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With a pass percentage of 92.45 in the Class 10 CBSE results, which were announced on Monday, girls outperformed boys by a margin of 2.31 per cent.

Thirteen students bagged the first rank with 499 out of 500 marks. The second and third rank were shared by 24 and 58 students, respectively.

A total of 2.25 lakh students scored above 90 per cent and 57,256 scored above 95 per cent.

The Trivandrum region performed the best with a pass percentage of 99.85, followed by Chennai and Ajmer with 99 and 95.89 respectively.

Delhi ranked second last with a pass percentage of 80.97 and Guwahati was last with 74.49.

With a pass percentage of 92.45 in the Class 10 CBSE results, which were announced on Monday, girls outperformed boys by a margin of 2.31 per cent. Thirteen students bagged the first rank with 499 out of 500 marks.

With a pass percentage of 92.45 in the Class 10 CBSE results, which were announced on Monday, girls outperformed boys by a margin of 2.31 per cent. Thirteen students bagged the first rank with 499 out of 500 marks. The second and third rank were shared by 24 and 58 students, respectively. A total of 2.25 lakh students scored above 90 per cent and 57,256 scored above 95 per cent. The Trivandrum region performed the best with a pass percentage of 99.85, followed by Chennai and Ajmer with 99 and 95.89 respectively. Delhi ranked second last with a pass percentage of 80.97 and Guwahati was last with 74.49.

CBSE declares Class 10 results, girls outshine boys

A special CBI court on Monday extended till May 30 the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union Minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis case.

Special Judge O P Saini extended the protection after senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for the Chidambaram, made a request in this regard.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for CBI and ED sought more time to complete the probe.

"We want to interrogate both the accused in the custody after receiving the Letters Rogatory (LR). They are fully protected by judicial order. Karti keeps filing applications to travel abroad to play tennis and he does not want to cooperate in the investigation. He is enjoying life," argued Solicitor General Mehta.

The court asked the Solicitor General to show the file on what material has been collected.

Earlier on April 26, the Court extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6.

The cases are being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

The case relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal.

The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was India`s Finance Minister.

According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore.&nbsp;

A special CBI court on Monday extended till May 30 the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union Minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis case.

A special CBI court on Monday extended till May 30 the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union Minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in the Aircel-Maxis case. Special Judge O P Saini extended the protection after senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for the Chidambaram, made a request in this regard. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for CBI and ED sought more time to complete the probe. "We want to interrogate both the accused in the custody after receiving the Letters Rogatory (LR). They are fully protected by judicial order. Karti keeps filing applications to travel abroad to play tennis and he does not want to cooperate in the investigation. He is enjoying life," argued Solicitor General Mehta. The court asked the Solicitor General to show the file on what material has been collected. Earlier on April 26, the Court extended the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti Chidambaram in connection with the Aircel-Maxis cases till May 6. The cases are being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The case relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal. The FIPB approval was allegedly granted in 2006 when Chidambaram was India`s Finance Minister. According to rules and foreign direct investment (FDI) policy of the Central government, Chidambaram was only empowered to give approval to proposals involving foreign investment up to Rs 600 crore.

Aircel-Maxis case: Special CBI court extends protection to Chidambaram, Karti till May 30

The Supreme Court has issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dmk-initiates-no-confidence-petition-against-assembly-speaker-after-notices-issued-to-aiadmk-mlas-214825">Tamil Nadu assembly speaker</a> to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK party. The MLAs were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dhinakaran-led AMMK camp.&nbsp;

Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from assembly speaker P Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court last week to stay the notice. The top court also issued a notice to the speaker and has sought an explanation. It is expected that the case will come up for a hearing after four weeks.

While Kapil Sibal represented the MLAs who had received the notice from the speaker, Mukul Rohatgi argued on behalf of the assembly speaker P Dhanapal.

On April 26th, the AIADMK's chief whip S Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to assembly speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs were E Rathinasabapathi, VT Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi assembly constituencies respectively.&nbsp;

Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party DMK met the assembly secretary on May 2 to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against Dhanapal. This is in line with the party president MK Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he acts in a biased manner. &nbsp;

Opposition parties in the state have been alleging that the AIADMK government - which is surviving on a slim majority - is attempting to lower the strength of the house, fearing an impending defeat in the by-elections.&nbsp;

While the AIADMK government does face a major challenge due to anti-incumbency in these polls, it is also true that the DMK and its allies must sweep almost all of the 22 seats in order to get the simple majority in the House.

Responding to DMKs comments regarding AIADMK fearing defeat, Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami said that DMK leader MK Stalin had gone ahead with the no-confidence motion petition against the speaker as the opposition party was not confident of the bye-poll results.

The issue of MLAs disqualification had taken centre-stage in Tamil Nadu politics after the speaker disqualified 18 AIADMK legislators who had offered support to AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran in September 2017. Dhinakaran had fought a long battle in court to get the MLAs reinstated, but it went in vain after the Madras High Court upheld the disqualification in a judgement delivered in November 2018.&nbsp;

While 18 of the vacant assembly seats went to the polls on April 18 along with the general elections in Tamil Nadu, the remaining four assembly seats would go to the polls on May 19.&nbsp;

The leaders of the major parties are currently shuttling between these assembly constituencies in order to campaign for their respective candidates. The results of the by-polls to 22 assembly seats would be out on May 23 along with the results of the Lok Sabha polls.

The Supreme Court has issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu assembly speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK party. The MLAs were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dhinakaran-led AMMK camp.

The Supreme Court has issued an interim stay on a notice sent by the Tamil Nadu assembly speaker to three MLAs of the ruling AIADMK party. The MLAs were said to be loyal towards the TTV Dhinakaran-led AMMK camp. Two of the MLAs who had received the notice from assembly speaker P Dhanapal had approached the Supreme Court last week to stay the notice. The top court also issued a notice to the speaker and has sought an explanation. It is expected that the case will come up for a hearing after four weeks. While Kapil Sibal represented the MLAs who had received the notice from the speaker, Mukul Rohatgi argued on behalf of the assembly speaker P Dhanapal. On April 26th, the AIADMK's chief whip S Rajendran had submitted a recommendation to assembly speaker P Dhanapal regarding the disqualification of three AIADMK MLAs on the grounds of ‘anti-party’ activities. The MLAs were E Rathinasabapathi, VT Kalaiselvan and Prabhu, who were elected from Aranthangi, Vridhachalam and Kallakurichi assembly constituencies respectively. Members of Tamil Nadu’s opposition party DMK met the assembly secretary on May 2 to present a notice to move a no-confidence petition against Dhanapal. This is in line with the party president MK Stalin’s earlier statement that the party would move a no-confidence motion against the speaker if he acts in a biased manner. Opposition parties in the state have been alleging that the AIADMK government - which is surviving on a slim majority - is attempting to lower the strength of the house, fearing an impending defeat in the by-elections. While the AIADMK government does face a major challenge due to anti-incumbency in these polls, it is also true that the DMK and its allies must sweep almost all of the 22 seats in order to get the simple majority in the House. Responding to DMKs comments regarding AIADMK fearing defeat, Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami said that DMK leader MK Stalin had gone ahead with the no-confidence motion petition against the speaker as the opposition party was not confident of the bye-poll results. The issue of MLAs disqualification had taken centre-stage in Tamil Nadu politics after the speaker disqualified 18 AIADMK legislators who had offered support to AMMK leader TTV Dhinakaran in September 2017. Dhinakaran had fought a long battle in court to get the MLAs reinstated, but it went in vain after the Madras High Court upheld the disqualification in a judgement delivered in November 2018. While 18 of the vacant assembly seats went to the polls on April 18 along with the general elections in Tamil Nadu, the remaining four assembly seats would go to the polls on May 19. The leaders of the major parties are currently shuttling between these assembly constituencies in order to campaign for their respective candidates. The results of the by-polls to 22 assembly seats would be out on May 23 along with the results of the Lok Sabha polls.

Supreme Court stays notice sent to 3 AIADMK MLAs by Tamil Nadu assembly speaker

Scorpene class <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ten-things-to-know-about-ins-karanj-third-scorpene-class-submarine-31324">submarine Vela</a>, equipped with modern machinery and technology to guard the seas, was launched on Monday in Mumbai, an official said. 
&nbsp; 
It will undergo a number of tests by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-launches-karanj-third-scorpene-class-submarine-31287">Indian Navy before it gets</a> commissioned in the defence fleet, the official added. 
&nbsp; 
It is the fourth submarine to be launched by the state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) after entering into a contract for the construction and transfer of technology for six Scorpene class submarines with French collaborator Ms Naval Group (formerly known as DCNS).

"Today, we are bringing the new Vela with modern machinery and technology to guard the seas," an official from MDL said.

INS Vela was first commissioned on August 31, 1973 in the Indian Naval service and continued to serve for 37 years. It was the oldest submarine of the country when it was decommissioned on June 25, 2010, MDL said in a statement.

The fifth Scorpene class submarine will also be launched soon, he said.

MDL recently reported an annual turnover of Rs 4,500 crore, the official added.

Scorpene class submarine Vela, equipped with modern machinery and technology to guard the seas, was launched on Monday in Mumbai, an official said. It will undergo a number of tests by the Indian Navy before it gets commissioned in the defence fleet, the official added.

Scorpene class submarine Vela, equipped with modern machinery and technology to guard the seas, was launched on Monday in Mumbai, an official said. It will undergo a number of tests by the Indian Navy before it gets commissioned in the defence fleet, the official added. It is the fourth submarine to be launched by the state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) after entering into a contract for the construction and transfer of technology for six Scorpene class submarines with French collaborator Ms Naval Group (formerly known as DCNS). "Today, we are bringing the new Vela with modern machinery and technology to guard the seas," an official from MDL said. INS Vela was first commissioned on August 31, 1973 in the Indian Naval service and continued to serve for 37 years. It was the oldest submarine of the country when it was decommissioned on June 25, 2010, MDL said in a statement. The fifth Scorpene class submarine will also be launched soon, he said. MDL recently reported an annual turnover of Rs 4,500 crore, the official added.

Indian Navy launches fourth Scorpene class submarine Vela

Bahujan Samaj&nbsp;Party president Mayawati on Thursday accused the Election Commission of ignoring the alleged model code violations by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a tweet on Thursday, the BSP chief said, "PM Modi is moving about freely despite facing numerous serious allegations of the model code of conduct violation, thanks to the ECI. That's why he has started crossing the limit as far as respect for women is concerned. Hasn't the BJP/RSS imposed a lajawab neta upon the country?".

Further targetting the BJP, she said, "Why is the BJP &amp; co. Repeatedly insulting masses by claiming that the Opposition lacked leadership for the post of the Prime Minister? Who after Nehru was the arrogant question asked earlier too. But people gave a befitting reply to all this nonsense and will surely give another one shortly".

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PM Modi is moving freely without care despite facing numerous serious allegations of Model Code of Conduct violation, thanks to the ECI. That's why he has started crossing the limit so far as respect for women is concerned. Haven't BJP/RSS imposed a lajawab neta upon the country.
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1121273372443279360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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BSP is fighting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh in alliance with SP and RLD.&nbsp;

While the BSP is contesting on 38 seats, the SP is fighting elections on 37 and the RLD on three seats out of 80 seats in the state.&nbsp;

The SP-BSP-RLD alliance have left the two seats of Rae Bareli and Amethi for Congress in the state.

