Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday asserted that the BJP is committed to 'desh bhakti', while its rival Congress is dedicated to 'vote bhakti' as part of its appeasement politics.

He said lies are being spread that his government introduced 10 per cent reservation for the weaker sections of the unreserved categories will eventually do away with the quota system.

"The country has witnessed two types of politics of vote bhakti and of desh bhakti. The former was on display when after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks the government of the day did not go after Pakistan for abetting terror.

"It rather chose to derail the investigations in many terror cases by coming up with the theory of Hindu terror. Desh bhakti was demonstrated by us when the Uri terror attack was replied with surgical strike and Pulwama was followed by air strikes," Modi told an election rally here.

The politics of 'vote bhakti' was again on display when the Congress insulted martyrs of the Batla House encounter in New Delhi by casting doubts over the operation in which security personnel were killed, he said.

A team of Delhi Police had raided a Batla House flat in south Delhi following a tip-off that terrorists involved in the September 13, 2008 serial blasts in the national capital, were holed up there.

Some Congress leaders were in tears when they came to know about the Batla House encounter, Modi claimed.

"The trends of the first two phases of elections have left them rattled. They are not demanding proofs of the Balakot air strike," Modi claimed at the rally.

In a bid to reach out to the farmers, the prime minister announced that in his next term he will ensure that the ceiling of ownership of five acres of land for beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Nidhi Yojana is made available to all.

Leaders of BJP allies - Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who heads the JD(U), and cabinet colleague Ram Vilas Paswan, who is the founder of the LJP - were also on the stage.

In a veiled attack on Lalu Prasad's RJD and its heir apparent Tejashwi Yadav, Modi said, "In Bihar, some people are purveying lies that the quota for economically weaker sections was a step in the direction of finishing off reservations."

Asking the people to be cautious about them, he alleged that they have been running their shops with such falsehoods for two decades - "first by the father and now by the son".

He also made a mention of the welfare schemes launched by his government including the Ayushman Bharat Yojana which provides medical insurance cover at a small premium.

Seeking to strike a chord with the local populace, he spoke movingly of the renowned Hindi writer Phanishwar Nath Renu, who hailed from Araria district, and said he had received a copy of his renowned novel "Maila Anchal" as a gift from the late litterateur's son.

He sought votes for NDA candidates in adjoining constituencies of Madhepura, Jhanjharpur, Supaul and Khagaria, all of which go to polls in the third phase on April 23.

As these seats have a sizeable population of Yadavs, Modi deftly played the caste card saying, "I come from the land of Dwarka (Gujarat) and it has a very strong affinity with the gau-paalaks (those involved in the profession of rearing cows). 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday asserted that the BJP is committed to 'desh bhakti', while its rival Congress is dedicated to 'vote bhakti' as part of its appeasement politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday asserted that the BJP is committed to 'desh bhakti', while its rival Congress is dedicated to 'vote bhakti' as part of its appeasement politics. He said lies are being spread that his government introduced 10 per cent reservation for the weaker sections of the unreserved categories will eventually do away with the quota system. "The country has witnessed two types of politics of vote bhakti and of desh bhakti. The former was on display when after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks the government of the day did not go after Pakistan for abetting terror. "It rather chose to derail the investigations in many terror cases by coming up with the theory of Hindu terror. Desh bhakti was demonstrated by us when the Uri terror attack was replied with surgical strike and Pulwama was followed by air strikes," Modi told an election rally here. The politics of 'vote bhakti' was again on display when the Congress insulted martyrs of the Batla House encounter in New Delhi by casting doubts over the operation in which security personnel were killed, he said. A team of Delhi Police had raided a Batla House flat in south Delhi following a tip-off that terrorists involved in the September 13, 2008 serial blasts in the national capital, were holed up there. Some Congress leaders were in tears when they came to know about the Batla House encounter, Modi claimed. "The trends of the first two phases of elections have left them rattled. They are not demanding proofs of the Balakot air strike," Modi claimed at the rally. In a bid to reach out to the farmers, the prime minister announced that in his next term he will ensure that the ceiling of ownership of five acres of land for beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Nidhi Yojana is made available to all. Leaders of BJP allies - Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who heads the JD(U), and cabinet colleague Ram Vilas Paswan, who is the founder of the LJP - were also on the stage. In a veiled attack on Lalu Prasad's RJD and its heir apparent Tejashwi Yadav, Modi said, "In Bihar, some people are purveying lies that the quota for economically weaker sections was a step in the direction of finishing off reservations." Asking the people to be cautious about them, he alleged that they have been running their shops with such falsehoods for two decades - "first by the father and now by the son". He also made a mention of the welfare schemes launched by his government including the Ayushman Bharat Yojana which provides medical insurance cover at a small premium. Seeking to strike a chord with the local populace, he spoke movingly of the renowned Hindi writer Phanishwar Nath Renu, who hailed from Araria district, and said he had received a copy of his renowned novel "Maila Anchal" as a gift from the late litterateur's son. He sought votes for NDA candidates in adjoining constituencies of Madhepura, Jhanjharpur, Supaul and Khagaria, all of which go to polls in the third phase on April 23. As these seats have a sizeable population of Yadavs, Modi deftly played the caste card saying, "I come from the land of Dwarka (Gujarat) and it has a very strong affinity with the gau-paalaks (those involved in the profession of rearing cows).

Congress pursues vote bhakti, we have desh bhakti: Modi in Bihar rally

The foundation stone laying ceremony (Shilanyas Vidhi) of the first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foundation-station-of-first-hindu-temple-in-uae-to-be-laid-on-april-20-210957">Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi</a>, UAE took place on Saturday in the presence of more than 2,000 members of the Hindu community and Indian envoy to the UAE, Navdeep Suri. Several UAE ministers were also present and witnessed the ceremony that lasted over two hours.

Reading out PM Modi's message, the Indian envoy said, "the temple will reflect India's timeless values of faith, harmony and love. I am sure, this temple will be a source of inspiration, for 33 lakh Indians residing in the UAE, as well as for people from all other communities".

The PM, in his message, said that the temple "embodies the timeless Vedic values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the whole world is one family)" and once completed the temple "will symbolise the universal human values and spiritual ethos that form a shared heritage of both India and the UAE."

Conveying the greetings "on behalf of 130 crore Indians" to "dear friend" the Crown Prince of Abu Dabhi, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the PM "deeply appreciated his vision for the future" of India-UAE ties and placed "on record" New Delhi's appreciation of the "continued support of the UAE."&nbsp;

Mahant Swami Maharaj, the sixth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, presided over the foundation stone laying ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi.

UAE in 2015 had decided to allot a plot of land for construction of the temple. The decision was taken during PM Modi's first visit to the west Asian country.

Saturday's development comes in the backdrop of the UAE celebrating its year of tolerance and this temple, the PM said, is "an expression of UAE's love, friendship and faith in India".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the ground-breaking ceremony of the temple through live feed and unveiled a replica of the temple complex in Dubai in February of 2018 during his visit to the country.

UAE-India ties in the last few years have grown manifold especially with a number of high-level visits.

PM Modi first visited the country in August 2015 which was followed by the visit of the crown prince in 2016. The following year, the crown prince was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade and again in 2018, PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. The PM was, a few weeks ago, honoured by the highest civilian award - The Zayed Medal- of the country.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, in a first, the UAE invited India as a guest of honour at the organisation of Islamic Cooperation foreign ministers meet despite reservations from Pakistan.

More than 3 million Indians have made the country their home and there are approximately 1,000 direct flights per week between various destinations of India and the UAE. 
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The foundation stone laying ceremony (Shilanyas Vidhi) of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE took place on Saturday in the presence of more than 2,000 members of the Hindu community and Indian envoy to the UAE, Navdeep Suri.

The foundation stone laying ceremony (Shilanyas Vidhi) of the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE took place on Saturday in the presence of more than 2,000 members of the Hindu community and Indian envoy to the UAE, Navdeep Suri. Several UAE ministers were also present and witnessed the ceremony that lasted over two hours. Reading out PM Modi's message, the Indian envoy said, "the temple will reflect India's timeless values of faith, harmony and love. I am sure, this temple will be a source of inspiration, for 33 lakh Indians residing in the UAE, as well as for people from all other communities". The PM, in his message, said that the temple "embodies the timeless Vedic values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the whole world is one family)" and once completed the temple "will symbolise the universal human values and spiritual ethos that form a shared heritage of both India and the UAE." Conveying the greetings "on behalf of 130 crore Indians" to "dear friend" the Crown Prince of Abu Dabhi, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the PM "deeply appreciated his vision for the future" of India-UAE ties and placed "on record" New Delhi's appreciation of the "continued support of the UAE." Mahant Swami Maharaj, the sixth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the spiritual head of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, presided over the foundation stone laying ceremony of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi. UAE in 2015 had decided to allot a plot of land for construction of the temple. The decision was taken during PM Modi's first visit to the west Asian country. Saturday's development comes in the backdrop of the UAE celebrating its year of tolerance and this temple, the PM said, is "an expression of UAE's love, friendship and faith in India". Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the ground-breaking ceremony of the temple through live feed and unveiled a replica of the temple complex in Dubai in February of 2018 during his visit to the country. UAE-India ties in the last few years have grown manifold especially with a number of high-level visits. PM Modi first visited the country in August 2015 which was followed by the visit of the crown prince in 2016. The following year, the crown prince was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade and again in 2018, PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. The PM was, a few weeks ago, honoured by the highest civilian award - The Zayed Medal- of the country. Earlier this year, in a first, the UAE invited India as a guest of honour at the organisation of Islamic Cooperation foreign ministers meet despite reservations from Pakistan. More than 3 million Indians have made the country their home and there are approximately 1,000 direct flights per week between various destinations of India and the UAE.

