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Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party (Lohia) chief Shivpal Yadav on Tuesday formed a political front, named Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), in collaboration with Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal, among others.

"We have formed Progressive Democratic Alliance with Peace Party, Ittehad-e-Millat Council, Rashtriya Krantikari Samajwadi Party, former PDP leader Sunil Singh, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal," Yadav told media in Lucknow.

"She (Krishna Patel of Apna Dal) has given me the support. I have a letter for the same. I welcome her," he added.

Earlier this month, Yadav had claimed that he had the support of Samajwadi Party veteran Mulayam Singh Yadav. He also said he was keen to stitch an alliance with the Congress party for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

"I know Neta Ji is with me. I have made this party with his permission. But he is attached to the party that he founded. I had requested to be included in the alliance of secular party. I had requested Akhilesh also. We want an alliance with Congress and have spoken to some leaders of the party as well," Yadav had said on March 10.

There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases of the elections starting April 11.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party (Lohia) chief Shivpal Yadav on Tuesday formed a political front, named Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), in collaboration with Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal, among others.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Pragatisheel Samajwadi Party (Lohia) chief Shivpal Yadav on Tuesday formed a political front, named Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA), in collaboration with Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal, among others. "We have formed Progressive Democratic Alliance with Peace Party, Ittehad-e-Millat Council, Rashtriya Krantikari Samajwadi Party, former PDP leader Sunil Singh, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal," Yadav told media in Lucknow. "She (Krishna Patel of Apna Dal) has given me the support. I have a letter for the same. I welcome her," he added. Earlier this month, Yadav had claimed that he had the support of Samajwadi Party veteran Mulayam Singh Yadav. He also said he was keen to stitch an alliance with the Congress party for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. "I know Neta Ji is with me. I have made this party with his permission. But he is attached to the party that he founded. I had requested to be included in the alliance of secular party. I had requested Akhilesh also. We want an alliance with Congress and have spoken to some leaders of the party as well," Yadav had said on March 10. There are 80 Lok Sabha seats at stake in Uttar Pradesh, polling for which will be held in all seven phases of the elections starting April 11.

Shivpal Yadav forms political front, ropes in Peace Party, Krishna Patel's faction of Apna Dal

A special court here Wednesday acquitted Swami Aseemanand and three others in the Samjhauta train blast case that left 68 people, mostly Pakistanis, dead in 2007.

All the four accused, Naba Kumar Sarkar alias Swami Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary have been acquitted by the court, NIA counsel Rajan Malhotra said.

The blast in the India-Pakistan train took place near Panipat in Haryana on February 18, 2007, when it was on its way to Attari in Amritsar, the last station on the Indian side.

Before pronouncing the verdict, NIA special judge Jagdeep Singh dismissed the plea filed by a Pakistani woman for examining some eyewitnesses from her country.

The court ruled that the plea of the Pakistani woman was devoid of any merit, Malhotra said.

The blast had ripped apart two coaches of the cross-border train.

The Haryana police registered a case, but the probe was handed over to the National Investigation Agency in July 2010.

The NIA filed a charge sheet in July 2011 against eight persons for their alleged roles in the terror attack.

Of the eight, Swami Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary appeared before the court and faced trial.

Sunil Joshi, the alleged mastermind of the attack, was shot dead near his home in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district in December 2007.

The three other accused -- Ramchandra Kalsangra, Sandeep Dange and Amit -- could not be arrested and were declared proclaimed offenders.

Aseemanand was out on bail, while three others were in judicial custody.

The NIA had charged the accused with murder and criminal conspiracy, and under the Explosive Substances Act and the Railways Act.

A special court here Wednesday acquitted Swami Aseemanand and three others in the Samjhauta train blast case that left 68 people, mostly Pakistanis, dead in 2007.

A special court here Wednesday acquitted Swami Aseemanand and three others in the Samjhauta train blast case that left 68 people, mostly Pakistanis, dead in 2007. All the four accused, Naba Kumar Sarkar alias Swami Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary have been acquitted by the court, NIA counsel Rajan Malhotra said. The blast in the India-Pakistan train took place near Panipat in Haryana on February 18, 2007, when it was on its way to Attari in Amritsar, the last station on the Indian side. Before pronouncing the verdict, NIA special judge Jagdeep Singh dismissed the plea filed by a Pakistani woman for examining some eyewitnesses from her country. The court ruled that the plea of the Pakistani woman was devoid of any merit, Malhotra said. The blast had ripped apart two coaches of the cross-border train. The Haryana police registered a case, but the probe was handed over to the National Investigation Agency in July 2010. The NIA filed a charge sheet in July 2011 against eight persons for their alleged roles in the terror attack. Of the eight, Swami Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary appeared before the court and faced trial. Sunil Joshi, the alleged mastermind of the attack, was shot dead near his home in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district in December 2007. The three other accused -- Ramchandra Kalsangra, Sandeep Dange and Amit -- could not be arrested and were declared proclaimed offenders. Aseemanand was out on bail, while three others were in judicial custody. The NIA had charged the accused with murder and criminal conspiracy, and under the Explosive Substances Act and the Railways Act.

Samjhauta blast case: Special court acquits Aseemanand, 3 others

Social media platforms, including Facebook, Google and Twitter, have adopted a voluntary code of ethics for the upcoming general elections to act against paid advertisements that violate norms set by the Election Commission, industry body IAMAI said Wednesday.

Under the Code, participants have voluntarily undertaken to establish a high-priority communication channel with the nodal officers designated by ECI.&nbsp;

"Participants including BIGO, ByteDance, Facebook, Google, Sharechat and Twitter have also agreed to take action on content reported by the nodal officer, expeditiously, in accordance with the law," the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) said in a statement.

The chief election commissioner in his remarks appreciated the proactive steps taken by the association and its members to ensure transparency with regard to paid political advertisements, according to IAMAI.

The commissioner appreciated measures such as maintaining a repository of advertisements with information of sponsors, expenditures and targeted reach of such content in an aggregated manner, it added.

"Participants have built the technology to upload MCMC (Media Certification Monitoring Committee) certification. Participants have also committed to taking action on paid advertisements violating MCMC certification requirement under notification by the ECI," the statement said.

IAMAI will act as the liaison between the social media firms and the Election Commission of India.

"Collectively, IAMAI and the member participants of the code of ethics remain committed to ensuring free, fair, and ethical electoral process," the industry body said.&nbsp;

Social media platforms, including Facebook, Google and Twitter, have adopted a voluntary code of ethics for the upcoming general elections to act against paid advertisements that violate norms set by the Election Commission, industry body IAMAI said Wednesday.