Of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, 26 have voted so far in the first three phases of polling, while the other 54 constituencies will go to the polls in the remaining four phases.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati on Thursday accused the Election Commission of ignoring the alleged model code violations by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati on Thursday accused the Election Commission of ignoring the alleged model code violations by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a tweet on Thursday, the BSP chief said, "PM Modi is moving about freely despite facing numerous serious allegations of the model code of conduct violation, thanks to the ECI. That's why he has started crossing the limit as far as respect for women is concerned. Hasn't the BJP/RSS imposed a lajawab neta upon the country?". Further targetting the BJP, she said, "Why is the BJP & co. Repeatedly insulting masses by claiming that the Opposition lacked leadership for the post of the Prime Minister? Who after Nehru was the arrogant question asked earlier too. But people gave a befitting reply to all this nonsense and will surely give another one shortly". PM Modi is moving freely without care despite facing numerous serious allegations of Model Code of Conduct violation, thanks to the ECI. That's why he has started crossing the limit so far as respect for women is concerned. Haven't BJP/RSS imposed a lajawab neta upon the country. — Mayawati (@Mayawati) April 25, 2019 × BSP is fighting the ensuing Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh in alliance with SP and RLD. While the BSP is contesting on 38 seats, the SP is fighting elections on 37 and the RLD on three seats out of 80 seats in the state. The SP-BSP-RLD alliance have left the two seats of Rae Bareli and Amethi for Congress in the state. Of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, 26 have voted so far in the first three phases of polling, while the other 54 constituencies will go to the polls in the remaining four phases. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP is repeatedly insulting masses by questioning opposition's PM choice: Mayawati

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/delhi-police-man-who-attacked-cm-was-aap-supporter-215994">An AAP supporter slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal</a> during a roadshow on Saturday because he was dissatisfied with the behaviour of the party leaders, police said.

Kejriwal was atop an open jeep when a man wearing a red t-shirt jumped onto the vehicle and slapped the chief minister before being pulled off the jeep.

The 33-year-old man, identified as Suresh, who is a scrap dealer in the area, has been a supporter of the Aam Aadmi Party and used to work as an organiser of the party's rallies and meetings, they said.

"An enquiry by a DCP-level officer has been ordered to enquire as to how this person was allowed to be in the reception or proximate group," Anil Mittal, Additional PRO (Delhi Police) said.

According to his version, over a period of time, Suresh got disenchanted due to the behaviour of the AAP leaders. His anger intensified due to "distrust of the party in the armed forces", the official said, adding further interrogation is on in the matter.

No FIR has been registered in the matter as police did not receive any complaint.

"Today, he was wearing a cap (which he later took off) and scarf of the AAP and was in the reception group of the CM. No one objected to him being there as he had been an organiser for the party. He was standing near the front right tyre of the Gypsy. He took off the scarf, climbed the bonnet and attempted to assault the CM," Delhi Police said in its statement.

The AAP, however, alleged that the Delhi Police had planted that the man belonged to the party.

The AAP roadshow was organised from 4 pm to 10 pm in Moti Nagar. It was scheduled to start from Karampura and was to terminate at RK Ashram Marg, it said.

Proper police arrangement from both Security Unit and local police were put in place for the event in consultation with the organizers of the event, it added.

The chief minister arrived at around 5.43 pm at the starting point. He got out of the official vehicle and boarded the open gypsy prepared for the roadshow. As he was meeting and greeting his party workers who had gathered around the gypsy, suddenly a person got on to the bonnet of the vehicle and attempted to assault the chief minister, the statement said.

He was immediately overpowered and saved from the agitated supporters and taken to hospital for medical treatment. The roadshow then started and continued as per the schedule, it said.

During security arrangements at such events, which are put in place in consultation with the organizers, necessary tie-up is made with the organizers so that they ensure that only the persons identified by them are in the reception party or the proximate group or near the vehicle used for the roadshow, police said.

AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged that the Delhi Police had planted the man.

"Delhi Police planting that man belonged to AAP, this is really shameful given the fact that the attacker's wife has herself said he was a Modi Bhakt and did not like anyone talking against Modi.

"This is the same Delhi Police which had planted earlier that no 'mirchi attack' happened on the chief minister. It was later when the Delhi government provided CCTV footage to Delhi Police that left its political masters red-faced," Bharadwaj said.&nbsp;

An AAP supporter slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a roadshow on Saturday because he was dissatisfied with the behaviour of the party leaders, police said.

An AAP supporter slapped Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal during a roadshow on Saturday because he was dissatisfied with the behaviour of the party leaders, police said. Kejriwal was atop an open jeep when a man wearing a red t-shirt jumped onto the vehicle and slapped the chief minister before being pulled off the jeep. The 33-year-old man, identified as Suresh, who is a scrap dealer in the area, has been a supporter of the Aam Aadmi Party and used to work as an organiser of the party's rallies and meetings, they said. "An enquiry by a DCP-level officer has been ordered to enquire as to how this person was allowed to be in the reception or proximate group," Anil Mittal, Additional PRO (Delhi Police) said. According to his version, over a period of time, Suresh got disenchanted due to the behaviour of the AAP leaders. His anger intensified due to "distrust of the party in the armed forces", the official said, adding further interrogation is on in the matter. No FIR has been registered in the matter as police did not receive any complaint. "Today, he was wearing a cap (which he later took off) and scarf of the AAP and was in the reception group of the CM. No one objected to him being there as he had been an organiser for the party. He was standing near the front right tyre of the Gypsy. He took off the scarf, climbed the bonnet and attempted to assault the CM," Delhi Police said in its statement. The AAP, however, alleged that the Delhi Police had planted that the man belonged to the party. The AAP roadshow was organised from 4 pm to 10 pm in Moti Nagar. It was scheduled to start from Karampura and was to terminate at RK Ashram Marg, it said. Proper police arrangement from both Security Unit and local police were put in place for the event in consultation with the organizers of the event, it added. The chief minister arrived at around 5.43 pm at the starting point. He got out of the official vehicle and boarded the open gypsy prepared for the roadshow. As he was meeting and greeting his party workers who had gathered around the gypsy, suddenly a person got on to the bonnet of the vehicle and attempted to assault the chief minister, the statement said. He was immediately overpowered and saved from the agitated supporters and taken to hospital for medical treatment. The roadshow then started and continued as per the schedule, it said. During security arrangements at such events, which are put in place in consultation with the organizers, necessary tie-up is made with the organizers so that they ensure that only the persons identified by them are in the reception party or the proximate group or near the vehicle used for the roadshow, police said. AAP spokesperson Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged that the Delhi Police had planted the man. "Delhi Police planting that man belonged to AAP, this is really shameful given the fact that the attacker's wife has herself said he was a Modi Bhakt and did not like anyone talking against Modi. "This is the same Delhi Police which had planted earlier that no 'mirchi attack' happened on the chief minister. It was later when the Delhi government provided CCTV footage to Delhi Police that left its political masters red-faced," Bharadwaj said.

AAP supporter slapped Kejriwal as he was dissatisfied with party leaders: Police

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjp-worker-shot-dead-by-suspected-militants-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-anantnag-215988">killing of BJP's district vice-president Gul Mohammed Mir by militants</a>.

In his message, the prime minister remembered Mir as a leader who "contributed towards strengthening the party in the state".&nbsp;&nbsp;

"There is no place for such violence in our country," the PM added.&nbsp;

"Strongly condemn the killing of J&amp;K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&amp;K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers," his message read.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP, in a statement, expressed deepest condolences to Mir's family and demanded strict action against "ill elements who are spoiling peace in the valley and killing innocent people".

NC vice-president Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also condemned Mir's killing.

"I condemn this dastardly act of violence and pray for the soul of the departed, Allah Jannat naseeb karey (May God grant him a place in heaven)... Gul Mohd Mir was the district vice president of the BJP state unit. May his family and loved ones find strength at this difficult time," Abdullah tweeted.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti posted on Twitter, "I strongly condemn the killing of @BJP4India leader Gul Muhammad Mir in Verinag, South Kashmir. My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul."

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president G A Mir also condemned Mir's killing and described the incident as "mindless, cowardice and shameful act". He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, a party spokesman said.

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PM Narendra Modi: Strongly condemn the killing of J&amp;K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&amp;K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/56w35GLkoL">pic.twitter.com/56w35GLkoL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1124877101755129856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mir was killed at his residence on late Saturday evening by militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district on Saturday night, the police said.

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I strongly condemn the killing of <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4India</a> leader Gul Muhammad Mir 
in Verinag, South Kashmir. 
My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul.
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) <a href="https://twitter.com/MehboobaMufti/status/1124734632908353536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Giving details, the police said three militants came to his house in Nowgam Verinag area and asked for the keys for his car. While driving the vehicle away, they pumped bullets into Mir, who was popular in the area as 'Atal', they said.

A police official said Mir was rushed to a hospital in a critical condition where he succumbed to injuries.

The area has been cordoned off to nab the suspects, the official said.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the killing of BJP's district vice-president Gul Mohammed Mir by militants. In his message, the prime minister remembered Mir as a leader who "contributed towards strengthening the party in the state".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has condemned the killing of BJP's district vice-president Gul Mohammed Mir by militants. In his message, the prime minister remembered Mir as a leader who "contributed towards strengthening the party in the state". "There is no place for such violence in our country," the PM added. "Strongly condemn the killing of J&K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers," his message read. The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the BJP, in a statement, expressed deepest condolences to Mir's family and demanded strict action against "ill elements who are spoiling peace in the valley and killing innocent people". NC vice-president Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also condemned Mir's killing. "I condemn this dastardly act of violence and pray for the soul of the departed, Allah Jannat naseeb karey (May God grant him a place in heaven)... Gul Mohd Mir was the district vice president of the BJP state unit. May his family and loved ones find strength at this difficult time," Abdullah tweeted. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti posted on Twitter, "I strongly condemn the killing of @BJP4India leader Gul Muhammad Mir in Verinag, South Kashmir. My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul." Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) president G A Mir also condemned Mir's killing and described the incident as "mindless, cowardice and shameful act". He conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, a party spokesman said. PM Narendra Modi: Strongly condemn the killing of J&K BJP leader Ghulam Mohammed Mir. His contribution towards strengthening the party in J&K will always be remembered. There is no place for such violence in our country. Condolences to his family and well-wishers. (file pic) pic.twitter.com/56w35GLkoL — ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2019 × Mir was killed at his residence on late Saturday evening by militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district on Saturday night, the police said. I strongly condemn the killing of @BJP4India leader Gul Muhammad Mir in Verinag, South Kashmir. My condolences to the bereaved family and prayers for the departed soul. — Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) May 4, 2019 × Giving details, the police said three militants came to his house in Nowgam Verinag area and asked for the keys for his car. While driving the vehicle away, they pumped bullets into Mir, who was popular in the area as 'Atal', they said. A police official said Mir was rushed to a hospital in a critical condition where he succumbed to injuries. The area has been cordoned off to nab the suspects, the official said.

No place for such violence in our country: PM Modi condemns BJP Anantnag vice-president's killing

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-firing-projectiles-north-korea-says-it-tested-rocket-launchers-216009">After firing projectiles, North Korea says it tested rocket launchers</a>

North Korea said Sunday it had tested long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons, a day after Pyongyang appeared to have launched its first short-range missile in more than a year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/four-palestinians-killed-as-rocket-barrages-from-gaza-draw-israeli-strikes-216001">Four Palestinians killed as rocket barrages from Gaza draw Israeli strikes</a>

Gaza militants on Saturday fired some 250 rockets at Israel, which responded with strikes as a fragile ceasefire again faltered in an escalation that left four Palestinians dead, including a baby in disputed circumstances.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-tells-labour-lets-do-a-deal-on-brexit-215999">'Let's do a deal' on Brexit: British PM tells Labour</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday urged main opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to work with her to break the Brexit deadlock, telling him, "Let's do a deal".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-promises-to-eradicate-terrorism-bring-stability-before-election-215943">Sri Lanka president Sirisena promises to 'eradicate terrorism', bring stability before election</a>

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena on Saturday said the security forces would "eradicate terrorism" and restore stability before a presidential election due for year-end, reported news agency Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelan-army-helicopter-crashes-near-caracas-killing-seven-216014">Venezuelan army helicopter crashes near Caracas, killing seven</a>

A Venezuelan military helicopter crashed close to Caracas on Saturday morning, killing all seven people on board, the Defense Ministry said in a statement.