UAE's Hindu temple reflects India's timeless values of faith, harmony and love: PM Modi

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan.

"Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad.

Slamming the Congress party on its stance on Article 370, he said, "All laws in Kashmir should be on par with the rest of India. Congress does not want to abolish Article 370, while leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said that if Article 370 is abolished there will be no one to respect the tricolor."

Thackeray also came down heavily on former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar who is contesting on a CPI ticket from Begusarai in Bihar.

"People like Kanhaiya Kumar preparing to enter Lok Sabha is very sad, he is a separatist," he said.

Hitting out at NCP chief Sharad Pawar`s statements on Shiv Sena`s pre-poll pact with BJP, Thackeray said, "Sharad Pawar left Congress abusing Rajiv Gandhi and pledged that he would never join Congress till the end. He is black at heart. Pawar later joined Congress. How can such a man say that the alliance of Shiv Sena and BJP is not fair?"

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan. "Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan. "Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad. Slamming the Congress party on its stance on Article 370, he said, "All laws in Kashmir should be on par with the rest of India. Congress does not want to abolish Article 370, while leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said that if Article 370 is abolished there will be no one to respect the tricolor." Thackeray also came down heavily on former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar who is contesting on a CPI ticket from Begusarai in Bihar. "People like Kanhaiya Kumar preparing to enter Lok Sabha is very sad, he is a separatist," he said. Hitting out at NCP chief Sharad Pawar`s statements on Shiv Sena`s pre-poll pact with BJP, Thackeray said, "Sharad Pawar left Congress abusing Rajiv Gandhi and pledged that he would never join Congress till the end. He is black at heart. Pawar later joined Congress. How can such a man say that the alliance of Shiv Sena and BJP is not fair?"

Wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan: Uddhav Thackeray on alliance with BJP

A terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency PTI reported quoting an Army official.

The encounter took place at Watergam town in north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Saturday.&nbsp;

Some weapons and war-like stores were recovered from the site of the operation, the official said.

The operation was over but the militant was yet to be identified, he said, adding that further details were awaited.&nbsp;

A terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency PTI reported quoting an Army official. The encounter took place at Watergam town in north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Saturday.

A terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, news agency PTI reported quoting an Army official. The encounter took place at Watergam town in north Kashmir's Baramulla district on Saturday. Some weapons and war-like stores were recovered from the site of the operation, the official said. The operation was over but the militant was yet to be identified, he said, adding that further details were awaited.

Terrorist killed in encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday said it has complained to the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra) about a rap song posted on the official twitter handle of Congress alleging that it violated the poll code of conduct.

Speaking to ANI, Maharashtra's Education Minister Vinod Tawde said, "We have complained to the Chief Election Commission of Maharashtra Anup Kumar, regarding a rap song posted on the official twitter handle of Indian Nation Congress. The song uses religious sentiments to garner votes. We have sought for the immediate removal of the tweet."

The said tweet was posted at 11:50 am on Saturday.

A caption accompanying the rap song reads, "This is the modus operandi that Modi gives his blessings for- organised propagation of hate, spreading of fake news, misleading people, rampant misogyny, abusing the Constitution and misuse of religious sentiments to incite hatred. #BhaktCharitra"

The 2-minute 16-second video shows some of the alleged controversial statements made by BJP leaders, including Yogi Adityanath and Maneka Gandhi.

The video also includes a series of headlines and images of communal riots in the country.&nbsp; 
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Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday said it has complained to the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra) about a rap song posted on the official twitter handle of Congress alleging that it violated the poll code of conduct.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday said it has complained to the Chief Electoral Officer, Maharashtra) about a rap song posted on the official twitter handle of Congress alleging that it violated the poll code of conduct. Speaking to ANI, Maharashtra's Education Minister Vinod Tawde said, "We have complained to the Chief Election Commission of Maharashtra Anup Kumar, regarding a rap song posted on the official twitter handle of Indian Nation Congress. The song uses religious sentiments to garner votes. We have sought for the immediate removal of the tweet." The said tweet was posted at 11:50 am on Saturday. A caption accompanying the rap song reads, "This is the modus operandi that Modi gives his blessings for- organised propagation of hate, spreading of fake news, misleading people, rampant misogyny, abusing the Constitution and misuse of religious sentiments to incite hatred. #BhaktCharitra" The 2-minute 16-second video shows some of the alleged controversial statements made by BJP leaders, including Yogi Adityanath and Maneka Gandhi. The video also includes a series of headlines and images of communal riots in the country.

BJP moves Election Commission; seeks removal of tweet on Congress twitter handle

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address election rallies in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh and Barmer districts on Sunday.

Modi will address the public meetings in support of BJP nominees at 2 pm in Chittorgarh and 3.15 pm in Barmer, BJP state tour programme convener Omkar Singh Lakhawat said.

He said the prime minister will also address rallies in Udaipur and Jodhpur on Monday.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, too, will address three public meetings on Monday in Kolayat of Bikaner, Deoli of Tonk and Shahajahapur of Alwar.

BJP chief Amit Shah will tour the state on April 26 and 30. He will address a public meeting in Jalore district on April 26 and then take part in a road show in Jodhpur the same day.

On April 30, Shah will address meetings in Dausa, Alwar and Bharatpur districts, Lakhawat said.&nbsp; 
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address election rallies in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh and Barmer districts on Sunday. Modi will address the public meetings in support of BJP nominees at 2 pm in Chittorgarh and 3.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address election rallies in Rajasthan's Chittorgarh and Barmer districts on Sunday. Modi will address the public meetings in support of BJP nominees at 2 pm in Chittorgarh and 3.15 pm in Barmer, BJP state tour programme convener Omkar Singh Lakhawat said. He said the prime minister will also address rallies in Udaipur and Jodhpur on Monday. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, too, will address three public meetings on Monday in Kolayat of Bikaner, Deoli of Tonk and Shahajahapur of Alwar. BJP chief Amit Shah will tour the state on April 26 and 30. He will address a public meeting in Jalore district on April 26 and then take part in a road show in Jodhpur the same day. On April 30, Shah will address meetings in Dausa, Alwar and Bharatpur districts, Lakhawat said.

Rajasthan: PM Modi to address rallies in Chittorgarh, Barmer on Sunday

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nyay-will-revive-economy-create-jobs-says-rahul-211805">Nyuntam Aay Yojana</a>` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto.

Under the NYAY scheme or the minimum income guarantee scheme, Congress has promised that it will give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent of India`s poorest if the party emerged victorious in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

The petitioners have contended that such a poll promise amounted to bribery and that it violated the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

The court has issued a notice to the Congress party seeking a reply within 10 days.

The next hearing has been scheduled for May 13.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi had said that the NYAY scheme would be a "surgical strike" against poverty and that it would not harm the country`s economy.&nbsp;

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `Nyuntam Aay Yojana` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto.

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in Allahabad High Court on Friday against Congress` `Nyuntam Aay Yojana` (NYAY) scheme mentioned in the party manifesto. Under the NYAY scheme or the minimum income guarantee scheme, Congress has promised that it will give Rs 72,000 per year to 20 per cent of India`s poorest if the party emerged victorious in the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. The petitioners have contended that such a poll promise amounted to bribery and that it violated the Representation of the People Act, 1951. The court has issued a notice to the Congress party seeking a reply within 10 days. The next hearing has been scheduled for May 13. Congress president Rahul Gandhi had said that the NYAY scheme would be a "surgical strike" against poverty and that it would not harm the country`s economy.

Petition filed in Allahabad High Court against Congress' NYAY scheme

Taking a jibe at former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, BJP leader and former Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa said that though Gowda`s party is contesting only on a few seats in the state, he is nursing ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister of the country, or at least an advisor to the PM.

Speaking exclusively to Smita Prakash of ANI, Yeddyurappa said, "Deve Gowda is fighting on 7 seats in Karnataka and has ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister or an advisor to the Prime Minister."

Gowda had said in a recent interview that unlike BJP veteran LK Advani, he is not going to retire from active politics and that if Congress president Rahul Gandhi becomes the Prime Minister of the country, he will be sitting by his side.

Of the 28 parliamentary constituencies in the state, Congress and JD(S) are contesting on 21 and 7 seats, respectively, as per a pre-poll arrangement.

Expressing his confidence of BJP gaining a big victory at the polls, Yeddyurappa said, "Despite all the divisive tactics by the Congress party, BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly elections by winning 104 seats. In this election too we are hundred per cent confident that we will not only win Shimoga Lok Sabha seat with a huge margin but also win more than 22 seats in the state."

Shimoga has become a high profile constituency in the state as sons of two chief ministers are battling it out. Yeddyurappa`s son B Y Raghavendra has been campaigning extensively and tells ANI that despite the state machinery being used against the BJP in his constituency, the people are with him.

His father is very popular in Shikaripura where they have a modest family home in a congested locality but Raghavendra feels that Modi`s popularity is his trump card.

The JD (S) nominee Madhu Bangarappa, son of former CM is banking on the Ediga community and his late father`s popularity. HD Kumaraswamy has made several emotional appeals to minorities and other communities to break the hold that Yeddyurappa has in central Karnataka.But the ageing Kannada stalwart Yeddyurappa is confident of adding Karnataka to Modi`s kitty, "We are going to win at least 300 seats in the entire country," he added.