Social media platforms, including Facebook, Google and Twitter, have adopted a voluntary code of ethics for the upcoming general elections to act against paid advertisements that violate norms set by the Election Commission, industry body IAMAI said Wednesday. Under the Code, participants have voluntarily undertaken to establish a high-priority communication channel with the nodal officers designated by ECI. "Participants including BIGO, ByteDance, Facebook, Google, Sharechat and Twitter have also agreed to take action on content reported by the nodal officer, expeditiously, in accordance with the law," the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) said in a statement. The chief election commissioner in his remarks appreciated the proactive steps taken by the association and its members to ensure transparency with regard to paid political advertisements, according to IAMAI. The commissioner appreciated measures such as maintaining a repository of advertisements with information of sponsors, expenditures and targeted reach of such content in an aggregated manner, it added. "Participants have built the technology to upload MCMC (Media Certification Monitoring Committee) certification. Participants have also committed to taking action on paid advertisements violating MCMC certification requirement under notification by the ECI," the statement said. IAMAI will act as the liaison between the social media firms and the Election Commission of India. "Collectively, IAMAI and the member participants of the code of ethics remain committed to ensuring free, fair, and ethical electoral process," the industry body said.

Social media firms to act against paid adverts violating EC norms: IAMAI

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-congress-releases-5th-list-fields-pranab-mukherjees-son-from-jangipur-204216">Congress </a>has released its sixth list of nine candidates, seven from Maharashtra and two from Kerala, for the Lok Sabha election.

With this, it has released names of 146 candidates for the election starting on April 11.

In Kerala, the Congress announced that Shanimol Usman will be the candidate from Alappuzha seat and Adoor Prakash from Attingal seat.

The Alappuzha seat is currently represented by AICC general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal, who has decided to opt out of the contest citing organisational work.

In Maharashtra, the party has fielded K C Padavi from Nandurbar, Kunal Rohidas Patil from Dhule, Charulata Khajasingh Tokas from Vardha, Manikrao G Thakarey from Yavatmal-Washim, Eknath Gaikwad from Mumbai-South Central, Bhausahib Kamble from Shirdi and Navinchandra Bandivadekar from Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg.

The list was cleared late Tuesday night after a meeting of the party's Central Election Committee chaired by Congress president Rahul Gandhi. 
&nbsp;

The Congress has released its sixth list of nine candidates, seven from Maharashtra and two from Kerala, for the Lok Sabha election. With this, it has released names of 146 candidates for the election starting on April 11.

The Congress has released its sixth list of nine candidates, seven from Maharashtra and two from Kerala, for the Lok Sabha election. With this, it has released names of 146 candidates for the election starting on April 11. In Kerala, the Congress announced that Shanimol Usman will be the candidate from Alappuzha seat and Adoor Prakash from Attingal seat. The Alappuzha seat is currently represented by AICC general secretary (organisation) K C Venugopal, who has decided to opt out of the contest citing organisational work. In Maharashtra, the party has fielded K C Padavi from Nandurbar, Kunal Rohidas Patil from Dhule, Charulata Khajasingh Tokas from Vardha, Manikrao G Thakarey from Yavatmal-Washim, Eknath Gaikwad from Mumbai-South Central, Bhausahib Kamble from Shirdi and Navinchandra Bandivadekar from Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg. The list was cleared late Tuesday night after a meeting of the party's Central Election Committee chaired by Congress president Rahul Gandhi.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress releases sixth list of candidates

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-begins-to-bury-its-dead-after-mosque-massacre-204416">New Zealand begins to bury its dead after mosque massacre</a>

Hundreds of mourners gathered in a Christchurch cemetery on Wednesday for the first funerals of those killed in the twin mosque massacre as New Zealanders braced for days of emotional farewells following the mass slayings.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-dead-several-injured-after-under-construction-building-collapses-in-karnataka-204418">3 dead, many injured after under-construction building collapses in Karnataka's Dharwad</a>

At least three people were killed and several injured after an under-construction building collapsed in Karnataka's Dharwad's.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-compliments-trump-who-replies-brazil-could-join-nato-204420">Bolsonaro compliments Trump who replies Brazil could join NATO</a>

President Donald Trump heaped praise Tuesday on right-wing Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro — and received plenty back — in announcing a special relationship that he said could even see the Latin American country join NATO.

At a joint news conference on the sun-soaked Rose Garden lawn, Trump and the man dubbed "Trump of the Tropics" let the mutual compliments flow.

"I have always admired the United States of America. And this sense of admiration has just increased after you took office and the presidency," Bolsonaro said.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goas-new-cm-pramod-sawant-to-face-floor-test-today-204426">New Goa CM Pramod Sawant to face floor test today</a>

A day after Bhartiya Janata Party's Pramod Sawant took charge as the new chief minister of Goa following the demise of Manohar Parrikar, the new CM is all set to prove the majority of his government in the floor test scheduled for Wednesday afternoon.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-rajkummar-rao-tweet-in-support-of-savi-siddhu-the-actor-who-has-turned-watchman-204422">Anurag Kashyap, Rajkummar Rao tweet in support of Savi Siddhu, the actor who now works as a security guard</a>

The Internet was abuzz Tuesday with the news of actor Savi Siddhu who is now working as a security guard at a residential complex in Mumbai.&nbsp;

Siddhu has featured in several prominent films like Akshay Kumar starrer 'Patiala House', Anurag Kashyap's 'Black Friday', 'Gulal' and 'Paanch' among others in the past.&nbsp;

But owing to bad health, an acute financial crisis and a lack of roles, Siddhu now works as a security guard in Mumbai.&nbsp;

New Zealand begins to bury its dead after mosque massacre Hundreds of mourners gathered in a Christchurch cemetery on Wednesday for the first funerals of those killed in the twin mosque massacre as New Zealanders braced for days of emotional farewells following the mass slayings.

New Zealand begins to bury its dead after mosque massacre Hundreds of mourners gathered in a Christchurch cemetery on Wednesday for the first funerals of those killed in the twin mosque massacre as New Zealanders braced for days of emotional farewells following the mass slayings. 3 dead, many injured after under-construction building collapses in Karnataka's Dharwad At least three people were killed and several injured after an under-construction building collapsed in Karnataka's Dharwad's. Bolsonaro compliments Trump who replies Brazil could join NATO President Donald Trump heaped praise Tuesday on right-wing Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro — and received plenty back — in announcing a special relationship that he said could even see the Latin American country join NATO. At a joint news conference on the sun-soaked Rose Garden lawn, Trump and the man dubbed "Trump of the Tropics" let the mutual compliments flow. "I have always admired the United States of America. And this sense of admiration has just increased after you took office and the presidency," Bolsonaro said. New Goa CM Pramod Sawant to face floor test today A day after Bhartiya Janata Party's Pramod Sawant took charge as the new chief minister of Goa following the demise of Manohar Parrikar, the new CM is all set to prove the majority of his government in the floor test scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. Anurag Kashyap, Rajkummar Rao tweet in support of Savi Siddhu, the actor who now works as a security guard The Internet was abuzz Tuesday with the news of actor Savi Siddhu who is now working as a security guard at a residential complex in Mumbai. Siddhu has featured in several prominent films like Akshay Kumar starrer 'Patiala House', Anurag Kashyap's 'Black Friday', 'Gulal' and 'Paanch' among others in the past. But owing to bad health, an acute financial crisis and a lack of roles, Siddhu now works as a security guard in Mumbai.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Madras High Court Wednesday refused to quash charges framed against former Union Communications and Information Technology Minister Dayanidhi Maran, his brother Kalanithi Maran and others in the "illegal" telephone exchange case, rapping them for approaching the court for the third time at this stage.