After firing projectiles, North Korea says it tested rocket launchers North Korea said Sunday it had tested long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons, a day after Pyongyang appeared to have launched its first short-range missile in more than a year.

After firing projectiles, North Korea says it tested rocket launchers North Korea said Sunday it had tested long-range multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons, a day after Pyongyang appeared to have launched its first short-range missile in more than a year. Four Palestinians killed as rocket barrages from Gaza draw Israeli strikes Gaza militants on Saturday fired some 250 rockets at Israel, which responded with strikes as a fragile ceasefire again faltered in an escalation that left four Palestinians dead, including a baby in disputed circumstances. 'Let's do a deal' on Brexit: British PM tells Labour British Prime Minister Theresa May on Sunday urged main opposition Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn to work with her to break the Brexit deadlock, telling him, "Let's do a deal". Sri Lanka president Sirisena promises to 'eradicate terrorism', bring stability before election Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena on Saturday said the security forces would "eradicate terrorism" and restore stability before a presidential election due for year-end, reported news agency Reuters. Venezuelan army helicopter crashes near Caracas, killing seven A Venezuelan military helicopter crashed close to Caracas on Saturday morning, killing all seven people on board, the Defense Ministry said in a statement.

News brief: Big stories of the day

East Coast Railways on Saturday announced that trains originating from Bhubaneshwar will run normally from May 5 after the services were suspended owing to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-much-damage-by-cyclone-fani-in-west-bengal-mamata-banerjee-216005">cyclone 'Fani.'</a>

The cyclone had made landfall in Odisha on May 3.

"Train services will run normally from Bhubaneswar from tomorrow, May 5. This is for originating trains from Bhubaneswar," a tweet from the East Coast Railways read.

Railways have resumed services in less than 24 hours of the cyclone wreaking havoc in the state.

Only two trains, Bhubaneswar-Tirupati Express and Visakhapatnam Intercity Express will not run normally because of the non-availability of a pairing train according to the tweet.

Prashanti Express, Visakha Express, Rajdhani Express, Konark Express and Hirakhand express which originate from Bhubaneshwar will ply normally from Sunday.

East Coast Railways also stated that fourteen passenger train services will also resume in the state from Sunday.

After wreaking havoc at Puri, Bhubaneswar and other parts in Odisha on Friday, cyclonic storm Fani made landfall in West Bengal early on Saturday. Rain lashed Kolkata and other coastal towns in West Bengal.

According to IMD the cyclone will weaken and move into Bangladesh by noon. "Severe Cyclone FANI weakened into a Cyclonic Storm and lay centred at 60 km NW of Kolkata at 0530 IST of 4th May. To weaken into Deep Depression and move into Bangladesh by noon," tweeted IMD.&nbsp;

East Coast Railways on Saturday announced that trains originating from Bhubaneshwar will run normally from May 5 after the services were suspended owing to cyclone 'Fani.

East Coast Railways on Saturday announced that trains originating from Bhubaneshwar will run normally from May 5 after the services were suspended owing to cyclone 'Fani.' The cyclone had made landfall in Odisha on May 3. "Train services will run normally from Bhubaneswar from tomorrow, May 5. This is for originating trains from Bhubaneswar," a tweet from the East Coast Railways read. Railways have resumed services in less than 24 hours of the cyclone wreaking havoc in the state. Only two trains, Bhubaneswar-Tirupati Express and Visakhapatnam Intercity Express will not run normally because of the non-availability of a pairing train according to the tweet. Prashanti Express, Visakha Express, Rajdhani Express, Konark Express and Hirakhand express which originate from Bhubaneshwar will ply normally from Sunday. East Coast Railways also stated that fourteen passenger train services will also resume in the state from Sunday. After wreaking havoc at Puri, Bhubaneswar and other parts in Odisha on Friday, cyclonic storm Fani made landfall in West Bengal early on Saturday. Rain lashed Kolkata and other coastal towns in West Bengal. According to IMD the cyclone will weaken and move into Bangladesh by noon. "Severe Cyclone FANI weakened into a Cyclonic Storm and lay centred at 60 km NW of Kolkata at 0530 IST of 4th May. To weaken into Deep Depression and move into Bangladesh by noon," tweeted IMD.

Cyclone Fani: Train services in Bhubaneswar to resume today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress and said grand old party's&nbsp;a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/terrorist-attacks-had-become-daily-affair-during-congress-pm-modi-in-rajasthan-215640">pathy and inability</a> is the genesis of terrorism and Naxalism in the country, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.&nbsp;

Addressing an election rally in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, &nbsp;Modi told his supporters that each of their votes would inspire him to fight against terrorism with vigour.

''Your every vote in favour of Modi will inspire him to fight <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/appalled-to-see-congress-speaking-the-language-of-pakistan-pm-modi-215927">against terrorism</a> with vigour: Modi at MP rally,'' he said.&nbsp;

''Perhaps, after 1977, after the emergency, this is the first election, where the people of the country are contesting to bring the current government back to power,'' Modi said and added, after 4 phases of Lok Sabha polls, trends show Congress and its allies staring at defeat.&nbsp;

Modi also targetted Rahul Gandhi for his alleged association with UK firm Backops and said his scams are being unearthed from land, air and water.

Attacking Rahul Gandhi on his former business partner allegedly acquiring defence offset contracts under the UPA regime, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday said the Congress President was “a man who aspired to be a defence deal pusher and today aspires to be India’s Prime Minister”.

Due to Congress's "criminal apathy", India was deprived of basic amenities in first 25 years of Independence, Modi said.&nbsp;

Accusing Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, Amethi of denying treatment to a man because he was carrying Ayushman card, Modi said ''There is a hospital in Amethi whose trustee is a person from 'naamdar family', a few days ago a poor man went there for treatment with his Ayushman card, hospital denied him treatment because he was carrying the Ayushman Bharat card given by Modi,'' he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress and said grand old party's apathy and inability is the genesis of terrorism and Naxalism in the country, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress and said grand old party's apathy and inability is the genesis of terrorism and Naxalism in the country, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday. Addressing an election rally in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, Modi told his supporters that each of their votes would inspire him to fight against terrorism with vigour. ''Your every vote in favour of Modi will inspire him to fight against terrorism with vigour: Modi at MP rally,'' he said. ''Perhaps, after 1977, after the emergency, this is the first election, where the people of the country are contesting to bring the current government back to power,'' Modi said and added, after 4 phases of Lok Sabha polls, trends show Congress and its allies staring at defeat. Modi also targetted Rahul Gandhi for his alleged association with UK firm Backops and said his scams are being unearthed from land, air and water. Attacking Rahul Gandhi on his former business partner allegedly acquiring defence offset contracts under the UPA regime, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Saturday said the Congress President was “a man who aspired to be a defence deal pusher and today aspires to be India’s Prime Minister”. Due to Congress's "criminal apathy", India was deprived of basic amenities in first 25 years of Independence, Modi said. Accusing Sanjay Gandhi Hospital, Amethi of denying treatment to a man because he was carrying Ayushman card, Modi said ''There is a hospital in Amethi whose trustee is a person from 'naamdar family', a few days ago a poor man went there for treatment with his Ayushman card, hospital denied him treatment because he was carrying the Ayushman Bharat card given by Modi,'' he said.

Congress' apathy and inability is genesis of terrorism and Naxalism: PM Modi

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-death-toll-rises-to-33-as-cm-patnaik-announces-a-relief-package-216101">Cyclone Fani: Death toll rises to 33 as CM Patnaik announces relief package</a>

At least 33 people lost their lives after cyclone Fani struck Odisha on Friday but a timely massive evocuation carried out by the state government averted the higher death toll.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-using-all-resources-to-sell-oil-in-grey-market-deputy-minister-216113">Iran using all resources to sell oil in 'grey market': Deputy minister</a>

Iran has mobilised all its resources to sell oil in a "grey market", bypassing US sanctions that Tehran sees as illegitimate, state media quoted Deputy Oil Minister Amir Hossein Zamaninia as saying on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-sees-little-scope-for-jet-airways-revival-government-sources-216085">Little scope for Jet Airways revival: Government sources</a>

The government sees little hope of a bidder emerging for debt-laden Jet Airways Ltd, which halted operations last month, a Reuters report said quoting two senior finance ministry officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-sourav-ganguly-on-delhis-chances-of-lifting-ipl-2019-trophy-216087">Exclusive: Sourav Ganguly on Delhi's chances of lifting IPL 2019 trophy</a>

Delhi's fortune changed in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the team managing to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2012.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-says-emigration-low-birth-rates-have-brought-ice-curtain-on-europe-216090">Pope says emigration, low birth rates have brought 'ice curtain' on Europe</a>

Pope Francis urged European leaders on Sunday to address wealth inequality and low birth rates which he said had created an "ice curtain" between Europe's richer and poorer states and was fuelling emigration.

Cyclone Fani: Death toll rises to 33 as CM Patnaik announces relief package At least 33 people lost their lives after cyclone Fani struck Odisha on Friday but a timely massive evocuation carried out by the state government averted the higher death toll.

Cyclone Fani: Death toll rises to 33 as CM Patnaik announces relief package At least 33 people lost their lives after cyclone Fani struck Odisha on Friday but a timely massive evocuation carried out by the state government averted the higher death toll. Iran using all resources to sell oil in 'grey market': Deputy minister Iran has mobilised all its resources to sell oil in a "grey market", bypassing US sanctions that Tehran sees as illegitimate, state media quoted Deputy Oil Minister Amir Hossein Zamaninia as saying on Sunday. Little scope for Jet Airways revival: Government sources The government sees little hope of a bidder emerging for debt-laden Jet Airways Ltd, which halted operations last month, a Reuters report said quoting two senior finance ministry officials. Exclusive: Sourav Ganguly on Delhi's chances of lifting IPL 2019 trophy Delhi's fortune changed in the 12th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the team managing to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2012. Pope says emigration, low birth rates have brought 'ice curtain' on Europe Pope Francis urged European leaders on Sunday to address wealth inequality and low birth rates which he said had created an "ice curtain" between Europe's richer and poorer states and was fuelling emigration.

Except for damaging a few huts, Cyclone Fani did not cause much havoc in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said as the severe cyclonic storm weakened Saturday morning and headed towards neighbouring Bangladesh.&nbsp;

While flight operations resumed at the Kolkata airport at 9.57 am, train services on the Sealdah and Howrah sections are also getting back to normal.

The Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) resumed its routine operation Saturday morning at both Haldia and Kolkata docks.

"The entire administration was awake the whole night. We were very worried about the cyclone," Banerjee said.

She had cancelled her election programmes and stayed put at Kharagpur in West Midnapore district to monitor the situation.&nbsp;

"There was not much damage in the state. At least 850 mud houses in the districts were partially damaged, while 12 were destroyed," the chief minister said. 
Banerjee said the state government will extend help to people whose houses have been damaged due to the cyclone.

Trees uprooted in different parts of the state due to speedy wind have been removed and the roads cleared for plying of vehicles, she said.

Restoration of electricity snapped in different districts is underway.

"Around 42,000 people have been evacuated by our people who took them to relief shelters. The civic services have been restored in Digha, Mandarmoni, whereas it is work in progress at other places," she said.