On the prospects of JD(S)-Congress alliance getting `destabilized` in Karnataka if BJP wins the Lok Sabha elections, Yeddyurappa said, "After results, anything may happen," claiming that "over 20 Congress MLAs are not ready to help the Chief Minister, they are not happy with him".

He, however, denied that the allegedly estranged MLAs were in touch with him. "These MLAs have not spoken to me, they have spoken secretly," he said. He probably means that there is a whisper campaign.

Talking about the Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue, Yeddyurappa accused former Congress president Sonia Gandhi of hatching a conspiracy with the local Congress leadership to divide the Lingayat community in the state.

"Congress leader and Home Minister MB Patil had written to the then AICC chief Sonia Gandhi on Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue which exposes the conspiracy hatched by Congress to prevent BJP from coming to power in Karnataka. What is surprising is that Sonia Gandhi is involved in this conspiracy as the letter written by Patil starts with `as suggested by you`, that means she herself has guided state Congress leaders on the issue," he said.

"Being the head of a national party and claiming the legacy of Nehru family, she should not have stooped to such a level because we have high regards for Nehru and his family. Though it is not new for Congress people to involve in such conspiracies," he added.

On Kumaraswamy`s alleged claims that he knew about the `Pulwama terrorist attack` two years back, Yeddyurappa hit back questioning the CM`s silence for so long."If he knew about the attack two years back, he should have informed it to the police or to the President of India so that such a tragic incident and the death of our more than 40 soldiers could have been prevented," he said.

Yeddyurappa is dismissive of the Chief Minister`s statements on Pulwama and Balakot, telling ANI that HDK seems mentally unsound.

Refuting the allegations levelled on him by the Congress in the `Yeddyurappa diary` row wherein he was alleged to have paid Rs 1800 crore to some top BJP leaders, the former CM said that there was no truth in it.

"If there is even a small amount of truth in it, I will retire from politics. Officials and experts have checked my handwriting and signature and have come out openly saying that it was not my signature at all. It was not a diary but only 2-3 loose sheets," he said.

Continuing his tirade against the JD(S)-Congress government in the state, the senior BJP leader said that it has been a complete failure and that the CM has lost his "mental balance".

"We are seeking votes on Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s 5-year performance. The existing coalition government has miserably failed in Karnataka and the Chief Minister has lost his mental balance and is speaking irresponsibly," he said.

"In Mandya district, Sumalatha is giving a very good fight and she may win the election. The Chief Minister was there only for a week, thereafter he lost his mental balance and is speaking nonsense wherever he has gone after that," said Yeddyurappa.

The BJP has fielded candidates in all constituencies except in Mandya where it has extended support to independent candidate Sumalatha, wife of late actor-turned-politician Ambareesh. Sensing difficulties for his son Nikhil, who is the coalition candidate, Kumaraswamy had been campaigning in Mandya for the past few days.

When asked about his statements on Balakot, Yeddyurappa said that he has been misquoted by some media outlets. "I didn`t say that Balakot air strike will help us to win 22 seats, I was misquoted by the media. The credit will go to the military," he said.&nbsp;

Taking a jibe at former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, BJP leader and former Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa said that though Gowda`s party is contesting only on a few seats in the state, he is nursing ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister of the country, or at least an advisor to the PM.

Taking a jibe at former prime minister HD Deve Gowda, BJP leader and former Karnataka chief minister BS Yeddyurappa said that though Gowda`s party is contesting only on a few seats in the state, he is nursing ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister of the country, or at least an advisor to the PM. Speaking exclusively to Smita Prakash of ANI, Yeddyurappa said, "Deve Gowda is fighting on 7 seats in Karnataka and has ambitions of becoming the Prime Minister or an advisor to the Prime Minister." Gowda had said in a recent interview that unlike BJP veteran LK Advani, he is not going to retire from active politics and that if Congress president Rahul Gandhi becomes the Prime Minister of the country, he will be sitting by his side. Of the 28 parliamentary constituencies in the state, Congress and JD(S) are contesting on 21 and 7 seats, respectively, as per a pre-poll arrangement. Expressing his confidence of BJP gaining a big victory at the polls, Yeddyurappa said, "Despite all the divisive tactics by the Congress party, BJP emerged as the single largest party in the Assembly elections by winning 104 seats. In this election too we are hundred per cent confident that we will not only win Shimoga Lok Sabha seat with a huge margin but also win more than 22 seats in the state." Shimoga has become a high profile constituency in the state as sons of two chief ministers are battling it out. Yeddyurappa`s son B Y Raghavendra has been campaigning extensively and tells ANI that despite the state machinery being used against the BJP in his constituency, the people are with him. His father is very popular in Shikaripura where they have a modest family home in a congested locality but Raghavendra feels that Modi`s popularity is his trump card. The JD (S) nominee Madhu Bangarappa, son of former CM is banking on the Ediga community and his late father`s popularity. HD Kumaraswamy has made several emotional appeals to minorities and other communities to break the hold that Yeddyurappa has in central Karnataka.But the ageing Kannada stalwart Yeddyurappa is confident of adding Karnataka to Modi`s kitty, "We are going to win at least 300 seats in the entire country," he added. On the prospects of JD(S)-Congress alliance getting `destabilized` in Karnataka if BJP wins the Lok Sabha elections, Yeddyurappa said, "After results, anything may happen," claiming that "over 20 Congress MLAs are not ready to help the Chief Minister, they are not happy with him". He, however, denied that the allegedly estranged MLAs were in touch with him. "These MLAs have not spoken to me, they have spoken secretly," he said. He probably means that there is a whisper campaign. Talking about the Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue, Yeddyurappa accused former Congress president Sonia Gandhi of hatching a conspiracy with the local Congress leadership to divide the Lingayat community in the state. "Congress leader and Home Minister MB Patil had written to the then AICC chief Sonia Gandhi on Veerashaiva-Lingayat issue which exposes the conspiracy hatched by Congress to prevent BJP from coming to power in Karnataka. What is surprising is that Sonia Gandhi is involved in this conspiracy as the letter written by Patil starts with `as suggested by you`, that means she herself has guided state Congress leaders on the issue," he said. "Being the head of a national party and claiming the legacy of Nehru family, she should not have stooped to such a level because we have high regards for Nehru and his family. Though it is not new for Congress people to involve in such conspiracies," he added. On Kumaraswamy`s alleged claims that he knew about the `Pulwama terrorist attack` two years back, Yeddyurappa hit back questioning the CM`s silence for so long."If he knew about the attack two years back, he should have informed it to the police or to the President of India so that such a tragic incident and the death of our more than 40 soldiers could have been prevented," he said. Yeddyurappa is dismissive of the Chief Minister`s statements on Pulwama and Balakot, telling ANI that HDK seems mentally unsound. Refuting the allegations levelled on him by the Congress in the `Yeddyurappa diary` row wherein he was alleged to have paid Rs 1800 crore to some top BJP leaders, the former CM said that there was no truth in it. "If there is even a small amount of truth in it, I will retire from politics. Officials and experts have checked my handwriting and signature and have come out openly saying that it was not my signature at all. It was not a diary but only 2-3 loose sheets," he said. Continuing his tirade against the JD(S)-Congress government in the state, the senior BJP leader said that it has been a complete failure and that the CM has lost his "mental balance". "We are seeking votes on Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s 5-year performance. The existing coalition government has miserably failed in Karnataka and the Chief Minister has lost his mental balance and is speaking irresponsibly," he said. "In Mandya district, Sumalatha is giving a very good fight and she may win the election. The Chief Minister was there only for a week, thereafter he lost his mental balance and is speaking nonsense wherever he has gone after that," said Yeddyurappa. The BJP has fielded candidates in all constituencies except in Mandya where it has extended support to independent candidate Sumalatha, wife of late actor-turned-politician Ambareesh. Sensing difficulties for his son Nikhil, who is the coalition candidate, Kumaraswamy had been campaigning in Mandya for the past few days. When asked about his statements on Balakot, Yeddyurappa said that he has been misquoted by some media outlets. "I didn`t say that Balakot air strike will help us to win 22 seats, I was misquoted by the media. The credit will go to the military," he said.

Gowda is fighting in 7 seats, yet dreaming of becoming PM: BS Yeddyurappa

The Aam Aadmi Party has extended its unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala following which the Left front also expressed its support to the ruling party in Delhi for the general elections.

"The AAP's political affairs committee (PAC) has decided to give unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front candidates in the state (Kerala)," AAP leader Somnath Bharti said.

CPI(M) leader Nilotpal Basu thanked the AAP for the support and also extended his party's support to the Arvind Kejriwal-led party.&nbsp;

"Our main aim is to remove the NDA and stop communal tension and polarisation done by them and in this direction, we are campaigning in different states. We thank the AAP for supporting us," he told reporters in a joint press conference with Bharti.

Meanwhile, the AAP suspended its Kerala convener C R Neelakandan for allegedly announcing the party's support to the Congress in the southern state without any consultation with the party's political affairs committee.

Bharti said Neelakandan held a press conference in Kerala and said the AAP supports the candidates of the Congress in the state.

"That press conference was unauthorised and conducted without the knowledge or consultation of the Aam Aadmi Party. The AAP's political affairs committee has condemned his move and decided to suspend Neelakandan from the primary membership of the party," he said.

AAP's New Delhi Lok Sabha candidate Brijesh Goyal hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent address at the Talkatora Stadium here, claiming that traders were extremely unhappy with Modi for not addressing their issues at the event.&nbsp;

Modi on Friday addressed a thanksgiving convention at the Talkatora Stadium organised by traders supporting the BJP to express their "gratitude" for various measures promised in the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls. &nbsp;

The Aam Aadmi Party has extended its unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala following which the Left front also expressed its support to the ruling party in Delhi for the general elections.

