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Barely five days ahead of the results to country's general election, best-selling author Chetan Bhagat was in Chennai to launch his latest non-fiction work ‘India Positive’.

He addressed the gathering at the India Positive Conclave on Saturday which aimed to drive a conversation around positive political culture and constructive politics.&nbsp;

Bhagat’s latest book is a collection of short essays on contemporary political issues and examines a wide array of subjects such as education, GST (Goods and Services Tax), corruption and casteism.

Speaking at the book launch, the author highlighted the heightened political awareness and curiosity amongst the youth and netizens by taking the example of the recent Twitter poll where he found that over 84 per cent of the respondents believed that the election results on May 23 were more exciting or as exciting as the Cricket World Cup finale.&nbsp;

The author said that his book was written keeping in mind the attention span and the curiosity of the current generation. The book comprises a compilation of essays, each of which is two to three pages in length.&nbsp;

Adding a personal touch to this speech, Chetan referred to his wife’s Tamil origins and spoke about the humility of Tamil people. Referring to Tamil Nadu’s notable rate of growth and development, he said that Tamil culture did not encourage marketing, as they are good at performing. He also stated that there is no shame in marketing good work. He even hoped to see a Tamilian Prime Minister in the years to come.

Making a specific reference to the political scenario in the country, Bhagat said that 'India Positive' is not about who wins the elections and that the biggest problem is not one particular party. He highlighted the need to stop promoting hate against other religions and emphasized on the need to focus on issues such as infrastructure and pollution.&nbsp;

The conclave also featured a panel discussion by eminent politicians, entrepreneurs and public figures of Tamil Nadu, on the need and scope for positive politics for the benefit of the state and its population.&nbsp;

The discussion that was moderated by Actress Kasturi Shankar involved State Minister for Tamil language and Culture K Pandiarajan, BJP spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy, TN Congress committee working president Mohan Kumaramangalam, Ponraj of Abdul Kalam Vision India Party and entrepreneur CK Kumaravel.&nbsp;

While the panel discussion did occasionally witness verbal duels between the political opponents, there were also rare scenes of political courtesy and civility when the politicians credited the achievements and schemes of their respective opponents.&nbsp;

The discussion on 'India Positive' had the BJP spokesperson appreciating the Congress party for its RTI and 'Unique Identity' project and the Congress’ representative reciprocated by appreciating the BJP for its implementation of the GST.&nbsp;

The AIADMK minister also appreciated the efforts of the Congress and the DMK referring to the 100-days employment guarantee scheme and the DMK’s move to introduce reforms in education at the state level.

Barely five days ahead of the results to country's general election, best-selling author Chetan Bhagat was in Chennai to launch his latest non-fiction work ‘India Positive’.

Barely five days ahead of the results to country's general election, best-selling author Chetan Bhagat was in Chennai to launch his latest non-fiction work ‘India Positive’. He addressed the gathering at the India Positive Conclave on Saturday which aimed to drive a conversation around positive political culture and constructive politics. Bhagat’s latest book is a collection of short essays on contemporary political issues and examines a wide array of subjects such as education, GST (Goods and Services Tax), corruption and casteism. Speaking at the book launch, the author highlighted the heightened political awareness and curiosity amongst the youth and netizens by taking the example of the recent Twitter poll where he found that over 84 per cent of the respondents believed that the election results on May 23 were more exciting or as exciting as the Cricket World Cup finale. The author said that his book was written keeping in mind the attention span and the curiosity of the current generation. The book comprises a compilation of essays, each of which is two to three pages in length. Adding a personal touch to this speech, Chetan referred to his wife’s Tamil origins and spoke about the humility of Tamil people. Referring to Tamil Nadu’s notable rate of growth and development, he said that Tamil culture did not encourage marketing, as they are good at performing. He also stated that there is no shame in marketing good work. He even hoped to see a Tamilian Prime Minister in the years to come. Making a specific reference to the political scenario in the country, Bhagat said that 'India Positive' is not about who wins the elections and that the biggest problem is not one particular party. He highlighted the need to stop promoting hate against other religions and emphasized on the need to focus on issues such as infrastructure and pollution. The conclave also featured a panel discussion by eminent politicians, entrepreneurs and public figures of Tamil Nadu, on the need and scope for positive politics for the benefit of the state and its population. The discussion that was moderated by Actress Kasturi Shankar involved State Minister for Tamil language and Culture K Pandiarajan, BJP spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy, TN Congress committee working president Mohan Kumaramangalam, Ponraj of Abdul Kalam Vision India Party and entrepreneur CK Kumaravel. While the panel discussion did occasionally witness verbal duels between the political opponents, there were also rare scenes of political courtesy and civility when the politicians credited the achievements and schemes of their respective opponents. The discussion on 'India Positive' had the BJP spokesperson appreciating the Congress party for its RTI and 'Unique Identity' project and the Congress’ representative reciprocated by appreciating the BJP for its implementation of the GST. The AIADMK minister also appreciated the efforts of the Congress and the DMK referring to the 100-days employment guarantee scheme and the DMK’s move to introduce reforms in education at the state level.

Ahead of Lok Sabha polls result, Chetan Bhagat launches non-fiction book titled ‘India Positive’

People in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are likely to face scorching heat in the coming days as temperatures are expected to rise as high as 45 degree Celsius, Meteorological Department (MeT Dept) said on Saturday.

In coming days, Telugu states may also witness thunderstorm in some areas, added the IMD.

According to the Met Department, the states are likely to register temperature between 40 and 45 degree Celsius.

"Present weather situation indicates that there was isolated turf at northeastern Karnataka at the height of 1.3 kilometres and moving towards Tamil Nadu. Due to this, there will be thunderstorms and rainfall in some areas of the Telugu states," metrologist L V Rao told ANI here.

He said,&nbsp;"Due to heat waves coming from northwestern states, the temperature in Andhra and Telangana is going to rise up to 45 degree Celsius."

Telangana's capital Hyderabad has already crossed 42 degree Celsius temperate over the past few days.&nbsp;

People in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are likely to face scorching heat in the coming days as temperatures are expected to rise as high as 45 degree Celsius, Meteorological Department (MeT Dept) said on Saturday.

People in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are likely to face scorching heat in the coming days as temperatures are expected to rise as high as 45 degree Celsius, Meteorological Department (MeT Dept) said on Saturday. In coming days, Telugu states may also witness thunderstorm in some areas, added the IMD. According to the Met Department, the states are likely to register temperature between 40 and 45 degree Celsius. "Present weather situation indicates that there was isolated turf at northeastern Karnataka at the height of 1.3 kilometres and moving towards Tamil Nadu. Due to this, there will be thunderstorms and rainfall in some areas of the Telugu states," metrologist L V Rao told ANI here. He said, "Due to heat waves coming from northwestern states, the temperature in Andhra and Telangana is going to rise up to 45 degree Celsius." Telangana's capital Hyderabad has already crossed 42 degree Celsius temperate over the past few days.

MeT Department predicts heat wave in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh

The Defence Ministry has rejected Vice Admiral Bimal Verma's petition challenging the appointment of his junior, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vice-admiral-karanbir-singh-appointed-chief-of-naval-staff-replaces-sunil-lanba-205038">Vice Admiral Karambir Singh</a>, as the next Navy Chief, holding that seniority is not the sole criteria for selection.&nbsp;

In order, the defence ministry said Verma's statutory petition dated April 10 against the appointment of Vice Admiral Singh to the top post is devoid of merit and has been rejected in the exercise of powers under Section 23 of the Navy Act 1957.&nbsp;

Verma, commander-in-chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command and senior-most naval commander, had moved a military tribunal last month questioning Vice Admiral Singh's appointment as the next Navy Chief, overlooking his seniority. Singh will take over as the new Navy chief from incumbent Admiral Sunil Lanba, who is retiring on May 31.

The tribunal had on April 25 directed the defence ministry to decide Verma's petition within three weeks.

"The Chief of Naval Staff is selected from amongst the senior most eligible Vice-Admirals of the Indian Navy in the rank of Commander-in-Chief/VCNS (Vice Chief of Naval Staff) through a rigorous selection process, where seniority though an important consideration is not the sole criteria for selection," the defence ministry said in its order in response to Verma's petition.&nbsp;

"Thus in the past&nbsp;too seniority has been dispensed with in appointment of CNS," it said.&nbsp;

In the order, the defence ministry also mentioned about two letters of "Severe Displeasure" issued to Verma on October 28, 2005, and June 29, 2007, saying "it would be incorrect to say that throughout his service tenure he has never been informed or communicated about any shortcomings or misdemeanours"&nbsp;against him.&nbsp;

It said he was also not appointed as Commander-in-Chief of the two operational commands of the Indian Navy -- Eastern and the Western Command.&nbsp;

The defence ministry said a thorough selection process was conducted under which overall service profile of all the contenders for the top post was examined.

It said specific parameters for selection were applied uniformly to all the contenders and based on the assessment, it was found that Vice Admiral Verma, though being the senior most eligible officer, was found unsuitable to hold the post of the Chief of the Naval Staff.&nbsp;

"The central government is also satisfied that no unsubstantiated, frivolous, extraneous or irrelevant consideration has had a bearing on the said selection," the defence ministry said.

In his petition, Verma had mentioned about the Navy Order (Special) 01/2012 which, he said, laid down procedure for selection of officers to ranks of Rear Admiral and Vice Admiral, adding thrust of it was a merit cum-seniority-based approach.&nbsp;

He said the same procedure ought to have been applied for selection of the next Chief of Naval Staff.&nbsp;

To this, the defence ministry said the Navy Order does not cover the appointment of the Navy Chief.

The Armed Forces Tribunal here is scheduled to hear the case on Monday.

A lawyer of Verma said the vice admiral will challenge at the AFT the government's order rejecting his petition.

Verma had filed a statutory complaint with the Defence Ministry on April 10, challenging the appointment of Singh, and asked it to respond within 10 days. 
However, as there was no response from the ministry, he approached the AFT on April 24.

