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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/flying-officer-bhawana-kanth-becomes-second-woman-pilot-to-fly-solo-in-fighter-aircraft-36176">Flying officer Bhawana Kanth</a> has become the first woman fighter pilot to be qualified to undertake missions by day on a fighter aircraft, news agency ANI reported.

She completed the day operational syllabus on MiG-21 Bison aircraft on Wednesday.&nbsp;

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Flight Lt Bhawana Kanth becomes the 1st woman fighter pilot to be qualified to undertake missions by day on a fighter aircraft. She completed Day operational syllabus on MiG-21 Bison aircraft today. She had joined fighter squadron in '17&amp;flew first solo on MiG-21 Bison in Mar '18 <a href="https://t.co/TLcp5cz5bz">pic.twitter.com/TLcp5cz5bz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1131201265185091584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Kanth had joined fighter squadron in 2017 and flew her first solo on MiG-21 Bison in Mar 2018 from Ambala Air Force Station. The sortie was flown for about 30 minutes.&nbsp;

Flying officer Avani Chaturvedi was the first woman IAF pilot to go solo.

Kanth hails from Darbhanga, Bihar and was born and brought up in Begusarai.

Bhawana, Avani and Mohana Singh were commissioned as flying officers into the fighter stream after basic training in June 2016 on "an experimental basis" for five years initially.

Flying officer Bhawana Kanth has become the first woman fighter pilot to be qualified to undertake missions by day on a fighter aircraft, news agency ANI reported.

Flying officer Bhawana Kanth has become the first woman fighter pilot to be qualified to undertake missions by day on a fighter aircraft, news agency ANI reported. She completed the day operational syllabus on MiG-21 Bison aircraft on Wednesday. Flight Lt Bhawana Kanth becomes the 1st woman fighter pilot to be qualified to undertake missions by day on a fighter aircraft. She completed Day operational syllabus on MiG-21 Bison aircraft today. She had joined fighter squadron in '17&flew first solo on MiG-21 Bison in Mar '18 pic.twitter.com/TLcp5cz5bz — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2019 × Kanth had joined fighter squadron in 2017 and flew her first solo on MiG-21 Bison in Mar 2018 from Ambala Air Force Station. The sortie was flown for about 30 minutes. Flying officer Avani Chaturvedi was the first woman IAF pilot to go solo. Kanth hails from Darbhanga, Bihar and was born and brought up in Begusarai. Bhawana, Avani and Mohana Singh were commissioned as flying officers into the fighter stream after basic training in June 2016 on "an experimental basis" for five years initially.

Flying officer Bhawana Kanth becomes first woman fighter pilot to undertake missions by day 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-rafale-office-broken-into-in-france-220615">Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt</a>

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian&nbsp;Rafale&nbsp;project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-unwanted-asian-shops-shun-phone-trade-ins-on-google-suspension-worries-220614">Huawei unwanted: Asian shops shun phone trade-ins on Google suspension worries</a>

Mobile phone retailers in some Asian countries are refusing to accept&nbsp;Huawei devices&nbsp;for trade-ins, as more consumers look to offload their device on worries Google suspending business with the Chinese firm will disrupt services.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-clears-names-of-4-judges-for-elevation-to-supreme-court-220602">Government clears names of 4 judges for elevation to Supreme Court</a>

The government is learnt to have cleared the names of&nbsp;four judges for their elevation to the Supreme Court, sources said Wednesday. Once the appointments formally come through, the top court will have its full sanctioned strength of 31 judges (including the chief justice). As of now, the apex court is functioning with 27 judges.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-maintain-law-order-and-peace-ministry-of-home-affairs-alerts-state-authorities-for-possible-violence-on-counting-day-220626">Lok Sabha polls 2019: Home Ministry alerts state authorities of possible violence on counting day</a> 
Ahead of the counting of votes, the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday issued an alert to State Chief Secretaries and DsGP regarding the possibility of eruption of violence in different parts of the country on the counting day.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/get-ready-for-difficult-times-chinas-xi-warns-during-trade-war-220625">Get ready for difficult times, China's Xi warns during trade war</a>

China must prepare for difficult times as the international situation is increasingly complex, President Xi Jinping said in comments carried by state media on Wednesday, as the country faces increased tariffs in a bitter trade war with Washington.

&nbsp;

Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans. Huawei unwanted: Asian shops shun phone trade-ins on Google suspension worries Mobile phone retailers in some Asian countries are refusing to accept Huawei devices for trade-ins, as more consumers look to offload their device on worries Google suspending business with the Chinese firm will disrupt services. Government clears names of 4 judges for elevation to Supreme Court The government is learnt to have cleared the names of four judges for their elevation to the Supreme Court, sources said Wednesday. Once the appointments formally come through, the top court will have its full sanctioned strength of 31 judges (including the chief justice). As of now, the apex court is functioning with 27 judges. Lok Sabha polls 2019: Home Ministry alerts state authorities of possible violence on counting day Ahead of the counting of votes, the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday issued an alert to State Chief Secretaries and DsGP regarding the possibility of eruption of violence in different parts of the country on the counting day. Get ready for difficult times, China's Xi warns during trade war China must prepare for difficult times as the international situation is increasingly complex, President Xi Jinping said in comments carried by state media on Wednesday, as the country faces increased tariffs in a bitter trade war with Washington.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Indian Air Force Wednesday said it has successfully test-fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft.

The 2.5-tonne air-to-surface missile has a range of around 300 km, and it will significantly enhance the IAF's combat capability, military officials said.

The BrahMos cruise missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times that of sound.

"The launch from the aircraft was smooth and the missile followed the desired trajectory before directly hitting the land target," IAF spokesperson Group Capt Anupam Banerjee said.

The IAF became the first air force in the world to have successfully fired an air-launched 2.8 Mach surface attack missile of this category on a sea target on November 22, 2017.

"Today's was the second such live launch of the weapon. The integration of the weapon on the aircraft was a very complex process involving mechanical, electrical and software modifications on aircraft," the IAF said.

It said the software development of the aircraft was undertaken by the IAF engineers, while the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd carried out mechanical and electrical modifications on it.

"The dedicated and synergetic efforts of the IAF, Defence Research and Development Organisation, BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd and HAL have proven the capability of the nation to undertake such complex integrations," the IAF said.

It said the BrahMos missile provides the Indian Air Force with a much-desired capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target at sea or on land with pinpoint accuracy by day or night and in all weather conditions.

"The capability of the missile coupled with the superlative performance of the Su-30MKI aircraft gives the IAF the desired strategic reach," the IAF said.

BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russian joint venture, produces the supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or from land platforms.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force Wednesday said it has successfully test-fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft.

The Indian Air Force Wednesday said it has successfully test-fired the aerial version of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft. The 2.5-tonne air-to-surface missile has a range of around 300 km, and it will significantly enhance the IAF's combat capability, military officials said. The BrahMos cruise missile travels at a speed of Mach 2.8, nearly three times that of sound. "The launch from the aircraft was smooth and the missile followed the desired trajectory before directly hitting the land target," IAF spokesperson Group Capt Anupam Banerjee said. The IAF became the first air force in the world to have successfully fired an air-launched 2.8 Mach surface attack missile of this category on a sea target on November 22, 2017. "Today's was the second such live launch of the weapon. The integration of the weapon on the aircraft was a very complex process involving mechanical, electrical and software modifications on aircraft," the IAF said. It said the software development of the aircraft was undertaken by the IAF engineers, while the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd carried out mechanical and electrical modifications on it. "The dedicated and synergetic efforts of the IAF, Defence Research and Development Organisation, BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd and HAL have proven the capability of the nation to undertake such complex integrations," the IAF said. It said the BrahMos missile provides the Indian Air Force with a much-desired capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target at sea or on land with pinpoint accuracy by day or night and in all weather conditions. "The capability of the missile coupled with the superlative performance of the Su-30MKI aircraft gives the IAF the desired strategic reach," the IAF said. BrahMos Aerospace, an India-Russian joint venture, produces the supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft, or from land platforms.

Indian Air Force successfully test fires aerial version of BrahMos missile

A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election&nbsp;results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday. It is during this meet, Wang Yi expressed his country's desire to work with the soon to be elected new Government.&nbsp;

Both sides also agreed on the implementation of the Wuhan informal summit goals. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs said, "Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding, reached during Wuhan Summit". As part of Wuhan understanding, both leaders gave "strategic guidance" to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust.

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Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges 
 
EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SCO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SCO</a> Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit. <a href="https://t.co/apfo2sEv9D">pic.twitter.com/apfo2sEv9D</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1131124148355383296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Both sides also discussed how to celebrate the 70th year anniversary of India-China relations. On 1 April 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China.&nbsp;

This is the first meeting between both the ministers after listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist at the United Nation. China prevented the listing of Azhar, the chief of Pakistan based United nations listed terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammad since 2009. On May 1, it finally relented, paving the way for his listing leading to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze on him.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times in 2018 starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan. The Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India for the second informal summit this year.

A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday.

A day ahead of declaration of Lok Sabha election results, China said it's ready to work with the new government in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) foreign ministers meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Wednesday. It is during this meet, Wang Yi expressed his country's desire to work with the soon to be elected new Government. Both sides also agreed on the implementation of the Wuhan informal summit goals. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs said, "Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding, reached during Wuhan Summit". As part of Wuhan understanding, both leaders gave "strategic guidance" to their respective militaries to strengthen communication in order to build trust. Continuing the momentum of high-level exchanges EAM @SushmaSwaraj met Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi on the sidelines of #SCO Foreign Minister's Meeting in Bishkek. Discussed issues of bilateral interest, including implementation of understanding reached during Wuhan Summit. pic.twitter.com/apfo2sEv9D — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) May 22, 2019 × Both sides also discussed how to celebrate the 70th year anniversary of India-China relations. On 1 April 1950, India became the first non-socialist bloc country to establish diplomatic relations with the People’s Republic of China. This is the first meeting between both the ministers after listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist at the United Nation. China prevented the listing of Azhar, the chief of Pakistan based United nations listed terror group--Jaish-e-Mohammad since 2009. On May 1, it finally relented, paving the way for his listing leading to an arms embargo, travel ban and asset freeze on him. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met four times in 2018 starting with the famous informal summit in Wuhan. The Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India for the second informal summit this year.