The Aam Aadmi Party has extended its unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala following which the Left front also expressed its support to the ruling party in Delhi for the general elections. "The AAP's political affairs committee (PAC) has decided to give unconditional support to the Left Democratic Front candidates in the state (Kerala)," AAP leader Somnath Bharti said. CPI(M) leader Nilotpal Basu thanked the AAP for the support and also extended his party's support to the Arvind Kejriwal-led party. "Our main aim is to remove the NDA and stop communal tension and polarisation done by them and in this direction, we are campaigning in different states. We thank the AAP for supporting us," he told reporters in a joint press conference with Bharti. Meanwhile, the AAP suspended its Kerala convener C R Neelakandan for allegedly announcing the party's support to the Congress in the southern state without any consultation with the party's political affairs committee. Bharti said Neelakandan held a press conference in Kerala and said the AAP supports the candidates of the Congress in the state. "That press conference was unauthorised and conducted without the knowledge or consultation of the Aam Aadmi Party. The AAP's political affairs committee has condemned his move and decided to suspend Neelakandan from the primary membership of the party," he said. AAP's New Delhi Lok Sabha candidate Brijesh Goyal hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent address at the Talkatora Stadium here, claiming that traders were extremely unhappy with Modi for not addressing their issues at the event. Modi on Friday addressed a thanksgiving convention at the Talkatora Stadium organised by traders supporting the BJP to express their "gratitude" for various measures promised in the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: AAP, Left Democratic Front extend support to each other

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday called Congress `sabse dhokebaaz` (most betraying) party of the country.

"Congress desh ki sabse dhokebaaz party hai," Akhilesh said at a press conference in Lucknow.

His comment came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday reportedly said that SP and BSP leaders are afraid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he has the CBI and Enforcement Directorate under him.

"Those Congress people who are saying that we are afraid of ED and CBI, we are in fact not afraid of any organisation. Congress itself got an investigation done on us. The person who filed the PIL belongs to Congress. Big leaders of Congress gave money to get PIL filed against Netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) and our family. That person is still a part of Congress. When the investigation got over and the matter came up for review, that person joined hands with BJP," said Akhilesh.

"I want to make this clear that the person who filed PIL on Netaji, me and my wife Dimple has joined hands with both BJP and Congress. Both the parties have formed an alliance on this," he added.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday called Congress `sabse dhokebaaz` (most betraying) party of the country. "Congress desh ki sabse dhokebaaz party hai," Akhilesh said at a press conference in Lucknow.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on Friday called Congress `sabse dhokebaaz` (most betraying) party of the country. "Congress desh ki sabse dhokebaaz party hai," Akhilesh said at a press conference in Lucknow. His comment came after Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday reportedly said that SP and BSP leaders are afraid of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he has the CBI and Enforcement Directorate under him. "Those Congress people who are saying that we are afraid of ED and CBI, we are in fact not afraid of any organisation. Congress itself got an investigation done on us. The person who filed the PIL belongs to Congress. Big leaders of Congress gave money to get PIL filed against Netaji (Mulayam Singh Yadav) and our family. That person is still a part of Congress. When the investigation got over and the matter came up for review, that person joined hands with BJP," said Akhilesh. "I want to make this clear that the person who filed PIL on Netaji, me and my wife Dimple has joined hands with both BJP and Congress. Both the parties have formed an alliance on this," he added.

Akhilesh calls Congress 'sabse dhokebaaz' party

The India Air Force is recommending Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman for the wartime gallantry medal Vir Chakra for shooting down an F-16 in aerial conflict with Pakistan.

IAF recommends Wing Commander Abhinandan for 'Vir Chakra'

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Saturday it has not issued any direction with regard to a five-day a week working for commercial banks.

"It has been reported in certain sections of the media that commercial banks would have a 5-day week in terms of RBI instructions. It is clarified that this information is not factually correct," Yogesh Dayal, Chief General Manager of RBI said in an official statement.

"The RBI has not issued any such directions," Dayal said.

Currently, branches of commercial banks observe holiday only on second and fourth Saturday of a month apart from Sunday.

Remaining Saturdays are a full working hour for banks.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Saturday it has not issued any direction with regard to a five-day a week working for commercial banks. "It has been reported in certain sections of the media that commercial banks would have a 5-day week in terms of RBI instructions.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Saturday it has not issued any direction with regard to a five-day a week working for commercial banks. "It has been reported in certain sections of the media that commercial banks would have a 5-day week in terms of RBI instructions. It is clarified that this information is not factually correct," Yogesh Dayal, Chief General Manager of RBI said in an official statement. "The RBI has not issued any such directions," Dayal said. Currently, branches of commercial banks observe holiday only on second and fourth Saturday of a month apart from Sunday. Remaining Saturdays are a full working hour for banks.

No 5-day a week in commercial banks: RBI

Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube on Saturday informed the media he, along with his staff, met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley at his residence and requested him "to have an open and transparent bid process," news agency ANI reported. &nbsp;

Dube added that Jaitley assured them and that there were four parties interested in Jet Airways.&nbsp;

"We met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and presented our case. We requested him to have an open and transparent bid process, he assured us of that and also told us that as part of an expression of interest that there were 4 parties that were interested in Jet Airways," Dube told reporters today evening in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Jet Airways, earlier in the week, shuttered its operations temporarily owing to lenders deciding not to extend any emergency funds.

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Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube: We met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley&amp;presented our case. We requested him to have an open&amp;transparent bid process,he assured us of that &amp; also told us that as part of expression of interest there were 4 parties that were interested in Jet Airways. <a href="https://t.co/jiuRC9IVoG">pic.twitter.com/jiuRC9IVoG</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/jet-airways-shares-sink-over-32-hit-52-week-low-during-the-day-211542">Shares of Jet Airways continued to fall</a> for the second day in a row on Thursday, plummeting over 32 per cent.&nbsp;

The scrip tanked 32.23 per cent to close at Rs 163.90 on the BSE. Intra-day, it plunged 34.62 per cent to Rs 158.10 -- 52-week low.

On the National Stock Exchange (NSE), shares sank 31 per cent to close at Rs 165.75 apiece.

Stock markets were closed on Wednesday and Friday.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in a statement early Thursday, Jet Airways' lenders said they were reasonably hopeful of a successful bidding process for a stake sale.

Jet had been on a decline in the past few months as competition from budget airlines hurt its profitability and led to a debt pile. It reported losses for four straight quarters despite sales holding up.

Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube on Saturday informed the media he, along with his staff, met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley at his residence and requested him "to have an open and transparent bid process," news agency ANI reported.

Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube on Saturday informed the media he, along with his staff, met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley at his residence and requested him "to have an open and transparent bid process," news agency ANI reported. Dube added that Jaitley assured them and that there were four parties interested in Jet Airways. "We met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and presented our case. We requested him to have an open and transparent bid process, he assured us of that and also told us that as part of an expression of interest that there were 4 parties that were interested in Jet Airways," Dube told reporters today evening in New Delhi. Jet Airways, earlier in the week, shuttered its operations temporarily owing to lenders deciding not to extend any emergency funds. Jet Airways CEO Vinay Dube: We met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley&presented our case. We requested him to have an open&transparent bid process,he assured us of that & also told us that as part of expression of interest there were 4 parties that were interested in Jet Airways. pic.twitter.com/jiuRC9IVoG — ANI (@ANI) April 20, 2019 × Shares of Jet Airways continued to fall for the second day in a row on Thursday, plummeting over 32 per cent. The scrip tanked 32.23 per cent to close at Rs 163.90 on the BSE. Intra-day, it plunged 34.62 per cent to Rs 158.10 -- 52-week low. On the National Stock Exchange (NSE), shares sank 31 per cent to close at Rs 165.75 apiece. Stock markets were closed on Wednesday and Friday. Meanwhile, in a statement early Thursday, Jet Airways' lenders said they were reasonably hopeful of a successful bidding process for a stake sale. Jet had been on a decline in the past few months as competition from budget airlines hurt its profitability and led to a debt pile. It reported losses for four straight quarters despite sales holding up.

Jet CEO Vinay Dube meets Arun Jaitley, says 'we have been assured of open and transparent bid process'

The Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) court on Saturday dismissed the bail plea of an alleged arms dealer and businessman Sushen Mohan Gupta in connection with AgustaWestland money laundering case.

Gupta had filed an application for a bail plea on April 6.

On April 15, after hearing his plea, the court reserved the order on the bail application for today.

Earlier, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) told a special CBI court that Gupta tried "his best, but could not destroy the evidence".

During the course of the hearing, ED's Special Public Prosecutors DP Singh and Naveen Kumar Matta had accused Gupta of 'influencing'&nbsp;Rajiv Saxena after the latter was allowed to turn "approver" in the case by the court.

"When one of our witnesses wanted to be an approver, Gupta went to Dubai to desist him. He had started calling him when there was a buzz on diaries," had added the counsels.

The ED had previously said that two diaries in the form of a pen drive were recovered from the possession of Saxena, which allegedly belonged to Gupta.

Opposing Gupta's bail plea, ED had also contended that the statement given by Gupta in 2016 that he did not have any knowledge of Interstellar Technologies, a Mauritius-based company through which money was laundered, was "wrong"."But later during the investigation, it came to light that Gupta was the one who gave the instructions for the transfer of funds," ED had added.