In his petition, Verma wondered why he was overlooked for the top post despite being the senior-most in the line of command, terming as "wrongful" the government's decision to appoint Singh to the post.

While appointing the Army chief in 2016, the government did not follow the long-held tradition of going by seniority. Bipin Rawat was appointed Army chief superseding then Eastern Command Chief Lt Gen Praveen Bakshi and Southern Command Chief PM Hariz.

Besides Verma, the other contenders for the Navy Chief post included Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar, FOC-in-C of Western Naval Command Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar and FOC-in-C of Southern Naval Command Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla.

Singh, who is at present serving as the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam, will be the first helicopter pilot to become chief of naval staff.

Verma is the brother of former Navy chief Nirmal Kumar Verma.&nbsp;

The Defence Ministry has rejected Vice Admiral Bimal Verma's petition challenging the appointment of his junior, Vice Admiral Karambir Singh, as the next Navy Chief, holding that seniority is not the sole criteria for selection.

The Defence Ministry has rejected Vice Admiral Bimal Verma's petition challenging the appointment of his junior, Vice Admiral Karambir Singh, as the next Navy Chief, holding that seniority is not the sole criteria for selection. In order, the defence ministry said Verma's statutory petition dated April 10 against the appointment of Vice Admiral Singh to the top post is devoid of merit and has been rejected in the exercise of powers under Section 23 of the Navy Act 1957. Verma, commander-in-chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command and senior-most naval commander, had moved a military tribunal last month questioning Vice Admiral Singh's appointment as the next Navy Chief, overlooking his seniority. Singh will take over as the new Navy chief from incumbent Admiral Sunil Lanba, who is retiring on May 31. The tribunal had on April 25 directed the defence ministry to decide Verma's petition within three weeks. "The Chief of Naval Staff is selected from amongst the senior most eligible Vice-Admirals of the Indian Navy in the rank of Commander-in-Chief/VCNS (Vice Chief of Naval Staff) through a rigorous selection process, where seniority though an important consideration is not the sole criteria for selection," the defence ministry said in its order in response to Verma's petition. "Thus in the past too seniority has been dispensed with in appointment of CNS," it said. In the order, the defence ministry also mentioned about two letters of "Severe Displeasure" issued to Verma on October 28, 2005, and June 29, 2007, saying "it would be incorrect to say that throughout his service tenure he has never been informed or communicated about any shortcomings or misdemeanours" against him. It said he was also not appointed as Commander-in-Chief of the two operational commands of the Indian Navy -- Eastern and the Western Command. The defence ministry said a thorough selection process was conducted under which overall service profile of all the contenders for the top post was examined. It said specific parameters for selection were applied uniformly to all the contenders and based on the assessment, it was found that Vice Admiral Verma, though being the senior most eligible officer, was found unsuitable to hold the post of the Chief of the Naval Staff. "The central government is also satisfied that no unsubstantiated, frivolous, extraneous or irrelevant consideration has had a bearing on the said selection," the defence ministry said. In his petition, Verma had mentioned about the Navy Order (Special) 01/2012 which, he said, laid down procedure for selection of officers to ranks of Rear Admiral and Vice Admiral, adding thrust of it was a merit cum-seniority-based approach. He said the same procedure ought to have been applied for selection of the next Chief of Naval Staff. To this, the defence ministry said the Navy Order does not cover the appointment of the Navy Chief. The Armed Forces Tribunal here is scheduled to hear the case on Monday. A lawyer of Verma said the vice admiral will challenge at the AFT the government's order rejecting his petition. Verma had filed a statutory complaint with the Defence Ministry on April 10, challenging the appointment of Singh, and asked it to respond within 10 days. However, as there was no response from the ministry, he approached the AFT on April 24. In his petition, Verma wondered why he was overlooked for the top post despite being the senior-most in the line of command, terming as "wrongful" the government's decision to appoint Singh to the post. While appointing the Army chief in 2016, the government did not follow the long-held tradition of going by seniority. Bipin Rawat was appointed Army chief superseding then Eastern Command Chief Lt Gen Praveen Bakshi and Southern Command Chief PM Hariz. Besides Verma, the other contenders for the Navy Chief post included Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral G Ashok Kumar, FOC-in-C of Western Naval Command Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar and FOC-in-C of Southern Naval Command Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawla. Singh, who is at present serving as the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam, will be the first helicopter pilot to become chief of naval staff. Verma is the brother of former Navy chief Nirmal Kumar Verma.

Defence Ministry rejects Vice Admiral Bimal Verma's petition challenging appointment of Navy Chief

India, which is owed $38 million by the UN for peacekeeping operations, has voiced concern over the "unjustifiable and inexplicable" delays in reimbursement to countries providing peacekeeping troops and police for UN missions.

It underlined that recurrent delays in payments have turned the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) as "de facto financers" of UN peacekeeping.

"Reimbursement on time for peacekeeping is a genuine expectation," First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Mahesh Kumar said Thursday at a Fifth Committee (Administrative and Budgetary) session on 'Improving the Financial Situation of the United Nations.'

Kumar noted that total arrears currently stand at a whopping $3.6 billion, nearly one-third of the annual assessment of the United Nations, adding that UN peacekeeping also suffers from delay in reimbursements.

He pointed out that apart from the one billion dollar worth of unsettled reimbursements to TCCs, large reimbursements related to Letters of Assist ($178 million) and death and disability claims ($8 million) were also outstanding.

These amounts do not include the long unsettled Contingent Owned Equipment (COE) reimbursements of many TCCs, including India, from the closed peacekeeping missions.

The UN owes India $38 million, among the highest it has to pay to any country, for peacekeeping operations as of March 2019, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said in his report in April on improving the financial situation of the UN. As of March 31, 2019, the total amount payable to troop- and police-contributing countries with respect to active peacekeeping missions was $265 million.

Kumar emphasised that India is among those member states who continue to be owed significant sums towards troop and COE reimbursements from the active peacekeeping missions but the country still continues to support UN peacekeeping and is cumulatively the largest troop contributor.

He voiced concern over the "unjustifiable and inexplicable delays in reimbursement, saying it negatively impacts on UN's ability to maintain honest agreements with TCCs on other aspects of peacekeeping. "This situation calls for serious introspection," he said.

Emphasising that arrears put those member states that would have benefitted from the efficient implementation of mandates to a serious disadvantage, Kumar noted that while there has not been any real growth in the reimbursement rates, the TCCs have been asked to bring in more capacities and more equipment to achieve ambitious mandates.

"These arrears and recurrent delay in reimbursement have turned the TCCs as de facto financers of UN peacekeeping. This is involuntary and beyond many TCCs' capacity to pay; in fact, it eats up their already limited capacity to contribute," he said.

Kumar added that the current reimbursement framework and related practices of the UN Secretariat also compound the problem, noting that the practice of delaying payments to TCCs, even as similar contractual obligations to others are met, cannot continue "unaddressed."

India's share of the UN's budget has been increasing in recent years, including a 13 per cent increase from this year and the country has been paying its share on time. The UN Secretary-General has put forth several proposals to improve the financial situation of the UN and some of the proposals supposedly aim to improve the UN's reimbursement relationship with the TCCs. Kumar said India will study these proposals carefully.

Guterres had said in his report that the arrears to troop- and police-contributing countries could increase to $588 million by June 2019 "in the worst-case scenario. The UN chief had expressed his concern about the deteriorating financial health of the Organisation, saying the United Nations is facing deepening liquidity problems in its regular budget, a trend that must be urgently halted and reversed.

"Peacekeeping operations also face frequent cash constraints that force the Organisation to postpone the settlement of its obligations to troop- and police-contributing countries, he said.

Guterres has requested the General Assembly to increase the Working Capital Fund to $350 million effective July 1, 2019 and to create a Peacekeeping Working Capital Fund of $250 million and authorise its use to address the liquidity challenges of active peacekeeping operations among ways to help improve the financial situation of the world body and deal with timely payment of dues to troop and police contributing countries.

Earlier this year, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin had said that the financial situation of the United Nations peacekeeping, particularly the non-payment/delayed payment of arrears to the troop/police-contributing countries, is a "cause for concern".

He had said that the practice of delaying payments to TCCs/PCCs, even as contractual obligations to others are met, cannot continue unaddressed.

It results in TCCs/PCCs bearing unsustainable burdens. In some cases, TCCs and PCCs are owed 100 to 200 times their cumulative annual financial contributions to the UN, he had said.

India, which is owed $38 million by the UN for peacekeeping operations, has voiced concern over the "unjustifiable and inexplicable" delays in reimbursement to countries providing peacekeeping troops and police for UN missions.