Ready to work with new government in India: Chinese foreign minister 

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-case-supreme-court-poses-queries-on-waiver-of-sovereign-guarantee-217590">Rafale</a> project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

"There was a break-in into the Indian Air Force Rafale project management team office which is located in a suburb of Paris in France. No hard disk or document has been stolen. More details are being ascertained about the motive," sources in the Indian Air Force told ANI.

The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring.

The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case.

Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices.

The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks.

Government sources said the Indian Air Force has already briefed the Defence Ministry in this regard and French police authorities are probing the case.

India in 2016 signed a Rs 59,800 crore agreement with France for acquiring 36 Rafale combat aircraft for meeting the shortfall in Indian Air Force squadron strength.

The incident has come after the long election season in India where allegations of corruption in the Rafale procurement were leveller by Congress President Rahul Gandhi.

The Rafale has been critical to IAF plans for securing the country against the aerial and other threats from enemy countries.

After the February 27 incident involving an aerial battle between India and Pakistan, IAF Chief BS Dhanoa had suggested that the Pakistanis would not have dared to come close to the LoC in a conflict situation if the country had Rafale planes in its inventory.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans.

Unidentified persons broke into the Indian Rafale project management team office in France on Sunday night in a possible espionage attempt to steal data related to the aircraft critical to India's national security plans. "There was a break-in into the Indian Air Force Rafale project management team office which is located in a suburb of Paris in France. No hard disk or document has been stolen. More details are being ascertained about the motive," sources in the Indian Air Force told ANI. The Rafale project team is headed by a Group Captain-rank officer who looks after issues related to the 36 Rafale combat aircraft, including the production timelines and training of Indian personnel who have to be trained for maintenance and flying operations of the plane, which India is acquiring. The Rafale team sits in a building complex in Saint Cloud suburb of Paris and the police there is investigating the case. Sources said the main aim of the break-in could have been to steal data as valuables or money are not kept in these administrative offices. The Indian Rafale team office is in the vicinity of French Dassault Aviation office blocks. Government sources said the Indian Air Force has already briefed the Defence Ministry in this regard and French police authorities are probing the case. India in 2016 signed a Rs 59,800 crore agreement with France for acquiring 36 Rafale combat aircraft for meeting the shortfall in Indian Air Force squadron strength. The incident has come after the long election season in India where allegations of corruption in the Rafale procurement were leveller by Congress President Rahul Gandhi. The Rafale has been critical to IAF plans for securing the country against the aerial and other threats from enemy countries. After the February 27 incident involving an aerial battle between India and Pakistan, IAF Chief BS Dhanoa had suggested that the Pakistanis would not have dared to come close to the LoC in a conflict situation if the country had Rafale planes in its inventory.

Indian Air Force Rafale office broken into in France in possible espionage attempt

The government is learnt to have cleared the names of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-collegium-reiterates-names-of-justices-bose-bopanna-for-elevation-to-apex-court-217242">four judges for their elevation to the Supreme Court</a>, sources said Wednesday.

Once the appointments formally come through, the top court will have its full sanctioned strength of 31 judges (including the chief justice). As of now, the apex court is functioning with 27 judges.

The four names cleared by the government are justices Aniruddha Bose, AS Bopanna, BR Gavai and Surya Kant.

The names of justices Bose and Bopanna were earlier returned by the government to the SC collegium citing seniority and representation of regions as the reasons.

But in its resolution passed earlier this month, the collegium had reiterated its recommendation to elevate justices Bose and Bopanna to the apex court, observing that nothing adverse has been found regarding their competence, conduct or integrity.

The collegium had also recommended the names of justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant for elevation to the apex court.

The five-member Collegium is headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi.

Sources aware of the development said the notification is expected either this evening or on Thursday morning once the President signs their warrant of appointment.

Justice Bose, whose parent high court is Calcutta, is the Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court and is at number 12 in all-India seniority of judges.&nbsp;

Justice Bopanna, whose parent high court is Karnataka, is the Gauhati High Court Chief Justice and stands at number 36.

Justice Gavai is a judge of the Bombay High Court and Justice Kant is the incumbent Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court.&nbsp;

The government is learnt to have cleared the names of four judges for their elevation to the Supreme Court, sources said Wednesday. Once the appointments formally come through, the top court will have its full sanctioned strength of 31 judges (including the chief justice).

The government is learnt to have cleared the names of four judges for their elevation to the Supreme Court, sources said Wednesday. Once the appointments formally come through, the top court will have its full sanctioned strength of 31 judges (including the chief justice). As of now, the apex court is functioning with 27 judges. The four names cleared by the government are justices Aniruddha Bose, AS Bopanna, BR Gavai and Surya Kant. The names of justices Bose and Bopanna were earlier returned by the government to the SC collegium citing seniority and representation of regions as the reasons. But in its resolution passed earlier this month, the collegium had reiterated its recommendation to elevate justices Bose and Bopanna to the apex court, observing that nothing adverse has been found regarding their competence, conduct or integrity. The collegium had also recommended the names of justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant for elevation to the apex court. The five-member Collegium is headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi. Sources aware of the development said the notification is expected either this evening or on Thursday morning once the President signs their warrant of appointment. Justice Bose, whose parent high court is Calcutta, is the Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court and is at number 12 in all-India seniority of judges. Justice Bopanna, whose parent high court is Karnataka, is the Gauhati High Court Chief Justice and stands at number 36. Justice Gavai is a judge of the Bombay High Court and Justice Kant is the incumbent Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court.

Government clears names of 4 judges for elevation to Supreme Court

The Enforcement Directorate Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet before a Delhi court against Sushen Mohan Gupta, an alleged defence agent arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam, in a money laundering case.

The agency filed the supplementary charge sheet against Gupta before Special Judge Arvind Kumar. He was arrested by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

ED had said Gupta's role in the case came to light on the basis of disclosures made by Rajiv Saxena, who has turned approver in the case after he was deported from the UAE and arrested by the agency here.

It is suspected that Gupta has in his possession payment details of the Rs 3,600-crore deal to purchase AgustaWestland VVIP choppers.

The Enforcement Directorate Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet before a Delhi court against Sushen Mohan Gupta, an alleged defence agent arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam, in a money laundering case.

The Enforcement Directorate Wednesday filed a supplementary charge sheet before a Delhi court against Sushen Mohan Gupta, an alleged defence agent arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP choppers scam, in a money laundering case. The agency filed the supplementary charge sheet against Gupta before Special Judge Arvind Kumar. He was arrested by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. ED had said Gupta's role in the case came to light on the basis of disclosures made by Rajiv Saxena, who has turned approver in the case after he was deported from the UAE and arrested by the agency here. It is suspected that Gupta has in his possession payment details of the Rs 3,600-crore deal to purchase AgustaWestland VVIP choppers.

VVIP chopper scam: Enforcement Directorate files supplementary charge sheet against alleged middleman

A few hours after reports claimed that one jawan was killed and seven others left injured in an IED blast in Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Poonch sector, the Defence Ministry issued a statement calling them factually incorrect.&nbsp;

"It wasn't an IED blast, but a training-related incident. no fatal casualties but one soldier seriously injured while many other suffered minor injuries in the incident that took place along Line of Control in Poonch sector," the Defence Ministry spokesperson said.

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir:Defence Ministry Spokesperson clarifies "it wasn't an IED blast, but a training-related incident. no fatal casualties but one soldier seriously injured while many other suffered minor injuries in the incident that took place along Line of Control in Poonch sector" <a href="https://t.co/ngPqLg6q9U">https://t.co/ngPqLg6q9U</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1131108563621859328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Two terrorists were killed today by security forces in an encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the south Kashmir district of Kulgam, official sources said.

They said troops of Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a CASO at Gopalpora, Kulgam following a tip-off about the presence of terrorists.&nbsp;

As the cordon around the hiding terrorists was tightened, they fired at the security forces triggering an encounter in which two terrorists have been killed. The slain terrorists belonged to Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) outfit. Their exact identity is being established.

A few hours after reports claimed that one jawan was killed and seven others left injured in an IED blast in Jammu & Kashmir's Poonch sector, the Defence Ministry issued a statement calling them factually incorrect.

A few hours after reports claimed that one jawan was killed and seven others left injured in an IED blast in Jammu & Kashmir's Poonch sector, the Defence Ministry issued a statement calling them factually incorrect. "It wasn't an IED blast, but a training-related incident. no fatal casualties but one soldier seriously injured while many other suffered minor injuries in the incident that took place along Line of Control in Poonch sector," the Defence Ministry spokesperson said. Jammu & Kashmir:Defence Ministry Spokesperson clarifies "it wasn't an IED blast, but a training-related incident. no fatal casualties but one soldier seriously injured while many other suffered minor injuries in the incident that took place along Line of Control in Poonch sector" https://t.co/ngPqLg6q9U — ANI (@ANI) May 22, 2019 × Meanwhile, Two terrorists were killed today by security forces in an encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the south Kashmir district of Kulgam, official sources said. They said troops of Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a CASO at Gopalpora, Kulgam following a tip-off about the presence of terrorists. As the cordon around the hiding terrorists was tightened, they fired at the security forces triggering an encounter in which two terrorists have been killed. The slain terrorists belonged to Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) outfit. Their exact identity is being established.

Jammu & Kashmir: Defence ministry rejects reports of IED blast, says 1 jawan injured in 'training-related incident'

As part of 100 million Maldivian rufiyaa grant aid announced during External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March 2019, India will be building two projects in the country.&nbsp;

The projects include Police Academy in Dhaalu Atoll and Convention Centre in Ukulhas, Alif Alif Atoll. The total cost of both the projects will be $960,000.

Maldivian foreign ministry said, "The purpose of Police Academy is to provide modern training to police officers, and the necessary skills and knowledge required to perform their duties efficiently and effectively."

"The aim of the grant assistance is to conduct socio-economic development projects across the country which are of high impact,'' Ministry added.

The development comes even as reports emerged that India and Japan are planning to build part of Colombo port in Sri Lanka even as Chinese attempts to make inroads in the region, especially through its belt and road initiative.