Gupta's counsels, Advocate Siddharath Aggarwal and PV Kapoor, however, had argued that he had joined the investigation as and when summoned."There is no scope of apprehension regarding his availability," they had said.

Gupta was arrested on March 26 and is currently lodged in Tihar jail. The court, on April 8, had sent Gupta to judicial custody till April 20.

In his bail plea, Gupta submitted that he fully cooperated with investigation agencies and had complied with all directions given by them, adding that he has neither been accused of evading the law nor has he interfered with the investigation in any manner.

The Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) court on Saturday dismissed the bail plea of an alleged arms dealer and businessman Sushen Mohan Gupta in connection with AgustaWestland money laundering case.

The Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) court on Saturday dismissed the bail plea of an alleged arms dealer and businessman Sushen Mohan Gupta in connection with AgustaWestland money laundering case. Gupta had filed an application for a bail plea on April 6. On April 15, after hearing his plea, the court reserved the order on the bail application for today. Earlier, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) told a special CBI court that Gupta tried "his best, but could not destroy the evidence". During the course of the hearing, ED's Special Public Prosecutors DP Singh and Naveen Kumar Matta had accused Gupta of 'influencing' Rajiv Saxena after the latter was allowed to turn "approver" in the case by the court. "When one of our witnesses wanted to be an approver, Gupta went to Dubai to desist him. He had started calling him when there was a buzz on diaries," had added the counsels. The ED had previously said that two diaries in the form of a pen drive were recovered from the possession of Saxena, which allegedly belonged to Gupta. Opposing Gupta's bail plea, ED had also contended that the statement given by Gupta in 2016 that he did not have any knowledge of Interstellar Technologies, a Mauritius-based company through which money was laundered, was "wrong"."But later during the investigation, it came to light that Gupta was the one who gave the instructions for the transfer of funds," ED had added. Gupta's counsels, Advocate Siddharath Aggarwal and PV Kapoor, however, had argued that he had joined the investigation as and when summoned."There is no scope of apprehension regarding his availability," they had said. Gupta was arrested on March 26 and is currently lodged in Tihar jail. The court, on April 8, had sent Gupta to judicial custody till April 20. In his bail plea, Gupta submitted that he fully cooperated with investigation agencies and had complied with all directions given by them, adding that he has neither been accused of evading the law nor has he interfered with the investigation in any manner.

AgustaWestland case: CBI court rejects accused Sushen Mohan Gupta's bail plea

The India Air Force is recommending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-pilot-abhinandan-varthaman-returns-to-his-squadron-in-srinagar-205913">Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman</a> for the wartime gallantry medal Vir Chakra for shooting down an F-16 in aerial conflict with Pakistan.

While Abhinandan has been recommended for the Vir Chakra, the 12 Mirage 2000 pilots who bombed targets in Pakistan are being recommended for the Vayu Sena Medal for gallantry for their acts of bravery, government sources said.

The Vir Chakra is the third highest gallantry award in the military after the Param Vir Chakra and the Mahavir Chakra.

In the meanwhile, amid concerns over Abhinandan's security, the Air Force has posted out the ace fighter pilot from Srinagar to another important air base in the western sector along the Pakistan border.

"The posting order of the officer has been issued and he would soon be moving out of the Srinagar air base to his new place of posting," government sources told ANI.

The new posting (name of the airbase being withheld due to security reasons) is also a fighter base and if the officer is cleared for flying, he would be able to continue his flying duties, the sources added.

Wing Commander Abhinandan has the unique distinction of being the only pilot in the world to have shot down an F-16 combat aircraft from his vintage MiG-21 Bison aircraft on February 27 during an aerial conflict with Pakistan.

There were concerns over his security in Srinagar due to the presence of Pakistan-backed terrorist groups including a large number of Pakistani jihadis in the Kashmir valley.

Pakistan has been very upset over the shooting down of its Block 52 F-16 fitted with AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles with superior strike ranges than the R-73 missile on the MiG-21 which was used by Wing Commander Abhinandan during the aerial fight.

Despite its best attempts to cover up the shooting down of its F-16, the Air Force released radar images and other proofs that showed that the American-built plane was indeed taken out by the Indian pilot.

Earlier this week, Wg Cdr Abhinandan underwent medical tests at a Delhi-based facility for becoming eligible to fly the MiG-21s again. Abhinandan has flown different types of fighter aircraft in the Air Force including the mighty Su-30MKI.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The India Air Force is recommending Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman for the wartime gallantry medal Vir Chakra for shooting down an F-16 in aerial conflict with Pakistan. While Abhinandan has been recommended for the Vir Chakra, the 12 Mirage 2000 pilots who bombed targets in Pakistan are being recommended for the Vayu Sena Medal for gallantry for their acts of bravery, government sources said. The Vir Chakra is the third highest gallantry award in the military after the Param Vir Chakra and the Mahavir Chakra. In the meanwhile, amid concerns over Abhinandan's security, the Air Force has posted out the ace fighter pilot from Srinagar to another important air base in the western sector along the Pakistan border. "The posting order of the officer has been issued and he would soon be moving out of the Srinagar air base to his new place of posting," government sources told ANI. The new posting (name of the airbase being withheld due to security reasons) is also a fighter base and if the officer is cleared for flying, he would be able to continue his flying duties, the sources added. Wing Commander Abhinandan has the unique distinction of being the only pilot in the world to have shot down an F-16 combat aircraft from his vintage MiG-21 Bison aircraft on February 27 during an aerial conflict with Pakistan. There were concerns over his security in Srinagar due to the presence of Pakistan-backed terrorist groups including a large number of Pakistani jihadis in the Kashmir valley. Pakistan has been very upset over the shooting down of its Block 52 F-16 fitted with AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles with superior strike ranges than the R-73 missile on the MiG-21 which was used by Wing Commander Abhinandan during the aerial fight. Despite its best attempts to cover up the shooting down of its F-16, the Air Force released radar images and other proofs that showed that the American-built plane was indeed taken out by the Indian pilot. Earlier this week, Wg Cdr Abhinandan underwent medical tests at a Delhi-based facility for becoming eligible to fly the MiG-21s again. Abhinandan has flown different types of fighter aircraft in the Air Force including the mighty Su-30MKI.

IAF recommending Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman for wartime gallantry award 'Vir Chakra'

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday arrested Mohammad Gufran, suspected of being a key conspirator in plans to carry out terrorist attacks in Delhi NCR and Uttar Pradesh.

He is the 13th accused to be arrested in the NIA probe in connection with its probe against an IS-inspired group, which was allegedly planning to target places of importance in and around National Capital Territory of Delhi.

Gufran who is a resident of Amroha district of Uttar Pradesh was inspired by the ideology of IS and formed a pro-IS module namely Harkat Ul Harb-e-Islam, the NIA said.

"During the investigation, it was established that Gufran is one of the key conspirators in planning to carry out terrorist attacks in Delhi NCR and UP. It was further revealed that he was instrumental in the procurement of arms and ammunition and also explosives to carry out terrorist attacks," the investigating agency said.

Apart from Gufran, 12 other people have already been arrested in the case.

The case pertains to a group of pro-IS terrorists who formed a terrorist gang which was engaged in acts preparatory to the commission of terror attacks with a view to wage war against the Government of India.

The group was found to be inspired by the ideology of ISIS and was conspiring and preparing to target places of importance in and around the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

"It was gathered that Mufti Mohd. Suhail alias Abbasi who is a resident of Seelampur area of New Delhi was the Amir of pro-IS module who mobilized funds and procured weapons, ammunition and explosive materials to prepare IEDs etc with his other associates," NIA said.&nbsp;

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday arrested Mohammad Gufran, suspected of being a key conspirator in plans to carry out terrorist attacks in Delhi NCR and Uttar Pradesh.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday arrested Mohammad Gufran, suspected of being a key conspirator in plans to carry out terrorist attacks in Delhi NCR and Uttar Pradesh. He is the 13th accused to be arrested in the NIA probe in connection with its probe against an IS-inspired group, which was allegedly planning to target places of importance in and around National Capital Territory of Delhi. Gufran who is a resident of Amroha district of Uttar Pradesh was inspired by the ideology of IS and formed a pro-IS module namely Harkat Ul Harb-e-Islam, the NIA said. "During the investigation, it was established that Gufran is one of the key conspirators in planning to carry out terrorist attacks in Delhi NCR and UP. It was further revealed that he was instrumental in the procurement of arms and ammunition and also explosives to carry out terrorist attacks," the investigating agency said. Apart from Gufran, 12 other people have already been arrested in the case. The case pertains to a group of pro-IS terrorists who formed a terrorist gang which was engaged in acts preparatory to the commission of terror attacks with a view to wage war against the Government of India. The group was found to be inspired by the ideology of ISIS and was conspiring and preparing to target places of importance in and around the National Capital Territory of Delhi. "It was gathered that Mufti Mohd. Suhail alias Abbasi who is a resident of Seelampur area of New Delhi was the Amir of pro-IS module who mobilized funds and procured weapons, ammunition and explosive materials to prepare IEDs etc with his other associates," NIA said.

NIA arrests 13th accused in Delhi Islamic State module case

Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday fielded Pandhari Yadav as party candidate from Phulpur Lok Sabha constituency for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

The party`s sitting MP from the constituency is Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel who had won the seat in the bye-election.

However, the ticket has been given to Yadav this time.

SP also fielded Rajendra Singh Patel as the candidate from Allahabad Lok Sabha constituency on Saturday.

Phulpur constituency will go to polls in the sixth phase on May 12.