Directing the CBI court to complete the proceedings within four months, Justice N Anand Venkatesh said if the petitioners adopt any dilatory tactics, it was open to the trial court to insist upon their presence and remand them in custody as laid down by the Supreme Court.

He said the court was convinced that the trial court had fulfilled all the requirements before framing the charges and there was absolutely no ground to interfere with it.

Judge R Vasanthi of the XXIV Additional Sessions Court for CBI cases had on January 30 framed the charges against each of the seven accused for offences under the Indian Penal Code -- criminal conspiracy (section 120-B), criminal breach of trust (409) and cheating (420) -- and the Prevention of Corruption Act.

According to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Dayanidhi Maran misused his official position as the then minister for communications and information technology in the UPA I government and got private telephone exchanges installed at his residences in Chennai which were used for business transactions of the Sun Network, owned by his brother Kalanithi Maran, during 2004-06.

It claimed over 700 high-speed telecommunication lines were installed for which bills were not raised by BSNL, causing the exchequer a loss of Rs 1.78 crore.

The Maran brothers and five other accused, who have denied the charges against them in the trial court, in their present petition sought quashing of the charges framed against them, contending that relevant guidelines were not followed by the trial court.

Rejecting their plea, Justice Venkatesh said this was the third time the high court was called upon to interfere with the proceedings in the trial court at the stage of framing of charges.

If the petitioners were confident that none of the charges against them can be sustained, they must willingly face the trial and get an honourable acquittal, he said.

But, they had ensured that the case did not proceed beyond the stage of framing of charges and came up with the same quash plea every time by giving it a different form.

The judge said when the prosecution has placed materials before the court prima facie evidencing the truthfulness of the allegations, the trial must be held.

The petitioners do not want to face the trial and establish their defence in accordance with law, he said, adding they had consumed sufficient judicial time of this court.

Justice Venkatesh said the high court cannot interfere with the proceedings of trial court at each and every step by invoking section 482 of the CrPC.

He directed the CBI court to conduct the trial strictly in accordance with section 309 of the CrPC and the guidelines given by the apex court.

Besides the Marans, grandnephews of late DMK president M Karunanidhi, the other accused are former BSNL general manager K Brahmanathan, former deputy general manager M P Velusamy, Dayanidhi Maran's private secretary V Gauthaman and some Sun TV officials.

On March 14 last year, the CBI court had discharged all the accused, holding there was no prima facie case against them.

But, the Madras High Court had on July 25 quashed the order, holding that there was "heaps" of materials against the Maran brothers and other accused to proceed.

The high court order was challenged by Dayanidhi Maran in the Supreme Court which rejected his plea and directed him to face trial in the special court, following which the charges were framed afresh in January this year.&nbsp;

The Madras High Court Wednesday refused to quash charges framed against former Union Communications and Information Technology Minister Dayanidhi Maran, his brother Kalanithi Maran and others in the "illegal" telephone exchange case, rapping them for approaching the court for the third time at this stage.

The Madras High Court Wednesday refused to quash charges framed against former Union Communications and Information Technology Minister Dayanidhi Maran, his brother Kalanithi Maran and others in the "illegal" telephone exchange case, rapping them for approaching the court for the third time at this stage. Directing the CBI court to complete the proceedings within four months, Justice N Anand Venkatesh said if the petitioners adopt any dilatory tactics, it was open to the trial court to insist upon their presence and remand them in custody as laid down by the Supreme Court. He said the court was convinced that the trial court had fulfilled all the requirements before framing the charges and there was absolutely no ground to interfere with it. Judge R Vasanthi of the XXIV Additional Sessions Court for CBI cases had on January 30 framed the charges against each of the seven accused for offences under the Indian Penal Code -- criminal conspiracy (section 120-B), criminal breach of trust (409) and cheating (420) -- and the Prevention of Corruption Act. According to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Dayanidhi Maran misused his official position as the then minister for communications and information technology in the UPA I government and got private telephone exchanges installed at his residences in Chennai which were used for business transactions of the Sun Network, owned by his brother Kalanithi Maran, during 2004-06. It claimed over 700 high-speed telecommunication lines were installed for which bills were not raised by BSNL, causing the exchequer a loss of Rs 1.78 crore. The Maran brothers and five other accused, who have denied the charges against them in the trial court, in their present petition sought quashing of the charges framed against them, contending that relevant guidelines were not followed by the trial court. Rejecting their plea, Justice Venkatesh said this was the third time the high court was called upon to interfere with the proceedings in the trial court at the stage of framing of charges. If the petitioners were confident that none of the charges against them can be sustained, they must willingly face the trial and get an honourable acquittal, he said. But, they had ensured that the case did not proceed beyond the stage of framing of charges and came up with the same quash plea every time by giving it a different form. The judge said when the prosecution has placed materials before the court prima facie evidencing the truthfulness of the allegations, the trial must be held. The petitioners do not want to face the trial and establish their defence in accordance with law, he said, adding they had consumed sufficient judicial time of this court. Justice Venkatesh said the high court cannot interfere with the proceedings of trial court at each and every step by invoking section 482 of the CrPC. He directed the CBI court to conduct the trial strictly in accordance with section 309 of the CrPC and the guidelines given by the apex court. Besides the Marans, grandnephews of late DMK president M Karunanidhi, the other accused are former BSNL general manager K Brahmanathan, former deputy general manager M P Velusamy, Dayanidhi Maran's private secretary V Gauthaman and some Sun TV officials. On March 14 last year, the CBI court had discharged all the accused, holding there was no prima facie case against them. But, the Madras High Court had on July 25 quashed the order, holding that there was "heaps" of materials against the Maran brothers and other accused to proceed. The high court order was challenged by Dayanidhi Maran in the Supreme Court which rejected his plea and directed him to face trial in the special court, following which the charges were framed afresh in January this year.