India, which is owed $38 million by the UN for peacekeeping operations, has voiced concern over the "unjustifiable and inexplicable" delays in reimbursement to countries providing peacekeeping troops and police for UN missions. It underlined that recurrent delays in payments have turned the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) as "de facto financers" of UN peacekeeping. "Reimbursement on time for peacekeeping is a genuine expectation," First Secretary in India's Permanent Mission to the UN Mahesh Kumar said Thursday at a Fifth Committee (Administrative and Budgetary) session on 'Improving the Financial Situation of the United Nations.' Kumar noted that total arrears currently stand at a whopping $3.6 billion, nearly one-third of the annual assessment of the United Nations, adding that UN peacekeeping also suffers from delay in reimbursements. He pointed out that apart from the one billion dollar worth of unsettled reimbursements to TCCs, large reimbursements related to Letters of Assist ($178 million) and death and disability claims ($8 million) were also outstanding. These amounts do not include the long unsettled Contingent Owned Equipment (COE) reimbursements of many TCCs, including India, from the closed peacekeeping missions. The UN owes India $38 million, among the highest it has to pay to any country, for peacekeeping operations as of March 2019, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had said in his report in April on improving the financial situation of the UN. As of March 31, 2019, the total amount payable to troop- and police-contributing countries with respect to active peacekeeping missions was $265 million. Kumar emphasised that India is among those member states who continue to be owed significant sums towards troop and COE reimbursements from the active peacekeeping missions but the country still continues to support UN peacekeeping and is cumulatively the largest troop contributor. He voiced concern over the "unjustifiable and inexplicable delays in reimbursement, saying it negatively impacts on UN's ability to maintain honest agreements with TCCs on other aspects of peacekeeping. "This situation calls for serious introspection," he said. Emphasising that arrears put those member states that would have benefitted from the efficient implementation of mandates to a serious disadvantage, Kumar noted that while there has not been any real growth in the reimbursement rates, the TCCs have been asked to bring in more capacities and more equipment to achieve ambitious mandates. "These arrears and recurrent delay in reimbursement have turned the TCCs as de facto financers of UN peacekeeping. This is involuntary and beyond many TCCs' capacity to pay; in fact, it eats up their already limited capacity to contribute," he said. Kumar added that the current reimbursement framework and related practices of the UN Secretariat also compound the problem, noting that the practice of delaying payments to TCCs, even as similar contractual obligations to others are met, cannot continue "unaddressed." India's share of the UN's budget has been increasing in recent years, including a 13 per cent increase from this year and the country has been paying its share on time. The UN Secretary-General has put forth several proposals to improve the financial situation of the UN and some of the proposals supposedly aim to improve the UN's reimbursement relationship with the TCCs. Kumar said India will study these proposals carefully. Guterres had said in his report that the arrears to troop- and police-contributing countries could increase to $588 million by June 2019 "in the worst-case scenario. The UN chief had expressed his concern about the deteriorating financial health of the Organisation, saying the United Nations is facing deepening liquidity problems in its regular budget, a trend that must be urgently halted and reversed. "Peacekeeping operations also face frequent cash constraints that force the Organisation to postpone the settlement of its obligations to troop- and police-contributing countries, he said. Guterres has requested the General Assembly to increase the Working Capital Fund to $350 million effective July 1, 2019 and to create a Peacekeeping Working Capital Fund of $250 million and authorise its use to address the liquidity challenges of active peacekeeping operations among ways to help improve the financial situation of the world body and deal with timely payment of dues to troop and police contributing countries. Earlier this year, India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin had said that the financial situation of the United Nations peacekeeping, particularly the non-payment/delayed payment of arrears to the troop/police-contributing countries, is a "cause for concern". He had said that the practice of delaying payments to TCCs/PCCs, even as contractual obligations to others are met, cannot continue unaddressed. It results in TCCs/PCCs bearing unsustainable burdens. In some cases, TCCs and PCCs are owed 100 to 200 times their cumulative annual financial contributions to the UN, he had said.

India voices concern over delays in reimbursement to UN peacekeeping contributing countries

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tmc-west-bengal-cm-and-those-close-to-her-have-lost-their-balance-pm-modi-219453">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> on Saturday arrived in Kedarnath on a two-day visit.

The visit comes a day after the campaign closed for general election 2019.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi lands in Kedarnath, he will offer prayers at Kedarnath temple shortly. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Uttarakhand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Uttarakhand</a> <a href="https://t.co/JDNRzXYslx">pic.twitter.com/JDNRzXYslx</a>
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Stringent security arrangements have been made for the prime minister's visit, DGP (law and order) Ashok Kumar said.

Modi will visit Kedarnath and Badrinath on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

This is Modi's fourth visit to the holy shrine.

The portals of both the shrines were reopened for devotees after winter break early this month.&nbsp;

On May 19, 59 parliamentary constituencies, including Varanasi, from where Modi is contesting&nbsp;will go to polls in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections.

The results of 2019 Lok Sabha polls will&nbsp;be announced on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday arrived in Kedarnath on a two-day visit. The visit comes a day after the campaign closed for general election 2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lands in Kedarnath, he will offer prayers at Kedarnath temple shortly.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday arrived in Kedarnath on a two-day visit. The visit comes a day after the campaign closed for general election 2019. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lands in Kedarnath, he will offer prayers at Kedarnath temple shortly. #Uttarakhand pic.twitter.com/JDNRzXYslx — ANI (@ANI) May 18, 2019 × Stringent security arrangements have been made for the prime minister's visit, DGP (law and order) Ashok Kumar said. Modi will visit Kedarnath and Badrinath on Saturday and Sunday respectively. This is Modi's fourth visit to the holy shrine. The portals of both the shrines were reopened for devotees after winter break early this month. On May 19, 59 parliamentary constituencies, including Varanasi, from where Modi is contesting will go to polls in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections. The results of 2019 Lok Sabha polls will be announced on May 23.

PM Modi on two-day visit to Kedarnath, Badrinath

In three major anti-terror operations, security forces have gunned down four terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. With this, the total number of terrorists killed in the past three days goes to 10.&nbsp;

During the night, based on specific information, forces launched an operation in Panzgam village in Awantipora area of Pulwama district in south Kashmir. Three terrorists were killed in the encounter including top Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander Showkat Dar, who was involved in the killing of jawan Aurangzeb in June 2018.&nbsp;

"He was involved in planning and executing a series of terror attacks in the area and many other civilian atrocities. He was part of a group involved in the killing of Army jawaan Aurangzeb last year. He was also involved in the killing of policeman Aqib Ahmad Wagay last year," J&amp;K Police said in a statement.&nbsp;

Aurangzeb, a rifleman with 44 Rashtriya Rifles, was first kidnapped and later shot dead by terrorists in south Kashmir when he was travelling to his home in Poonch in a private vehicle last year.&nbsp;

Two other terrorists identified as Irfan of Wadoora Payeen in north Kashmir's Sopore and Muzaffar Sheikh of Tahab Pulwama were killed. Arms and ammunition were also recovered from the spot of the encounter.&nbsp;

Security forces also engaged terrorists in a brief shootout during the pre-dawn hours in Dehruna area of Anantnag. Although the forces widened the cordon, according to sources terrorists, at least two of them managed to slip away.

Clashes between protesters and security forces were also reported from Pulwama and Anantnag during the encounter.&nbsp;

Later in the day, based on a credible input, a cordon and search operation was launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Police along with the Indian Army and the CRPF in Hathlangoo village of Sopore in north Kashmir.&nbsp;

While the searches were going on, hiding terrorists opened fire on the forces, triggering an encounter. One terrorist was killed and his body was retrieved at the encounter spot.&nbsp;

The slain terrorist has been identified as Waseem Ahmad Naik, a resident of Udipora Barsoo in Awantipora. Sources informed that Waseem was missing from his home in March after which his family had filed a missing report with the police.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In three major anti-terror operations, security forces have gunned down four terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. With this, the total number of terrorists killed in the past three days goes to 10.

In three major anti-terror operations, security forces have gunned down four terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. With this, the total number of terrorists killed in the past three days goes to 10. During the night, based on specific information, forces launched an operation in Panzgam village in Awantipora area of Pulwama district in south Kashmir. Three terrorists were killed in the encounter including top Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander Showkat Dar, who was involved in the killing of jawan Aurangzeb in June 2018. "He was involved in planning and executing a series of terror attacks in the area and many other civilian atrocities. He was part of a group involved in the killing of Army jawaan Aurangzeb last year. He was also involved in the killing of policeman Aqib Ahmad Wagay last year," J&K Police said in a statement. Aurangzeb, a rifleman with 44 Rashtriya Rifles, was first kidnapped and later shot dead by terrorists in south Kashmir when he was travelling to his home in Poonch in a private vehicle last year. Two other terrorists identified as Irfan of Wadoora Payeen in north Kashmir's Sopore and Muzaffar Sheikh of Tahab Pulwama were killed. Arms and ammunition were also recovered from the spot of the encounter. Security forces also engaged terrorists in a brief shootout during the pre-dawn hours in Dehruna area of Anantnag. Although the forces widened the cordon, according to sources terrorists, at least two of them managed to slip away. Clashes between protesters and security forces were also reported from Pulwama and Anantnag during the encounter. Later in the day, based on a credible input, a cordon and search operation was launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Police along with the Indian Army and the CRPF in Hathlangoo village of Sopore in north Kashmir. While the searches were going on, hiding terrorists opened fire on the forces, triggering an encounter. One terrorist was killed and his body was retrieved at the encounter spot. The slain terrorist has been identified as Waseem Ahmad Naik, a resident of Udipora Barsoo in Awantipora. Sources informed that Waseem was missing from his home in March after which his family had filed a missing report with the police.

Jammu and Kashmir: Terrorist involved in rifleman Aurangzeb's killing among four killed by security forces

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-voters-tipped-to-elect-labour-government-219514">Labour Party expected to return to power after 6 years in political wilderness as Australia votes</a>

Australians began voting in a federal election on Saturday, with bookies predicting a return to power for the Labour party after six years in the political wilderness and a campaign in which it has put climate change and tax reform at the top of its agenda.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/too-early-to-assess-sri-lanka-economic-damage-from-easter-bombings-imf-219527">Too early to assess Sri Lanka economic damage from Easter bombings: IMF</a>

The International Monetary Fund said on Thursday it was holding its forecast for Sri Lanka's 2019 economic growth at 3.5% in spite of devastating Easter bombings, saying it was too early to assess financial damage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-tough-rhetoric-leaves-trade-talks-with-us-in-limbo-219517">China's tough rhetoric leaves trade talks with US in limbo</a>

China struck a more aggressive tone in its trade war with the United States on Friday, suggesting a resumption of talks between the world's two largest economies would be meaningless unless Washington changed course.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-says-norway-talks-sought-peaceful-agenda-with-opposition-219519">Venezuela's Maduro says Norway talks sought 'peaceful agenda' with opposition</a>

Talks in Norway this week with representatives of Venezuela's government and the opposition sought to "build a peaceful agenda" for the crisis-stricken South American country, President Nicolas Maduro said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-encounter-underway-in-pulwama-district-one-terrorist-killed-219516">Jammu and Kashmir: Encounter underway in Pulwama &amp; Anantnag, two terrorists killed</a>

The security forces gunned down two terrorists on Saturday morning and one of the body was found in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district during the post counter search.