The storm weakened on Saturday morning and moved towards Bangladesh. Kolkata witnessed wind speed of 30-40 kmph with moderate to heavy rainfall overnight.

The very severe cyclonic storm weakened into a severe cyclonic storm over the Odisha coast, before moving further north-northeastwards and entering West Bengal through Kharagpur in West Midnapore around 12.30 am Saturday, officials said.

"It has moved to Arambagh in Hooghly and is now in Nadia district from where it will go to Murshidabad district before entering Bangladesh. It is likely to continue to move north-northeastwards and weaken further over the next six hours," Deputy Director General of the Regional Meteorological Centre here, Sanjib Bandyopadhyay, told PTI.

Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim along with senior engineers of the civic body and local councillors was on a night-long vigil in and around the city to keep a tab on the situation.

"We had made arrangements to act on an emergency basis had Fani hit the city. But thank god, nothing major has happened," Hakim told PTI.

Much to the glee of passengers, flight operations which were suspended from 3 pm on Friday resumed at the Kolkata airport at 9.57 am Saturday, an Airports Authority of India (AAI) official said.

Air India was the first airline to start operating out of Kolkata airport, the official said, adding a GoAir flight from Delhi was the first flight to land in Kolkata at 10.10 am.

The AAI official said airlines had refunded fares of cancelled flights to the passengers and took care of them.

Very few passengers had stayed back at the airport on Friday, the official said.

Out of an average 224 daily flights, only 110 flights operated on Friday, the official said.

Train services on the Sealdah and Howrah sections are also getting back to normal, officials said.

The ferry services on river Hooghly, however, were yet to resume.&nbsp;

Five persons were injured when a portion of the roof of a hutment collapsed on Friday night in central Kolkata's Beniatola Lane, police said.

All of them were released after treatment.

Kolkata Port Trust chairman Vinit Kumar said there had been no damages to the port infrastructure.&nbsp;

"Operations at both Kolkata and Haldia docks have resumed since morning," he said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi visited Kakdwip subdivision of South 24 Parganas district to review the situation after the area was affected by the cyclone.

Tripathi met local administration officials and interacted with people to ascertain the impact of Fani and the relief work.

"He also went to a multipurpose cyclone shelter in Madhusudanpur where people had taken shelter the preceding night," a source at the Raj Bhawan said.

The Governor will be visiting cyclone-affected areas of West Midnapur district on Sunday, he said.&nbsp;

Except for damaging a few huts, Cyclone Fani did not cause much havoc in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said as the severe cyclonic storm weakened Saturday morning and headed towards neighbouring Bangladesh.

Except for damaging a few huts, Cyclone Fani did not cause much havoc in West Bengal, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said as the severe cyclonic storm weakened Saturday morning and headed towards neighbouring Bangladesh. While flight operations resumed at the Kolkata airport at 9.57 am, train services on the Sealdah and Howrah sections are also getting back to normal. The Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) resumed its routine operation Saturday morning at both Haldia and Kolkata docks. "The entire administration was awake the whole night. We were very worried about the cyclone," Banerjee said. She had cancelled her election programmes and stayed put at Kharagpur in West Midnapore district to monitor the situation. "There was not much damage in the state. At least 850 mud houses in the districts were partially damaged, while 12 were destroyed," the chief minister said. Banerjee said the state government will extend help to people whose houses have been damaged due to the cyclone. Trees uprooted in different parts of the state due to speedy wind have been removed and the roads cleared for plying of vehicles, she said. Restoration of electricity snapped in different districts is underway. "Around 42,000 people have been evacuated by our people who took them to relief shelters. The civic services have been restored in Digha, Mandarmoni, whereas it is work in progress at other places," she said. The storm weakened on Saturday morning and moved towards Bangladesh. Kolkata witnessed wind speed of 30-40 kmph with moderate to heavy rainfall overnight. The very severe cyclonic storm weakened into a severe cyclonic storm over the Odisha coast, before moving further north-northeastwards and entering West Bengal through Kharagpur in West Midnapore around 12.30 am Saturday, officials said. "It has moved to Arambagh in Hooghly and is now in Nadia district from where it will go to Murshidabad district before entering Bangladesh. It is likely to continue to move north-northeastwards and weaken further over the next six hours," Deputy Director General of the Regional Meteorological Centre here, Sanjib Bandyopadhyay, told PTI. Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim along with senior engineers of the civic body and local councillors was on a night-long vigil in and around the city to keep a tab on the situation. "We had made arrangements to act on an emergency basis had Fani hit the city. But thank god, nothing major has happened," Hakim told PTI. Much to the glee of passengers, flight operations which were suspended from 3 pm on Friday resumed at the Kolkata airport at 9.57 am Saturday, an Airports Authority of India (AAI) official said. Air India was the first airline to start operating out of Kolkata airport, the official said, adding a GoAir flight from Delhi was the first flight to land in Kolkata at 10.10 am. The AAI official said airlines had refunded fares of cancelled flights to the passengers and took care of them. Very few passengers had stayed back at the airport on Friday, the official said. Out of an average 224 daily flights, only 110 flights operated on Friday, the official said. Train services on the Sealdah and Howrah sections are also getting back to normal, officials said. The ferry services on river Hooghly, however, were yet to resume. Five persons were injured when a portion of the roof of a hutment collapsed on Friday night in central Kolkata's Beniatola Lane, police said. All of them were released after treatment. Kolkata Port Trust chairman Vinit Kumar said there had been no damages to the port infrastructure. "Operations at both Kolkata and Haldia docks have resumed since morning," he said. Meanwhile, Governor Keshari Nath Tripathi visited Kakdwip subdivision of South 24 Parganas district to review the situation after the area was affected by the cyclone. Tripathi met local administration officials and interacted with people to ascertain the impact of Fani and the relief work. "He also went to a multipurpose cyclone shelter in Madhusudanpur where people had taken shelter the preceding night," a source at the Raj Bhawan said. The Governor will be visiting cyclone-affected areas of West Midnapur district on Sunday, he said.

Not much damage by Cyclone Fani in West Bengal: Mamata Banerjee

At least 33 people lost their lives after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-telecom-firms-operationalise-over-900-base-stations-in-odisha-restoration-work-on-216062">cyclone Fani</a> struck Odisha on Friday but a timely massive evocuation carried out by the state government averted the higher death toll.&nbsp;

The death toll could have been much greater if not for the massive evacuation in the days before the storm made landfall, Reuters reported quoting officials.

Puri, which lay directly in the path of Fani, suffered extensive damage.

"The cyclone has killed 21 people in Puri and about 300 people are injured," Brajabandhu Dash, the report said quoting medical officer at Puri. Earlier, 12 deaths were reported from other parts of the state.

Many were left homeless after a cyclone packing winds of about 200 km per hour slammed into eastern India, ripping out tin roofs and destroying power and telecom lines, officials said on Sunday.

The depression over Meghalaya and adjoining Bangladesh has weakened, and will become insignificant in the next 24 hours, India's met department said on Twitter early on Sunday.

More than 60,000 people including officials and volunteers were involved in relief operations, said special relief commissioner Bishnupada Sethi, who monitored the evacuation.

Relief package

Announcing a relief package for those affected by the calamity, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said all families in Puri and in those parts of Khurda, which had been "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-train-services-in-bhubaneswar-to-resume-today-216006">extremely severely affected</a>" in the storm, will get 50 kg of rice, Rs 2,000 in cash and polythene sheets, if covered under the Food Security Act (FSA).

For the rest of Khurda district -- categorised as "severely" affected -- the FSA families will get a month's quota of rice, Rs 1,000 in cash and polythene sheets, he added.

Those living in the "moderately-affected" districts of Cuttack, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur will be eligible for a month's quota of rice and Rs 500 in cash, Patnaik said.

The chief minister also announced an assistance of Rs 95,100 for "fully-damaged" houses, Rs 52,000 for "partially-damaged" houses and Rs 3,200 for houses that had suffered minor damage.

Talking to reporters here, Patnaik claimed that water supply had been restored in 70 per cent areas of the worst-hit Puri town and 40 per cent of the places in state capital Bhubaneswar.

(With inputs from agencies)

At least 33 people lost their lives after cyclone Fani struck Odisha on Friday but a timely massive evocuation carried out by the state government averted the higher death toll.

At least 33 people lost their lives after cyclone Fani struck Odisha on Friday but a timely massive evocuation carried out by the state government averted the higher death toll. The death toll could have been much greater if not for the massive evacuation in the days before the storm made landfall, Reuters reported quoting officials. Puri, which lay directly in the path of Fani, suffered extensive damage. "The cyclone has killed 21 people in Puri and about 300 people are injured," Brajabandhu Dash, the report said quoting medical officer at Puri. Earlier, 12 deaths were reported from other parts of the state. Many were left homeless after a cyclone packing winds of about 200 km per hour slammed into eastern India, ripping out tin roofs and destroying power and telecom lines, officials said on Sunday. The depression over Meghalaya and adjoining Bangladesh has weakened, and will become insignificant in the next 24 hours, India's met department said on Twitter early on Sunday. More than 60,000 people including officials and volunteers were involved in relief operations, said special relief commissioner Bishnupada Sethi, who monitored the evacuation. Relief package Announcing a relief package for those affected by the calamity, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said all families in Puri and in those parts of Khurda, which had been "extremely severely affected" in the storm, will get 50 kg of rice, Rs 2,000 in cash and polythene sheets, if covered under the Food Security Act (FSA). For the rest of Khurda district -- categorised as "severely" affected -- the FSA families will get a month's quota of rice, Rs 1,000 in cash and polythene sheets, he added. Those living in the "moderately-affected" districts of Cuttack, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur will be eligible for a month's quota of rice and Rs 500 in cash, Patnaik said. The chief minister also announced an assistance of Rs 95,100 for "fully-damaged" houses, Rs 52,000 for "partially-damaged" houses and Rs 3,200 for houses that had suffered minor damage. Talking to reporters here, Patnaik claimed that water supply had been restored in 70 per cent areas of the worst-hit Puri town and 40 per cent of the places in state capital Bhubaneswar. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Fani: Death toll rises to 33 as CM Patnaik announces relief package

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-telecom-firms-operationalise-over-900-base-stations-in-odisha-restoration-work-on-216062">death toll in Cyclone Fani rose to 29</a> on Sunday, two days after the "extremely severe" storm barrelled through coastal Odisha, causing widespread destruction and leaving hundreds grappling with water shortage and power cuts, an official said.

Announcing a relief package for those affected by the calamity, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said all families in Puri and in those parts of Khurda, which had been "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-train-services-in-bhubaneswar-to-resume-today-216006">extremely severely affected</a>" in the storm, will get 50 kg of rice, Rs 2,000 in cash and polythene sheets, if covered under the Food Security Act (FSA).

For the rest of Khurda district -- categorised as "severely" affected -- the FSA families will get a month's quota of rice, Rs 1,000 in cash and polythene sheets, he added.

Those living in the "moderately-affected" districts of Cuttack, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur will be eligible for a month's quota of rice and Rs 500 in cash, Patnaik said.

The chief minister also announced an assistance of Rs 95,100 for "fully-damaged" houses, Rs 52,000 for "partially-damaged" houses and Rs 3,200 for houses that had suffered minor damage.

Talking to reporters here, Patnaik claimed that water supply had been restored in 70 per cent areas of the worst-hit Puri town and 40 per cent of the places in state capital Bhubaneswar.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyclone-fani-kills-at-least-14-as-it-moves-to-bangladesh-215945/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I am hoping that water supply will be fully restored in Bhubaneswar shortly and at least in 90 per cent areas of Puri town by this evening," the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief, who is seeking a fifth term in office, said.

"The government has made arrangements to provide cooked food for free over the next 15 days. We will also take up tree plantation on a mission mode," he added.