HC refuses to quash charges against Dayanidhi Maran, others in telephone exchange case

Holi, also known as the festival of colours, is one of the most important festivals celebrated in the country.

Clouds of colours in the air, kids running armed with pichkaris, gulal smeared faces, bhang spiked thandai, gujia and dahi vadas beautifully served in plates is how Holi is celebrated in different ways in India.

Though the way of celebrating the festival differs from state to state, but the spirit and enthusiasm remain the same.

There are multiple ways Holi is celebrated across the nation. Let’s have a look at them.

Lath Mar Holi in the Braj Region, Uttar Pradesh

The moment we hear the word Holi, we correlate it with Vrindavan and the Braj region. Traditionally associated with Lord Krishna, the localities in the Braj Region, like Agra, Mathura, Nandgaon, Vrindavan, and Barsana, are the major tourist attractions during the Holi season.

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In these localities, especially in Barsana, people celebrate Lath mar Holi in the Radha Rani temple’s compound. In this ritual, women beat up men with sticks (Lathi) as the men sing Holi songs. This unique form of celebration denotes men singing to gather women’s attention and women protecting themselves by chasing men away with sticks.

Kumaoni Khadi Holi

The uniqueness of the Kumaoni Holi lies in its being a musical affair in the form of Baithki Holi, Khari Holi and the Mahila Holi. The Baithki Holi and Khari Holi are unique in that the songs on which they are based have a touch of melody, fun and spiritualism. These songs are essentially based on classical ragas. No wonder then the Baithki Holi is also known as Nirvana Ki Holi or Holi of Salvation.

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Kumaoni Khadi Holi (Others)
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Hola Mahalla, Punjab

Hola Mohalla or Hola Mahalla or simply Hola is a Sikh festival that takes place on the first of the lunar month of Chet which usually falls in March. This, by a tradition established by Guru Gobind Singh, follows the Hindu festival of Holi by one day.

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On this three-day grand festival, mock battles, exhibitions, display of weapons, etc., are held followed by kirtan, music and poetry competitions. This festival is observed by Nihang Sikhs. They exhibit martial arts and sing their hearts out on this day, that is usually celebrated a day before Holi.&nbsp;

Bengali Holi

Holi is known as Dol Purnima in Bengal and Orissa, celebrated in most sophisticated style by using dry colours. &nbsp;Concoction of Chau dance, Darbari Jhumur and Nature dance to the indigenous tunes of West Bengal's wandering Baul musicians set a mood so surreal that it is hard to put it in words.&nbsp;

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Shanti Niketan organizes a special function on Holi and celebrate using the song, dance and musical instruments.

Shigmo festival, Goa

Shigmo parade is a religious Hindu festival filled with colours, music, dance and floats. It depicts the life of a Goan in elaborate traditional folk dances like Ghode Modni and Fugdi performing on streets in massive troupes along the procession, showcasing the tradition of Goa. The streets of Goa during Shigmotsav are lit up with attractive décor, lively parades, delicious Goan delicacies, and music and dance performances.

Yaoshang Festival

In Manipur, Holi or Yaosang is celebrated for six days. It starts on the day of the full moon and combines Hindu and indigenous traditions. The highlight of the festival is the Thabal chongba, a Manipuri folk dance that is performed during. To add to the traditions and maintain uniformity, the Hindus of Manipur play this festival with colours too.&nbsp;

Manjal Kuli or Ukuli, Kerala

Kerala celebrates its own version of Holi in the form of Ukuli or Manjal Kuli. The festival is not so popular across the state, however, it is the traditional celebration that is prevalent amongst the Konkani and Kudumbi communities in the region that shouldn't be missed. The primary colour used in Manjal Kulli is turmeric.

Phakuwah, Assam&nbsp;

Assamese called Holi as Phagwah which is celebrated with a lot of joy and excitement for 2 days. On the 1st day, mud huts are burnt representing the fable of Holika Dahan. On the 2ndday, the natives make merry it with colours similar to others!

Rang Panchami, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh

Color merriment happens on the 5th-day post-Holika Dahan and is known as Rang Panchami. Huge processions of coloured people march in the city and celebrate Rang Panchami which is also known as Holi Krishna.

Udaipur: Royal Holika Dahan 
In Udaipur, the festival of Holi spells class and imperiality. From Holika Dahan, fireworks to spraying colours, all rituals and celebration take place. Holika Dahan marks the beginning of Holi celebration in India. It takes place in City Palace in Udaipur. The royal family of the Mewar dynasty is keeping their annual tradition alive till date.

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&nbsp;

Though the way of celebrating the festival differs from state to state, but the spirit and enthusiasm remain the same.

