for defence trade, technology sharing, industrial collaboration, and broader cooperation on defence innovation. The signing of the Communications, Compatibility and Security Agreement in 2018 represents a significant development in our military-to-military relationship, facilitating greater inter-operability and real-time secure information-sharing. Department of Defense and the Indian Ministry of Defence are increasing the scope, complexity, and frequency of our military exercises. Later this year, the US and India will conduct their first tri-service exercise, it said.

India, US strategic partnership has strengthened significantly: Pentagon

Congress party on Saturday urged the new government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to come up with a multi-phased roadmap to kick-start the economy and evolve an employment generating strategy.

"Slump in economic growth and runaway unemployment are two important challenges before the country. I hope the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister will address them by laying a short-medium-long term roadmap of kick-starting the growth engine as also employment generating strategy," said Congress leader Randeep Surjewala.

Government data showed on Friday that the country recorded a GDP growth of 6.8 per cent in 2018-19, the lowest in five years. In FY 2017-18, the GDP growth rate was 7.2 per cent.

The slowdown was largely attributed to lacklustre growth in the agriculture and mining sectors.

Data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation on Friday also showed that 5.8 per cent of men and 3.8 per cent of women are unemployed in rural India.

In urban areas, the numbers are much higher at 7.1 per cent of men and 10.8 per cent women being unemployed.

Congress leader PL Punia also urged the government to take concrete steps to reverse the economic slowdown which, he said, is causing a lot of hardship to people.

The industrial output is down, the manufacturing sector is not growing, resulting in massive unemployment in urban and rural regions across the country, he said.

The news of unemployment in 2017-18 at 6.1 per cent came as when the Cabinet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi began its second term on Friday.

Congress party on Saturday urged the new government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to come up with a multi-phased roadmap to kick-start the economy and evolve an employment generating strategy.

Congress party on Saturday urged the new government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to come up with a multi-phased roadmap to kick-start the economy and evolve an employment generating strategy. "Slump in economic growth and runaway unemployment are two important challenges before the country. I hope the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister will address them by laying a short-medium-long term roadmap of kick-starting the growth engine as also employment generating strategy," said Congress leader Randeep Surjewala. Government data showed on Friday that the country recorded a GDP growth of 6.8 per cent in 2018-19, the lowest in five years. In FY 2017-18, the GDP growth rate was 7.2 per cent. The slowdown was largely attributed to lacklustre growth in the agriculture and mining sectors. Data released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation on Friday also showed that 5.8 per cent of men and 3.8 per cent of women are unemployed in rural India. In urban areas, the numbers are much higher at 7.1 per cent of men and 10.8 per cent women being unemployed. Congress leader PL Punia also urged the government to take concrete steps to reverse the economic slowdown which, he said, is causing a lot of hardship to people. The industrial output is down, the manufacturing sector is not growing, resulting in massive unemployment in urban and rural regions across the country, he said. The news of unemployment in 2017-18 at 6.1 per cent came as when the Cabinet of Prime Minister Narendra Modi began its second term on Friday.

Congress urges new government to reverse economic slowdown

The main accused in the murder of Surendra Singh, a close aide of Amethi MP Smriti Irani, was arrested by the police following an encounter here.

According to the police, the accused, identified as Wasim, was held in Shalhapur area on Friday night following an encounter where he sustained a bullet injury and was admitted to a hospital.

With this, all the five accused in the case have been arrested.

Earlier on Monday, four accused - Ramchandra, Dharmanath, Naseem and Golu - were arrested by the police in connection with the case.

A case has been registered against them. Singh, the former village head of Barauli, was shot dead at his residence in Amethi on May 25.

He was referred to a Lucknow hospital but succumbed to injuries during treatment.

The main accused in the murder of Surendra Singh, a close aide of Amethi MP Smriti Irani, was arrested by the police following an encounter here. According to the police, the accused, identified as Wasim, was held in Shalhapur area on Friday night following an encounter where he sustained a bullet injury and was admitted to a hospital.

The main accused in the murder of Surendra Singh, a close aide of Amethi MP Smriti Irani, was arrested by the police following an encounter here. According to the police, the accused, identified as Wasim, was held in Shalhapur area on Friday night following an encounter where he sustained a bullet injury and was admitted to a hospital. With this, all the five accused in the case have been arrested. Earlier on Monday, four accused - Ramchandra, Dharmanath, Naseem and Golu - were arrested by the police in connection with the case. A case has been registered against them. Singh, the former village head of Barauli, was shot dead at his residence in Amethi on May 25. He was referred to a Lucknow hospital but succumbed to injuries during treatment.

Main accused in Smriti Irani aide murder case arrested

India on Saturday downplayed the possibility of any negative impact on trade relations with the United States, a day after US President Donald Trump said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-to-end-trade-privileges-for-india-on-june-5-223286">Washington will end its preferential trade treatment on June 5</a>.