During Sushma Swaraj's&nbsp;visit in March, Maldives requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium which New Delhi is currently looking into.

Interestingly, Maldivian Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid met with a delegation from Board of Control For Cricket in India (BCCI) led by General Manager, Cricket Operations Saba Karim on Tuesday.

There has been a number of high-level visits between the two countries since the new government came.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in November, 2018 followed by visits of Maldivian Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Solih had that year itself.

As part of 100 million Maldivian rufiyaa grant aid announced during External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March 2019, India will be building two projects in the country.

As part of 100 million Maldivian rufiyaa grant aid announced during External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's visit to the Maldives in March 2019, India will be building two projects in the country. The projects include Police Academy in Dhaalu Atoll and Convention Centre in Ukulhas, Alif Alif Atoll. The total cost of both the projects will be $960,000. Maldivian foreign ministry said, "The purpose of Police Academy is to provide modern training to police officers, and the necessary skills and knowledge required to perform their duties efficiently and effectively." "The aim of the grant assistance is to conduct socio-economic development projects across the country which are of high impact,'' Ministry added. The development comes even as reports emerged that India and Japan are planning to build part of Colombo port in Sri Lanka even as Chinese attempts to make inroads in the region, especially through its belt and road initiative. During Sushma Swaraj's visit in March, Maldives requested Indian assistance for the construction of a cricket stadium which New Delhi is currently looking into. Interestingly, Maldivian Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid met with a delegation from Board of Control For Cricket in India (BCCI) led by General Manager, Cricket Operations Saba Karim on Tuesday. There has been a number of high-level visits between the two countries since the new government came. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was present during the swearing-in ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in November, 2018 followed by visits of Maldivian Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Solih had that year itself.

India to build police academy, convention centres for Maldives

The listing of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/jem-chief-masood-azhar-designated-as-a-global-terrorist-in-un-sanctions-list-215076">Masood Azhar </a>as a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/global-terrorist-tag-on-masood-azhar-is-a-major-triumph-for-indian-strategic-thinking-and-political-sagacity-219331">global terrorist</a> by the UN Security Council has been termed as a "significant achievement" by the member nations in holding perpetrators, organisers and sponsors of acts of terrorism accountable.

The 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the powerful Security Council blacklisted Azhar on May 1 after veto-wielding permanent member China lifted its technical hold on the proposal by the US, the UK and France to list him.

It was a huge victory for India after a decade of relentless efforts to ban the mastermind of several terror attacks against India, including the deadly Pulwama attack against Indian security forces. The listing subjects Azhar to an assets freeze travel ban and an arms embargo.

"We are pleased that this month, the 1267 Committee designated Masood Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed, and ISIL-Khorasan, a dangerous ISIS affiliate operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan, for UN sanctions, Ambassador Jonathan Cohen, Acting Permanent Representative of the US to the United Nations said at a Security Council semi-annual briefing here Monday by Chairs of subsidiary bodies of the Security Council.

"Azhar's listing shows that the international community can and will hold terrorists accountable for their actions," he said.

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Last week, the 1267 Sanctions Committee sanctioned ISIL-Khorasan, a terror group also known as 'ISIL's South Asia Branch', formed in 2015 by a former Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan commander, that has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

"The designation of ISIS-Khorasan demonstrates the Committee's commitment to ensuring that ISIS affiliates do not take up the mantle of a diminished ISIS core. In this vein, it is important that the Committee designates other ISIS affiliates who seek to replicate the destructions wrought in Iraq and Syria in new corners of the world. We commend our Security Council colleagues for supporting these important designations, Cohen said.

Germany and Poland, who had also co-sponsored the proposal to blacklist the JeM chief, termed the listing of Azhar as a significant achievement by all members of the Security Council.

It was a good signal, a good sign for the work of this Committee that we were able earlier to have the listing of Masood Azhar. It was difficult for some but I think it was very important that we were able to overcome the obstacles, German Ambassador to the UN Christoph Heusgen said at the meeting.

Poland's Permanent Representative to the UN Joanna Wronecka, without naming Azhar, said that she would like to "underline a significant achievement made by all Security Council member states which allowed listing of a person responsible for a deadly terrorist attack in the state of Jammu and Kashmir," a reference to the Pulwama terror attacks masterminded by Azhar.

"We welcome the progress achieved and encourage all States to work together in order to hold perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of acts of terrorism accountable, she said.

China's representative Yao Shaojun said the 1267 Sanctions Committee represents an important counter-terrorism sanctions mechanism of the UN and the Security Council. It plays a significant role in assessing terrorist threats and strengthening sanctions measures.

He said that Beijing supports the 1267 Committee in working under Council mandates, closely communicating with the countries concerned and bolstering cooperation with regional and sub-regional counter-terrorism mechanisms with a view to making a greater contribution to international counter-terrorism efforts.

"We hope that the Committee's work such as listing, exemption and de-listing will strictly abide by the relevant Council resolutions and the norms guiding the work of the Committee, uphold the principle of objectivity, impartiality and professionalism and base its work on solid evidence and consensus among parties so as to safeguard the authority and effectiveness of the sanctions mechanism," he said.

Following the UNSC designation of Azhar, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang had said in Beijing that China lifted the technical hold after it found no objection to the listing proposal following a careful study of the "revised materials."

Cohen added that 1267, 1373 and 1540 Committees play a crucial and complementary role in assessing and countering global threats and they are invaluable in the fight against terrorism. "ISIS and Al Qaida are dynamic organisations, evolving with the pressure the international community brings to bear on them. The 1267 Committee must continue to keep up its pace to adapt to the evolving threat, he said.

Azhar's listing came on the first day of Indonesia assuming the Presidency of the Council for this month.

Indonesia's Ambassador to the UN and Chair of the 1267 Committee Dian Triansyah Djani Dian, speaking in his national capacity at the Security Council briefing, said it must be acknowledged that there have been encouraging developments in advancing common goals with regards to the mandates of the three Committee.

We believe that continued collaboration and unity of the Committee is a prerequisite for further development of our future works. We need the Committee to be united more than ever before he said adding that Indonesia commends the members of the Committee for their efforts shown during the last few months to preserve credibility and sanctity of the Committee.

India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin had specifically thanked Djani for ensuring that the process went smoothly in his video statement issued after Azhar was listed by the Sanctions Committee.

The listing of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council has been termed as a "significant achievement" by the member nations in holding perpetrators, organisers and sponsors of acts of terrorism accountable.

The listing of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council has been termed as a "significant achievement" by the member nations in holding perpetrators, organisers and sponsors of acts of terrorism accountable. The 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the powerful Security Council blacklisted Azhar on May 1 after veto-wielding permanent member China lifted its technical hold on the proposal by the US, the UK and France to list him. It was a huge victory for India after a decade of relentless efforts to ban the mastermind of several terror attacks against India, including the deadly Pulwama attack against Indian security forces. The listing subjects Azhar to an assets freeze travel ban and an arms embargo. "We are pleased that this month, the 1267 Committee designated Masood Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed, and ISIL-Khorasan, a dangerous ISIS affiliate operating in Afghanistan and Pakistan, for UN sanctions, Ambassador Jonathan Cohen, Acting Permanent Representative of the US to the United Nations said at a Security Council semi-annual briefing here Monday by Chairs of subsidiary bodies of the Security Council. "Azhar's listing shows that the international community can and will hold terrorists accountable for their actions," he said. Last week, the 1267 Sanctions Committee sanctioned ISIL-Khorasan, a terror group also known as 'ISIL's South Asia Branch', formed in 2015 by a former Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan commander, that has claimed responsibility for numerous attacks in Afghanistan and Pakistan. "The designation of ISIS-Khorasan demonstrates the Committee's commitment to ensuring that ISIS affiliates do not take up the mantle of a diminished ISIS core. In this vein, it is important that the Committee designates other ISIS affiliates who seek to replicate the destructions wrought in Iraq and Syria in new corners of the world. We commend our Security Council colleagues for supporting these important designations, Cohen said. Germany and Poland, who had also co-sponsored the proposal to blacklist the JeM chief, termed the listing of Azhar as a significant achievement by all members of the Security Council. It was a good signal, a good sign for the work of this Committee that we were able earlier to have the listing of Masood Azhar. It was difficult for some but I think it was very important that we were able to overcome the obstacles, German Ambassador to the UN Christoph Heusgen said at the meeting. Poland's Permanent Representative to the UN Joanna Wronecka, without naming Azhar, said that she would like to "underline a significant achievement made by all Security Council member states which allowed listing of a person responsible for a deadly terrorist attack in the state of Jammu and Kashmir," a reference to the Pulwama terror attacks masterminded by Azhar. "We welcome the progress achieved and encourage all States to work together in order to hold perpetrators, organizers and sponsors of acts of terrorism accountable, she said. China's representative Yao Shaojun said the 1267 Sanctions Committee represents an important counter-terrorism sanctions mechanism of the UN and the Security Council. It plays a significant role in assessing terrorist threats and strengthening sanctions measures. He said that Beijing supports the 1267 Committee in working under Council mandates, closely communicating with the countries concerned and bolstering cooperation with regional and sub-regional counter-terrorism mechanisms with a view to making a greater contribution to international counter-terrorism efforts. "We hope that the Committee's work such as listing, exemption and de-listing will strictly abide by the relevant Council resolutions and the norms guiding the work of the Committee, uphold the principle of objectivity, impartiality and professionalism and base its work on solid evidence and consensus among parties so as to safeguard the authority and effectiveness of the sanctions mechanism," he said. Following the UNSC designation of Azhar, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang had said in Beijing that China lifted the technical hold after it found no objection to the listing proposal following a careful study of the "revised materials." Cohen added that 1267, 1373 and 1540 Committees play a crucial and complementary role in assessing and countering global threats and they are invaluable in the fight against terrorism. "ISIS and Al Qaida are dynamic organisations, evolving with the pressure the international community brings to bear on them. The 1267 Committee must continue to keep up its pace to adapt to the evolving threat, he said. Azhar's listing came on the first day of Indonesia assuming the Presidency of the Council for this month. Indonesia's Ambassador to the UN and Chair of the 1267 Committee Dian Triansyah Djani Dian, speaking in his national capacity at the Security Council briefing, said it must be acknowledged that there have been encouraging developments in advancing common goals with regards to the mandates of the three Committee. We believe that continued collaboration and unity of the Committee is a prerequisite for further development of our future works. We need the Committee to be united more than ever before he said adding that Indonesia commends the members of the Committee for their efforts shown during the last few months to preserve credibility and sanctity of the Committee. India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin had specifically thanked Djani for ensuring that the process went smoothly in his video statement issued after Azhar was listed by the Sanctions Committee.