Among the two, one of them is believed to be Showkat Dar, a Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander.

Labour Party expected to return to power after 6 years in political wilderness as Australia votes Australians began voting in a federal election on Saturday, with bookies predicting a return to power for the Labour party after six years in the political wilderness and a campaign in which it has put climate change and tax reform at the top of its agenda.

Labour Party expected to return to power after 6 years in political wilderness as Australia votes Australians began voting in a federal election on Saturday, with bookies predicting a return to power for the Labour party after six years in the political wilderness and a campaign in which it has put climate change and tax reform at the top of its agenda. Too early to assess Sri Lanka economic damage from Easter bombings: IMF The International Monetary Fund said on Thursday it was holding its forecast for Sri Lanka's 2019 economic growth at 3.5% in spite of devastating Easter bombings, saying it was too early to assess financial damage. China's tough rhetoric leaves trade talks with US in limbo China struck a more aggressive tone in its trade war with the United States on Friday, suggesting a resumption of talks between the world's two largest economies would be meaningless unless Washington changed course. Venezuela's Maduro says Norway talks sought 'peaceful agenda' with opposition Talks in Norway this week with representatives of Venezuela's government and the opposition sought to "build a peaceful agenda" for the crisis-stricken South American country, President Nicolas Maduro said on Friday. Jammu and Kashmir: Encounter underway in Pulwama & Anantnag, two terrorists killed The security forces gunned down two terrorists on Saturday morning and one of the body was found in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district during the post counter search. Among the two, one of them is believed to be Showkat Dar, a Hizb-ul-Mujahideen commander.

News brief: Big stories of the day

After facing considerable backlash for using images of Hindu Gods on toilet covers and rugs, the e-commerce giant Amazon has removed the products from its online platform. The development comes after New Delhi had sent a strong message to the Seattle based company.&nbsp;

A government source speaking to WION on the controversy said, "The matter has been resolved."

The use of pictures of Hindu gods as rugs and toilet covers on Amazon's US website saw a lot of criticism for the company especially online for hurting religious sentiments. An FIR has also been registered against the company.

An Amazon spokesperson, responding to WION on the products with images of Hindu God said, "All sellers must follow our selling guidelines and those who do not will be subject to action including potential removal of their account."&nbsp;

The issue of four offending items on Amazon was brought to the notice of the Embassy through social media.&nbsp;

The Indian Embassy in Washington immediately contacted Amazon and requested their removal due to the offensive nature of their depiction. The products were promptly removed.

Not for the first time, Amazon has been in hit waters. In 2017 Amazon's Canadian website had a doormat with Indian tricolour. The company later apologised when India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj asked the company to not only apologise or no visas will be granted to the company's officials.&nbsp;

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Amazon must tender unconditional apology. They must withdraw all products insulting our national flag immediately. /1
— Chowkidar Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj/status/819192573134680064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The company plans to invest in the country and be part of the lucrative and rapidly growing e-commerce market.

After facing considerable backlash for using images of Hindu Gods on toilet covers and rugs, the e-commerce giant Amazon has removed the products from its online platform.

After facing considerable backlash for using images of Hindu Gods on toilet covers and rugs, the e-commerce giant Amazon has removed the products from its online platform. The development comes after New Delhi had sent a strong message to the Seattle based company. A government source speaking to WION on the controversy said, "The matter has been resolved." The use of pictures of Hindu gods as rugs and toilet covers on Amazon's US website saw a lot of criticism for the company especially online for hurting religious sentiments. An FIR has also been registered against the company. An Amazon spokesperson, responding to WION on the products with images of Hindu God said, "All sellers must follow our selling guidelines and those who do not will be subject to action including potential removal of their account." The issue of four offending items on Amazon was brought to the notice of the Embassy through social media. The Indian Embassy in Washington immediately contacted Amazon and requested their removal due to the offensive nature of their depiction. The products were promptly removed. Not for the first time, Amazon has been in hit waters. In 2017 Amazon's Canadian website had a doormat with Indian tricolour. The company later apologised when India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj asked the company to not only apologise or no visas will be granted to the company's officials. Amazon must tender unconditional apology. They must withdraw all products insulting our national flag immediately. /1 — Chowkidar Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) January 11, 2017 × The company plans to invest in the country and be part of the lucrative and rapidly growing e-commerce market.

After Indian government's message, Amazon removes products hurting religious sentiments

2 terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces in J&K's Pulwama district. The gunbattle is underway. Watch full video to know more.

J&K: Encounter underway in Pulwama district, 2 terrorist killed

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-approves-possible-314-million-sale-of-missiles-to-south-korea-219598">US State Department approves possible $314 million sale of missiles to South Korea</a>

The US State Department has cleared $314 million in possible sales of air defence missiles to South Korea, the Pentagon said on Friday, as tensions re-emerge on the Korean peninsula.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-will-be-no-war-as-we-dont-want-war-and-no-can-confront-iran-foreign-minister-javad-zarif-219604">There will be no war, we don't want it and no one can confront Iran: Foreign Minister Javad Zarif</a>

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/ill-timed-controversies-must-be-avoided-chief-election-commissioner-hits-back-at-ashok-lavasa-denies-reports-of-rift-in-ec-219623">Ill-timed controversies must be avoided: Chief Election Commissioner hits back at Ashok Lavasa, denies reports of rift in EC</a>

Differences in the Election Commission have burst out in the open with Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa boycotting the meetings of the full Commission over his dissent on crucial decisions not being recorded.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/naidu-suggests-election-commission-to-count-votes-through-vvpats-219605">Naidu suggests Election Commission to count votes through VVPATs</a>

Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu urged the Election Commission to count votes through Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) instead of EVMs during counting for the Lok Sabha polls.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austrian-far-right-leader-resigns-over-ibiza-affair-219615">Austrian far-right leader resigns over 'Ibiza affair'</a>

Austrian Vice-Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache, a key figure of the European far-right, resigned Saturday after explosive revelations from a hidden camera sting, just days before key EU elections.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US State Department approves possible $314 million sale of missiles to South Korea The US State Department has cleared $314 million in possible sales of air defence missiles to South Korea, the Pentagon said on Friday, as tensions re-emerge on the Korean peninsula.

US State Department approves possible $314 million sale of missiles to South Korea The US State Department has cleared $314 million in possible sales of air defence missiles to South Korea, the Pentagon said on Friday, as tensions re-emerge on the Korean peninsula. There will be no war, we don't want it and no one can confront Iran: Foreign Minister Javad Zarif Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Saturday he did not believe war would break out in the region as Tehran did not want a conflict and no country had the "illusion it could confront Iran", the state news agency IRNA reported. Ill-timed controversies must be avoided: Chief Election Commissioner hits back at Ashok Lavasa, denies reports of rift in EC Differences in the Election Commission have burst out in the open with Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa boycotting the meetings of the full Commission over his dissent on crucial decisions not being recorded. Naidu suggests Election Commission to count votes through VVPATs Andhra Pradesh chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu urged the Election Commission to count votes through Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) instead of EVMs during counting for the Lok Sabha polls. Austrian far-right leader resigns over 'Ibiza affair' Austrian Vice-Chancellor Heinz-Christian Strache, a key figure of the European far-right, resigned Saturday after explosive revelations from a hidden camera sting, just days before key EU elections.

In PM Modi's attire in Kedarnath, message to Himachal Pradesh and West Bengal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/isro-planning-7-interplanetary-missions-in-a-decade-chairman-dr-sivan-219508">Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)</a> Director K Sivan inaugurated&nbsp;the Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA) here on Friday.

The programme is aimed at imparting basic knowledge of science and space technology to school-going students from different states and Union Territories (UT) of the country in order to arouse their interest in space-related activities.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Sivan said, "The programme will enthuse students from every nook and corner of the country and make them good scientists."

To the possibility of having a similar programme for engineering students, he said, "Right now we are focusing on school students of 9th-10th standards as they are at a stage of planning their careers. This programme will help them in planning their career."

Sivan added that the programme is aimed at hunting talent not only from big schools but also from schools in small hamlets across the country.

"Every state and UT has been asked to select students from government as well as private schools."

A total of 110 students are participating in the programme spread over two weeks this year.

The participants will be attending a residential training programme at four ISRO centres - Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram; U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru; Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad, and North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), Shillong.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Director K Sivan inaugurated the Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA) here on Friday. The programme is aimed at imparting basic knowledge of science and space technology to school-going students from different states and Union Territories (UT) of the country in order to arouse their interest in space-related activities.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Director K Sivan inaugurated the Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA) here on Friday. The programme is aimed at imparting basic knowledge of science and space technology to school-going students from different states and Union Territories (UT) of the country in order to arouse their interest in space-related activities. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Sivan said, "The programme will enthuse students from every nook and corner of the country and make them good scientists." To the possibility of having a similar programme for engineering students, he said, "Right now we are focusing on school students of 9th-10th standards as they are at a stage of planning their careers. This programme will help them in planning their career." Sivan added that the programme is aimed at hunting talent not only from big schools but also from schools in small hamlets across the country. "Every state and UT has been asked to select students from government as well as private schools." A total of 110 students are participating in the programme spread over two weeks this year. The participants will be attending a residential training programme at four ISRO centres - Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram; U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru; Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad, and North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), Shillong.

ISRO Director K Sivan inaugurates Young Scientist Programme

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war.

Last year, the Taliban observed an Afghan government ceasefire over the three-day Eid al-Fitr festival, leading to unprecedented scenes of government soldiers and militants embracing on front lines, and raising hopes for talks.

Since then however, fighting between the Taliban and US-backed Afghan government has intensified, even as talks between Washington and the militant group have continued.