Holi, also known as the festival of colours, is one of the most important festivals celebrated in the country. Clouds of colours in the air, kids running armed with pichkaris, gulal smeared faces, bhang spiked thandai, gujia and dahi vadas beautifully served in plates is how Holi is celebrated in different ways in India. Though the way of celebrating the festival differs from state to state, but the spirit and enthusiasm remain the same. There are multiple ways Holi is celebrated across the nation. Let’s have a look at them. Lath Mar Holi in the Braj Region, Uttar Pradesh The moment we hear the word Holi, we correlate it with Vrindavan and the Braj region. Traditionally associated with Lord Krishna, the localities in the Braj Region, like Agra, Mathura, Nandgaon, Vrindavan, and Barsana, are the major tourist attractions during the Holi season. × In these localities, especially in Barsana, people celebrate Lath mar Holi in the Radha Rani temple’s compound. In this ritual, women beat up men with sticks (Lathi) as the men sing Holi songs. This unique form of celebration denotes men singing to gather women’s attention and women protecting themselves by chasing men away with sticks. Kumaoni Khadi Holi The uniqueness of the Kumaoni Holi lies in its being a musical affair in the form of Baithki Holi, Khari Holi and the Mahila Holi. The Baithki Holi and Khari Holi are unique in that the songs on which they are based have a touch of melody, fun and spiritualism. These songs are essentially based on classical ragas. No wonder then the Baithki Holi is also known as Nirvana Ki Holi or Holi of Salvation. Kumaoni Khadi Holi (Others) × Hola Mahalla, Punjab Hola Mohalla or Hola Mahalla or simply Hola is a Sikh festival that takes place on the first of the lunar month of Chet which usually falls in March. This, by a tradition established by Guru Gobind Singh, follows the Hindu festival of Holi by one day. × On this three-day grand festival, mock battles, exhibitions, display of weapons, etc., are held followed by kirtan, music and poetry competitions. This festival is observed by Nihang Sikhs. They exhibit martial arts and sing their hearts out on this day, that is usually celebrated a day before Holi. Bengali Holi Holi is known as Dol Purnima in Bengal and Orissa, celebrated in most sophisticated style by using dry colours. Concoction of Chau dance, Darbari Jhumur and Nature dance to the indigenous tunes of West Bengal's wandering Baul musicians set a mood so surreal that it is hard to put it in words. × Shanti Niketan organizes a special function on Holi and celebrate using the song, dance and musical instruments. Shigmo festival, Goa Shigmo parade is a religious Hindu festival filled with colours, music, dance and floats. It depicts the life of a Goan in elaborate traditional folk dances like Ghode Modni and Fugdi performing on streets in massive troupes along the procession, showcasing the tradition of Goa. The streets of Goa during Shigmotsav are lit up with attractive décor, lively parades, delicious Goan delicacies, and music and dance performances. Yaoshang Festival In Manipur, Holi or Yaosang is celebrated for six days. It starts on the day of the full moon and combines Hindu and indigenous traditions. The highlight of the festival is the Thabal chongba, a Manipuri folk dance that is performed during. To add to the traditions and maintain uniformity, the Hindus of Manipur play this festival with colours too. Manjal Kuli or Ukuli, Kerala Kerala celebrates its own version of Holi in the form of Ukuli or Manjal Kuli. The festival is not so popular across the state, however, it is the traditional celebration that is prevalent amongst the Konkani and Kudumbi communities in the region that shouldn't be missed. The primary colour used in Manjal Kulli is turmeric. Phakuwah, Assam Assamese called Holi as Phagwah which is celebrated with a lot of joy and excitement for 2 days. On the 1st day, mud huts are burnt representing the fable of Holika Dahan. On the 2ndday, the natives make merry it with colours similar to others! Rang Panchami, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh Color merriment happens on the 5th-day post-Holika Dahan and is known as Rang Panchami. Huge processions of coloured people march in the city and celebrate Rang Panchami which is also known as Holi Krishna. Udaipur: Royal Holika Dahan In Udaipur, the festival of Holi spells class and imperiality. From Holika Dahan, fireworks to spraying colours, all rituals and celebration take place. Holika Dahan marks the beginning of Holi celebration in India. It takes place in City Palace in Udaipur. The royal family of the Mewar dynasty is keeping their annual tradition alive till date. ×

Different types of Holi celebrations in India

Holi, also known as the festival of colours, is one of the most important festivals celebrated in the country.

Clouds of colours in the air, kids running armed with pichkaris, gulal smeared faces, bhang spiked thandai, gujia and dahi vadas beautifully served in plates is how Holi is celebrated in different ways in India.

Though the way of celebrating the festival differs from state to state, but the spirit and enthusiasm remain the same.

There are multiple ways Holi is celebrated across the nation. Let’s have a look at them.

Lath Mar Holi in the Braj Region, Uttar Pradesh

The moment we hear the word Holi, we correlate it with Vrindavan and the Braj region. Traditionally associated with Lord Krishna, the localities in the Braj Region, like Agra, Mathura, Nandgaon, Vrindavan, and Barsana, are the major tourist attractions during the Holi season.

In these localities, especially in Barsana, people celebrate Lath mar Holi in the Radha Rani temple’s compound. In this ritual, women beat up men with sticks (Lathi) as the men sing Holi songs. This unique form of celebration denotes men singing to gather women’s attention and women protecting themselves by chasing men away with sticks.

Kumaoni Khadi Holi

The uniqueness of the Kumaoni Holi lies in its being a musical affair in the form of Baithki Holi, Khari Holi and the Mahila Holi. The Baithki Holi and Khari Holi are unique in that the songs on which they are based have a touch of melody, fun and spiritualism. These songs are essentially based on classical ragas. No wonder then the Baithki Holi is also known as Nirvana Ki Holi or Holi of Salvation.

Hola Mahalla, Punjab

Hola Mohalla or Hola Mahalla or simply Hola is a Sikh festival that takes place on the first of the lunar month of Chet which usually falls in March. This, by a tradition established by Guru Gobind Singh, follows the Hindu festival of Holi by one day.

On this three-day grand festival, mock battles, exhibitions, display of weapons, etc., are held followed by kirtan, music and poetry competitions. This festival is observed by Nihang Sikhs. They exhibit martial arts and sing their hearts out on this day, that is usually celebrated a day before Holi.

Bengali Holi

Holi is known as Dol Purnima in Bengal and Orissa, celebrated in most sophisticated style by using dry colours.&nbsp; A concoction of Chau dance, Darbari Jhumur and Nature dance to the indigenous tunes of West Bengal's wandering Baul musicians set a mood so surreal that it is hard to put it in words.

Shanti Niketan organizes a special function on Holi and celebrates using the song, dance and musical instruments.

Shigmo festival, Goa

Shigmo parade is a religious Hindu festival filled with colours, music, dance and floats. It depicts the life of a Goan in elaborate traditional folk dances like Ghode Modni and Fugdi performing on streets in massive troupes along the procession, showcasing the tradition of Goa. The streets of Goa during Shigmotsav are lit up with attractive décor, lively parades, delicious Goan delicacies, and music and dance performances.

Yaoshang Festival

In Manipur, Holi or Yaosang is celebrated for six days. It starts on the day of the full moon and combines Hindu and indigenous traditions. The highlight of the festival is the Thabal chongba, a Manipuri folk dance that is performed during. To add to the traditions and maintain uniformity, the Hindus of Manipur play this festival with colours too.

Manjal Kuli or Ukuli, Kerala

Kerala celebrates its own version of Holi in the form of Ukuli or Manjal Kuli. The festival is not so popular across the state, however, it is the traditional celebration that is prevalent amongst the Konkani and Kudumbi communities in the region that shouldn't be missed. The primary colour used in Manjal Kulli is turmeric.

Phakuwah, Assam

Assamese called Holi as Phagwah which is celebrated with a lot of joy and excitement for 2 days. On the 1st day, mud huts are burnt representing the fable of Holika Dahan. On the 2ndday, the natives make merry it with colours similar to others!

Rang Panchami, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh

Colour merriment happens on the 5th-day post-Holika Dahan and is known as Rang Panchami. Huge processions of coloured people march in the city and celebrate Rang Panchami which is also known as Holi Krishna.

Udaipur: Royal Holika Dahan

In Udaipur, the festival of Holi spells class and imperiality. From Holika Dahan, fireworks to spraying colours, all rituals and celebration take place. Holika Dahan marks the beginning of Holi celebration in India. It takes place in City Palace in Udaipur. The royal family of the Mewar dynasty is keeping their annual tradition alive till date.