UNSC hails Masood Azhar's designation as global terrorist a notable achievement

After continuous barbs during elections campaigning, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary. "Tributes to former PM Shri Rajiv Gandhi on his death anniversary," Prime Minister Modi tweeted.

Ex-PM Manmohan Singh, PM Modi pays tribute to Rajiv Gandhi on his 28th death anniversary

Myanmar Navy ships UMS King TabinShweHtee and UMS Inlay have arrived at Port Blair to take part in the 8th Indo-Myanmar Coordinated Patrol (IMCOR), officials said Tuesday.

The CORPAT (coordinated patrol) initiative between Indian and Myanmar navies is meant to address issues of terrorism, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, human trafficking, poaching and other illegal activities inimical to the interests of both the countries.

"Myanmar Navy Ship UMS King TabinShweHtee (773) and UMS Inlay (OPV-54) have arrived Port Blair on May 20 for the opening ceremony of the 8th Indo-Myanmar Coordinated Patrol (IMCOR), at Andaman and Nicobar Command," the Navy said in a statement.

The Myanmar delegation, led by Commodore Htein Win, Commander, Ayeyarwady Naval Command, called on Cmde Ashutosh Ridhorkar, VSM, Naval Component Commander, on Monday, it said.

"Started in March 2013, the CORPAT series has enhanced the mutual understanding and fostered improved professional interaction between the two navies for maritime interoperability," the statement said.

Myanmar ships UMS King TabinShweHtee and UMS Inlay would undertake a coordinated patrol with Indian Naval Ship Saryu from May 20-28. The patrolling effort will be augmented by Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both the navies, it said.

The ships would patrol along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) between the two countries covering a distance of approximately 725 kilometres over a period of four days.

The ships will also undertake joint manoeuvres and drills during the sea phase of the coordinated patrol (CORPAT) prior to the closing ceremony of the CORPAT onboard Myanmar Naval Ship, the statement said.&nbsp;

Myanmar Navy ships UMS King TabinShweHtee and UMS Inlay have arrived at Port Blair to take part in the 8th Indo-Myanmar Coordinated Patrol (IMCOR), officials said Tuesday.

Myanmar Navy ships UMS King TabinShweHtee and UMS Inlay have arrived at Port Blair to take part in the 8th Indo-Myanmar Coordinated Patrol (IMCOR), officials said Tuesday. The CORPAT (coordinated patrol) initiative between Indian and Myanmar navies is meant to address issues of terrorism, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, human trafficking, poaching and other illegal activities inimical to the interests of both the countries. "Myanmar Navy Ship UMS King TabinShweHtee (773) and UMS Inlay (OPV-54) have arrived Port Blair on May 20 for the opening ceremony of the 8th Indo-Myanmar Coordinated Patrol (IMCOR), at Andaman and Nicobar Command," the Navy said in a statement. The Myanmar delegation, led by Commodore Htein Win, Commander, Ayeyarwady Naval Command, called on Cmde Ashutosh Ridhorkar, VSM, Naval Component Commander, on Monday, it said. "Started in March 2013, the CORPAT series has enhanced the mutual understanding and fostered improved professional interaction between the two navies for maritime interoperability," the statement said. Myanmar ships UMS King TabinShweHtee and UMS Inlay would undertake a coordinated patrol with Indian Naval Ship Saryu from May 20-28. The patrolling effort will be augmented by Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both the navies, it said. The ships would patrol along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) between the two countries covering a distance of approximately 725 kilometres over a period of four days. The ships will also undertake joint manoeuvres and drills during the sea phase of the coordinated patrol (CORPAT) prior to the closing ceremony of the CORPAT onboard Myanmar Naval Ship, the statement said.

Myanmar Navy ships arrive to participate in 8th Indo-Myanmar coordinated patrol at Andaman

They travelled the road less taken, chose to endure all hardships to break the stigma and re-write the norms. Some of them left their families at a young age, some of them lost their colleagues to violence, yet they persist and pursue their calling. The latest hurdle that they want to cross is that of the language barrier and that’s what had brought them to India.

24 Afghani women journalists are in Chennai to attend an eight-week training program that aims to impart English communication skills. The initiative comes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme and aims to take forward the existing diplomatic and strategic relationship and improve people-to-people contact.&nbsp;

The women journalists, aged between 26 and 33, have a wide-ranging experience under various roles in the print and broadcast media as presenters, writers, editors, technical directors. They are being trained by the faculty at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTR).&nbsp;

As Afghanistan had stints of democracy interspersed with Taliban rule, women journalists face challenges not only in their society at large but also from their very own families.

Speaking to WION, Wida Saghary, an Afghan journalist with over 12 years of experience said, “In the initial years, when we wanted to interview people in the bazaar, they hurled things at us and would gossip about women journalists. It was difficult for families to send daughters to join the media.”

She added that while there were quite a lot of journalist training centres in the capital city Kabul and the nearby provinces, few journalism aspirants even travelled to India, Turkey, Russia, America and Europe for their academic pursuits.

Diba Selgai, a social media officer said that many women aspire to appear on the screen, but they face&nbsp;the risk of being spoken ill about and being perceived in a negative manner. She added that when women journalists defy the status quo, it has a serious democratic effect on society. Rather than having democracy imposed from outside, working women can show the way and bring in democracy from within the society, she said.

The women also spoke about their employer which had over 50 per cent women workers in main positions as compared to the industry average of about 20 per cent women. A journalist recollected her roots in Laghman province, a Taliban stronghold, and how her uncle warned her father about God not accepting his prayer due to his daughter’s education and career choice.&nbsp;

There were also instances of women being attacked by their kith and kin for the path they chose, the most recent being the case of a Pashtun journalist who was killed by her husband, recalled the media professionals.

However, the journalists expressed optimism about how their country is evolving. They said nowadays, it is comfortable to work outside and that they have the support of their families who are supporting the girls and not hesitating to send them abroad for studies.

Accepting the responsibility of the media in transforming the image of the country, they said that it is important to break free from the stereotypes of Burkha, war and Taliban.&nbsp;

Speaking of their time in Chennai, the women said that it was refreshing and empowering to see women working late in the night, going shopping, working as vendors. They wished for a similar transformation in their society, where it is generally considered unsafe for women to venture out in the nights.&nbsp;

Outlining the initiative of the Indian government to support developing nations and their citizens, Dr Sudhindra Nath Panda, Director of NITTTR said, “The ITEC programme was started in 1964 and cover over 150 countries. Our missions abroad have been taking care of the VISA formalities of the students/professionals and the travel, course, accommodation expenses are funded by the Indian government.” He added that so far 95 Afghan citizens have attended the programme, of which over 40 were women.&nbsp;

They travelled the road less taken, chose to endure all hardships to break the stigma and re-write the norms. Some of them left their families at a young age, some of them lost their colleagues to violence, yet they persist and pursue their calling.

They travelled the road less taken, chose to endure all hardships to break the stigma and re-write the norms. Some of them left their families at a young age, some of them lost their colleagues to violence, yet they persist and pursue their calling. The latest hurdle that they want to cross is that of the language barrier and that’s what had brought them to India. 24 Afghani women journalists are in Chennai to attend an eight-week training program that aims to impart English communication skills. The initiative comes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme and aims to take forward the existing diplomatic and strategic relationship and improve people-to-people contact. The women journalists, aged between 26 and 33, have a wide-ranging experience under various roles in the print and broadcast media as presenters, writers, editors, technical directors. They are being trained by the faculty at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTR). As Afghanistan had stints of democracy interspersed with Taliban rule, women journalists face challenges not only in their society at large but also from their very own families. Speaking to WION, Wida Saghary, an Afghan journalist with over 12 years of experience said, “In the initial years, when we wanted to interview people in the bazaar, they hurled things at us and would gossip about women journalists. It was difficult for families to send daughters to join the media.” She added that while there were quite a lot of journalist training centres in the capital city Kabul and the nearby provinces, few journalism aspirants even travelled to India, Turkey, Russia, America and Europe for their academic pursuits. Diba Selgai, a social media officer said that many women aspire to appear on the screen, but they face the risk of being spoken ill about and being perceived in a negative manner. She added that when women journalists defy the status quo, it has a serious democratic effect on society. Rather than having democracy imposed from outside, working women can show the way and bring in democracy from within the society, she said. The women also spoke about their employer which had over 50 per cent women workers in main positions as compared to the industry average of about 20 per cent women. A journalist recollected her roots in Laghman province, a Taliban stronghold, and how her uncle warned her father about God not accepting his prayer due to his daughter’s education and career choice. There were also instances of women being attacked by their kith and kin for the path they chose, the most recent being the case of a Pashtun journalist who was killed by her husband, recalled the media professionals. However, the journalists expressed optimism about how their country is evolving. They said nowadays, it is comfortable to work outside and that they have the support of their families who are supporting the girls and not hesitating to send them abroad for studies. Accepting the responsibility of the media in transforming the image of the country, they said that it is important to break free from the stereotypes of Burkha, war and Taliban. Speaking of their time in Chennai, the women said that it was refreshing and empowering to see women working late in the night, going shopping, working as vendors. They wished for a similar transformation in their society, where it is generally considered unsafe for women to venture out in the nights. Outlining the initiative of the Indian government to support developing nations and their citizens, Dr Sudhindra Nath Panda, Director of NITTTR said, “The ITEC programme was started in 1964 and cover over 150 countries. Our missions abroad have been taking care of the VISA formalities of the students/professionals and the travel, course, accommodation expenses are funded by the Indian government.” He added that so far 95 Afghan citizens have attended the programme, of which over 40 were women.