The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are being held in 7 phases from 11 April to 19 May. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday fielded Pandhari Yadav as party candidate from Phulpur Lok Sabha constituency for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The party`s sitting MP from the constituency is Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel who had won the seat in the bye-election.

Samajwadi Party (SP) on Saturday fielded Pandhari Yadav as party candidate from Phulpur Lok Sabha constituency for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. The party`s sitting MP from the constituency is Nagendra Pratap Singh Patel who had won the seat in the bye-election. However, the ticket has been given to Yadav this time. SP also fielded Rajendra Singh Patel as the candidate from Allahabad Lok Sabha constituency on Saturday. Phulpur constituency will go to polls in the sixth phase on May 12. The 2019 Lok Sabha elections are being held in 7 phases from 11 April to 19 May. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Lok Sabha polls: Samajwadi Party fields Pandhari Yadav from Phulpur constituency

With election fervour running intense in West Bengal, Malda district gears up for the third phase of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a battle between the 'first cousins'&nbsp;of a veteran political family.

Isha Khan, son of Congress stalwart Abu Haseem Choudhury, will be contesting against his first cousin Mausam Noor who is a sitting MP from Malda North. Mausam Noor won the MP seat under the Congress banner.

In 2008, she defeated her rival Haji Ketabuddin of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) by a margin of 21,205 votes.

Later, she was elected as Lok Sabha MP from Malda North parliamentary constituency. She also became the youngest Muslim woman to be elected to the 15th Lok Sabha.

But, she joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the name of development this January. Senior Congress leader Abu Haseem and brother of Ghani expressed discontent about his sister`s daughter (Mausam Noor) joining Trinamool.

"This is unfortunate as our family is known as the pillar of Congress. It is sad that somebody leaves Congress and joins another party," he said.

He added that the people of Bengal are "frustrated and confused" with the leadership.

They do not know whom to vote.

"Malda district has Congress bastion from the time after Ghani Khan served as a Minister of Railway under former prime ministers-- Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi," he said.

Congress candidate of Malda North constituency Isha Khan Choudhury, who is confident of his winning, said: "Mausam Noor joined the TMC in the name of development, however very little development has taken place in Malda North under the TMC."

"During Panchayat elections, criminality was fully supported by the administration and the ruling government. Now, nobody is ready to suffer again like Panchayat elections," he said while targeting Mausam.

Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury from the BJP is contesting against Abu Haseem from Malda South.

She joined the BJP in 2015 after quitting from the TMC. This time it has been observed that as the Left Front is supporting Congress, the party has not proposed any candidate from Malda South.

Malda district comprising of two Lok Sabha constituencies Malda South and Malda North, which will go for polling on April 23.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With election fervour running intense in West Bengal, Malda district gears up for the third phase of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a battle between the 'first cousins' of a veteran political family.

With election fervour running intense in West Bengal, Malda district gears up for the third phase of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections with a battle between the 'first cousins' of a veteran political family. Isha Khan, son of Congress stalwart Abu Haseem Choudhury, will be contesting against his first cousin Mausam Noor who is a sitting MP from Malda North. Mausam Noor won the MP seat under the Congress banner. In 2008, she defeated her rival Haji Ketabuddin of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) by a margin of 21,205 votes. Later, she was elected as Lok Sabha MP from Malda North parliamentary constituency. She also became the youngest Muslim woman to be elected to the 15th Lok Sabha. But, she joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the name of development this January. Senior Congress leader Abu Haseem and brother of Ghani expressed discontent about his sister`s daughter (Mausam Noor) joining Trinamool. "This is unfortunate as our family is known as the pillar of Congress. It is sad that somebody leaves Congress and joins another party," he said. He added that the people of Bengal are "frustrated and confused" with the leadership. They do not know whom to vote. "Malda district has Congress bastion from the time after Ghani Khan served as a Minister of Railway under former prime ministers-- Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi," he said. Congress candidate of Malda North constituency Isha Khan Choudhury, who is confident of his winning, said: "Mausam Noor joined the TMC in the name of development, however very little development has taken place in Malda North under the TMC." "During Panchayat elections, criminality was fully supported by the administration and the ruling government. Now, nobody is ready to suffer again like Panchayat elections," he said while targeting Mausam. Sreerupa Mitra Choudhury from the BJP is contesting against Abu Haseem from Malda South. She joined the BJP in 2015 after quitting from the TMC. This time it has been observed that as the Left Front is supporting Congress, the party has not proposed any candidate from Malda South. Malda district comprising of two Lok Sabha constituencies Malda South and Malda North, which will go for polling on April 23.

Lok Sabha polls: North Malda to witness tough fight between first cousins

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday hit out at BSP supremo <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-manifesto-for-2019-polls-an-illusion-says-mayawati-reminds-party-of-past-record-207690&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwjP-Ibx3d7hAhXYh3AKHcw0Ay4QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TciNVJ3JuJwoXQ7-3EDvE">Mayawati</a> for her comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying she is "frustrated".

"Mayawati has become frustrated. She is desperate and is ready to do or say anything. The people of Uttar Pradesh have rejected caste-based politics. This is an unethical alliance (between SP and BSP) and the truth is that the two parties are working against each other`s interests," Goyal told reporters.

In reference to Mayawati yesterday calling Mulayam the only "real" backward community leader in the country and not a "fake OBC" leader like Modi, Goyal recalled that it was the same SP founder who had said in the Lok Sabha that he wanted to see Modi get a second term.

While addressing a joint rally in Mainpuri on Friday, Mayawati had said, "There is no doubt that he (Mulayam) has joined people from all groups of the society under the SP banner. He does not come from a fake backward community like PM Modi, he is real OBC leader".

She also urged the electorates to vote in large numbers for Mulayam who is contesting from Mainpuri seat and ensure his victory.

"Mulayam Singh Ji is not a fake servant of the people like Prime Minister Modi, he is a politician who has sworn that he will continue working for the people till his last breath and that is why he is willing to fight again from Mainpuri constituency," Mayawati said.

"Nothing can save the incumbent central government from being thrown out of power, the government has come to be known for its capitalistic, narrow-minded policymaking, as well as communal and casteist policies," she added.

The remaining 64 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh will go to polls in the next five phases of elections, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday hit out at BSP supremo Mayawati for her comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying she is "frustrated". "Mayawati has become frustrated.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday hit out at BSP supremo Mayawati for her comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying she is "frustrated". "Mayawati has become frustrated. She is desperate and is ready to do or say anything. The people of Uttar Pradesh have rejected caste-based politics. This is an unethical alliance (between SP and BSP) and the truth is that the two parties are working against each other`s interests," Goyal told reporters. In reference to Mayawati yesterday calling Mulayam the only "real" backward community leader in the country and not a "fake OBC" leader like Modi, Goyal recalled that it was the same SP founder who had said in the Lok Sabha that he wanted to see Modi get a second term. While addressing a joint rally in Mainpuri on Friday, Mayawati had said, "There is no doubt that he (Mulayam) has joined people from all groups of the society under the SP banner. He does not come from a fake backward community like PM Modi, he is real OBC leader". She also urged the electorates to vote in large numbers for Mulayam who is contesting from Mainpuri seat and ensure his victory. "Mulayam Singh Ji is not a fake servant of the people like Prime Minister Modi, he is a politician who has sworn that he will continue working for the people till his last breath and that is why he is willing to fight again from Mainpuri constituency," Mayawati said. "Nothing can save the incumbent central government from being thrown out of power, the government has come to be known for its capitalistic, narrow-minded policymaking, as well as communal and casteist policies," she added. The remaining 64 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh will go to polls in the next five phases of elections, and counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Mayawati is frustrated, desperate to do or say anything: Piyush Goyal

Twelve coaches of the Howrah-New Delhi Poorva Express derailed near Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh early on Saturday, injuring at least 13 people, railway officials said.

The train was going to New Delhi when the accident occurred near Rooma railway station under Maharajpur police station in Kanpur Nagar district around 12.54 am. Four out of the 12 derailed Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches have overturned, the officials said.

North Central Railway public relations officer Amit Malviya said 13 people were injured and had been admitted to hospital. All passengers are being given relief, assistance, help and medical aid.

The coaches that derailed are: S8, S9, B1-B5, H1, A1, A2, pantry car and an SLR (seating cum luggage rake).

The district magistrate, senior superintendent of police and other senior officials reached the spot and are supervising the rescue operation. An 'accident relief train' and medical teams from Allahabad and Kanpur have departed for the site, the officials said.

The railways have issued helpline numbers: 1072, 9454403738, 9454401463, 9454401075, 9454400384 and 0512-23333111/112/113. It has diverted 13 trains and cancelled one train.

Twelve coaches of the Howrah-New Delhi Poorva Express derailed near Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh early on Saturday, injuring at least 13 people, railway officials said.

Twelve coaches of the Howrah-New Delhi Poorva Express derailed near Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh early on Saturday, injuring at least 13 people, railway officials said. The train was going to New Delhi when the accident occurred near Rooma railway station under Maharajpur police station in Kanpur Nagar district around 12.54 am. Four out of the 12 derailed Linke Hofmann Busch (LHB) coaches have overturned, the officials said. North Central Railway public relations officer Amit Malviya said 13 people were injured and had been admitted to hospital. All passengers are being given relief, assistance, help and medical aid. The coaches that derailed are: S8, S9, B1-B5, H1, A1, A2, pantry car and an SLR (seating cum luggage rake). The district magistrate, senior superintendent of police and other senior officials reached the spot and are supervising the rescue operation. An 'accident relief train' and medical teams from Allahabad and Kanpur have departed for the site, the officials said. The railways have issued helpline numbers: 1072, 9454403738, 9454401463, 9454401075, 9454400384 and 0512-23333111/112/113. It has diverted 13 trains and cancelled one train.