The chief minister, however, could not give the details on the status of the ongoing work for power restoration in the affected areas.

"We have to be very careful to avoid accidental electrocution," he said when asked if the power supply will be restored in the capital city, which continued without electricity for the third day on Sunday.

According to state Chief Secretary A P Padhi, 21 of the 29 deaths were registered in the pilgrim town of Puri, where the storm made landfall on Friday, flattening fragile houses, uprooting scores of trees, electric poles and mobile towers.

The government had mounted a massive restoration work across 10,000 villages and 52 urban areas ravaged by the storm, affecting nearly one crore people, he said.

The "extremely severe" cyclonic storm, one of the "rarest of rare", unleashed copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 240 kmph on Friday, blowing away thatched houses and swamping towns and villages, before weakening and entering West Bengal.

Asserting that efforts were on to restore electricity in the affected areas, Energy Secretary Hemant Sharma said the power infrastructure was severely damaged in Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara and Balasore districts during the cyclone.

According to a state government official, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Odisha to review the situation. Modi spoke to Patnaik on Saturday and assured continuous support from the Centre for the rehabilitation work.

The East Coast Railway (ECoR) partially resumed operations on the Howrah-Chennai route on Sunday.

"Barring the Bhubaneswar-Tirupati Express and the Visakhapatnam Intercity Express, all trains originating from the state capital, including the Bhubaneswar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express, will be running normally from Sunday," an ECoR official said.

The death toll in Cyclone Fani rose to 29 on Sunday, two days after the "extremely severe" storm barrelled through coastal Odisha, causing widespread destruction and leaving hundreds grappling with water shortage and power cuts, an official said.

The death toll in Cyclone Fani rose to 29 on Sunday, two days after the "extremely severe" storm barrelled through coastal Odisha, causing widespread destruction and leaving hundreds grappling with water shortage and power cuts, an official said. Announcing a relief package for those affected by the calamity, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said all families in Puri and in those parts of Khurda, which had been "extremely severely affected" in the storm, will get 50 kg of rice, Rs 2,000 in cash and polythene sheets, if covered under the Food Security Act (FSA). For the rest of Khurda district -- categorised as "severely" affected -- the FSA families will get a month's quota of rice, Rs 1,000 in cash and polythene sheets, he added. Those living in the "moderately-affected" districts of Cuttack, Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur will be eligible for a month's quota of rice and Rs 500 in cash, Patnaik said. The chief minister also announced an assistance of Rs 95,100 for "fully-damaged" houses, Rs 52,000 for "partially-damaged" houses and Rs 3,200 for houses that had suffered minor damage. Talking to reporters here, Patnaik claimed that water supply had been restored in 70 per cent areas of the worst-hit Puri town and 40 per cent of the places in state capital Bhubaneswar. "I am hoping that water supply will be fully restored in Bhubaneswar shortly and at least in 90 per cent areas of Puri town by this evening," the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief, who is seeking a fifth term in office, said. "The government has made arrangements to provide cooked food for free over the next 15 days. We will also take up tree plantation on a mission mode," he added. The chief minister, however, could not give the details on the status of the ongoing work for power restoration in the affected areas. "We have to be very careful to avoid accidental electrocution," he said when asked if the power supply will be restored in the capital city, which continued without electricity for the third day on Sunday. According to state Chief Secretary A P Padhi, 21 of the 29 deaths were registered in the pilgrim town of Puri, where the storm made landfall on Friday, flattening fragile houses, uprooting scores of trees, electric poles and mobile towers. The government had mounted a massive restoration work across 10,000 villages and 52 urban areas ravaged by the storm, affecting nearly one crore people, he said. The "extremely severe" cyclonic storm, one of the "rarest of rare", unleashed copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 240 kmph on Friday, blowing away thatched houses and swamping towns and villages, before weakening and entering West Bengal. Asserting that efforts were on to restore electricity in the affected areas, Energy Secretary Hemant Sharma said the power infrastructure was severely damaged in Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara and Balasore districts during the cyclone. According to a state government official, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Odisha to review the situation. Modi spoke to Patnaik on Saturday and assured continuous support from the Centre for the rehabilitation work. The East Coast Railway (ECoR) partially resumed operations on the Howrah-Chennai route on Sunday. "Barring the Bhubaneswar-Tirupati Express and the Visakhapatnam Intercity Express, all trains originating from the state capital, including the Bhubaneswar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express, will be running normally from Sunday," an ECoR official said.

Cyclone Fani: Death toll rises to 29 in Odisha, CM announces a relief package

Telecom infrastructure restoration work is on in full swing in cyclone-hit Odisha, where mobile operators Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio have operationalised over 930 base transceiver stations (BTSs), official sources said.

State-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd's (BSNL) exchange at Puri has been made operational and mobile service BTS at the exchange building too is now working, they added.

Restoration work is underway in Odisha, which was battered by cyclonic storm 'Fani' on Friday morning.

Sources said that 932 BTSs (base stations for mobile communication) have been made operational by Airtel, Vodafone and Reliance Jio.

In neighbouring West Bengal, 206 BTSs are pending restoration, they added.

The Telecom Department has been closely monitoring the situation and holding review meetings with operators to oversee restoration work.

On Friday, when the storm pounded coastal parts of Odisha, the facility for free SMS was activated, and free interconnect between Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Reliance Jio and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) was facilitated to ensure calls can be made on whichever network is available.

Among other measures, helpline number 1938 was also activated.

Cyclonic storm 'Fani' slammed into the Odisha coast on Friday morning, packing heavy rain and winds with speeds of up to 175 kmph.

Telecom networks in some parts of Odisha, including Puri and Bhubaneswar, had suffered extensive network damage.&nbsp;

Telecom infrastructure restoration work is on in full swing in cyclone-hit Odisha, where mobile operators Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio have operationalised over 930 base transceiver stations (BTSs), official sources said.

Telecom infrastructure restoration work is on in full swing in cyclone-hit Odisha, where mobile operators Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio have operationalised over 930 base transceiver stations (BTSs), official sources said. State-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd's (BSNL) exchange at Puri has been made operational and mobile service BTS at the exchange building too is now working, they added. Restoration work is underway in Odisha, which was battered by cyclonic storm 'Fani' on Friday morning. Sources said that 932 BTSs (base stations for mobile communication) have been made operational by Airtel, Vodafone and Reliance Jio. In neighbouring West Bengal, 206 BTSs are pending restoration, they added. The Telecom Department has been closely monitoring the situation and holding review meetings with operators to oversee restoration work. On Friday, when the storm pounded coastal parts of Odisha, the facility for free SMS was activated, and free interconnect between Airtel, Vodafone Idea, Reliance Jio and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) was facilitated to ensure calls can be made on whichever network is available. Among other measures, helpline number 1938 was also activated. Cyclonic storm 'Fani' slammed into the Odisha coast on Friday morning, packing heavy rain and winds with speeds of up to 175 kmph. Telecom networks in some parts of Odisha, including Puri and Bhubaneswar, had suffered extensive network damage.

Cyclone Fani: Telecom firms operationalise over 900 base stations in Odisha; restoration work on

The Central government has filed fresh affidavits in the Rafale review case in the Supreme Court stating that the apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last year on December 14, upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was "correct," news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The Centre, in its response, also noted that the "monitoring of progress by PMO of this Government to Government process cannot be construed as interference or parallel negotiations".&nbsp;

It added that the "unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form the basis for review".&nbsp;

The top court on Tuesday had issued a formal notice to the Central government asking it to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-asks-centre-to-reply-on-rafale-review-petition-posts-matter-for-hearing-on-may-6-214723">file its reply on the Rafale review petitions by May 4</a>. The matter will be put up for hearing on May 6.&nbsp;

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Centre files fresh affidavits in Rafale review case in SC saying- the Dec 14, 2018 judgement upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was correct and unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form basis for review. <a href="https://t.co/oMfFYdZltG">pic.twitter.com/oMfFYdZltG</a>
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The Centre, in its letter on Monday, had said it needs time to file reply on merits on the review petitions.

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Centre in affidavit in Rafale review petition case: the then Hon’ble Raksha Mantri had recorded on file that …”it appears that PMO and French President’s office are monitoring the progress of the issues which was an outcome of the summit meeting.” 2/2 <a href="https://t.co/yKwpR9sX5d">https://t.co/yKwpR9sX5d</a>
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The petitions seek review of the apex court's verdict that was pronounced last year in December wherein it had dismissed the pleas challenging India's deal to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France.

The Supreme Court had quashed the pleas. In its decision, the apex court had said that there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision-making process".

It added that there was no reason for any intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets.

 
&nbsp;

The Central government has filed fresh affidavits in the Rafale review case in the Supreme Court stating that the apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last year on December 14, upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was "correct," news agency ANI reported.

The Central government has filed fresh affidavits in the Rafale review case in the Supreme Court stating that the apex court's judgement, which was pronounced last year on December 14, upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was "correct," news agency ANI reported. The Centre, in its response, also noted that the "monitoring of progress by PMO of this Government to Government process cannot be construed as interference or parallel negotiations". It added that the "unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form the basis for review". The top court on Tuesday had issued a formal notice to the Central government asking it to file its reply on the Rafale review petitions by May 4. The matter will be put up for hearing on May 6. Centre files fresh affidavits in Rafale review case in SC saying- the Dec 14, 2018 judgement upholding 36 Rafale jets' deal was correct and unsubstantiated media reports and/or part internal file notings deliberately projected in a selective manner cannot form basis for review. pic.twitter.com/oMfFYdZltG — ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2019 × The Centre, in its letter on Monday, had said it needs time to file reply on merits on the review petitions. Centre in affidavit in Rafale review petition case: the then Hon’ble Raksha Mantri had recorded on file that …”it appears that PMO and French President’s office are monitoring the progress of the issues which was an outcome of the summit meeting.” 2/2 https://t.co/yKwpR9sX5d — ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2019 × The petitions seek review of the apex court's verdict that was pronounced last year in December wherein it had dismissed the pleas challenging India's deal to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets from France. The Supreme Court had quashed the pleas. In its decision, the apex court had said that there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision-making process". It added that there was no reason for any intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets.

'Monitoring by PMO cannot be construed as interference,' says Centre in fresh affidavits in Rafale review case

India's decision to not join <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-says-more-nations-joining-belt-and-road-64-billion-in-deals-signed-at-summit-213907">China's Belt and Road Initiative</a> over sovereignty concerns related to the CPEC has not affected the bilateral trade ties which have seen an "exponential growth", India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri has said.

India skipped China's 2nd Belt and Road Forum (BRF) held from April 25 to 27 aimed at showcasing its trillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) over its objection to $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

India had also boycotted the first BRF held in 2017. New Delhi's reluctance to join the BRI has become a major irritant in the relations between the two countries.

"We feel that the infrastructure connectivity should be aligned with national priorities and should respect and follow certain well respected or broadly accepted (norms) in the world, which include the elements of transparency openness, level playing field, social, environmental and financial sustainability," Misri said.

"These are the principles we follow in our own initiatives. The most important thing is that (they) must be aligned with national priorities. That is one basket. The other basket is that these initiatives can be sustainable and successful only in so far as they respect issues related to sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said in an interview to China's state-run CGTN.

In an interview to the state-run Global Times in March, Misri signalled India's plans to stay out the conference which was attended by 37 heads of state and governments, including Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Though the latest interview was recorded well ahead of the 2nd BRF meet, parts of it were telecast on May 1, according to a post on the CGTN website.

In the full interview accessed by PTI, Misri said India had its own infrastructure connectivity projects in the neighbourhood and New Delhi's view is that all such projects should be aligned with national priorities.