Quest for English communication skills leads Afghan women journalists to India 

The countdown has begun for the launch of PSLV-C 46 satellite on Wednesday that will be an earth observation satellite with high accurate observations, ISRO Chairman K Sivan said on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-director-k-sivan-inaugurates-young-scientist-programme-219518">ISRO chairman Sivan</a> told reporters that after offering prayers at the Venkateswara Temple the PSLV-C 46 mission will be launched at 5:30 in the morning and will carry onboard satellite RISAT-2B.

"This is a very important mission as far India is concerned. It's an excellent satellite. This is an earth observation satellite for remote sensing operation and is a very high, accurate observation," he said.

Sivan said that subsequently, ISRO's next mission will be the launch of Chandrayaan-2 between July 9 and 16 which will land on the moon on September 16.

The 25-hour countdown for the launch of earth observation satellite onboard PSLV C-46 began at 4:30 in the morning.

PSLV C-46 will launch the RISAT-2B, a radar imaging earth observation satellite, from the first launch pad at SHAR Range Sriharikota.

Reportedly, PSLV in its 48th mission will carry the 615-kg RISAT-2B into an orbit of 555 km at an inclination of 37 degrees.

Notably, this will be the 72nd launch vehicle mission from Shar and 36th launch from the First Launch Pad. In addition, it is the 14th flight of PSLV in the core-alone configuration.

The countdown has begun for the launch of PSLV-C 46 satellite on Wednesday that will be an earth observation satellite with high accurate observations, ISRO Chairman K Sivan said on Tuesday.

The countdown has begun for the launch of PSLV-C 46 satellite on Wednesday that will be an earth observation satellite with high accurate observations, ISRO Chairman K Sivan said on Tuesday. ISRO chairman Sivan told reporters that after offering prayers at the Venkateswara Temple the PSLV-C 46 mission will be launched at 5:30 in the morning and will carry onboard satellite RISAT-2B. "This is a very important mission as far India is concerned. It's an excellent satellite. This is an earth observation satellite for remote sensing operation and is a very high, accurate observation," he said. Sivan said that subsequently, ISRO's next mission will be the launch of Chandrayaan-2 between July 9 and 16 which will land on the moon on September 16. The 25-hour countdown for the launch of earth observation satellite onboard PSLV C-46 began at 4:30 in the morning. PSLV C-46 will launch the RISAT-2B, a radar imaging earth observation satellite, from the first launch pad at SHAR Range Sriharikota. Reportedly, PSLV in its 48th mission will carry the 615-kg RISAT-2B into an orbit of 555 km at an inclination of 37 degrees. Notably, this will be the 72nd launch vehicle mission from Shar and 36th launch from the First Launch Pad. In addition, it is the 14th flight of PSLV in the core-alone configuration.

Countdown begins for launch of PSLV earth observation satellite: ISRO

Arunachal Pradesh MLA Tirong Aboh was killed in a terrorist ambush in Arunachal Pradesh's Tirap district on Tuesday.

Besides the National People’s Party leader, 10 others who were in his convoy were also killed. Aboh, his son who was driving the car, his brother, two personal security guards (PSO) and six other National People Party’s workers were also killed in the ambush.

“The incident occurred around 11:30 am in Bogapani of Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh. Suddenly terrorists attacked the convoy and eleven persons were killed including the MLA,” said a senior police official of Arunachal Pradesh Police.

Tirong was a sitting MLA who was also contesting the assembly elections in the state from the same seat – Khonsa West.

Soon after the ambush, the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles cordoned off the area and began combing operations. “Indian Army and Assam Rifles are engaged together in search and combing operations to nab the militants who killed the MLA and ten others. CRPF troops from Khonsa have also been rushed to the ambush site,” added the senior official.

An NPP supporter was killed in March in the same district.

National People’s Party president and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma condemned the incident and tweeted, "The NPP strongly condemns the brutal attack on Shri Tirong Aboh and his family and his security personnel.”

On the other hand, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter to express grief over the incident, “Shocked and anguished by the killing of MLA Tirong Aboh ji, his family and others in Arunachal Pradesh. It is an outrageous attempt to disturb peace and normalcy in the North East. The perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared. My condolences to the bereaved families.”

Interestingly, a ceasefire agreement between the Indian government of India and NSCN/NK and NSCN/R for a further period of one year with effect from 28th April 2019 i.e. till 27th April 2020 was extended.&nbsp;

However, sources in the Arunachal Pradesh Police reveal that the ambush was carried out by the IM faction of the NSCN. Sources also reveal that the district which was a stronghold of NSCN (K) is now fast turning into a stronghold of the NSCN (IM).

&nbsp;

Arunachal Pradesh MLA Tirong Aboh was killed in a terrorist ambush in Arunachal Pradesh's Tirap district on Tuesday. Besides the National People’s Party leader, 10 others who were in his convoy were also killed.

Arunachal Pradesh MLA Tirong Aboh was killed in a terrorist ambush in Arunachal Pradesh's Tirap district on Tuesday. Besides the National People’s Party leader, 10 others who were in his convoy were also killed. Aboh, his son who was driving the car, his brother, two personal security guards (PSO) and six other National People Party’s workers were also killed in the ambush. “The incident occurred around 11:30 am in Bogapani of Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh. Suddenly terrorists attacked the convoy and eleven persons were killed including the MLA,” said a senior police official of Arunachal Pradesh Police. Tirong was a sitting MLA who was also contesting the assembly elections in the state from the same seat – Khonsa West. Soon after the ambush, the Indian Army and the Assam Rifles cordoned off the area and began combing operations. “Indian Army and Assam Rifles are engaged together in search and combing operations to nab the militants who killed the MLA and ten others. CRPF troops from Khonsa have also been rushed to the ambush site,” added the senior official. An NPP supporter was killed in March in the same district. National People’s Party president and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma condemned the incident and tweeted, "The NPP strongly condemns the brutal attack on Shri Tirong Aboh and his family and his security personnel.” On the other hand, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh took to Twitter to express grief over the incident, “Shocked and anguished by the killing of MLA Tirong Aboh ji, his family and others in Arunachal Pradesh. It is an outrageous attempt to disturb peace and normalcy in the North East. The perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared. My condolences to the bereaved families.” Interestingly, a ceasefire agreement between the Indian government of India and NSCN/NK and NSCN/R for a further period of one year with effect from 28th April 2019 i.e. till 27th April 2020 was extended. However, sources in the Arunachal Pradesh Police reveal that the ambush was carried out by the IM faction of the NSCN. Sources also reveal that the district which was a stronghold of NSCN (K) is now fast turning into a stronghold of the NSCN (IM).

Arunachal Pradesh MLA Tirong Aboh among 11 killed in terrorist ambush

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amidst-us-china-trade-war-american-companies-can-shift-focus-to-india-experts-220268">Amidst US-China trade war, American companies can shift focus to India: Experts</a>

Exploring the possibility of developing India as an alternative in the midst of a US-China trade war, the American corporate sector eagerly looks forward to the election results and hopes that the new government adopts a "consultative process" in framing policies, experts say.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/todays-situation-not-suitable-for-talks-choice-is-resistance-only-irans-rouhani-220250">Today's situation not suitable for talks, choice is resistance only: Iran's Rouhani</a>

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said he would be willing for talks with the US but not under the current situation, local media IRNA reported on Monday.

"Today's situation is not suitable for talks and our choice is resistance only" IRNA quoted Rouhani as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-founder-says-us-underestimates-company-cant-be-isolated-220252">Huawei founder says US underestimates company, 'can't be isolated'</a>

Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei struck a defiant tone Tuesday against US attempts to block his company's global ambitions, saying the US "underestimates" the telecom giant's strength.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/andreas-nikolaus-niki-lauda-three-time-formula-one-champion-dies-at-70-220260">Andreas Nikolaus 'Niki' Lauda, three-time Formula One champion, dies at 70</a>

The former Formula One driver and three-time world champion Andreas Nikolaus “Niki” Lauda has died at the age of 70.&nbsp;

The Austrian formula one driver died on Monday night after undergoing kidney dialysis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesias-joko-widodo-wins-second-term-as-president-220251">Indonesia's Joko Widodo wins second term as president</a>

Indonesia's Joko Widodo won another term as president of the world's third-biggest democracy, official results showed Tuesday, after his rival Prabowo Subianto, a retired general, alleged widespread cheating.

Amidst US-China trade war, American companies can shift focus to India: Experts Exploring the possibility of developing India as an alternative in the midst of a US-China trade war, the American corporate sector eagerly looks forward to the election results and hopes that the new government adopts a "consultative process" in framing policies, experts say.

Amidst US-China trade war, American companies can shift focus to India: Experts Exploring the possibility of developing India as an alternative in the midst of a US-China trade war, the American corporate sector eagerly looks forward to the election results and hopes that the new government adopts a "consultative process" in framing policies, experts say. Today's situation not suitable for talks, choice is resistance only: Iran's Rouhani Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said he would be willing for talks with the US but not under the current situation, local media IRNA reported on Monday. "Today's situation is not suitable for talks and our choice is resistance only" IRNA quoted Rouhani as saying. Huawei founder says US underestimates company, 'can't be isolated' Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei struck a defiant tone Tuesday against US attempts to block his company's global ambitions, saying the US "underestimates" the telecom giant's strength. Andreas Nikolaus 'Niki' Lauda, three-time Formula One champion, dies at 70 The former Formula One driver and three-time world champion Andreas Nikolaus “Niki” Lauda has died at the age of 70. The Austrian formula one driver died on Monday night after undergoing kidney dialysis. Indonesia's Joko Widodo wins second term as president Indonesia's Joko Widodo won another term as president of the world's third-biggest democracy, official results showed Tuesday, after his rival Prabowo Subianto, a retired general, alleged widespread cheating.

Afghanistan's government has lauded the support it has received from India, especially on the Afghan peace process. Afghan foreign ministry's spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi spoke to WION from Kabul and said, "India supports a peaceful Afghanistan" with its backing of the Afghan government.

Ahmadi has welcomed the regional and international efforts for facilitating direct talks between the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Taliban representatives "in particular Germany and India’s recent engagements in this regard".

He further called for "tangible actions to be taken by Pakistan aimed at peace in Afghanistan".