Howrah-New Delhi Poorva Express derails near Kanpur, 13 injured

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-22-dialogue-us-japan-discuss-enhancing-ties-with-india-212049">In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India</a>

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-envoys-meet-syrias-assad-discuss-post-war-efforts-trade-212033">Russian envoys meet Syria's Assad, discuss post-war efforts, trade</a>

Several Russian envoys met Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and discussed a constitutional committee, trade, as well as the ways to improve Syria's relations with neighbouring Arab countries, Russia's Foreign Ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lawyers-reviewed-mueller-report-for-10-hours-before-it-was-made-public-211967">Trump lawyers reviewed Mueller report for 10 hours before it was made public</a>

US President Donald Trump's personal lawyers spent at least 10 hours reviewing Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian meddling in the 2016 election before it was made public, two of the lawyers told on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-cant-wait-for-people-like-me-to-grow-up-and-be-the-ones-in-charge-climate-activist-greta-warns-212059">'We can't wait for people like me to grow up and be the ones in charge,' climate activist Greta warns</a>

Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has a simple wish for the future, she just wants everything fixed.

Sixteen-year-old Thunberg spoke to Reuters underneath a stage in Rome's Piazza del Popolo on Friday before she addressed thousands of Italian youth on the climate crisis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-teenagers-held-after-killing-of-northern-irish-journalist-212030">Two teenagers held after killing of Northern Irish journalist</a>

Two teenagers have been arrested over the killing of a journalist shot dead in Northern Ireland, police said Saturday, after a murder that has triggered international condemnation.

In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea. Russian envoys meet Syria's Assad, discuss post-war efforts, trade Several Russian envoys met Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and discussed a constitutional committee, trade, as well as the ways to improve Syria's relations with neighbouring Arab countries, Russia's Foreign Ministry said. Trump lawyers reviewed Mueller report for 10 hours before it was made public US President Donald Trump's personal lawyers spent at least 10 hours reviewing Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report on Russian meddling in the 2016 election before it was made public, two of the lawyers told on Friday. 'We can't wait for people like me to grow up and be the ones in charge,' climate activist Greta warns Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg has a simple wish for the future, she just wants everything fixed. Sixteen-year-old Thunberg spoke to Reuters underneath a stage in Rome's Piazza del Popolo on Friday before she addressed thousands of Italian youth on the climate crisis. Two teenagers held after killing of Northern Irish journalist Two teenagers have been arrested over the killing of a journalist shot dead in Northern Ireland, police said Saturday, after a murder that has triggered international condemnation.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched an attack on the SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh stating that it will collapse right after the Lok Sabha results are announced on May 23.

The Prime Minister alluded to the alliance between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party during the last Uttar Pradesh assembly elections and said that the alliance failed and now the two parties have turned to become foes again. &nbsp;

"A friendship was forged during Uttar Pradesh assembly polls last time, polls ended and so did the friendship which turned into animosity. Now, a friendship has been formed again, but I will tell you the date when this will come to an end too - May 23. This fake friendship will come to an end then," the Prime Minister said while addressing a rally in Etah, Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

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PM Modi in Etah: Ek dosti UP Vidhan Sabha ke chunaav ke samay bhi hui thi, chunav khatm hua, dosti bhi khatm hogai,dushmani mein badal gai. Ab ek dosti phir hui hai, lekin iske tootne ki tarikh bhi tay hai.Aapko tootne ki tarikh bataun? 23 May ko ye farzi dosti Phir se toot jaegi <a href="https://t.co/R0BjAcRfTD">pic.twitter.com/R0BjAcRfTD</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1119562192532041729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-placed-vote-bank-politics-above-national-interest-pm-modi-212009">Earlier in the day, PM Modi slammed the Congress party</a> for preaching vote bank politics over the national interest of the country.

Claiming that the UPA government was following the "vote bhakti" politics, PM Modi said, "The country has witnessed two types of politics of 'vote bhakti' and of "desh bhakti".

The former was on display after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, when the then government did not go after Pakistan for abetting terror".

Attacking further, he said that the then government chose to derail the investigations in many terror cases and came up with the theory of "Hindu terror".

PM Modi said his government responded to the Uri terror attack with surgical strikes and Pulwama by air strikes, demonstrating "desh bhakti" politics.

PM Modi who was addressing an election rally in Araria, Bihar, further said that the opposition party and its allies were rattled by the trends that have emerged from the first two phases of the Lok Sabha polls.

The Prime Minister also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-has-only-fooled-people-in-name-of-maa-mati-and-manush-pm-modi-in-west-bengal-211984">targetted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> and said she has fooled people in the name of 'Maa, Mati and Manush'.

Modi, who was addressing a rally in Buniadpur, South Dinajpur district attacked the TMC leader over the campaigning of Bangladeshi film star Ferdous Ahmed.

"It is shameful that people from neighbouring country are campaigning for the TMC, which was done to appease the minority community," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched an attack on the SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh stating that it will collapse right after the Lok Sabha results are announced on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched an attack on the SP-BSP-RLD alliance in Uttar Pradesh stating that it will collapse right after the Lok Sabha results are announced on May 23. The Prime Minister alluded to the alliance between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party during the last Uttar Pradesh assembly elections and said that the alliance failed and now the two parties have turned to become foes again. "A friendship was forged during Uttar Pradesh assembly polls last time, polls ended and so did the friendship which turned into animosity. Now, a friendship has been formed again, but I will tell you the date when this will come to an end too - May 23. This fake friendship will come to an end then," the Prime Minister said while addressing a rally in Etah, Uttar Pradesh. PM Modi in Etah: Ek dosti UP Vidhan Sabha ke chunaav ke samay bhi hui thi, chunav khatm hua, dosti bhi khatm hogai,dushmani mein badal gai. Ab ek dosti phir hui hai, lekin iske tootne ki tarikh bhi tay hai.Aapko tootne ki tarikh bataun? 23 May ko ye farzi dosti Phir se toot jaegi pic.twitter.com/R0BjAcRfTD — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) April 20, 2019 × Earlier in the day, PM Modi slammed the Congress party for preaching vote bank politics over the national interest of the country. Claiming that the UPA government was following the "vote bhakti" politics, PM Modi said, "The country has witnessed two types of politics of 'vote bhakti' and of "desh bhakti". The former was on display after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, when the then government did not go after Pakistan for abetting terror". Attacking further, he said that the then government chose to derail the investigations in many terror cases and came up with the theory of "Hindu terror". PM Modi said his government responded to the Uri terror attack with surgical strikes and Pulwama by air strikes, demonstrating "desh bhakti" politics. PM Modi who was addressing an election rally in Araria, Bihar, further said that the opposition party and its allies were rattled by the trends that have emerged from the first two phases of the Lok Sabha polls. The Prime Minister also targetted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and said she has fooled people in the name of 'Maa, Mati and Manush'. Modi, who was addressing a rally in Buniadpur, South Dinajpur district attacked the TMC leader over the campaigning of Bangladeshi film star Ferdous Ahmed. "It is shameful that people from neighbouring country are campaigning for the TMC, which was done to appease the minority community," he said.

May 23 is when this fake friendship will collapse: PM Modi on SP-BSP alliance in Uttar Pradesh 

Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff, on Saturday informed that India's first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, (IAC) Vikrant, will be delivered to the Indian Navy by 2021.

The chief said, "India's first Indian Aircraft Carrier IAC Vikrant is undergoing outfitting at Kochi shipyard Ltd. Harbour acceptance trials are in progress and sea acceptance trial of this will commence in the latter half of this year."

He further said that "The Aircraft Carrier will be delivered to Navy by the year 2021."

INS Vikrant, also known as Indigenous Aircraft Carrier 1 (IAC-1), is the first aircraft carrier to be built in India for the Navy.&nbsp;

Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff, on Saturday informed that India's first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, (IAC) Vikrant, will be delivered to the Indian Navy by 2021.

Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval Staff, on Saturday informed that India's first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier, (IAC) Vikrant, will be delivered to the Indian Navy by 2021. The chief said, "India's first Indian Aircraft Carrier IAC Vikrant is undergoing outfitting at Kochi shipyard Ltd. Harbour acceptance trials are in progress and sea acceptance trial of this will commence in the latter half of this year." He further said that "The Aircraft Carrier will be delivered to Navy by the year 2021." INS Vikrant, also known as Indigenous Aircraft Carrier 1 (IAC-1), is the first aircraft carrier to be built in India for the Navy.

IAC Vikrant to be delivered by 2021: Navy Chief

The present generation of dynast&nbsp;has become a liability for the Congress party, said Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in a blog on Saturday.

"The socio-economic profile of India is moving up the growth ladder. It may be difficult for a country with this socio-economic profile to accept dynasties," he said in the blog titled 'Will 2019 Witness the Dynasty as a Liability on the Congress Party.'

"A relevant question with this changing socio-economic profile of India is - Are dynasties an asset for a party or are they a liability? Unquestionably, the present generation of dynast has become a liability rather than an asset for the Congress party," said Jaitley.

Virtually questioning the political acumen of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Jaitley said, "If the Congress's dynast has only an ability to deliver 44 seats or 60 seats in Parliament. What then is the incentive for conventional Congressmen to bear the humiliation of subjecting themselves to a dynast? Ultimately, in dynastic parties, one has to accept political slavery."

Jaitley also alleged that a lot of "traditional bright faces" are deserting the Congress party.