Holi, also known as the festival of colours, is one of the most important festivals celebrated in the country. Clouds of colours in the air, kids running armed with pichkaris, gulal smeared faces, bhang spiked thandai, gujia and dahi vadas beautifully served in plates is how Holi is celebrated in different ways in India.

Holi, also known as the festival of colours, is one of the most important festivals celebrated in the country. Clouds of colours in the air, kids running armed with pichkaris, gulal smeared faces, bhang spiked thandai, gujia and dahi vadas beautifully served in plates is how Holi is celebrated in different ways in India. Though the way of celebrating the festival differs from state to state, but the spirit and enthusiasm remain the same. There are multiple ways Holi is celebrated across the nation. Let’s have a look at them. Lath Mar Holi in the Braj Region, Uttar Pradesh The moment we hear the word Holi, we correlate it with Vrindavan and the Braj region. Traditionally associated with Lord Krishna, the localities in the Braj Region, like Agra, Mathura, Nandgaon, Vrindavan, and Barsana, are the major tourist attractions during the Holi season. In these localities, especially in Barsana, people celebrate Lath mar Holi in the Radha Rani temple’s compound. In this ritual, women beat up men with sticks (Lathi) as the men sing Holi songs. This unique form of celebration denotes men singing to gather women’s attention and women protecting themselves by chasing men away with sticks. Kumaoni Khadi Holi The uniqueness of the Kumaoni Holi lies in its being a musical affair in the form of Baithki Holi, Khari Holi and the Mahila Holi. The Baithki Holi and Khari Holi are unique in that the songs on which they are based have a touch of melody, fun and spiritualism. These songs are essentially based on classical ragas. No wonder then the Baithki Holi is also known as Nirvana Ki Holi or Holi of Salvation. Hola Mahalla, Punjab Hola Mohalla or Hola Mahalla or simply Hola is a Sikh festival that takes place on the first of the lunar month of Chet which usually falls in March. This, by a tradition established by Guru Gobind Singh, follows the Hindu festival of Holi by one day. On this three-day grand festival, mock battles, exhibitions, display of weapons, etc., are held followed by kirtan, music and poetry competitions. This festival is observed by Nihang Sikhs. They exhibit martial arts and sing their hearts out on this day, that is usually celebrated a day before Holi. Bengali Holi Holi is known as Dol Purnima in Bengal and Orissa, celebrated in most sophisticated style by using dry colours. A concoction of Chau dance, Darbari Jhumur and Nature dance to the indigenous tunes of West Bengal's wandering Baul musicians set a mood so surreal that it is hard to put it in words. Shanti Niketan organizes a special function on Holi and celebrates using the song, dance and musical instruments. Shigmo festival, Goa Shigmo parade is a religious Hindu festival filled with colours, music, dance and floats. It depicts the life of a Goan in elaborate traditional folk dances like Ghode Modni and Fugdi performing on streets in massive troupes along the procession, showcasing the tradition of Goa. The streets of Goa during Shigmotsav are lit up with attractive décor, lively parades, delicious Goan delicacies, and music and dance performances. Yaoshang Festival In Manipur, Holi or Yaosang is celebrated for six days. It starts on the day of the full moon and combines Hindu and indigenous traditions. The highlight of the festival is the Thabal chongba, a Manipuri folk dance that is performed during. To add to the traditions and maintain uniformity, the Hindus of Manipur play this festival with colours too. Manjal Kuli or Ukuli, Kerala Kerala celebrates its own version of Holi in the form of Ukuli or Manjal Kuli. The festival is not so popular across the state, however, it is the traditional celebration that is prevalent amongst the Konkani and Kudumbi communities in the region that shouldn't be missed. The primary colour used in Manjal Kulli is turmeric. Phakuwah, Assam Assamese called Holi as Phagwah which is celebrated with a lot of joy and excitement for 2 days. On the 1st day, mud huts are burnt representing the fable of Holika Dahan. On the 2ndday, the natives make merry it with colours similar to others! Rang Panchami, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh Colour merriment happens on the 5th-day post-Holika Dahan and is known as Rang Panchami. Huge processions of coloured people march in the city and celebrate Rang Panchami which is also known as Holi Krishna. Udaipur: Royal Holika Dahan In Udaipur, the festival of Holi spells class and imperiality. From Holika Dahan, fireworks to spraying colours, all rituals and celebration take place. Holika Dahan marks the beginning of Holi celebration in India. It takes place in City Palace in Udaipur. The royal family of the Mewar dynasty is keeping their annual tradition alive till date.

UK's Westminster court has rejected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-nirav-modi-arrested-in-london-204519">Nirav Modi's bail plea</a> and he is all set to stay in a British jail till 29th March when the court again takes up the case. He will be staying in a British jail before Westminster court again takes up his case.

Nirav Modi, the man responsible for defrauding&nbsp;the leading state-run bank - the Punjab National Bank (PNB) was presented in front of the court on Wednesday at 11:30 am London time (5 pm IST) on Wednesday.

He was arrested on Tuesday in London's Holborn area and spent the night in the cell. It was a bank clerk who actually recognised him and called the police after which he was arrested.

While Jonathan Swain from CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) is representing India, Nirav Modi's counsel is George Hepburne Scott.

Nirav Modi's counsel George Hepburne said that the case has a political motivation and conditions of Indian jails are not good. This was rejected by the judge.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rt2-EupLSZ8" width="560"></iframe>

The conditions of Indian jails was also raised during Vijay Mallya's case but despite this, his extradition to India was given a node by the UK court.

India had approached Interpol regarding Nirav and in July of 2018, a red corner notice(RCN) was issued against him. An RCN&nbsp;makes it difficult to get bail.

The development comes days after he was spotted by British newspaper The Telegraph walking in London street wearing an ostrich jacket.

He fled the country in January of 2018 when PNB first reported the scam. In February, India revoked his passport and later in August of last year, New Delhi sent two&nbsp;extradition requests to UK&nbsp;- one from CBI, another from ED regarding the extradition of the absconder businessman.

Top Indian government&nbsp;sources told WION that New Delhi has already sent relevant material to the British government&nbsp;for extradition and it up to the Westminister court to decide whether our extradition demand is genuine. The source added, at a later stage on whether a CBI representative will go to London in Nirav Modi case.

The UK Central Authority of Home Office in early March this year had sent India's extradition request to Westminster Magistrate Court for the District Judge for further proceedings.

Through fraudulent issuance of Letters of Undertaking / Foreign Letters of Credit for payments of import bills Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi from February 2011 to May 2017 were able to dupe PNB of Rs 13,000 crore.&nbsp;

While Nirav Modi fled to the UK, Choksi fled to the Caribbean country of Antigua and Barbuda and took its citizenship.
<img alt="Nirav Modi to stay in London jail till March 29th" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33ae5786-ba90-400c-93d3-da3698469602" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nirav%20Modi%20GFX.jpg" />
&nbsp;

UK's Westminster court has rejected Nirav Modi's bail plea and he is all set to stay in a British jail till 29th March when the court again takes up the case. He will be staying in a British jail before Westminster court again takes up his case.