The development comes even as last weeks saw hectic engagements in New Delhi regarding the Afghan peace process. US permanent representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, Chinese special envoy on Afghanistan Deng Xijun and chief executive of the Afghan High Peace Council <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-helped-build-strong-state-in-afghanistan-pak-must-shun-terror-afghan-presidents-special-envoy-to-wion-219460">Mohammad Omar Daudzai visited Delhi</a> this month and met External Affair Minister Sushma Swaraj and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to discuss the developments in the landlocked South Asian country.

India had also discussed the Afghan peace process with the visiting Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif. Deepak Mittal, joint secretary in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran (PAI) division of the Ministry of External Affairs met Russian special envoy on Afganistan Zamir Kabulov in Moscow regarding the same.

India supports Afghan-led, owned and controlled peace process and is one of the major development partners of Kabul.

Afghanistan's government has lauded the support it has received from India, especially on the Afghan peace process. Afghan foreign ministry's spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi spoke to WION from Kabul and said, "India supports a peaceful Afghanistan" with its backing of the Afghan government.

Afghanistan's government has lauded the support it has received from India, especially on the Afghan peace process. Afghan foreign ministry's spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi spoke to WION from Kabul and said, "India supports a peaceful Afghanistan" with its backing of the Afghan government. Ahmadi has welcomed the regional and international efforts for facilitating direct talks between the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Taliban representatives "in particular Germany and India’s recent engagements in this regard". He further called for "tangible actions to be taken by Pakistan aimed at peace in Afghanistan". The development comes even as last weeks saw hectic engagements in New Delhi regarding the Afghan peace process. US permanent representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, Chinese special envoy on Afghanistan Deng Xijun and chief executive of the Afghan High Peace Council Mohammad Omar Daudzai visited Delhi this month and met External Affair Minister Sushma Swaraj and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to discuss the developments in the landlocked South Asian country. India had also discussed the Afghan peace process with the visiting Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif. Deepak Mittal, joint secretary in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran (PAI) division of the Ministry of External Affairs met Russian special envoy on Afganistan Zamir Kabulov in Moscow regarding the same. India supports Afghan-led, owned and controlled peace process and is one of the major development partners of Kabul.

Afghan foreign ministry lauds India's role in Afghan peace process

Exploring the possibility of developing India as an alternative in the midst of a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-founder-says-us-underestimates-company-cant-be-isolated-220252">US-China trade war</a>, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-eases-some-restrictions-on-chinas-huawei-to-keep-networks-operating-220249">American corporate sector</a> eagerly looks forward to the election results and hopes that the new government adopts a "consultative process" in framing policies, experts say.

"US companies are looking for transparency and consistency in the policy framework. They would appreciate a consultative process (in) framing policies," Mukesh Aghi, president of the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum said, ahead of the declaration of the election results on May 23.

India, Aghi asserted, has "a fantastic opportunity" to attract US and European\ companies as China trade relations get strained with its partners.&nbsp;

"These companies would consider India if ease of business improves along with predictability, otherwise countries like Vietnam and Cambodia are successfully attracting these companies," Aghi said in response to a question.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-china-trade-war-no-end-in-sight-220243/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The new government will need to look closely at what it can do to unleash growth and create jobs because India must tackle its own apparent economic slowdown, Alyssa Ayres, from the Council on Foreign Relations think tank, told PTI.

"Economists have long recommended structural reforms as the way to do that which would likely help India address the complaints from the US and others about difficulties of doing business in the country," Ayres said in response to a question.&nbsp;

Although the final results are yet to be declared and may hold some surprises, there are several issues that whoever comes to power would need to grapple with, observed Anit Mukherjee, a policy fellow at the Center for Global Development, a think tank in Washington DC.

But the broad theme would be on the consolidation of the gains of the past five years and ushering in some much-needed reforms to accelerate growth and reduce poverty, he said.

Noting that India's economy has gone through a period of consistent, if not spectacular, growth over the last five years -- this in spite of demonetization, GST, and the NPA and farm crises — Mukherjee said this provides a platform for higher growth in the next five years.&nbsp;

"But this will depend largely on how the government can steer the macroeconomy, streamline GST, address non-performing assets and mitigate the farm crisis," he said.

There will be headwinds&nbsp;oil prices are increasing, external trade environment is hostile, vested interests have scuttled plans to reform PSU banks, and the government does not seem to have much appetite to reform agricultural markets apart from announcing a cash transfer programme just before the elections, he added.

India, he said, is going through a rapid digital transformation. Aadhaar is now almost universal, its use is now pretty well defined following the Supreme Court judgement, Mukherjee said, adding that India's financial inclusion is now among the highest in the world (over 80 per cent), thanks largely to the Jan Dhan program; and mobile phone use is ubiquitous, serving a data-hungry population.&nbsp;

"So the building blocks of a digital economy is in place and India is poised to take a big leap in the next five years. The government needs to recognise that and bring policy and regulatory clarity, especially data sharing, trade in data services and privacy protection," he said.&nbsp;

Observing that India's rise as an economic power comes with responsibilities, Mukherjee said New Delhi would do well to learn the lessons from China, which is facing a backlash over its trade and investment policies, as well its domestic policies favouring large technology firms that are perceived as a threat (eg. Blacklisting of Huawei for 5G telecom equipment and Google's decision not to allow future Android OS updates to run on Huawei smartphones).&nbsp;

"India has so far refused to engage with the US and the EU on the global E-commerce and data governance architecture but it would do well not to be sidelined in the discussions," he said in response to another question.

"It is in everyone's interest that India becomes a hub of digital innovation and commerce, with a level playing field that does not discriminate in favour of any particular special interest group," Mukherjee said.

Exploring the possibility of developing India as an alternative in the midst of a US-China trade war, the American corporate sector eagerly looks forward to the election results and hopes that the new government adopts a "consultative process" in framing policies, experts say.

Exploring the possibility of developing India as an alternative in the midst of a US-China trade war, the American corporate sector eagerly looks forward to the election results and hopes that the new government adopts a "consultative process" in framing policies, experts say. "US companies are looking for transparency and consistency in the policy framework. They would appreciate a consultative process (in) framing policies," Mukesh Aghi, president of the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum said, ahead of the declaration of the election results on May 23. India, Aghi asserted, has "a fantastic opportunity" to attract US and European\ companies as China trade relations get strained with its partners. "These companies would consider India if ease of business improves along with predictability, otherwise countries like Vietnam and Cambodia are successfully attracting these companies," Aghi said in response to a question. The new government will need to look closely at what it can do to unleash growth and create jobs because India must tackle its own apparent economic slowdown, Alyssa Ayres, from the Council on Foreign Relations think tank, told PTI. "Economists have long recommended structural reforms as the way to do that which would likely help India address the complaints from the US and others about difficulties of doing business in the country," Ayres said in response to a question. Although the final results are yet to be declared and may hold some surprises, there are several issues that whoever comes to power would need to grapple with, observed Anit Mukherjee, a policy fellow at the Center for Global Development, a think tank in Washington DC. But the broad theme would be on the consolidation of the gains of the past five years and ushering in some much-needed reforms to accelerate growth and reduce poverty, he said. Noting that India's economy has gone through a period of consistent, if not spectacular, growth over the last five years -- this in spite of demonetization, GST, and the NPA and farm crises — Mukherjee said this provides a platform for higher growth in the next five years. "But this will depend largely on how the government can steer the macroeconomy, streamline GST, address non-performing assets and mitigate the farm crisis," he said. There will be headwinds oil prices are increasing, external trade environment is hostile, vested interests have scuttled plans to reform PSU banks, and the government does not seem to have much appetite to reform agricultural markets apart from announcing a cash transfer programme just before the elections, he added. India, he said, is going through a rapid digital transformation. Aadhaar is now almost universal, its use is now pretty well defined following the Supreme Court judgement, Mukherjee said, adding that India's financial inclusion is now among the highest in the world (over 80 per cent), thanks largely to the Jan Dhan program; and mobile phone use is ubiquitous, serving a data-hungry population. "So the building blocks of a digital economy is in place and India is poised to take a big leap in the next five years. The government needs to recognise that and bring policy and regulatory clarity, especially data sharing, trade in data services and privacy protection," he said. Observing that India's rise as an economic power comes with responsibilities, Mukherjee said New Delhi would do well to learn the lessons from China, which is facing a backlash over its trade and investment policies, as well its domestic policies favouring large technology firms that are perceived as a threat (eg. Blacklisting of Huawei for 5G telecom equipment and Google's decision not to allow future Android OS updates to run on Huawei smartphones). "India has so far refused to engage with the US and the EU on the global E-commerce and data governance architecture but it would do well not to be sidelined in the discussions," he said in response to another question. "It is in everyone's interest that India becomes a hub of digital innovation and commerce, with a level playing field that does not discriminate in favour of any particular special interest group," Mukherjee said.

Amidst US-China trade war, American companies can shift focus to India: Experts

The Centre released over Rs 17,000 crore as assistance to states affected by natural calamities like floods, cyclone and drought last year, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said Tuesday.

He also said the central government has sanctioned additional battalions of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) which are being raised in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Delhi-NCR.

The Centre released more than Rs 7,000 crore under the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) and an additional Rs 10,000 crore under the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF) last year to the states as disaster relief, said Gauba in his inaugural address at the annual conference of relief commissioners and secretaries here.

He asked the states and the Union Territories to step up their preparedness by advance planning and deployment of human, physical and financial resources ahead of the monsoon season.

In the meeting, which reviewed the preparedness for the South-West Monsoon-2019, the Union home secretary said the Centre would provide all possible assistance under the NDRF and the SDRF besides mobilisation of central forces to the states and the UTs.

Gauba said during the recent cyclone 'Fani', loss of human lives was minimal due to accurate and early weather forecasting by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and timely mobilisation of resources besides better coordination between the Centre, state governments and other relevant agencies.

Citing a UN Report, the Union home secretary said disasters had caused economic losses of $3 trillion globally during the last two decades and India alone suffered losses to the tune of $80 billion during 1997-2017.

Observing that India is prone to various kinds of disasters, Gauba called for building disaster resilient infrastructure as a long-term measure to minimise the economic losses.

Speaking on the occasion, Director General, IMD, K J Ramesh said India has set a new benchmark in disaster risk reduction as demonstrated during cyclone Fani.