"With regard to trade and BRI, despite the fact that we are not part of the BRI, there has been no impact on the bilateral trade between India and China. We have seen exponential growth in bilateral trade with China," he said.

"So, we don't necessarily need to look at India-China trade, or indeed the larger economic and commercial relationship through the prism of BRI. I think we can very well progress on that front," Misri said.

The bilateral trade has grown to about $95.5 billion, inching towards the $100 billion mark, a target set by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be achieved by 2020.&nbsp;

Misri said India has had its concerns over the way the BRI has been put out and New Delhi's views are not unknown or a secret.

"These have been made known to the Chinese authorities and we have had conversations with regard to this and I am quite sure that the Chinese authorities understand our position and our point of view," he said.

"I would also say that with the point of view we have had with regard to especially with the issue related to sovereignty and territorial integrity is not a new point of view. It is a very long-held point of view by us. I would imagine that our partners and our neighbours are well aware of our positions," he said.

Misri also pointed to how China-sponsored Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), in which India is the second largest shareholder after China, helped financing projects in the region without any problems.

With an authorised capital of $100 billion, China is the largest shareholder with 26.06 per cent voting shares. India is the second largest shareholder in AIIB with 7.5 per cent followed by Russia 5.93 per cent and Germany with 4.5 per cent.

"That just goes to prove my point that the fact we are in AIIB and AIIB is funding a number of countries in the region. Each project is assessed based on certain parameters.

"It follows very high international standards. I think India is probably the largest client of the AIIB, every project is subjected to a study and if it passes those tests they are approved," Misri said.

"We have no problem with it. If we are in agreement about the parameters we would have no objection in going forward with any of the partnership initiatives. But as I said with regard to the BRI there are other elements related to sovereignty and territorial integrity and those issues have not been addressed in the context," he said.

Misri said the last year's Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping was a major gain.

"That is a major gain in our relationship and I think they share a special relationship, they have also provided a compass to the bilateral relationship that helps to guide the officials," he said.

He said both India and China regard their bilateral ties as an important relationship.

"There are large elements of cooperation in this relationship and in a relationship as large as this there will be elements of competition. In the last few years, we have seen elements of cooperation triumphing the elements of competition," he said.

He said both countries have about 36 bilateral forums for official level dialogue on different issues.

"We have today very good understanding in a number of bilateral political forums. We are working very hard to expand the trade and economic relations and people to people relationship which is a very important aspect of it," he said.

India's decision to not join China's Belt and Road Initiative over sovereignty concerns related to the CPEC has not affected the bilateral trade ties which have seen an "exponential growth", India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri has said.

India's decision to not join China's Belt and Road Initiative over sovereignty concerns related to the CPEC has not affected the bilateral trade ties which have seen an "exponential growth", India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri has said. India skipped China's 2nd Belt and Road Forum (BRF) held from April 25 to 27 aimed at showcasing its trillion-dollar Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) over its objection to $60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). India had also boycotted the first BRF held in 2017. New Delhi's reluctance to join the BRI has become a major irritant in the relations between the two countries. "We feel that the infrastructure connectivity should be aligned with national priorities and should respect and follow certain well respected or broadly accepted (norms) in the world, which include the elements of transparency openness, level playing field, social, environmental and financial sustainability," Misri said. "These are the principles we follow in our own initiatives. The most important thing is that (they) must be aligned with national priorities. That is one basket. The other basket is that these initiatives can be sustainable and successful only in so far as they respect issues related to sovereignty and territorial integrity," he said in an interview to China's state-run CGTN. In an interview to the state-run Global Times in March, Misri signalled India's plans to stay out the conference which was attended by 37 heads of state and governments, including Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Though the latest interview was recorded well ahead of the 2nd BRF meet, parts of it were telecast on May 1, according to a post on the CGTN website. In the full interview accessed by PTI, Misri said India had its own infrastructure connectivity projects in the neighbourhood and New Delhi's view is that all such projects should be aligned with national priorities. "With regard to trade and BRI, despite the fact that we are not part of the BRI, there has been no impact on the bilateral trade between India and China. We have seen exponential growth in bilateral trade with China," he said. "So, we don't necessarily need to look at India-China trade, or indeed the larger economic and commercial relationship through the prism of BRI. I think we can very well progress on that front," Misri said. The bilateral trade has grown to about $95.5 billion, inching towards the $100 billion mark, a target set by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be achieved by 2020. Misri said India has had its concerns over the way the BRI has been put out and New Delhi's views are not unknown or a secret. "These have been made known to the Chinese authorities and we have had conversations with regard to this and I am quite sure that the Chinese authorities understand our position and our point of view," he said. "I would also say that with the point of view we have had with regard to especially with the issue related to sovereignty and territorial integrity is not a new point of view. It is a very long-held point of view by us. I would imagine that our partners and our neighbours are well aware of our positions," he said. Misri also pointed to how China-sponsored Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), in which India is the second largest shareholder after China, helped financing projects in the region without any problems. With an authorised capital of $100 billion, China is the largest shareholder with 26.06 per cent voting shares. India is the second largest shareholder in AIIB with 7.5 per cent followed by Russia 5.93 per cent and Germany with 4.5 per cent. "That just goes to prove my point that the fact we are in AIIB and AIIB is funding a number of countries in the region. Each project is assessed based on certain parameters. "It follows very high international standards. I think India is probably the largest client of the AIIB, every project is subjected to a study and if it passes those tests they are approved," Misri said. "We have no problem with it. If we are in agreement about the parameters we would have no objection in going forward with any of the partnership initiatives. But as I said with regard to the BRI there are other elements related to sovereignty and territorial integrity and those issues have not been addressed in the context," he said. Misri said the last year's Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping was a major gain. "That is a major gain in our relationship and I think they share a special relationship, they have also provided a compass to the bilateral relationship that helps to guide the officials," he said. He said both India and China regard their bilateral ties as an important relationship. "There are large elements of cooperation in this relationship and in a relationship as large as this there will be elements of competition. In the last few years, we have seen elements of cooperation triumphing the elements of competition," he said. He said both countries have about 36 bilateral forums for official level dialogue on different issues. "We have today very good understanding in a number of bilateral political forums. We are working very hard to expand the trade and economic relations and people to people relationship which is a very important aspect of it," he said.

Boycott of Belt and Road Initiative not to affect trade ties with China: Indian envoy 

The death toll in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cyclone-fani-and-why-it-is-so-powerful-215425#largescale-evacuations-215421">Cyclone Fani </a>rose to 16 in Odisha Saturday as the government mounted a massive restoration work across 10,000 villages and 52 urban areas ravaged by the storm that pounded coastal parts of the state, affecting nearly one crore people.

The extremely severe cyclonic storm, that made landfall at Puri on Friday, was one of the "rarest of the rare" summer cyclones -- the first to hit Odisha in 43 years and one of the three to hit in the last 150 years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-barrels-into-bangladesh-at-least-9-dead-india-grapples-with-aftermath-215854">Cyclone Fani barrels into Bangladesh, at least 9 dead</a>

It unleashed copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 240 kmph, blowing away thatched houses and swamping towns and villages, before weakening and entering into West Bengal, officials said.

It was the severest cyclone to hit the state since the Super Cyclone of 1999, which had claimed nearly 10,000 lives and devastated vast areas of the state.

The toll due to Cyclone Fani, which stood at eight on Friday, mounted to 16 Saturday -- four deaths in Mayurbhanj district, 3 each in Puri, Bhubaneswar and Jajpur; and 1 each in Keonjhar, Nayagarh and Kendrapara, officials said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Odisha. He spoke to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and assured continuous support from the Centre.

"Spoke to Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Ji and discussed the situation prevailing due to Cyclone Fani. Assured continuous support from the Central Government... The entire nation stands in solidarity with all those affected by the cyclone in different parts," Modi tweeted.

The extremely severe cyclone flattened thatched and kutcha houses, uprooted lakhs of trees, besides electric poles and mobile towers in the coastal Odisha.

The seaside pilgrim town of Puri was the worst hit. Equally devastated were capital Bhubaneswar and neighbouring Cuttack city which plunged into darkness since Friday with the collapse of the power infrastructure.

Chief Minister Patnaik, who reviewed the situation, said the cyclone tore apart critical infrastructure especially power, telecom and water supply.

"Lakhs of trees were uprooted in the cyclone blocking roads, damaging houses and damaging public infrastructure," he said.

"In fact, for Puri district and parts of Khurda where power infrastructure has been totally devastated, we face the challenge of having to set up the entire electrification afresh," Patnaik said.

The districts of Cuttack, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal and Nayagarh have also been affected and detailed information is being collected, he said.

Informing that work is in progress on a war footing for restoration of power and water supply, he said hundreds of engineers and technicians were working to restore the services.

Work is on to restore road communication, Patnaik said, adding four senior officers have been entrusted with the task of monitoring relief, restoration and rehabilitation operations.

The CM said free cooked food will be provided to the cyclone affected people for the next 15 days.

Referring to the devastating Super Cyclone of 1999, Patnaik said, "We are in the process of restoring critical infrastructure."

An estimated one crore people in 10,000 villages and 52 urban agglomerations in around 14 districts were affected by Cyclone Fani, said a senior official.

Men and machinery of NDRF, Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and fire services have launched a massive restoration work, state Special Relief Commissioner B P Sethi said.

Energy secretary Hemant Sharma said around 30 lakh power consumers have been affected. Power infra has been severely damaged in Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara and Balasore districts and efforts are on to restore complete normalcy at the earliest.

In Bhubaneswar city, over 10,000 electric poles have either been uprooted or broken, he said, adding efforts are on to restore power supply in crucial establishments like airport, railway station and hospitals by Saturday night.

Sethi said around 10,000 low power transformers have been damaged due to the cyclone and the government has approached the Steel Authority of India Ltd for expeditious supply of electric poles.

He said the Centre has postponed the examination date for Odisha students who were to appear for NEET and AIIMS examinations. The state has so far been able to restore all national and state highways and district roads.

The state has received additional four NDRF teams for restoration. Most of the NDRF personnel are engaged in Puri, Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, he said.

Officials said the Indian Navy, Air Force and Army are on standby to assist in relief and rescue work. The quick reaction team of the premier Naval Training Establishment, INS Chilka located in Odisha was immediately deployed, they said.

The CM said 12 lakh people had been evacuated and shifted to safer locations 24 hours ahead of the cyclone in probably the largest such exercise in the country.

Flight operations at Bhubaneswar airport resumed Saturday and many stranded passengers were sent to Delhi by a special plane, an official said.

The Gopalpur Port also resumed operations on Saturday after suspending work on Friday. Train services were also partially resumed on Howrah-Chennai route, an East Coast Railway (ECoR) official said.

He said trains originating from Bhubaneswar, including the Bhubaneswar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express will run normally from Sunday barring the Bhubaneswar-Tirupati Express and Visakhapatnam Intercity Express.&nbsp;

There will be no trains to and from Puri till May 10 at least, the official said.&nbsp;

The death toll in the Cyclone Fani rose to 16 in Odisha Saturday as the government mounted a massive restoration work across 10,000 villages and 52 urban areas ravaged by the storm that pounded coastal parts of the state, affecting nearly one crore people.