UK's Westminster court has rejected Nirav Modi's bail plea and he is all set to stay in a British jail till 29th March when the court again takes up the case. He will be staying in a British jail before Westminster court again takes up his case. Nirav Modi, the man responsible for defrauding the leading state-run bank - the Punjab National Bank (PNB) was presented in front of the court on Wednesday at 11:30 am London time (5 pm IST) on Wednesday. He was arrested on Tuesday in London's Holborn area and spent the night in the cell. It was a bank clerk who actually recognised him and called the police after which he was arrested. While Jonathan Swain from CPS (Crown Prosecution Service) is representing India, Nirav Modi's counsel is George Hepburne Scott. Nirav Modi's counsel George Hepburne said that the case has a political motivation and conditions of Indian jails are not good. This was rejected by the judge. The conditions of Indian jails was also raised during Vijay Mallya's case but despite this, his extradition to India was given a node by the UK court. India had approached Interpol regarding Nirav and in July of 2018, a red corner notice(RCN) was issued against him. An RCN makes it difficult to get bail. The development comes days after he was spotted by British newspaper The Telegraph walking in London street wearing an ostrich jacket. He fled the country in January of 2018 when PNB first reported the scam. In February, India revoked his passport and later in August of last year, New Delhi sent two extradition requests to UK - one from CBI, another from ED regarding the extradition of the absconder businessman. Top Indian government sources told WION that New Delhi has already sent relevant material to the British government for extradition and it up to the Westminister court to decide whether our extradition demand is genuine. The source added, at a later stage on whether a CBI representative will go to London in Nirav Modi case. The UK Central Authority of Home Office in early March this year had sent India's extradition request to Westminster Magistrate Court for the District Judge for further proceedings. Through fraudulent issuance of Letters of Undertaking / Foreign Letters of Credit for payments of import bills Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi from February 2011 to May 2017 were able to dupe PNB of Rs 13,000 crore. While Nirav Modi fled to the UK, Choksi fled to the Caribbean country of Antigua and Barbuda and took its citizenship.

PNB scam: Nirav Modi denied bail, to stay in London jail till March 29th

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-nirav-modi-denied-bail-to-stay-in-london-jail-204562">PNB scam: Nirav Modi denied bail, to stay in London jail till March 29th</a>

UK's Westminster court has rejected Nirav Modi's bail plea and he is all set to stay in a British jail till 29th March when the court again takes up the case. He will be staying in a British jail before Westminster court again takes up his case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-four-accused-in-samjhauta-blast-case-acquitted-204558">All four accused in Samjhauta blast case acquitted</a>

All four accused in the Samjhauta blast case were acquitted by the Special National Investigation Agency(NIA) Court in Panchkula today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-signals-to-boycott-chinas-belt-and-road-forum-for-second-time-204533">India may boycott China's Belt and Road Forum for second time</a>

India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott China's second Belt and Road Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-fines-google-149-billion-euros-for-anti-trust-breach-204538">Google fined $1.7 billion for search ad blocks in third European Union sanction</a>

Google was fined 1.49 billion euros ($1.7 billion) on Wednesday for blocking rival online search advertisers, the third large European Union antitrust penalty for the Alphabet business in two only years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/requested-brexit-delay-until-june-30-uk-pm-theresa-may-to-european-union-leaders-204557">Requested Brexit delay until June 30: UK PM Theresa May to European Union leaders</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May requested a three-month delay to Brexit on Wednesday after her failure to get a deal ratified by parliament left the United Kingdom's divorce from the European Union in turmoil.

&nbsp;

PNB scam: Nirav Modi denied bail, to stay in London jail till March 29th UK's Westminster court has rejected Nirav Modi's bail plea and he is all set to stay in a British jail till 29th March when the court again takes up the case.

PNB scam: Nirav Modi denied bail, to stay in London jail till March 29th UK's Westminster court has rejected Nirav Modi's bail plea and he is all set to stay in a British jail till 29th March when the court again takes up the case. He will be staying in a British jail before Westminster court again takes up his case. All four accused in Samjhauta blast case acquitted All four accused in the Samjhauta blast case were acquitted by the Special National Investigation Agency(NIA) Court in Panchkula today. India may boycott China's Belt and Road Forum for second time India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott China's second Belt and Road Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity. Google fined $1.7 billion for search ad blocks in third European Union sanction Google was fined 1.49 billion euros ($1.7 billion) on Wednesday for blocking rival online search advertisers, the third large European Union antitrust penalty for the Alphabet business in two only years. Requested Brexit delay until June 30: UK PM Theresa May to European Union leaders Prime Minister Theresa May requested a three-month delay to Brexit on Wednesday after her failure to get a deal ratified by parliament left the United Kingdom's divorce from the European Union in turmoil.

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP Wednesday alleged that the Congress had conceded to the National Conference's (NC) pro-separatist agenda after the two parties announced a pre-poll alliance in the state.

The Congress and the NC finalised arrangements for the six Lok Sabha seats of the state earlier in the day.

"The NC-Congress alliance is an eyewash and a wake-up call for Jammu," BJP spokesperson Brig (retd) Anil Gupta told reporters.

"The Congress has not only surrendered to the National Conference but also conceded to the pro-separatist, Kashmir-centric, communal and divisive agenda of that party," he said.

He added that the "opportunistic" alliance was aimed at promoting "Kashmiri hegemony".

With the NC insisting on contesting from all the three seats in Kashmir, the party's couldn't-care-less attitude towards Jammu is obvious, Gupta said.

The BJP spokesperson claimed the Congress, like the NC, will oppose granting citizenship to West Pakistan refugees and inheritance rights to the state's daughters.

The Congress-NC combine will put an end to anti-terror operations and revive the over ground terror support network, Gupta alleged.

"They will revoke the ban on Jammat-e-Islami Kashmir and promote radicalisation in Kashmir. They will ensure that Rohingya and Bangladeshi Muslims are given permanent residence so that the demography of the region is changed and Jammu also becomes insecure like the Valley," he warned.

People of Jammu will do a great disservice to their future generations if they vote for the communal and divisive agenda of the NC-Congress alliance, Gupta said.

It would not be surprising if the Peoples Democratic Party also joins hands with them to further marginalise the voice of Jammu, he said.

While the Congress will contest on the Jammu and Udhampur seats, the NC will fight from Srinagar, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said at a joint press conference here with NC president Omar Abdullah.