The IMD is in the process of building the most advanced early warning weather system in coordination with various stakeholders, he said.&nbsp;

The Centre released over Rs 17,000 crore as assistance to states affected by natural calamities like floods, cyclone and drought last year, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said Tuesday.

The Centre released over Rs 17,000 crore as assistance to states affected by natural calamities like floods, cyclone and drought last year, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba said Tuesday. He also said the central government has sanctioned additional battalions of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) which are being raised in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Delhi-NCR. The Centre released more than Rs 7,000 crore under the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) and an additional Rs 10,000 crore under the National Disaster Relief Fund (NDRF) last year to the states as disaster relief, said Gauba in his inaugural address at the annual conference of relief commissioners and secretaries here. He asked the states and the Union Territories to step up their preparedness by advance planning and deployment of human, physical and financial resources ahead of the monsoon season. In the meeting, which reviewed the preparedness for the South-West Monsoon-2019, the Union home secretary said the Centre would provide all possible assistance under the NDRF and the SDRF besides mobilisation of central forces to the states and the UTs. Gauba said during the recent cyclone 'Fani', loss of human lives was minimal due to accurate and early weather forecasting by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and timely mobilisation of resources besides better coordination between the Centre, state governments and other relevant agencies. Citing a UN Report, the Union home secretary said disasters had caused economic losses of $3 trillion globally during the last two decades and India alone suffered losses to the tune of $80 billion during 1997-2017. Observing that India is prone to various kinds of disasters, Gauba called for building disaster resilient infrastructure as a long-term measure to minimise the economic losses. Speaking on the occasion, Director General, IMD, K J Ramesh said India has set a new benchmark in disaster risk reduction as demonstrated during cyclone Fani. The IMD is in the process of building the most advanced early warning weather system in coordination with various stakeholders, he said.

Over Rs 17,000 crore given to states as disaster relief last year: Home Secretary

The National Investigation Agency officials from Kochi carried out searches at 10 locations in Tamil Nadu on Monday in connection with an alleged conspiracy to form a terrorist group by some youngsters.&nbsp;

The searches were carried out at the residences of the 10 accused in Muthupet, Keelakarai, Devipattinam, Lalpet and Salem in connection with the case, which was earlier probed by the Keelakarai police station, the officials said.

During the searches, the agency has seized three laptops, an equal number of hard discs, 16 mobile phones, eight SIM cards, two pen drives, five memory cards and a card reader, besides two knives, the officials said.

The NIA has alleged that 10 people from Tamil Nadu had started a group on WhatsApp.

In 2018, according to the NIA, the group conspired to procure arms, raise funds to wage armed struggle, facilitate the escape of terrorists from jails and propagate their ideology to act against the state.

The case was initially registered by the Tamil Nadu Police on April 2, 2018, in the Ramanathapuram district under several sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act.

The police arrested nine accused, while one is absconding. Later, they were released on bail by the court.

(With inputs from agencies)

The National Investigation Agency officials from Kochi carried out searches at 10 locations in Tamil Nadu on Monday in connection with an alleged conspiracy to form a terrorist group by some youngsters.

The National Investigation Agency officials from Kochi carried out searches at 10 locations in Tamil Nadu on Monday in connection with an alleged conspiracy to form a terrorist group by some youngsters. The searches were carried out at the residences of the 10 accused in Muthupet, Keelakarai, Devipattinam, Lalpet and Salem in connection with the case, which was earlier probed by the Keelakarai police station, the officials said. During the searches, the agency has seized three laptops, an equal number of hard discs, 16 mobile phones, eight SIM cards, two pen drives, five memory cards and a card reader, besides two knives, the officials said. The NIA has alleged that 10 people from Tamil Nadu had started a group on WhatsApp. In 2018, according to the NIA, the group conspired to procure arms, raise funds to wage armed struggle, facilitate the escape of terrorists from jails and propagate their ideology to act against the state. The case was initially registered by the Tamil Nadu Police on April 2, 2018, in the Ramanathapuram district under several sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Arms Act. The police arrested nine accused, while one is absconding. Later, they were released on bail by the court. (With inputs from agencies)

National Investigation Agency raids 10 places in Tamil Nadu in Islamic State module case

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/this-is-nonsense-says-supreme-court-dismissing-pil-seeking-100-vvpat-verification-220408">'This is nonsense,' says Supreme Court dismissing PIL seeking 100% VVPAT verification</a> 
 
A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea, saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-no-bigger-motivation-than-indian-army-virat-kohli-ahead-of-cricket-world-cup-2019-220427">'There's no bigger motivation than Indian Army,' says Virat Kohli ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019</a> 
 
'If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us,' said Kohli

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-accuses-us-of-bullying-says-working-with-google-to-counter-ban-220421">Huawei accuses US of bullying, says working with Google to counter ban</a> 
 
The US government said it imposed the restrictions because of Huawei's involvement in activities contrary to national security or foreign policy interests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/reports-of-alleged-evm-tampering-are-absolutely-false-election-commission-220417">Reports of alleged EVM tampering are 'absolutely false': Election Commission</a> 
 
The top poll body also stated that any lapse in the handling of reserve EVMs will be investigated and action will be taken against those responsible.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-amit-shah-meet-union-ministers-thank-them-for-service-to-nation-220445">PM Modi, Amit Shah meet Union ministers, thank them for 'service to nation'</a> 
 
Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Arun Jaitley, JP Nadda and Prakash Javadekar were among the key leaders from the BJP at the meeting.

'This is nonsense,' says Supreme Court dismissing PIL seeking 100% VVPAT verification A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea, saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order.

'This is nonsense,' says Supreme Court dismissing PIL seeking 100% VVPAT verification A vacation bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra refused to entertain the plea, saying that a larger bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had already dealt with the matter and passed an order. 'There's no bigger motivation than Indian Army,' says Virat Kohli ahead of Cricket World Cup 2019 'If we go in with that motivation that we can do something for the Army, you will see a different level of passion coming out of us,' said Kohli Huawei accuses US of bullying, says working with Google to counter ban The US government said it imposed the restrictions because of Huawei's involvement in activities contrary to national security or foreign policy interests. Reports of alleged EVM tampering are 'absolutely false': Election Commission The top poll body also stated that any lapse in the handling of reserve EVMs will be investigated and action will be taken against those responsible. PM Modi, Amit Shah meet Union ministers, thank them for 'service to nation' Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Arun Jaitley, JP Nadda and Prakash Javadekar were among the key leaders from the BJP at the meeting.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met Union ministers from the BJP as well as allies at a meeting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/amit-shah-to-hold-dinner-for-nda-allies-today-uddhav-thackeray-nitish-kumar-paswan-to-attend-220404">hosted by party president Amit Shah</a> at its headquarters.

The BJP described the meeting as an occasion to thank ministers for "their service to the nation" ahead of the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha election on May 23, following which a new government will assume charge.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Arun Jaitley, JP Nadda and Prakash Javadekar were among the key leaders from the BJP at the meeting.

Some ministers from BJP allies, including Ram Vilas Paswan of the Lok Janshakti Party, Harsimrat Kaur Badal from the Akali Dal and Anupriya Patel of the Apna Dal, were also present.

The party has expressed confidence that the NDA will emerge victorious, with the exit polls too forecasting a return of the Modi government.&nbsp;

Shah is also hosting a dinner for BJP leaders and allies later in the evening.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met Union ministers from the BJP as well as allies at a meeting hosted by party president Amit Shah at its headquarters. The BJP described the meeting as an occasion to thank ministers for "their service to the nation" ahead of the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha election on May 23, following which a new government will assume charge.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met Union ministers from the BJP as well as allies at a meeting hosted by party president Amit Shah at its headquarters. The BJP described the meeting as an occasion to thank ministers for "their service to the nation" ahead of the counting of votes for the Lok Sabha election on May 23, following which a new government will assume charge. Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, Arun Jaitley, JP Nadda and Prakash Javadekar were among the key leaders from the BJP at the meeting. Some ministers from BJP allies, including Ram Vilas Paswan of the Lok Janshakti Party, Harsimrat Kaur Badal from the Akali Dal and Anupriya Patel of the Apna Dal, were also present. The party has expressed confidence that the NDA will emerge victorious, with the exit polls too forecasting a return of the Modi government. Shah is also hosting a dinner for BJP leaders and allies later in the evening.

PM Modi, Amit Shah meet Union ministers, thank them for 'service to nation'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-voices-concern-over-delays-in-reimbursement-to-un-peacekeeping-contributing-countries-219539">India has emphasised</a> that peacebuilding activities will give sustainable results only if they align with a nation's priorities and its leaders and institutions are involved in the implementation.

Speaking at the General Assembly on Monday, India's Deputy Permanent Representative Nagaraj Naidu said, "This would ensure that gains are long-term and prevent any relapse."

"India believes that the efforts undertaken by the PBC (Peacebuilding Commission) in various countries and regions will result in sustainable outcomes if national ownership is strictly followed," India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu said.

Naidu said the peacebuilding activities should align with the national priorities and implemented with the involvement of the country's leadership and national institutions.

He emphasised that today's conflicts are increasingly intra-state, involving non-state actors and international terror networks.

"The complex and interlinked nature of conflicts have much wider implications across countries. We, therefore, have a collective interest in building and sustaining peace," he said.

India recognises and welcomes the importance of expanding cooperation with regional organisations in peacebuilding efforts, Naidu said adding that India also supports the advisory, flexible and convening role of the PBC in its interactions with its parent bodies - the General Assembly, Security Council and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), with the objective of pursuing a coherent and integrated approach to building and sustaining peace.

The Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), during last one year, supported projects worth USD 183 million in 40 countries.

Naidu pointed out that the high donor contributions to the fund in the last two years is a clear sign of confidence in the contribution of the UN to peacebuilding.

Underscoring the "important" role of women and youth in peacebuilding and in its decision-making, Naidu said India commands the fund for exceeding its own record of previous years by allocating 40 per cent of funds in support of gender equality and women's empowerment during 2018.

"Skill development and employment generation for youth play a significant role in building and sustaining peace," he said.