The death toll in the Cyclone Fani rose to 16 in Odisha Saturday as the government mounted a massive restoration work across 10,000 villages and 52 urban areas ravaged by the storm that pounded coastal parts of the state, affecting nearly one crore people. The extremely severe cyclonic storm, that made landfall at Puri on Friday, was one of the "rarest of the rare" summer cyclones -- the first to hit Odisha in 43 years and one of the three to hit in the last 150 years. Also read: Cyclone Fani barrels into Bangladesh, at least 9 dead It unleashed copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 240 kmph, blowing away thatched houses and swamping towns and villages, before weakening and entering into West Bengal, officials said. It was the severest cyclone to hit the state since the Super Cyclone of 1999, which had claimed nearly 10,000 lives and devastated vast areas of the state. The toll due to Cyclone Fani, which stood at eight on Friday, mounted to 16 Saturday -- four deaths in Mayurbhanj district, 3 each in Puri, Bhubaneswar and Jajpur; and 1 each in Keonjhar, Nayagarh and Kendrapara, officials said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Odisha. He spoke to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and assured continuous support from the Centre. "Spoke to Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Ji and discussed the situation prevailing due to Cyclone Fani. Assured continuous support from the Central Government... The entire nation stands in solidarity with all those affected by the cyclone in different parts," Modi tweeted. The extremely severe cyclone flattened thatched and kutcha houses, uprooted lakhs of trees, besides electric poles and mobile towers in the coastal Odisha. The seaside pilgrim town of Puri was the worst hit. Equally devastated were capital Bhubaneswar and neighbouring Cuttack city which plunged into darkness since Friday with the collapse of the power infrastructure. Chief Minister Patnaik, who reviewed the situation, said the cyclone tore apart critical infrastructure especially power, telecom and water supply. "Lakhs of trees were uprooted in the cyclone blocking roads, damaging houses and damaging public infrastructure," he said. "In fact, for Puri district and parts of Khurda where power infrastructure has been totally devastated, we face the challenge of having to set up the entire electrification afresh," Patnaik said. The districts of Cuttack, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Dhenkanal and Nayagarh have also been affected and detailed information is being collected, he said. Informing that work is in progress on a war footing for restoration of power and water supply, he said hundreds of engineers and technicians were working to restore the services. Work is on to restore road communication, Patnaik said, adding four senior officers have been entrusted with the task of monitoring relief, restoration and rehabilitation operations. The CM said free cooked food will be provided to the cyclone affected people for the next 15 days. Referring to the devastating Super Cyclone of 1999, Patnaik said, "We are in the process of restoring critical infrastructure." An estimated one crore people in 10,000 villages and 52 urban agglomerations in around 14 districts were affected by Cyclone Fani, said a senior official. Men and machinery of NDRF, Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force and fire services have launched a massive restoration work, state Special Relief Commissioner B P Sethi said. Energy secretary Hemant Sharma said around 30 lakh power consumers have been affected. Power infra has been severely damaged in Puri, Khurda, Ganjam, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara and Balasore districts and efforts are on to restore complete normalcy at the earliest. In Bhubaneswar city, over 10,000 electric poles have either been uprooted or broken, he said, adding efforts are on to restore power supply in crucial establishments like airport, railway station and hospitals by Saturday night. Sethi said around 10,000 low power transformers have been damaged due to the cyclone and the government has approached the Steel Authority of India Ltd for expeditious supply of electric poles. He said the Centre has postponed the examination date for Odisha students who were to appear for NEET and AIIMS examinations. The state has so far been able to restore all national and state highways and district roads. The state has received additional four NDRF teams for restoration. Most of the NDRF personnel are engaged in Puri, Bhubaneswar and Cuttack, he said. Officials said the Indian Navy, Air Force and Army are on standby to assist in relief and rescue work. The quick reaction team of the premier Naval Training Establishment, INS Chilka located in Odisha was immediately deployed, they said. The CM said 12 lakh people had been evacuated and shifted to safer locations 24 hours ahead of the cyclone in probably the largest such exercise in the country. Flight operations at Bhubaneswar airport resumed Saturday and many stranded passengers were sent to Delhi by a special plane, an official said. The Gopalpur Port also resumed operations on Saturday after suspending work on Friday. Train services were also partially resumed on Howrah-Chennai route, an East Coast Railway (ECoR) official said. He said trains originating from Bhubaneswar, including the Bhubaneswar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express will run normally from Sunday barring the Bhubaneswar-Tirupati Express and Visakhapatnam Intercity Express. There will be no trains to and from Puri till May 10 at least, the official said.

16 dead in Odisha in Cyclone Fani, massive restoration work mounted

An FIR has been registered in Haridwar against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for his statement that epics 'Ramayana'&nbsp;and 'Mahabharata'&nbsp;are full of instances of violence and battles.

Yoga Guru Ramdev along with other seers had earlier today filed a complaint with SSP, Haridwar, against Yechury.

"We have filed a complaint against Yechury, who has insulted our ancestors. It is an offence. He should be put behind the bars. We have demanded a strict investigation into the matter," Ramdev said.

On Thursday, Yechury attacked BJP for fragmenting society for votes through its divisive policies, branding religious epics 'Ramayana'&nbsp;and 'Mahabharata'&nbsp;as specimens of Hindu violence."

Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur said that Hindus don`t believe in violence. Many kings and principalities have fought battles in the country. Even 'Ramayana'&nbsp;and 'Mahabharata'&nbsp;are also filled with instances of violence," he had said.

"Being a 'Pracharak,'&nbsp;you narrate the epics but still claim Hindus can`t be violent? What is the logic behind saying there is a religion which engages in violence and we Hindus don`t," he had said.

Since then, several leaders have criticised Yechury for making the remark, with the Shiv Sena saying that the CPI-M general secretary should drop his name 'Sitaram.'

An FIR has been registered in Haridwar against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for his statement that epics 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are full of instances of violence and battles.

An FIR has been registered in Haridwar against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury for his statement that epics 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are full of instances of violence and battles. Yoga Guru Ramdev along with other seers had earlier today filed a complaint with SSP, Haridwar, against Yechury. "We have filed a complaint against Yechury, who has insulted our ancestors. It is an offence. He should be put behind the bars. We have demanded a strict investigation into the matter," Ramdev said. On Thursday, Yechury attacked BJP for fragmenting society for votes through its divisive policies, branding religious epics 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' as specimens of Hindu violence." Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur said that Hindus don`t believe in violence. Many kings and principalities have fought battles in the country. Even 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are also filled with instances of violence," he had said. "Being a 'Pracharak,' you narrate the epics but still claim Hindus can`t be violent? What is the logic behind saying there is a religion which engages in violence and we Hindus don`t," he had said. Since then, several leaders have criticised Yechury for making the remark, with the Shiv Sena saying that the CPI-M general secretary should drop his name 'Sitaram.'

FIR registered against CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury

No casualty recorded in West Bengal as Cyclone Fani passes. Watch this video to know more.

No casualties recorded in West Bengal as Cyclone Fani passes

As the cyclone, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-makes-landfall-in-west-bengal-215767">Fani wreaked havoc in Odisha on Friday</a> leaving a trail of destruction behind it, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the situation with Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Governor Ganeshi Lal and assured all support from the Central government.

The PM will also visit Odisha on May 6 to 'take stock of the situation'.

"Spoke to Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Ji and discussed the situation prevailing due to cyclone Fani. Assured continuous support from the Central Government in the wake of the cyclone. The entire nation stands in solidarity with all those affected by the cyclone in different parts," tweeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Had a discussion with Odisha Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal Ji on the situation in the state due to Cyclone Fani. Assured all possible help from the Centre to the sisters and brothers of Odisha, who are showing exemplary courage in the face of a natural disaster," said PM in a subsequent tweet.

Also, in the wake up of the fact that cyclone Fani reached West Bengal, PM held discussion with West Bengal Governor over the same. "Spoke to Shri Keshari Nath Tripathi Ji, the Governor of West Bengal on the situation due to Cyclone Fani. Reiterated the Centre`s readiness to provide all help needed to cope with the cyclone. Also conveyed my solidarity with the people of Bengal in the wake of Cyclone Fani," he tweeted.

"Severe Cyclone FANI weakened into a Cyclonic Storm and lay centred at 60 km NW of Kolkata at 0530 IST of 4th May. To weaken into Deep Depression and move into Bangladesh by noon," tweeted IMD.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik held a review meeting with senior officials on the destruction caused by Fani in the state last night. Patnaik said in the last 24 hours, over 12 lakh people have been evacuated from vulnerable districts to safer locations.

"Just now, I reviewed the cyclone situation with the chief secretary and other senior officers. Our first priority is to evacuate people living in vulnerable areas, including kutcha houses. In the last 24 hours, 12 lakh people have been evacuated to safer locations and they are being taken care of in shelters. As we speak, Fani (pronounced Foni) is still passing through Odisha, and an assessment of damage will be possible only after it crosses the state," he said.

Patnaik said Puri, where the cyclone made landfall, has suffered the most amount of damage."Restoration of electricity is a challenge. Electricity supply will be restored in Ganjam by tomorrow. Restoration of communication has been completed in Ganjam and Gajapati districts," he added.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Fani moved north-northeastwards at 20 kmph in the last six hours and weakened into a "severe6 cyclonic storm".

Cyclone Fani made landfall in the morning of May 3 and wreaked havoc in the state of Odisha. It has claimed three lives and left more than 160 injured, besides causing large scale destruction of property.&nbsp;

As the cyclone, Fani wreaked havoc in Odisha on Friday leaving a trail of destruction behind it, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the situation with Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Governor Ganeshi Lal and assured all support from the Central government.

As the cyclone, Fani wreaked havoc in Odisha on Friday leaving a trail of destruction behind it, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the situation with Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Governor Ganeshi Lal and assured all support from the Central government. The PM will also visit Odisha on May 6 to 'take stock of the situation'. "Spoke to Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Ji and discussed the situation prevailing due to cyclone Fani. Assured continuous support from the Central Government in the wake of the cyclone. The entire nation stands in solidarity with all those affected by the cyclone in different parts," tweeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Had a discussion with Odisha Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal Ji on the situation in the state due to Cyclone Fani. Assured all possible help from the Centre to the sisters and brothers of Odisha, who are showing exemplary courage in the face of a natural disaster," said PM in a subsequent tweet. Also, in the wake up of the fact that cyclone Fani reached West Bengal, PM held discussion with West Bengal Governor over the same. "Spoke to Shri Keshari Nath Tripathi Ji, the Governor of West Bengal on the situation due to Cyclone Fani. Reiterated the Centre`s readiness to provide all help needed to cope with the cyclone. Also conveyed my solidarity with the people of Bengal in the wake of Cyclone Fani," he tweeted. "Severe Cyclone FANI weakened into a Cyclonic Storm and lay centred at 60 km NW of Kolkata at 0530 IST of 4th May. To weaken into Deep Depression and move into Bangladesh by noon," tweeted IMD. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik held a review meeting with senior officials on the destruction caused by Fani in the state last night. Patnaik said in the last 24 hours, over 12 lakh people have been evacuated from vulnerable districts to safer locations. "Just now, I reviewed the cyclone situation with the chief secretary and other senior officers. Our first priority is to evacuate people living in vulnerable areas, including kutcha houses. In the last 24 hours, 12 lakh people have been evacuated to safer locations and they are being taken care of in shelters. As we speak, Fani (pronounced Foni) is still passing through Odisha, and an assessment of damage will be possible only after it crosses the state," he said. Patnaik said Puri, where the cyclone made landfall, has suffered the most amount of damage."Restoration of electricity is a challenge. Electricity supply will be restored in Ganjam by tomorrow. Restoration of communication has been completed in Ganjam and Gajapati districts," he added. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Fani moved north-northeastwards at 20 kmph in the last six hours and weakened into a "severe6 cyclonic storm". Cyclone Fani made landfall in the morning of May 3 and wreaked havoc in the state of Odisha. It has claimed three lives and left more than 160 injured, besides causing large scale destruction of property.

Cyclone Fani: PM Modi to visit Odisha on May 6, discusses situation with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik

Cyclone Fani is at its peak everywhere. This has been declared the strongest storm in India since 2014. This video credit goes to one of the viewer of WION from odisha.