"In cases where lodging and transportation would be required to facilitate the participation of all required parties to negotiate a local peace deal, the funds could be used for the purpose," Pentagon spokeswoman Commander Rebecca Rebarich said.

She said the Pentagon was seeking "to lay the groundwork in anticipation of opportunities to facilitate talks with the Afghan government to find a way to end the war." She said until now no funds had been used and the Pentagon did not provide further details of possible funding.

A bill passed this week by the House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense barred the U.S. government from using money to pay for the expenses of Taliban members taking part in the peace talks with the United States, unless the talks included members of the Afghan government or did not restrict the participation of women.

The bill has still not passed the full House Appropriations Committee and it is unclear whether lawmaker's would approve the Pentagon's request.

So far, Afghan government officials have been sidelined from talks between Washington and the Taliban.

Rebarich said that the Defense Department was not reimbursing local insurgent groups taking part in the talks.

"The United States also supports local peace initiatives between the Afghan government and insurgent groups looking to cease hostilities against the Afghan Government and coalition forces," she said.

Rebarich added that the request for this authority was made by the commander of US&nbsp;forces in Afghanistan following the June 2018 ceasefire.

US&nbsp;and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan.

The Afghan government has expressed frustration about not being included in talks with the Taliban and the limited information Kabul is being provided by Washington.

"The government does not feel that they have been briefed enough," Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the United States, told reporters in Washington this week.

"If a peace is to be negotiated and to be durable, it cannot keep on going on without the presence of Afghan people," Rahmani said.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war.

The Pentagon said on Thursday that it had asked Congress for the authority to help fund lodging and transportation for Taliban members who were interested in negotiating local ceasefires with the Afghan government, as the Washington seeks an end to the more than 17-year-old war. Last year, the Taliban observed an Afghan government ceasefire over the three-day Eid al-Fitr festival, leading to unprecedented scenes of government soldiers and militants embracing on front lines, and raising hopes for talks. Since then however, fighting between the Taliban and US-backed Afghan government has intensified, even as talks between Washington and the militant group have continued. "In cases where lodging and transportation would be required to facilitate the participation of all required parties to negotiate a local peace deal, the funds could be used for the purpose," Pentagon spokeswoman Commander Rebecca Rebarich said. She said the Pentagon was seeking "to lay the groundwork in anticipation of opportunities to facilitate talks with the Afghan government to find a way to end the war." She said until now no funds had been used and the Pentagon did not provide further details of possible funding. A bill passed this week by the House of Representatives Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense barred the U.S. government from using money to pay for the expenses of Taliban members taking part in the peace talks with the United States, unless the talks included members of the Afghan government or did not restrict the participation of women. The bill has still not passed the full House Appropriations Committee and it is unclear whether lawmaker's would approve the Pentagon's request. So far, Afghan government officials have been sidelined from talks between Washington and the Taliban. Rebarich said that the Defense Department was not reimbursing local insurgent groups taking part in the talks. "The United States also supports local peace initiatives between the Afghan government and insurgent groups looking to cease hostilities against the Afghan Government and coalition forces," she said. Rebarich added that the request for this authority was made by the commander of US forces in Afghanistan following the June 2018 ceasefire. US and Taliban negotiators wrapped up their sixth round of peace talks on Thursday with "some progress" made on a draft agreement for when foreign troops might withdraw from Afghanistan. The Afghan government has expressed frustration about not being included in talks with the Taliban and the limited information Kabul is being provided by Washington. "The government does not feel that they have been briefed enough," Roya Rahmani, Afghanistan's ambassador to the United States, told reporters in Washington this week. "If a peace is to be negotiated and to be durable, it cannot keep on going on without the presence of Afghan people," Rahmani said.

Pentagon seeks to use funds to transport, lodge Taliban members in search of ceasefires

The Supreme Court Friday vacated its order granting protection from arrest to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saradha-chit-fund-case-supreme-court-says-cant-close-eyes-to-very-very-serious-facts-in-cbi-status-report-205769">former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar</a> in the Saradha chit fund scam case.

The apex court said its February 5 order granting interim protection to Kumar will continue for seven days from Friday to enable him to approach the competent court for legal remedy.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the CBI to act in accordance with law in the case.

One of the advocates who appeared for Kumar said that as per the apex court order, Kumar cannot be arrested in the next seven days.

Also read- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/mamata-vs-cbi-saradha-scam-probe-shouldnt-be-politicised-195512">Mamata vs CBI: Saradha scam probe shouldn't be politicised</a>

"We have withdrawn the protection given to Rajeev Kumar vide order dated February 5," the court said while pronouncing the order.&nbsp;

The judgment was pronounced by Justice Sanjiv Khanna who was part of the bench headed by the CJI and Justice Deepak Gupta.

Pronouncing the operative part of the order, Justice Khanna said, "We are leaving it to the CBI to act in accordance with law."

"Our February 5 order will continue for seven days form today to enable Rajeev Kumar to approach the competent court for relief," he said.

At the outset, Justice Khanna, while pronouncing the order, said, "We have expressed our concern as to what has happened in the matter."

The apex court on February 5 had granted protection from arrest to Kumar while directing him to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate into the investigation of cases arising out of the scam.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Friday vacated its order granting protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar in the Saradha chit fund scam case.

The Supreme Court Friday vacated its order granting protection from arrest to former Kolkata police commissioner Rajeev Kumar in the Saradha chit fund scam case. The apex court said its February 5 order granting interim protection to Kumar will continue for seven days from Friday to enable him to approach the competent court for legal remedy. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked the CBI to act in accordance with law in the case. One of the advocates who appeared for Kumar said that as per the apex court order, Kumar cannot be arrested in the next seven days. Also read- Mamata vs CBI: Saradha scam probe shouldn't be politicised "We have withdrawn the protection given to Rajeev Kumar vide order dated February 5," the court said while pronouncing the order. The judgment was pronounced by Justice Sanjiv Khanna who was part of the bench headed by the CJI and Justice Deepak Gupta. Pronouncing the operative part of the order, Justice Khanna said, "We are leaving it to the CBI to act in accordance with law." "Our February 5 order will continue for seven days form today to enable Rajeev Kumar to approach the competent court for relief," he said. At the outset, Justice Khanna, while pronouncing the order, said, "We have expressed our concern as to what has happened in the matter." The apex court on February 5 had granted protection from arrest to Kumar while directing him to appear before the CBI and "faithfully" cooperate into the investigation of cases arising out of the scam.

Saradha scam: Supreme Court vacates order granting protection from arrest to ex-Kolkata Commissioner Rajeev Kumar

Chandrayaan 2, India’s Lunar Mission which will feature India’s most powerful rocket the GSLV Mk 3 to carry the orbiter, lander and rover, is the much-anticipated project of this year. But India's space agency ISRO has much more in store than the widely known Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan manned missions.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Yuvika - Young Scientist Programme for school students at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Dr KD Sivan, chairman of ISRO said, the agency is in the final stage of testing for the orbiter, lander, rover and that they would be ready for launch by the end of May.&nbsp;

However, the launch will likely be in the first or the second week of July due to an impending eclipse and other conditions, said the Dr Sivan.&nbsp;

"This is a very important mission because we are landing at a place where nobody else has gone, near the South Pole of the moon, and new sciences could emerge from this mission,"&nbsp;Dr Sivan added.

Elaborating on the 13 payloads that the Chandrayaan-2 Mission would be carrying, he said, "basically these payloads are looking at the composition of the atmosphere, the surface, mapping, sub-surface structure, lunar surface composition et cetera.”

Responding to queries regarding some of the major missions that the agency is working on, he said, they are working on seven interplanetary missions in a decade. The missions would include Mars Orbiter Mission 2, Chandrayaan 3, a mission to Venus, exposat planetary exploration and Aditya L1 among others.&nbsp;

"There is a lot of interest in planet Venus and we have announced a lot of opportunities for the scientific community in India and abroad. Around 20 payloads are coming", Dr Sivan said.&nbsp;

He also made a mention of Mission Aditya L1 that could be launched in mid-2020 to study the Corona of the Sun, adding that it would help in understanding climate change.&nbsp;

While Aditya L1 and exposat mission are defined and cleared, the Mars Orbiter 2 and Chandrayaan 3 are in their planning stages. "After planning, it will be formed as a project and we will lead it,"&nbsp;he said.

Chandrayaan 2, India’s Lunar Mission which will feature India’s most powerful rocket the GSLV Mk 3 to carry the orbiter, lander and rover, is the much-anticipated project of this year.

Chandrayaan 2, India’s Lunar Mission which will feature India’s most powerful rocket the GSLV Mk 3 to carry the orbiter, lander and rover, is the much-anticipated project of this year. But India's space agency ISRO has much more in store than the widely known Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan manned missions. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Yuvika - Young Scientist Programme for school students at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Dr KD Sivan, chairman of ISRO said, the agency is in the final stage of testing for the orbiter, lander, rover and that they would be ready for launch by the end of May. However, the launch will likely be in the first or the second week of July due to an impending eclipse and other conditions, said the Dr Sivan. "This is a very important mission because we are landing at a place where nobody else has gone, near the South Pole of the moon, and new sciences could emerge from this mission," Dr Sivan added. Elaborating on the 13 payloads that the Chandrayaan-2 Mission would be carrying, he said, "basically these payloads are looking at the composition of the atmosphere, the surface, mapping, sub-surface structure, lunar surface composition et cetera.” Responding to queries regarding some of the major missions that the agency is working on, he said, they are working on seven interplanetary missions in a decade. The missions would include Mars Orbiter Mission 2, Chandrayaan 3, a mission to Venus, exposat planetary exploration and Aditya L1 among others. "There is a lot of interest in planet Venus and we have announced a lot of opportunities for the scientific community in India and abroad. Around 20 payloads are coming", Dr Sivan said. He also made a mention of Mission Aditya L1 that could be launched in mid-2020 to study the Corona of the Sun, adding that it would help in understanding climate change. While Aditya L1 and exposat mission are defined and cleared, the Mars Orbiter 2 and Chandrayaan 3 are in their planning stages. "After planning, it will be formed as a project and we will lead it," he said.