Naidu further said that there is a clear recognition of the importance of sustainable and inclusive economic growth and political processes in preventing conflict as well as undertaking effective peacebuilding efforts.

"India continues to expand its development partnership efforts with fellow developing countries to assist in their developmental priorities," he said adding that as a member of the Peacebuilding Commission since its inception, India looks forward to playing a constructive role in pursuing the objectives of achieving peace and prosperity for our peoples.

The Peacebuilding Commission looks forward to a review of its work in 2020 by the General Assembly and the Security Council as an opportunity to take stock of progress made and to explore ways to strengthen the UN efforts in forging sustainable peace in places where conflict once reigned, the General Assembly heard during the debate as it took up the Secretary-General's annual reports on the Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund.

The Assembly, acting without a vote, adopted a draft resolution contained in a report of its Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (Fourth Committee) entitled "Comprehensive review of the whole question of peacekeeping operations in all their aspects."

Through the draft resolution, the Assembly took note of the report of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations. It also decided that the Special Committee shall continue its efforts for a comprehensive review of the whole question of peacekeeping operations, review the implementation of its previous proposals and consider any new proposals as a way to enhance the Organisation's capacity to fulfil its responsibilities in that field.

India has emphasised that peacebuilding activities will give sustainable results only if they align with a nation's priorities and its leaders and institutions are involved in the implementation.

India has emphasised that peacebuilding activities will give sustainable results only if they align with a nation's priorities and its leaders and institutions are involved in the implementation. Speaking at the General Assembly on Monday, India's Deputy Permanent Representative Nagaraj Naidu said, "This would ensure that gains are long-term and prevent any relapse." "India believes that the efforts undertaken by the PBC (Peacebuilding Commission) in various countries and regions will result in sustainable outcomes if national ownership is strictly followed," India's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu said. Naidu said the peacebuilding activities should align with the national priorities and implemented with the involvement of the country's leadership and national institutions. He emphasised that today's conflicts are increasingly intra-state, involving non-state actors and international terror networks. "The complex and interlinked nature of conflicts have much wider implications across countries. We, therefore, have a collective interest in building and sustaining peace," he said. India recognises and welcomes the importance of expanding cooperation with regional organisations in peacebuilding efforts, Naidu said adding that India also supports the advisory, flexible and convening role of the PBC in its interactions with its parent bodies - the General Assembly, Security Council and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), with the objective of pursuing a coherent and integrated approach to building and sustaining peace. The Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), during last one year, supported projects worth USD 183 million in 40 countries. Naidu pointed out that the high donor contributions to the fund in the last two years is a clear sign of confidence in the contribution of the UN to peacebuilding. Underscoring the "important" role of women and youth in peacebuilding and in its decision-making, Naidu said India commands the fund for exceeding its own record of previous years by allocating 40 per cent of funds in support of gender equality and women's empowerment during 2018. "Skill development and employment generation for youth play a significant role in building and sustaining peace," he said. Naidu further said that there is a clear recognition of the importance of sustainable and inclusive economic growth and political processes in preventing conflict as well as undertaking effective peacebuilding efforts. "India continues to expand its development partnership efforts with fellow developing countries to assist in their developmental priorities," he said adding that as a member of the Peacebuilding Commission since its inception, India looks forward to playing a constructive role in pursuing the objectives of achieving peace and prosperity for our peoples. The Peacebuilding Commission looks forward to a review of its work in 2020 by the General Assembly and the Security Council as an opportunity to take stock of progress made and to explore ways to strengthen the UN efforts in forging sustainable peace in places where conflict once reigned, the General Assembly heard during the debate as it took up the Secretary-General's annual reports on the Commission and the Peacebuilding Fund. The Assembly, acting without a vote, adopted a draft resolution contained in a report of its Special Political and Decolonisation Committee (Fourth Committee) entitled "Comprehensive review of the whole question of peacekeeping operations in all their aspects." Through the draft resolution, the Assembly took note of the report of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations. It also decided that the Special Committee shall continue its efforts for a comprehensive review of the whole question of peacekeeping operations, review the implementation of its previous proposals and consider any new proposals as a way to enhance the Organisation's capacity to fulfil its responsibilities in that field.

Peacebuilding activities should align with national priorities: India at United Nations

An exchange of fire reported Tuesday between security forces and militants in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, ANI report said quoting a police officer.&nbsp;

An encounter broke out between security forces and militants in the forest area of Yarwan in Shopian district, he said.

Additional security forces have been rushed to the area for strengthening the cordon, the police officer added.

An exchange of fire reported Tuesday between security forces and militants in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, ANI report said quoting a police officer. An encounter broke out between security forces and militants in the forest area of Yarwan in Shopian district, he said.

An exchange of fire reported Tuesday between security forces and militants in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, ANI report said quoting a police officer. An encounter broke out between security forces and militants in the forest area of Yarwan in Shopian district, he said. Additional security forces have been rushed to the area for strengthening the cordon, the police officer added.

Jammu and Kashmir: Encounter underway in Shopian

A day after lauding the Election Commission of India (ECI)&nbsp;&nbsp;for ''perfect conduct of elections'', former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said&nbsp;the onus of ensuring institutional integrity of the poll body lies with EC and it must put all speculation to rest.&nbsp;

Mukherjee's statement comes amid reports of &nbsp;EVM tampering.

There can be no room for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/former-president-pranab-mukherjee-hails-election-commission-says-polls-were-conducted-perfectly-220355">speculations that challenges</a> the very basis of our democracy, the former president said and added that people mandate is sacrosanct and has to be above any iota of reasonable doubt.&nbsp;

A firm believer in our institutions, it is my considered opinion that it's the ''workmen'' who decide how the institutional ''tools'' perform, he added.

Mukherjee expressed concern over alleged EVM tampering and said ''I am concerned over reports of alleged tampering of voters' verdict.''&nbsp;

Safety and security of EVMs is Election Commission's responsibility, he added.&nbsp;

Election Commission is also under fire from opposition parties for being biased.

Mukherjee on Monday lauded the role of the poll panel saying the 2019 Lok Sabha polls were conducted "perfectly".

"You cannot criticise them, it was perfect conduct of elections," he said during a book launch. 
&nbsp;

A day after lauding the Election Commission of India (ECI) for ''perfect conduct of elections'', former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said the onus of ensuring institutional integrity of the poll body lies with EC and it must put all speculation to rest.

A day after lauding the Election Commission of India (ECI) for ''perfect conduct of elections'', former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said the onus of ensuring institutional integrity of the poll body lies with EC and it must put all speculation to rest. Mukherjee's statement comes amid reports of EVM tampering. There can be no room for speculations that challenges the very basis of our democracy, the former president said and added that people mandate is sacrosanct and has to be above any iota of reasonable doubt. A firm believer in our institutions, it is my considered opinion that it's the ''workmen'' who decide how the institutional ''tools'' perform, he added. Mukherjee expressed concern over alleged EVM tampering and said ''I am concerned over reports of alleged tampering of voters' verdict.'' Safety and security of EVMs is Election Commission's responsibility, he added. Election Commission is also under fire from opposition parties for being biased. Mukherjee on Monday lauded the role of the poll panel saying the 2019 Lok Sabha polls were conducted "perfectly". "You cannot criticise them, it was perfect conduct of elections," he said during a book launch.

Now, Pranab Mukherjee expresses concern over alleged EVM tampering

Normal services were restored on Delhi Metro's Yellow Line on Tuesday nearly four hours after a technical glitch on a section of the corridor left thousands of commuters stranded.

The train services were hit around 9.32 am due to the breakdown of the overhead wire (OHE) at Sultanpur station, leading to tripping of power supply in the section, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) officials said.

Rush-hour commuters were left hassled as trains were temporarily run in two loops -&nbsp;between Huda City Centre and Sultanpur and between Samaypur Badli and Qutub Minar.

There was no train movement between Sultanpur and Qutub Minar stations. Chhattarpur station falls between Sultanpur and Qutub Minar.&nbsp;

Two maintenance teams of DMRC technicians, comprising 16 officials, worked to rectify the problem and trains were initially run at a restricted speed between Chhattarpur and Qutub Minar stations, the officials said.

Nearly three-and-a-half hours later, end-to-end services were partially restored, with trains plying between Qutub Minar and Sultanpur stations with a lower frequency and in another 30 minutes, normal services resumed, they said.

Delhi Metro constantly updated the status of the disruption and rectification on its social media platforms to inform commuters.

"Normal services have now resumed. Inconvenience is regretted. Please allow for some extra time in your commute till the bunching of trains eases," the DMRC said in a tweet.

The 48.8 km-long Yellow Line has 37 stations and has an average daily ridership of about 7-8 lakh.&nbsp;

Normal services were restored on Delhi Metro's Yellow Line on Tuesday nearly four hours after a technical glitch on a section of the corridor left thousands of commuters stranded.

Normal services were restored on Delhi Metro's Yellow Line on Tuesday nearly four hours after a technical glitch on a section of the corridor left thousands of commuters stranded. The train services were hit around 9.32 am due to the breakdown of the overhead wire (OHE) at Sultanpur station, leading to tripping of power supply in the section, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) officials said. Rush-hour commuters were left hassled as trains were temporarily run in two loops - between Huda City Centre and Sultanpur and between Samaypur Badli and Qutub Minar. There was no train movement between Sultanpur and Qutub Minar stations. Chhattarpur station falls between Sultanpur and Qutub Minar. Two maintenance teams of DMRC technicians, comprising 16 officials, worked to rectify the problem and trains were initially run at a restricted speed between Chhattarpur and Qutub Minar stations, the officials said. Nearly three-and-a-half hours later, end-to-end services were partially restored, with trains plying between Qutub Minar and Sultanpur stations with a lower frequency and in another 30 minutes, normal services resumed, they said. Delhi Metro constantly updated the status of the disruption and rectification on its social media platforms to inform commuters. "Normal services have now resumed. Inconvenience is regretted. Please allow for some extra time in your commute till the bunching of trains eases," the DMRC said in a tweet. The 48.8 km-long Yellow Line has 37 stations and has an average daily ridership of about 7-8 lakh.

Four hours after disruption, services restored on Delhi Metro's Yellow Line 

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Four hours after disruption, services restored on Delhi Metro's Yellow Line