Cyclone Fani at its peak, strongest storm in India since 2014

The Defence Ministry on Friday approved Indian Navy's proposal to acquire 10 Kamov-31 choppers from Russia at a cost of around Rs 3,600 crore to strengthen its capability against aerial threats to its aircraft carriers and large warships.

"The Defence Ministry cleared the Rs 3,600 crore proposal for buying around 10 Kamov-31 Airborne Early Warning and Control choppers for the aircraft carrier operations and deployment on future warships," government sources told ANI.

The decision was taken by the Defence Ministry at a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council led by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

The Navy already has a fleet of 12 of these Kamov-31 choppers which sanitise the air space around the aircraft carriers and destroyers operating in open seas.

For the anti-submarine warfare operations, the Navy has a fleet of Russian Kamov-28 choppers along with the Seaking choppers which were procured long back in the 1980s and are in need of an upgrade.

The Narendra Modi led government has not let the election season affect the military modernisation plans as Defence Acquisition Council and Cabinet Committee on Security meetings are being held regularly to clear important acquisitions for the forces.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Defence Ministry on Friday approved Indian Navy's proposal to acquire 10 Kamov-31 choppers from Russia at a cost of around Rs 3,600 crore to strengthen its capability against aerial threats to its aircraft carriers and large warships.

The Defence Ministry on Friday approved Indian Navy's proposal to acquire 10 Kamov-31 choppers from Russia at a cost of around Rs 3,600 crore to strengthen its capability against aerial threats to its aircraft carriers and large warships. "The Defence Ministry cleared the Rs 3,600 crore proposal for buying around 10 Kamov-31 Airborne Early Warning and Control choppers for the aircraft carrier operations and deployment on future warships," government sources told ANI. The decision was taken by the Defence Ministry at a meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council led by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The Navy already has a fleet of 12 of these Kamov-31 choppers which sanitise the air space around the aircraft carriers and destroyers operating in open seas. For the anti-submarine warfare operations, the Navy has a fleet of Russian Kamov-28 choppers along with the Seaking choppers which were procured long back in the 1980s and are in need of an upgrade. The Narendra Modi led government has not let the election season affect the military modernisation plans as Defence Acquisition Council and Cabinet Committee on Security meetings are being held regularly to clear important acquisitions for the forces.

Defence Ministry clears Navy's Rs 3,600 crore deal with Russia for 10 Kamov-31 choppers

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-positive-venezuela-talks-with-russian-president-putin-donald-trump-215772">'Very positive' Venezuela talks with Russian President Putin: Donald Trump</a>

President Donald Trump said he held "very positive" talks Friday with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on the crisis in oil-rich Venezuela, where Washington is pushing to oust the Moscow-backed president.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-targets-iran-uranium-but-lets-nuclear-deal-stay-alive-215771">US targets Iran uranium but lets nuclear deal stay alive</a>

The United States said Friday it would start imposing sanctions over Iranian exports of enriched uranium allowed under a nuclear deal rejected by President Donald Trump, even as it granted waivers to allow the accord to survive.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-preparing-to-move-f-35-manufacturing-work-out-of-turkey-215777">Pentagon preparing to move F-35 manufacturing work out of Turkey</a>

US Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan warned Friday that the Pentagon will halt manufacturing support for the F-35 in Turkey if Ankara buys a Russian missile defence system.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-makes-landfall-in-west-bengal-215767">After wreaking havoc in Odisha, cyclone Fani makes landfall in West Bengal</a>

Cyclonic storm Fani, which wreaked havoc in Odisha, has made landfall in West Bengal, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Saturday.

The cyclonic story crossed Kharagpur and is likely to continue further in North-East direction with a wind speed of 90 km/hour.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-king-maha-vajiralongkorn-set-for-coronation-filled-with-ritual-today-215773">Thai King Vajiralongkorn set for coronation filled with rituals today</a>

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn will be crowned Saturday in an elaborate show of pageantry, marbled by Hindu and Buddhist ritual, two years after ascending the throne following his father's death.

'Very positive' Venezuela talks with Russian President Putin: Donald Trump President Donald Trump said he held "very positive" talks Friday with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on the crisis in oil-rich Venezuela, where Washington is pushing to oust the Moscow-backed president.

'Very positive' Venezuela talks with Russian President Putin: Donald Trump President Donald Trump said he held "very positive" talks Friday with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on the crisis in oil-rich Venezuela, where Washington is pushing to oust the Moscow-backed president. US targets Iran uranium but lets nuclear deal stay alive The United States said Friday it would start imposing sanctions over Iranian exports of enriched uranium allowed under a nuclear deal rejected by President Donald Trump, even as it granted waivers to allow the accord to survive. Pentagon preparing to move F-35 manufacturing work out of Turkey US Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan warned Friday that the Pentagon will halt manufacturing support for the F-35 in Turkey if Ankara buys a Russian missile defence system. After wreaking havoc in Odisha, cyclone Fani makes landfall in West Bengal Cyclonic storm Fani, which wreaked havoc in Odisha, has made landfall in West Bengal, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Saturday. The cyclonic story crossed Kharagpur and is likely to continue further in North-East direction with a wind speed of 90 km/hour. Thai King Vajiralongkorn set for coronation filled with rituals today Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn will be crowned Saturday in an elaborate show of pageantry, marbled by Hindu and Buddhist ritual, two years after ascending the throne following his father's death.

The Jharkhand government issued an advisory on Friday, asking all district deputy commissioners to set up control rooms to meet any exigency in the wake of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-makes-landfall-in-west-bengal-215767">cyclonic storm 'Fani'</a>.

An official release, quoting the regional meteorological department, said from the afternoon of May 3 to May 4, widespread rains accompanied by strong winds will occur in all the 24 districts of the state.

Several districts are already experiencing rains, officials said.

Meanwhile, a woman died after a wall of her house collapsed, following a sudden storm at Sajwan village in Palamau district, they said.

The woman, identified as Muni Kumari, died on the spot after the mud wall fell on her, the officials said.

The storm was not under the impact of 'Fani', they added.

All educational institutions in Palamau district will remain closed on Saturday, the release said.

Earlier on Friday, cyclone 'Fani' barrelled through Odisha, unleashing copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, killing at least eight people.

The Jharkhand government issued an advisory on Friday, asking all district deputy commissioners to set up control rooms to meet any exigency in the wake of the cyclonic storm 'Fani'.

The Jharkhand government issued an advisory on Friday, asking all district deputy commissioners to set up control rooms to meet any exigency in the wake of the cyclonic storm 'Fani'. An official release, quoting the regional meteorological department, said from the afternoon of May 3 to May 4, widespread rains accompanied by strong winds will occur in all the 24 districts of the state. Several districts are already experiencing rains, officials said. Meanwhile, a woman died after a wall of her house collapsed, following a sudden storm at Sajwan village in Palamau district, they said. The woman, identified as Muni Kumari, died on the spot after the mud wall fell on her, the officials said. The storm was not under the impact of 'Fani', they added. All educational institutions in Palamau district will remain closed on Saturday, the release said. Earlier on Friday, cyclone 'Fani' barrelled through Odisha, unleashing copious rain and windstorm that gusted up to 175 kmph, killing at least eight people.

Jharkhand asks district commissioners to be alert in wake of 'Fani'

Twenty-four US&nbsp;members of Congress sent a letter on Friday to US&nbsp;Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, urging him not to end a vital trade concession for India, a day before the Trump administration is likely to announce a decision on it.

Ending the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from India, would impose "hundreds of millions of dollars annually in new taxes" on American companies, the lawmakers said in a bipartisan letter led by Democratic Representative Jim Himes from Connecticut.

"In the past, even temporary lapses in such benefits have caused companies to lay off workers, cut salaries and benefits, and delay or cancel job-creating investments in the United States," the letter says. They urged the administration to continue negotiating a deal with India that would protect American jobs.

A decision to scrap the trade privilege comes as President Donald Trump has vowed to cut the US&nbsp;trade deficit and repeatedly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-india-vietnam-charged-us-big-tariffs-trump-at-wisconsin-rally-214388">called out India for high tariffs</a>.

India is the world's largest beneficiary of GSP, which dates from the 1970s, and ending its participation would not only be the strongest punitive action against the country since Trump took office, but would also open a new front in the global trade war.

The elimination of GSP is likely to bring retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi, according to a senior source with direct knowledge of the matter. Last June, India said it would step up import duties varying from 20 per cent to 120 per cent on a slew of US&nbsp;farm, steel and iron products, angered by Washington's refusal to exempt it from new steel and aluminium tariffs.

But it has since repeatedly delayed adopting the higher duties - a move that could be implemented if GSP is withdrawn, the source added.

India is hoping the decision to end the trade privilege is delayed and the Trump administration is open to further negotiations, the source said. In April, Republican Senator John Cornyn and Democratic Senator Mark Warner, co-chairs of the Senate India caucus, urged Lighthizer to delay adopting the plan.

India sent a trade package listing the concessions it was willing to make to the USTR in late February but hasn't heard from them, the source said.

"They are usually very responsive so it is highly unusual for them to not respond to the trade package that was sent," the source said.

The decision to drop GSP is also ill-timed as it comes in the middle of elections in India, hampering the country's ability to negotiate further, the source added.

Despite close political ties between the two countries, trade between India and the United States, which stood at $126 billion in 2017, is widely seen to be performing at nearly a quarter of its potential.

Trade relations suffered in the past few months after India adopted new rules on e-commerce, reining in how US&nbsp;companies such as Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Inc can do business in the country.

Twenty-four US members of Congress sent a letter on Friday to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, urging him not to end a vital trade concession for India, a day before the Trump administration is likely to announce a decision on it.

Twenty-four US members of Congress sent a letter on Friday to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, urging him not to end a vital trade concession for India, a day before the Trump administration is likely to announce a decision on it. Ending the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), which allows preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from India, would impose "hundreds of millions of dollars annually in new taxes" on American companies, the lawmakers said in a bipartisan letter led by Democratic Representative Jim Himes from Connecticut. "In the past, even temporary lapses in such benefits have caused companies to lay off workers, cut salaries and benefits, and delay or cancel job-creating investments in the United States," the letter says. They urged the administration to continue negotiating a deal with India that would protect American jobs. A decision to scrap the trade privilege comes as President Donald Trump has vowed to cut the US trade deficit and repeatedly called out India for high tariffs. India is the world's largest beneficiary of GSP, which dates from the 1970s, and ending its participation would not only be the strongest punitive action against the country since Trump took office, but would also open a new front in the global trade war. The elimination of GSP is likely to bring retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi, according to a senior source with direct knowledge of the matter. Last June, India said it would step up import duties varying from 20 per cent to 120 per cent on a slew of US farm, steel and iron products, angered by Washington's refusal to exempt it from new steel and aluminium tariffs. But it has since repeatedly delayed adopting the higher duties - a move that could be implemented if GSP is withdrawn, the source added. India is hoping the decision to end the trade privilege is delayed and the Trump administration is open to further negotiations, the source said. In April, Republican Senator John Cornyn and Democratic Senator Mark Warner, co-chairs of the Senate India caucus, urged Lighthizer to delay adopting the plan. India sent a trade package listing the concessions it was willing to make to the USTR in late February but hasn't heard from them, the source said. "They are usually very responsive so it is highly unusual for them to not respond to the trade package that was sent," the source said. The decision to drop GSP is also ill-timed as it comes in the middle of elections in India, hampering the country's ability to negotiate further, the source added. Despite close political ties between the two countries, trade between India and the United States, which stood at $126 billion in 2017, is widely seen to be performing at nearly a quarter of its potential. Trade relations suffered in the past few months after India adopted new rules on e-commerce, reining in how US companies such as Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Inc can do business in the country.

US lawmakers urge Trump administration to not end India's trade privileges

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