ISRO planning 7 interplanetary missions in a decade: Chairman Dr Sivan 

The Odisha government Friday claimed to have taken adequate steps to avoid the outbreak of an epidemic in the aftermath of cyclone 'Fani'.

"There is no report of any disease outbreak from any parts of the cyclone-affected 14 districts," an official statement said, adding that reports about an outbreak of cholera in a section of media are completely baseless.

Though there have been sporadic reports of diarrhoea cases in Puri and other districts, none of them has taken the form of an epidemic, a health official said, adding that teams have been deployed in all the affected areas to look after health issues.

Health and Family Welfare Secretary PK Meherda has visited the cyclone-affected areas and ensured sufficient stock of essential medicines made available at all health care centres, another official said.

He said National Health Mission (NHM) Director Shalini Pandit is also in continuous touch with the field staff and mobile health units operating in the zone.

At least 89,091 open water sources have been disinfected and 60 samples tested for dengue gave negative results, the official said.

Meanwhile, hot and humid weather has compounded the woes of people living in Puri district as the power supply has still not been restored in the majority of the households there.

Of the 1,58,805 consumers of electricity in the district, the power supply has been restored in 4,800 households, the official said.

In Nimapada block of the district, only 840 households, out of 1,22,549 have been provided electricity, he said.

However, there was no information about other blocks of Puri district like Brahmagiri, Astarang, Chandanpur, Delang, Gadisagada, Kakatpur, Konark, Krushnaprasad, Pipili, Ramachandi and Satyabadi, he added.&nbsp;

The Odisha government Friday claimed to have taken adequate steps to avoid the outbreak of an epidemic in the aftermath of cyclone 'Fani'. "There is no report of any disease outbreak from any parts of the cyclone-affected 14 districts," an official statement said, adding that reports about an outbreak of cholera in a section of media are completely baseless.

The Odisha government Friday claimed to have taken adequate steps to avoid the outbreak of an epidemic in the aftermath of cyclone 'Fani'. "There is no report of any disease outbreak from any parts of the cyclone-affected 14 districts," an official statement said, adding that reports about an outbreak of cholera in a section of media are completely baseless. Though there have been sporadic reports of diarrhoea cases in Puri and other districts, none of them has taken the form of an epidemic, a health official said, adding that teams have been deployed in all the affected areas to look after health issues. Health and Family Welfare Secretary PK Meherda has visited the cyclone-affected areas and ensured sufficient stock of essential medicines made available at all health care centres, another official said. He said National Health Mission (NHM) Director Shalini Pandit is also in continuous touch with the field staff and mobile health units operating in the zone. At least 89,091 open water sources have been disinfected and 60 samples tested for dengue gave negative results, the official said. Meanwhile, hot and humid weather has compounded the woes of people living in Puri district as the power supply has still not been restored in the majority of the households there. Of the 1,58,805 consumers of electricity in the district, the power supply has been restored in 4,800 households, the official said. In Nimapada block of the district, only 840 households, out of 1,22,549 have been provided electricity, he said. However, there was no information about other blocks of Puri district like Brahmagiri, Astarang, Chandanpur, Delang, Gadisagada, Kakatpur, Konark, Krushnaprasad, Pipili, Ramachandi and Satyabadi, he added.

Cyclone Fani: Odisha government says adequate steps taken to avoid outbreak of any epidemic

India offered full support to Sri Lanka in dealing with the "common threat" of "Jihadi terrorism" in the aftermath of the Easter Sunday terror attack that killed over 250 people on April 21.&nbsp;

The development comes in the backdrop of Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka's Taranjit Singh Sandhu's visit to Sri Dalada Maligawa temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The site is believed to house the relic of Lord Buddha's tooth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a release, the Indian Mission in Sri Lanka said, "High Commissioner... discussed the prevailing security situation with the most venerable Mahanayake Theros and offered India’s full support to Sri Lanka in dealing with the common threat of Jihadi terrorism."&nbsp;

The release further added, "Both the Mahanayake Theros deeply appreciated India’s unconditional and strong support for Sri Lanka including in the security sphere."&nbsp;

This is for the first time that India has publically stated this even as Sri Lanka continues its crackdown on Islamic extremist groups in the aftermath of the Easter Day attacks.

During the visit, Sandhu met Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Mahanayake Thero of Malwatte Chapter (Malwathu Maha Viharaya) and Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Mahanayake Thero of Asgiriya Chapter (Asgiri Maha Viharaya). A Mahanayaka Thero is a title to top ranking Buddhist monks in Theravada Buddhist countries.&nbsp;

Malwathu Maha Viharaya and Asgiri Maha Viharaya are two Buddhist monasteries located in Kandy and are the headquarters of the Malwatta chapter and Asgiriya chapter of Siyam Nikaya, the two Buddhist monasteries that hold the custodianship of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha kept in Sri Dalada Maligawa.

Back in India, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had raided several places in Kerala and arrested a Riyas Aboobacker from Palakkad who was inspired by Sri Lanka terror attack mastermind Zahran Hashim. Riyas had planned to carry out suicide attacks in Kerala.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka based terror outfit - National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) planned and perpetrated the Easter Day attacks. Islamic State later claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

New Delhi had also given Sri Lanka prior intelligence of the terror attacks.

India offered full support to Sri Lanka in dealing with the "common threat" of "Jihadi terrorism" in the aftermath of the Easter Sunday terror attack that killed over 250 people on April 21.

India offered full support to Sri Lanka in dealing with the "common threat" of "Jihadi terrorism" in the aftermath of the Easter Sunday terror attack that killed over 250 people on April 21. The development comes in the backdrop of Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka's Taranjit Singh Sandhu's visit to Sri Dalada Maligawa temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The site is believed to house the relic of Lord Buddha's tooth. In a release, the Indian Mission in Sri Lanka said, "High Commissioner... discussed the prevailing security situation with the most venerable Mahanayake Theros and offered India’s full support to Sri Lanka in dealing with the common threat of Jihadi terrorism." The release further added, "Both the Mahanayake Theros deeply appreciated India’s unconditional and strong support for Sri Lanka including in the security sphere." This is for the first time that India has publically stated this even as Sri Lanka continues its crackdown on Islamic extremist groups in the aftermath of the Easter Day attacks. During the visit, Sandhu met Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Mahanayake Thero of Malwatte Chapter (Malwathu Maha Viharaya) and Warakagoda Sri Gnanarathana Mahanayake Thero of Asgiriya Chapter (Asgiri Maha Viharaya). A Mahanayaka Thero is a title to top ranking Buddhist monks in Theravada Buddhist countries. Malwathu Maha Viharaya and Asgiri Maha Viharaya are two Buddhist monasteries located in Kandy and are the headquarters of the Malwatta chapter and Asgiriya chapter of Siyam Nikaya, the two Buddhist monasteries that hold the custodianship of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha kept in Sri Dalada Maligawa. Back in India, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) had raided several places in Kerala and arrested a Riyas Aboobacker from Palakkad who was inspired by Sri Lanka terror attack mastermind Zahran Hashim. Riyas had planned to carry out suicide attacks in Kerala. Sri Lanka based terror outfit - National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) planned and perpetrated the Easter Day attacks. Islamic State later claimed responsibility for the attack. New Delhi had also given Sri Lanka prior intelligence of the terror attacks.

India offers support to Sri Lanka to deal with 'Jihadi terror'

India’s former President and 'Missile Man' Dr APJ Kalam believed in empowering the youth in order to make India a superpower. His former organization, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is doing just that with its new initiative Yuvika - the Young Scientist Programme.&nbsp;

The two-week residential programme is aimed at imparting basic knowledge on space technology, space science and space applications. The fee for the travel, boarding and course material for the participating students is borne by the ISRO.

As many as 110 students were selected from more than lakh participants belonging to class 8th and 9th who had applied for the programme from all across the country. The selected candidates were chosen on the basis of their academic scores, membership in science clubs and other co-curricular activities.&nbsp;

The participating students have the unique opportunity of visiting four centres of ISRO - Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru, Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad and North Eastern Space Applications Centre in Shillong.&nbsp;

The training involves talks by eminent scientists, lab visits, hands-on training and discussions with the experts.

On Friday, which was the fifth day of the course, the students got an opportunity to visit the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh - India’s missile launch port. The students also had an interaction with Dr K Sivan, ISRO chairman. The students also witnessed the launch of a sounding rocket.

Dr Sivan urged the students to remain curious and ask questions. He said that whatever benefits are being enjoyed in terms of safety, security and quality of life, it is all because of science and technology developed here and elsewhere. Sivan stated that that the Yuvika programme will be held every single year, he said that they should even create a Yuvika Alumni Association.&nbsp;

Dr Sivan was posed with many questions that ranged from the possibility of space warfare to ISRO's vision for the coming decades. His answers provided key insights into the prevailing scenario in the world of space science and the way ahead.&nbsp;

On space warfare, he said, “space does not belong to any particular country and as per the law, there is no chance of a war. Countries are only getting prepared to defend themselves”.

Speaking on what makes ISRO special, he opened up on the power of planning, transparency, teamwork and review system. He said that ISRO had a review culture wherein a new recruit, who is fresh out of college, can question the chairman regarding the mission.

Sivan made mention of a study conducted by the teams from the IIT which revealed that for every rupee spent on the Indian Space Programme the return was ten times.

The chairman presented the students with medals of recognition for their participation in the initiative. Students queued up to pose for pictures with Dr Sivan and got his autograph.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION about the Yuvika Programme, Razel, a student from Chandigarh, said, “this is a leading step for all young scientists of India because we do not get this kind of exposure elsewhere. We learnt how practical science is more exciting.”

&nbsp;

India’s former President and 'Missile Man' Dr APJ Kalam believed in empowering the youth in order to make India a superpower. His former organization, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is doing just that with its new initiative Yuvika - the Young Scientist Programme.