India is the biggest beneficiary of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to 5.6 billion dollars to the United States.

These are unilateral, non-reciprocal and non-discriminatory benefits extended by some developed countries to developing countries.

As part of bilateral trade discussions, India had offered resolution on significant US requests in an effort to find a mutually acceptable way forward.

"It is unfortunate that this did not find acceptance by the United States," said a statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

"India, like the United States and other nations shall always uphold its national interest in these matters. We have significant development imperatives and concerns and our people also aspire for better standards of living. This will remain the guiding factor in the government's approach," it said.

In any relationship, particularly in the area of economic ties, there are ongoing issues which get resolved mutually from time to time.

"We view this issue as a part of this regular process and will continue to build on our strong ties with the United States -- both economic and people-to-people," said the statement.

"We are confident that the two nations will continue to work together intensively for further growing these ties in a mutually beneficial manner."

On March 5, the United States announced the withdrawal of special duty benefits under the GSP and were to come into force from the first week of May.

However, Washington decided to postpone the implementation of its decision until May 23, when India gets a new government.

On Friday, Trump said in a statement,&nbsp;"I have determined that India has not assured the United States that India will provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets."&nbsp;

India on Saturday downplayed the possibility of any negative impact on trade relations with the United States, a day after US President Donald Trump said Washington will end its preferential trade treatment on June 5.

India on Saturday downplayed the possibility of any negative impact on trade relations with the United States, a day after US President Donald Trump said Washington will end its preferential trade treatment on June 5. India is the biggest beneficiary of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to 5.6 billion dollars to the United States. These are unilateral, non-reciprocal and non-discriminatory benefits extended by some developed countries to developing countries. As part of bilateral trade discussions, India had offered resolution on significant US requests in an effort to find a mutually acceptable way forward. "It is unfortunate that this did not find acceptance by the United States," said a statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. "India, like the United States and other nations shall always uphold its national interest in these matters. We have significant development imperatives and concerns and our people also aspire for better standards of living. This will remain the guiding factor in the government's approach," it said. In any relationship, particularly in the area of economic ties, there are ongoing issues which get resolved mutually from time to time. "We view this issue as a part of this regular process and will continue to build on our strong ties with the United States -- both economic and people-to-people," said the statement. "We are confident that the two nations will continue to work together intensively for further growing these ties in a mutually beneficial manner." On March 5, the United States announced the withdrawal of special duty benefits under the GSP and were to come into force from the first week of May. However, Washington decided to postpone the implementation of its decision until May 23, when India gets a new government. On Friday, Trump said in a statement, "I have determined that India has not assured the United States that India will provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets."

India downplays impact of GSP withdrawal on trade relations with US

A day after the national capital sweltered under the hottest day of the season, the mercury fell by a notch on Saturday morning.

The city recorded a minimum temperature of 27.6 degrees Celsius, a day after parts it registered a high of 47 degrees Celsius.

The maximum temperature later in the day is expected to hover around 45 degrees Celsius, according to the MeT Department.

The relative humidity in the morning was 48 per cent.

The weatherman has forecast heat wave spell later in the day and in the next few days.

The national capital Friday sweltered under the hottest day of the season, with the mercury rising to 47 degrees Celsius in some areas.

The weather stations at Ayanagar and Palam recorded 46 and 46.2 degrees Celsius respectively.

Private agency Skymet Weather showed the maximum temperature touched the 47-degree mark in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri.

The maximum temperature was 44.8 at Safdarjung observatory, which is considered the official recording for the city.

The minimum temperature on Friday was recorded ar 28.4 degrees Celsius.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A day after the national capital sweltered under the hottest day of the season, the mercury fell by a notch on Saturday morning. The city recorded a minimum temperature of 27.

A day after the national capital sweltered under the hottest day of the season, the mercury fell by a notch on Saturday morning. The city recorded a minimum temperature of 27.6 degrees Celsius, a day after parts it registered a high of 47 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature later in the day is expected to hover around 45 degrees Celsius, according to the MeT Department. The relative humidity in the morning was 48 per cent. The weatherman has forecast heat wave spell later in the day and in the next few days. The national capital Friday sweltered under the hottest day of the season, with the mercury rising to 47 degrees Celsius in some areas. The weather stations at Ayanagar and Palam recorded 46 and 46.2 degrees Celsius respectively. Private agency Skymet Weather showed the maximum temperature touched the 47-degree mark in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri. The maximum temperature was 44.8 at Safdarjung observatory, which is considered the official recording for the city. The minimum temperature on Friday was recorded ar 28.4 degrees Celsius.

Delhi sizzles at 45 degrees as heatwave continues its spell

The Congress is reviewing the defeat of its president Rahul Gandhi in the party stronghold of Amethi in the Lok Sabha elections, a party leader said Tuesday.