"These Congressmen today look at a party like the BJP where men and women of talent have a huge opportunity to move up, both in the party, legislatures and governments," he said, asserting that two Prime Ministers given by the BJP to this country - Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi - were the tallest leaders of their generation.

The Finance Minister said that a similar situation arises with regard to caste-based parties as well.

Referring to the poor results fared by the regional parties like RJD and BSP in 2014, Jaitley said,&nbsp;"The sun will slowly but surely come down on that era."

Jaitley also claimed that his party has already consumed some of the space occupied by the regional parties in states like Bengal, Odisha, and other North-Eastern states.

He also predicted that this election will witness BJP as co-equal in Kerala.

"The BJP has the ability to fight and occupy more political space from the regional parties is already visible. The Congress inherently lacks that instinct," he said.

Insisting that the centre space in the ongoing election is occupied by the BJP, Jaitley said, "The momentum is clearly with the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi."

"In terms of national leadership contest for a Prime Ministerial election, it is almost becoming a one-horse race. There is nobody else measuring up to PM Modi's level of capacity and acceptability."

"Is history going to witness something wholly unprecedented? Are we going to witness the rejection of caste-based and dynastic parties? And will aspirational India make a harsh judgement on electing a merit-based leadership," he questioned.

The Union Minister said the Congress'&nbsp;key thrust based on 'fake issues'&nbsp;has cracked up. He also claimed that the Congress promise of 'NYAY'&nbsp;was not cutting ice with the people.

"Based on fake issues, the key thrust of what the Congress was building up in the last one year has cracked up. They are now concentrating on a new scheme declared in their manifesto which is cutting no ice with the people. The entire reliance on the members of the first family to deliver a sustainable campaign is proving to be a non-starter," he stated in the blog.

The Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be conducted in seven phases from April 11 to May 19. Two phases of polling have already taken place on April 11 and April 18. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

The present generation of dynast has become a liability for the Congress party, said Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in a blog on Saturday. "The socio-economic profile of India is moving up the growth ladder.

The present generation of dynast has become a liability for the Congress party, said Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in a blog on Saturday. "The socio-economic profile of India is moving up the growth ladder. It may be difficult for a country with this socio-economic profile to accept dynasties," he said in the blog titled 'Will 2019 Witness the Dynasty as a Liability on the Congress Party.' "A relevant question with this changing socio-economic profile of India is - Are dynasties an asset for a party or are they a liability? Unquestionably, the present generation of dynast has become a liability rather than an asset for the Congress party," said Jaitley. Virtually questioning the political acumen of Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Jaitley said, "If the Congress's dynast has only an ability to deliver 44 seats or 60 seats in Parliament. What then is the incentive for conventional Congressmen to bear the humiliation of subjecting themselves to a dynast? Ultimately, in dynastic parties, one has to accept political slavery." Jaitley also alleged that a lot of "traditional bright faces" are deserting the Congress party. "These Congressmen today look at a party like the BJP where men and women of talent have a huge opportunity to move up, both in the party, legislatures and governments," he said, asserting that two Prime Ministers given by the BJP to this country - Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi - were the tallest leaders of their generation. The Finance Minister said that a similar situation arises with regard to caste-based parties as well. Referring to the poor results fared by the regional parties like RJD and BSP in 2014, Jaitley said, "The sun will slowly but surely come down on that era." Jaitley also claimed that his party has already consumed some of the space occupied by the regional parties in states like Bengal, Odisha, and other North-Eastern states. He also predicted that this election will witness BJP as co-equal in Kerala. "The BJP has the ability to fight and occupy more political space from the regional parties is already visible. The Congress inherently lacks that instinct," he said. Insisting that the centre space in the ongoing election is occupied by the BJP, Jaitley said, "The momentum is clearly with the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi." "In terms of national leadership contest for a Prime Ministerial election, it is almost becoming a one-horse race. There is nobody else measuring up to PM Modi's level of capacity and acceptability." "Is history going to witness something wholly unprecedented? Are we going to witness the rejection of caste-based and dynastic parties? And will aspirational India make a harsh judgement on electing a merit-based leadership," he questioned. The Union Minister said the Congress' key thrust based on 'fake issues' has cracked up. He also claimed that the Congress promise of 'NYAY' was not cutting ice with the people. "Based on fake issues, the key thrust of what the Congress was building up in the last one year has cracked up. They are now concentrating on a new scheme declared in their manifesto which is cutting no ice with the people. The entire reliance on the members of the first family to deliver a sustainable campaign is proving to be a non-starter," he stated in the blog. The Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be conducted in seven phases from April 11 to May 19. Two phases of polling have already taken place on April 11 and April 18. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Present generation of dynast has become liability for Congress party: Arun Jaitley

Refuting claims of Congress leader Ahmed Patel that its party will cross 'double digits'&nbsp;in the state, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will bag all the 26 Parliamentary seats while the Congress will not get even a single seat.

"We will get all the 26 seats. Gujaratis believe Modi ji will do well for the country. Congress will not get even a single seat," the Chief Minister told ANI.

Earlier in the day, Patel had said, "We are not only hopeful but also very confident that BJP will lose. We will get good results in Gujarat too, we will cross double digit. On May 23, when the election results come, the BJP will no longer be in the government."

When asked to comment on Congress'&nbsp;claim that the BJP is raising nationalism to deflect from the main issues, Rupani said, "For ten years, Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister. Congress should tell people about the steps they have taken against terrorism. They have not taken any single step, they did not have the courage. After Pulwama and Uri, Modi ji did surgical strikes."

"In the past five years, there has been no incident of bomb attack inside the country. In their rule, there have been many attacks in many parts of the country," he added.

In the 2014 General elections, BJP had registered a landslide victory and bagged all the 26 Lok Sabha seats.

All parliamentary seats of Gujarat will go to polls in the third phase of ongoing Lok Sabha elections on April 23.&nbsp;

Refuting claims of Congress leader Ahmed Patel that its party will cross 'double digits' in the state, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will bag all the 26 Parliamentary seats while the Congress will not get even a single seat.

Refuting claims of Congress leader Ahmed Patel that its party will cross 'double digits' in the state, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Saturday said the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will bag all the 26 Parliamentary seats while the Congress will not get even a single seat. "We will get all the 26 seats. Gujaratis believe Modi ji will do well for the country. Congress will not get even a single seat," the Chief Minister told ANI. Earlier in the day, Patel had said, "We are not only hopeful but also very confident that BJP will lose. We will get good results in Gujarat too, we will cross double digit. On May 23, when the election results come, the BJP will no longer be in the government." When asked to comment on Congress' claim that the BJP is raising nationalism to deflect from the main issues, Rupani said, "For ten years, Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister. Congress should tell people about the steps they have taken against terrorism. They have not taken any single step, they did not have the courage. After Pulwama and Uri, Modi ji did surgical strikes." "In the past five years, there has been no incident of bomb attack inside the country. In their rule, there have been many attacks in many parts of the country," he added. In the 2014 General elections, BJP had registered a landslide victory and bagged all the 26 Lok Sabha seats. All parliamentary seats of Gujarat will go to polls in the third phase of ongoing Lok Sabha elections on April 23.

Lok Sabha polls: BJP will make clean sweep in Gujarat, claims Vijay Rupani

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

Speaking at the US-Japan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-meeting-india-us-discuss-indo-pacific-afghanistan-peace-reconciliation-189807">2+2 dialogue</a> in Washington, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/still-in-charge-of-north-korea-negotiations-pompeo-211898">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> said, "The United States and Japan will continue to advance trilateral and multilateral cooperation with other regional partners, notably with the Republic of Korea, Australia, India, and Southeast Asian countries."

The US-Japan 2+2 dialogue includes&nbsp;US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono, and Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya.

The focus of the statements was to increase engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

While Japanese Defence minister Iwaya said his country will "make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific", Japanese foreign minister said, "will make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific". Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan said the 2+2 dialogue is a "testament to our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific."

India, Japan, Australia, the US have been engaging in dialogues over the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year changed the name of its largest naval commands - the Pacific command - to the Indo-Pacific Command to give a boost to the growing concept while India has set up a separate Indo-Pacific desk in the Ministry of External Affairs. Washington, along with Canberra has announced a number of infrastructure projects in the region.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality".

ASEAN, the IORA groupings are currently discussing the concept.

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea.

As part of a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific region, the US and Japan have agreed to grow ties with India, along with countries like Australia and South Korea. Speaking at the US-Japan 2+2 dialogue in Washington, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, "The United States and Japan will continue to advance trilateral and multilateral cooperation with other regional partners, notably with the Republic of Korea, Australia, India, and Southeast Asian countries." The US-Japan 2+2 dialogue includes US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono, and Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya. The focus of the statements was to increase engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. While Japanese Defence minister Iwaya said his country will "make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific", Japanese foreign minister said, "will make efforts to realize free and open Indo-Pacific". Acting US Secretary of Defense Patrick Shanahan said the 2+2 dialogue is a "testament to our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific." India, Japan, Australia, the US have been engaging in dialogues over the Indo-Pacific region. The US last year changed the name of its largest naval commands - the Pacific command - to the Indo-Pacific Command to give a boost to the growing concept while India has set up a separate Indo-Pacific desk in the Ministry of External Affairs. Washington, along with Canberra has announced a number of infrastructure projects in the region. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing India's vision for Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore last year said, for New Delhi, the concept stands for "Inclusiveness, openness and ASEAN centrality". ASEAN, the IORA groupings are currently discussing the concept.

In 2+2 dialogue, US-Japan discuss enhancing ties with India

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