India’s former President and 'Missile Man' Dr APJ Kalam believed in empowering the youth in order to make India a superpower. His former organization, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is doing just that with its new initiative Yuvika - the Young Scientist Programme. The two-week residential programme is aimed at imparting basic knowledge on space technology, space science and space applications. The fee for the travel, boarding and course material for the participating students is borne by the ISRO. As many as 110 students were selected from more than lakh participants belonging to class 8th and 9th who had applied for the programme from all across the country. The selected candidates were chosen on the basis of their academic scores, membership in science clubs and other co-curricular activities. The participating students have the unique opportunity of visiting four centres of ISRO - Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bengaluru, Space Applications Centre in Ahmedabad and North Eastern Space Applications Centre in Shillong. The training involves talks by eminent scientists, lab visits, hands-on training and discussions with the experts. On Friday, which was the fifth day of the course, the students got an opportunity to visit the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh - India’s missile launch port. The students also had an interaction with Dr K Sivan, ISRO chairman. The students also witnessed the launch of a sounding rocket. Dr Sivan urged the students to remain curious and ask questions. He said that whatever benefits are being enjoyed in terms of safety, security and quality of life, it is all because of science and technology developed here and elsewhere. Sivan stated that that the Yuvika programme will be held every single year, he said that they should even create a Yuvika Alumni Association. Dr Sivan was posed with many questions that ranged from the possibility of space warfare to ISRO's vision for the coming decades. His answers provided key insights into the prevailing scenario in the world of space science and the way ahead. On space warfare, he said, “space does not belong to any particular country and as per the law, there is no chance of a war. Countries are only getting prepared to defend themselves”. Speaking on what makes ISRO special, he opened up on the power of planning, transparency, teamwork and review system. He said that ISRO had a review culture wherein a new recruit, who is fresh out of college, can question the chairman regarding the mission. Sivan made mention of a study conducted by the teams from the IIT which revealed that for every rupee spent on the Indian Space Programme the return was ten times. The chairman presented the students with medals of recognition for their participation in the initiative. Students queued up to pose for pictures with Dr Sivan and got his autograph. Speaking to WION about the Yuvika Programme, Razel, a student from Chandigarh, said, “this is a leading step for all young scientists of India because we do not get this kind of exposure elsewhere. We learnt how practical science is more exciting.”

ISRO plans to breed India's future space scientists through its Young Scientist Programme 

An Army jawan, who sustained injuries in an encounter with terrorists in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, has succumbed, police said.

"The injured Army jawan Rohit Kumar Yadav has succumbed at the hospital and attained martyrdom," a police spokesman said.

Yadav had suffered grievous injuries during a gun battle with three ultras in Handew area of Shopian. All three terrorists were killed.

The spokesman identified the slain militants as Yawar Ahmad Dar, Shakeel Ahmad Dar and Ishtiyaq Bhat. They were affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen.

"As per police records, Yawar Dar was involved in planning and executing series of terror attacks in the area and many other civilian atrocities. He was involved in the terror attack on Zainpora Police Guard last year in which four policemen were martyred," a PTI report quoting the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

Six militants and a civilian were killed in two encounters in Shopian and Pulwama districts in the state on Thursday. Two soldiers including Yadav were also killed in the operations.

(With PTI inputs)

An Army jawan, who sustained injuries in an encounter with terrorists in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, has succumbed, police said. "The injured Army jawan Rohit Kumar Yadav has succumbed at the hospital and attained martyrdom," a police spokesman said.

An Army jawan, who sustained injuries in an encounter with terrorists in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday, has succumbed, police said. "The injured Army jawan Rohit Kumar Yadav has succumbed at the hospital and attained martyrdom," a police spokesman said. Yadav had suffered grievous injuries during a gun battle with three ultras in Handew area of Shopian. All three terrorists were killed. The spokesman identified the slain militants as Yawar Ahmad Dar, Shakeel Ahmad Dar and Ishtiyaq Bhat. They were affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen. "As per police records, Yawar Dar was involved in planning and executing series of terror attacks in the area and many other civilian atrocities. He was involved in the terror attack on Zainpora Police Guard last year in which four policemen were martyred," a PTI report quoting the spokesperson said. Six militants and a civilian were killed in two encounters in Shopian and Pulwama districts in the state on Thursday. Two soldiers including Yadav were also killed in the operations. (With PTI inputs)

J&K: Army jawan who sustained injuries in Shopian encounter dies

The Indian Navy has successfully test-fired a medium range surface-to-air missile (MRSAM), achieving a significant milestone to enhance its anti-air warfare capability, the defence ministry said on Friday.

The test-firing of the missile was undertaken on the western seaboard by Indian naval ships Kochi and Chennai.

"The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone in enhancing its anti-air warfare capability with the maiden cooperative engagement firing of the MRSAM," the defence ministry said in a statement.

The test-firing of the missile was carried out jointly by the Indian Navy, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries.

The DRDO has jointly developed the missile in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries. The MRSAM has been manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited.

"These surface-to-air missiles are fitted onboard the Kolkata class destroyers and would also be fitted on all future major warships of the Indian Navy," the ministry said.

"With the successful proving of this cooperative mode of engagement, the Indian Navy has become a part of a select group of Navies that have this niche capability," it added.

The ministry said the missiles will significantly enhance the combat effectiveness of the Indian Navy. &nbsp;

The Indian Navy has successfully test-fired a medium range surface-to-air missile (MRSAM), achieving a significant milestone to enhance its anti-air warfare capability, the defence ministry said on Friday.

The Indian Navy has successfully test-fired a medium range surface-to-air missile (MRSAM), achieving a significant milestone to enhance its anti-air warfare capability, the defence ministry said on Friday. The test-firing of the missile was undertaken on the western seaboard by Indian naval ships Kochi and Chennai. "The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone in enhancing its anti-air warfare capability with the maiden cooperative engagement firing of the MRSAM," the defence ministry said in a statement. The test-firing of the missile was carried out jointly by the Indian Navy, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries. The DRDO has jointly developed the missile in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries. The MRSAM has been manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited. "These surface-to-air missiles are fitted onboard the Kolkata class destroyers and would also be fitted on all future major warships of the Indian Navy," the ministry said. "With the successful proving of this cooperative mode of engagement, the Indian Navy has become a part of a select group of Navies that have this niche capability," it added. The ministry said the missiles will significantly enhance the combat effectiveness of the Indian Navy.

Navy test-fires surface-to-air missile to enhance anti-air war capability

Mohammad Omar Daudzai, Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani's special envoy for peace and chief executive of Afghanistan's high peace council was in Delhi on Friday and met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.&nbsp;

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Daudzai lauded India's role in building a strong state in Afghanistan and said New Delhi has a legitimate interest in the Afghan peace process. On Pakistan, he said that Islamabad needs to be encouraged to shun the use of terror as a policy.

WION: What transpired in your meet with EAM and NSA?

Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Afghanistan and India are very close partners. We have signed the strategic partnership document. India, so far, has fulfilled its commitment as a strategic partner very well. We discussed some issues related to that and also peace, reconciliation and regional coordination that is necessary for reconciliation.

WION: How do you see India's role in the Afghan peace process?

Mohammad Omar Daudzai: India is a very important player now, globally and regionally. India has invested generously in Afghanistan's peace process. Democracy in Afghanistan is important for India. India has to be involved and should be aware of what is going on. We are committed to making sure that India is with us in every step we take.&nbsp;

WION: What are your expectation from New Delhi?

Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Overall, India has helped us build a strong state, but we need further help to strengthen the state. For the peace process to prevail, we need a strong state. India is playing a key role together with our western partners. We want India to continue with it.

WION: What is the current status of the Afghan peace process?

Mohammad Omar Daudzai: The Americans and the Taliban are talking about a possible US withdrawal plan. Taliban is clarifying its relationship with terrorists and terror groups and have given a commitment that they will not keep ties with them. The next stage will be a dialogue primarily between the Afghan state and the Taliban. Ultimately, it should all reach a sustainable ceasefire.&nbsp;

WION: Your thoughts on the role played by Iran and China?

Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Afghanistan has very important geography. It is located at the crossroads, whether you go from the Middle East to India or India to central Asia, you cross Afghanistan. Instability in Afghanistan is preventing a lot of regional mega projects to be implemented. So, it is important for all those countries to be involved in the arrangement. Glad to see they are coming with the regional initiative that may, hopefully, lead to peace in Afghanistan.

WION: How do you see Pakistan's role in Afghanistan and its support to terror?

Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Well, we want to see three countries to live together in peace. Like you have breakfast in Kabul, lunch in Islamabad and dinner in Delhi. That is possible if we have the link between these three countries. Terrorism and war are the main hindrances. We should all come together, get rid of this menace and live in peace together. We will have to encourage Pakistan to change on the issue of terror.&nbsp;

Mohammad Omar Daudzai, Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani's special envoy for peace and chief executive of Afghanistan's high peace council was in Delhi on Friday and met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Mohammad Omar Daudzai, Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani's special envoy for peace and chief executive of Afghanistan's high peace council was in Delhi on Friday and met with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. In an exclusive conversation with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Daudzai lauded India's role in building a strong state in Afghanistan and said New Delhi has a legitimate interest in the Afghan peace process. On Pakistan, he said that Islamabad needs to be encouraged to shun the use of terror as a policy. WION: What transpired in your meet with EAM and NSA? Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Afghanistan and India are very close partners. We have signed the strategic partnership document. India, so far, has fulfilled its commitment as a strategic partner very well. We discussed some issues related to that and also peace, reconciliation and regional coordination that is necessary for reconciliation. WION: How do you see India's role in the Afghan peace process? Mohammad Omar Daudzai: India is a very important player now, globally and regionally. India has invested generously in Afghanistan's peace process. Democracy in Afghanistan is important for India. India has to be involved and should be aware of what is going on. We are committed to making sure that India is with us in every step we take. WION: What are your expectation from New Delhi? Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Overall, India has helped us build a strong state, but we need further help to strengthen the state. For the peace process to prevail, we need a strong state. India is playing a key role together with our western partners. We want India to continue with it. WION: What is the current status of the Afghan peace process? Mohammad Omar Daudzai: The Americans and the Taliban are talking about a possible US withdrawal plan. Taliban is clarifying its relationship with terrorists and terror groups and have given a commitment that they will not keep ties with them. The next stage will be a dialogue primarily between the Afghan state and the Taliban. Ultimately, it should all reach a sustainable ceasefire. WION: Your thoughts on the role played by Iran and China? Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Afghanistan has very important geography. It is located at the crossroads, whether you go from the Middle East to India or India to central Asia, you cross Afghanistan. Instability in Afghanistan is preventing a lot of regional mega projects to be implemented. So, it is important for all those countries to be involved in the arrangement. Glad to see they are coming with the regional initiative that may, hopefully, lead to peace in Afghanistan. WION: How do you see Pakistan's role in Afghanistan and its support to terror? Mohammad Omar Daudzai: Well, we want to see three countries to live together in peace. Like you have breakfast in Kabul, lunch in Islamabad and dinner in Delhi. That is possible if we have the link between these three countries. Terrorism and war are the main hindrances. We should all come together, get rid of this menace and live in peace together. We will have to encourage Pakistan to change on the issue of terror.

India has helped build strong state in Afghanistan, Pak must shun terror: Afghan President's special envoy to WION

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britains-may-to-agree-departure-after-latest-brexit-deal-bid-219257">British Prime Minister Theresa May to set out timetable for her departure after latest Brexit deal bid</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May will set out a timetable for her departure in early June after the latest attempt to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament, the chairman of a powerful Conservative committee said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-aides-he-does-not-want-us-war-with-iran-219259">Trump tells aides he does not want US war with Iran</a>

US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a&nbsp;war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-lawmakers-press-pompeo-for-answers-on-iran-arms-control-report-219258">Top US lawmakers press Pompeo for answers on Iran arms control report</a>

The chairmen of three congressional committees on national security on Thursday pressed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to explain whether a Trump administration arms control report was politicised and slanted assessments about Iran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-huawei-restricted-from-using-us-suppliers-219260">China's Huawei restricted from using US suppliers</a>

The Trump administration on Thursday officially added China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd to a trade blacklist, immediately enacting restrictions that will make it extremely difficult for the telecom giant to do business with US companies.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-proposes-new-us-immigration-plan-favouring-skills-over-family-ties-219269">Trump proposes new US immigration plan favouring skills over family ties</a>

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he wants to overhaul the immigration system to favour young, educated, English-speaking applicants with job offers instead of people with family ties to Americans, a plan with little chance of advancing in Congress.

British Prime Minister Theresa May to set out timetable for her departure after latest Brexit deal bid British Prime Minister Theresa May will set out a timetable for her departure in early June after the latest attempt to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament, the chairman of a powerful Conservative committee said on Thursday.

British Prime Minister Theresa May to set out timetable for her departure after latest Brexit deal bid British Prime Minister Theresa May will set out a timetable for her departure in early June after the latest attempt to get her Brexit deal approved by parliament, the chairman of a powerful Conservative committee said on Thursday. Trump tells aides he does not want US war with Iran US President Donald Trump has told his top advisers he does not want to get the United States involved in a war with Iran, three US officials said on Thursday. "He doesn`t want to go to war. It`s not who he is," one official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. Top US lawmakers press Pompeo for answers on Iran arms control report The chairmen of three congressional committees on national security on Thursday pressed US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to explain whether a Trump administration arms control report was politicised and slanted assessments about Iran. China's Huawei restricted from using US suppliers The Trump administration on Thursday officially added China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd to a trade blacklist, immediately enacting restrictions that will make it extremely difficult for the telecom giant to do business with US companies. Trump proposes new US immigration plan favouring skills over family ties US President Donald Trump on Thursday said he wants to overhaul the immigration system to favour young, educated, English-speaking applicants with job offers instead of people with family ties to Americans, a plan with little chance of advancing in Congress.

Light rains hit Delhi and adjoining areas on Friday evening bringing relief from the sweltering heat.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted thunderstorm with rain and gusty winds over Delhi and its adjoining areas of, Hisar, Rohtak, Jhajjar, Panipat, Kosli, Sonipat, Bagpat, Gurugram, Rewari, Bawal, Manesar Ghaziabad, Noida, Hodal, Mahendragarh.

There was a sudden spell of rainfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh today.

The weather department has warned of hail precipitation over and nearby areas of Meerut, Modinagar, Loni, Khair and isolated places of Delhi.

Rainfall has also been predicted for many places in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana.

All states in the North-eastern region too are likely to receive rainfall today.&nbsp;

Light rains hit Delhi and adjoining areas on Friday evening bringing relief from the sweltering heat. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted thunderstorm with rain and gusty winds over Delhi and its adjoining areas of, Hisar, Rohtak, Jhajjar, Panipat, Kosli, Sonipat, Bagpat, Gurugram, Rewari, Bawal, Manesar Ghaziabad, Noida, Hodal, Mahendragarh.

Light rains hit Delhi and adjoining areas on Friday evening bringing relief from the sweltering heat. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted thunderstorm with rain and gusty winds over Delhi and its adjoining areas of, Hisar, Rohtak, Jhajjar, Panipat, Kosli, Sonipat, Bagpat, Gurugram, Rewari, Bawal, Manesar Ghaziabad, Noida, Hodal, Mahendragarh. There was a sudden spell of rainfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh today. The weather department has warned of hail precipitation over and nearby areas of Meerut, Modinagar, Loni, Khair and isolated places of Delhi. Rainfall has also been predicted for many places in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana. All states in the North-eastern region too are likely to receive rainfall today.

Rain hits Delhi, brings mercury down

The Intelligence input today warned against terrorists’ plans to carry out an attack on Srinagar and Awantipora air bases in Jammu and Kashmir, government sources said. Following the warning, security forces have been put on high alert in and around these bases. The attack may be carried out on or before the occasion of Islamic Battle of Badr. It was the first military victory of the Prophet Muhammad and falls on 23rd of this month.

Sources: Ultras plan to attack J&K Air bases on or before 23rd May

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-got-a-sense-that-a-majority-government-will-come-to-power-again-pm-modi-in-joint-press-conference-with-amit-shah-219416">I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again: PM Modi in joint press conference with Amit Shah</a>

In his first major press conference as prime minister, Narendra Modi said he was confident of forming the next government as campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections came to an end on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/some-250000-rohingya-refugees-receive-first-id-cards-united-nations-219427">Some 250,000 Rohingyas have received first ID cards in Bangladesh: United Nations</a>

The UN said Friday it has registered more than 250,000 Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, providing many with their first ever identification cards and proof of their right to return to Myanmar in the future.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/talks-gone-as-far-as-they-can-jeremy-corbyn-writes-to-theresa-may-as-labour-party-pulls-plug-on-brexit-compromise-talks-219387">'Talks gone as far as they can,' Jeremy Corbyn writes to Theresa May as Labour party pulls plug on Brexit compromise talks</a>

Britain's tumultuous divorce from the European Union was again in disarray on Friday as the opposition Labour Party declared last-ditch cross-party talks were dead in the twilight of Prime Minister Theresa May's premiership.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/intel-inputs-warn-of-terrorist-attack-on-airbases-in-kashmir-security-forces-on-high-alert-219386">Intel inputs warn of terrorist attack on airbases in Kashmir, security forces on high alert</a>

Security forces have warned of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir this election season. The specific intelligence inputs say Srinagar and the Awantipora airbases can be targeted by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, adding that the plan comes in retaliation to the successful encounters conducted by the security forces in the state after the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/the-modi-experiment-has-been-accepted-amit-shah-in-joint-press-conference-with-pm-modi-219410">The Modi experiment has been accepted: Amit Shah in joint press conference with PM Modi</a>

As the long and torrid election campaign came to an end on Friday, BJP president Amit Shah and PM Modi addressed a press conference at the party headquarters in New Delhi.&nbsp;

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I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again: PM Modi in joint press conference with Amit Shah In his first major press conference as prime minister, Narendra Modi said he was confident of forming the next government as campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections came to an end on Friday.

I got a sense that a majority government will come to power again: PM Modi in joint press conference with Amit Shah In his first major press conference as prime minister, Narendra Modi said he was confident of forming the next government as campaigning for the Lok Sabha elections came to an end on Friday. Some 250,000 Rohingyas have received first ID cards in Bangladesh: United Nations The UN said Friday it has registered more than 250,000 Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, providing many with their first ever identification cards and proof of their right to return to Myanmar in the future. 'Talks gone as far as they can,' Jeremy Corbyn writes to Theresa May as Labour party pulls plug on Brexit compromise talks Britain's tumultuous divorce from the European Union was again in disarray on Friday as the opposition Labour Party declared last-ditch cross-party talks were dead in the twilight of Prime Minister Theresa May's premiership. Intel inputs warn of terrorist attack on airbases in Kashmir, security forces on high alert Security forces have warned of a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir this election season. The specific intelligence inputs say Srinagar and the Awantipora airbases can be targeted by Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, adding that the plan comes in retaliation to the successful encounters conducted by the security forces in the state after the Pulwama attack. The Modi experiment has been accepted: Amit Shah in joint press conference with PM Modi As the long and torrid election campaign came to an end on Friday, BJP president Amit Shah and PM Modi addressed a press conference at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

As the long and torrid election campaign came to an end on Friday, BJP president Amit Shah and PM Modi addressed a press conference at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

Party disciplinary committee will take appropriate actions: Amit Shah on Pragya Thakur's Godse remark

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Party disciplinary committee will take appropriate actions: Amit Shah on Pragya Thakur's Godse remark