Zubair Khan, who looks after the political work of party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Kishori Lal Sharma, the representative of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, have been camping here for the last three days to deliberate upon the possible reasons for Gandhi's defeat.

UP Congress Committee member Rajiv Singh said, "The review will take place even at the village level. The members of the review team will hold meetings with heads of blocks and panchayat."

Union minister Smriti Irani had defeated Gandhi with a margin of 55,120 votes, following which Amethi Congress Committee president Yogendra Mishra had tendered his resignation.

Congress leader Dharmendra Shukla had written a letter to Gandhi saying his representative Chandrakant Dubey was responsible for the defeat and demanded a probe into it, a party leader said.&nbsp; 
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The Congress is reviewing the defeat of its president Rahul Gandhi in the party stronghold of Amethi in the Lok Sabha elections, a party leader said Tuesday. Zubair Khan, who looks after the political work of party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Kishori Lal Sharma, the representative of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, have been camping here for the last three days to deliberate upon the possible reasons for Gandhi's defeat.

The Congress is reviewing the defeat of its president Rahul Gandhi in the party stronghold of Amethi in the Lok Sabha elections, a party leader said Tuesday. Zubair Khan, who looks after the political work of party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Kishori Lal Sharma, the representative of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, have been camping here for the last three days to deliberate upon the possible reasons for Gandhi's defeat. UP Congress Committee member Rajiv Singh said, "The review will take place even at the village level. The members of the review team will hold meetings with heads of blocks and panchayat." Union minister Smriti Irani had defeated Gandhi with a margin of 55,120 votes, following which Amethi Congress Committee president Yogendra Mishra had tendered his resignation. Congress leader Dharmendra Shukla had written a letter to Gandhi saying his representative Chandrakant Dubey was responsible for the defeat and demanded a probe into it, a party leader said.

Congress reviewing defeat of Rahul Gandhi in Amethi

BJP President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-pm-modis-right-hand-man-is-indias-new-home-minister-223085">Amit Shah</a> Saturday took charge as the Union Home Minister, two days after he was sworn-in following a landslide victory in the recently held Lok Sabha election.

Shah was received at the North Block office of the home ministry by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and other senior officials.

The home minister is also holding a meeting with the officials to familiarise with the issues concerning the ministry, an official said.

Two newly appointed Ministers of state for home - G K Reddy and Nityananda Rai - also took charge Saturday.

The Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday announced portfolios for 24 cabinet ministers, 9 ministers of state with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS) in Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha.

BJP president&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-bjps-chanakya-now-enters-government-222850">Amit Shah</a>, who took oath as a minister on Thursday, has been made the new Home Minister of the country. The portfolio was earlier handled by Rajnath Singh, who has been moved to Defence.

Shah won the Lok Sabha polls from Gandhinagar in Gujarat defeating Congress's J Chavda by a record margin of more than five lakh votes. He is the most notable inclusion in the government and will serve at the Centre for the first time as a minister.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/narendra-modi-takes-oath-as-prime-minister-for-second-time-222847">right-hand man</a>&nbsp;and long-time strategist, Shah would be in a powerful position as the country's home minister. He masterminded the BJP's landslide victory in the April-May general election in which the party won 303 of the 542 seats and is able to make the government on its own.

Shah has worked as Minister of State for Home Affairs in Gujarat when Modi was the chief minister of the state.

(With inputs from agencies)

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BJP President Amit Shah Saturday took charge as the Union Home Minister, two days after he was sworn-in following a landslide victory in the recently held Lok Sabha election.

BJP President Amit Shah Saturday took charge as the Union Home Minister, two days after he was sworn-in following a landslide victory in the recently held Lok Sabha election. Shah was received at the North Block office of the home ministry by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and other senior officials. The home minister is also holding a meeting with the officials to familiarise with the issues concerning the ministry, an official said. Two newly appointed Ministers of state for home - G K Reddy and Nityananda Rai - also took charge Saturday. The Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday announced portfolios for 24 cabinet ministers, 9 ministers of state with independent charge and 24 Ministers of State (MoS) in Union Cabinet for the 17th Lok Sabha. BJP president Amit Shah, who took oath as a minister on Thursday, has been made the new Home Minister of the country. The portfolio was earlier handled by Rajnath Singh, who has been moved to Defence. Shah won the Lok Sabha polls from Gandhinagar in Gujarat defeating Congress's J Chavda by a record margin of more than five lakh votes. He is the most notable inclusion in the government and will serve at the Centre for the first time as a minister. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's right-hand man and long-time strategist, Shah would be in a powerful position as the country's home minister. He masterminded the BJP's landslide victory in the April-May general election in which the party won 303 of the 542 seats and is able to make the government on its own. Shah has worked as Minister of State for Home Affairs in Gujarat when Modi was the chief minister of the state. (With inputs from agencies)

Amit Shah takes charge as Union Home Minister

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Congress reviewing defeat of Rahul Gandhi in Amethi

Amit Shah takes charge as Union Home Minister