There will be a "friendly contest" between the two parties on the Baramulla, Anantnag and Ladakh seats, Abdullah said.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP Wednesday alleged that the Congress had conceded to the National Conference's (NC) pro-separatist agenda after the two parties announced a pre-poll alliance in the state.

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP Wednesday alleged that the Congress had conceded to the National Conference's (NC) pro-separatist agenda after the two parties announced a pre-poll alliance in the state. The Congress and the NC finalised arrangements for the six Lok Sabha seats of the state earlier in the day. "The NC-Congress alliance is an eyewash and a wake-up call for Jammu," BJP spokesperson Brig (retd) Anil Gupta told reporters. "The Congress has not only surrendered to the National Conference but also conceded to the pro-separatist, Kashmir-centric, communal and divisive agenda of that party," he said. He added that the "opportunistic" alliance was aimed at promoting "Kashmiri hegemony". With the NC insisting on contesting from all the three seats in Kashmir, the party's couldn't-care-less attitude towards Jammu is obvious, Gupta said. The BJP spokesperson claimed the Congress, like the NC, will oppose granting citizenship to West Pakistan refugees and inheritance rights to the state's daughters. The Congress-NC combine will put an end to anti-terror operations and revive the over ground terror support network, Gupta alleged. "They will revoke the ban on Jammat-e-Islami Kashmir and promote radicalisation in Kashmir. They will ensure that Rohingya and Bangladeshi Muslims are given permanent residence so that the demography of the region is changed and Jammu also becomes insecure like the Valley," he warned. People of Jammu will do a great disservice to their future generations if they vote for the communal and divisive agenda of the NC-Congress alliance, Gupta said. It would not be surprising if the Peoples Democratic Party also joins hands with them to further marginalise the voice of Jammu, he said. While the Congress will contest on the Jammu and Udhampur seats, the NC will fight from Srinagar, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said at a joint press conference here with NC president Omar Abdullah. There will be a "friendly contest" between the two parties on the Baramulla, Anantnag and Ladakh seats, Abdullah said.

Congress has surrendered to pro-separatist agenda of NC: BJP

All four accused in the Samjhauta blast case were acquitted by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-four-accused-in-samjhauta-blast-case-acquitted-204558">Special National Investigation Agency(NIA)</a> Court in Panchkula today.

The accused included - Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary.

Naba Kumar Sarkar aka Swami Aseemanand the prime accused in the case was granted bail by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2015.&nbsp;

The blast in the India-Pakistan train took place near Panipat in Haryana on February 18, 2007, when it was on its way to Attari in Amritsar, the last station on the Indian side. It led to&nbsp;led to the death&nbsp;of 68 passengers.

Before pronouncing the verdict, NIA special judge Jagdeep Singh dismissed the plea filed by a Pakistani woman for examining some eyewitnesses from her country.

"The court ruled that the plea of the Pakistani woman was devoid of any merit,"&nbsp;Malhotra said.

The blast had ripped apart two coaches of the cross-border train.

The Haryana police registered a case, but the probe was handed over to the National Investigation Agency in July 2010.

The NIA filed a charge sheet in July 2011 against eight persons for their alleged roles in the terror attack.

Of the eight, Swami Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary appeared before the court and faced trial.

Sunil Joshi, the alleged mastermind of the attack, was shot dead near his home in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district in December 2007.

The three other accused -- Ramchandra Kalsangra, Sandeep Dange and Amit -- could not be arrested and were declared proclaimed offenders.

Aseemanand was out on bail, while three others were in judicial custody.

The NIA had charged the accused with murder and criminal conspiracy, and under the Explosive Substances Act and the Railways Act.

(With inputs from news agencies)

All four accused in the Samjhauta blast case were acquitted by the Special National Investigation Agency(NIA) Court in Panchkula today. The accused included - Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary.

All four accused in the Samjhauta blast case were acquitted by the Special National Investigation Agency(NIA) Court in Panchkula today. The accused included - Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary. Naba Kumar Sarkar aka Swami Aseemanand the prime accused in the case was granted bail by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2015. The blast in the India-Pakistan train took place near Panipat in Haryana on February 18, 2007, when it was on its way to Attari in Amritsar, the last station on the Indian side. It led to led to the death of 68 passengers. Before pronouncing the verdict, NIA special judge Jagdeep Singh dismissed the plea filed by a Pakistani woman for examining some eyewitnesses from her country. "The court ruled that the plea of the Pakistani woman was devoid of any merit," Malhotra said. The blast had ripped apart two coaches of the cross-border train. The Haryana police registered a case, but the probe was handed over to the National Investigation Agency in July 2010. The NIA filed a charge sheet in July 2011 against eight persons for their alleged roles in the terror attack. Of the eight, Swami Aseemanand, Lokesh Sharma, Kamal Chauhan and Rajinder Chaudhary appeared before the court and faced trial. Sunil Joshi, the alleged mastermind of the attack, was shot dead near his home in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district in December 2007. The three other accused -- Ramchandra Kalsangra, Sandeep Dange and Amit -- could not be arrested and were declared proclaimed offenders. Aseemanand was out on bail, while three others were in judicial custody. The NIA had charged the accused with murder and criminal conspiracy, and under the Explosive Substances Act and the Railways Act. (With inputs from news agencies)

All four accused in Samjhauta blast case acquitted

Holi celebrations begin in India with sweets and colours

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the term Chowkidaar (Watchman) has become so popular after he added the prefix to his Twitter account and launched &nbsp;'Main bhi Chowkidaar' campaign ahead of upcoming Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

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Having a wonderful interaction with Chowkidars from across India. Join. <a href="https://t.co/UWeyAVtOIH">https://t.co/UWeyAVtOIH</a>
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''Today every Indian is saying 'Main bhi Chowkidaar,'' Modi said during an interaction with security guards across the country.

''You must have noticed that these days everywhere it is you who is being discussed, be it TV or social media, be it in India or abroad,'' added.&nbsp;

Accusing some ''vested interests'' of running disinformation campaign against 'chowkidaars', Modi also apologised to the listeners (Wathcmen).&nbsp;

''I want to apologise as some people in last few months for their vested interests have run a disinformation campaign against 'chowkidaars'. It is unfortunate that language of these people has hurt you,'' he said.

Modi said maximum languages across the world have understood the word 'Chowkidaar'.

''It seems as if they all have accepted it in their vocabulary,'' Modi added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the term Chowkidaar (Watchman) has become so popular after he added the prefix to his Twitter account and launched 'Main bhi Chowkidaar' campaign ahead of upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the term Chowkidaar (Watchman) has become so popular after he added the prefix to his Twitter account and launched 'Main bhi Chowkidaar' campaign ahead of upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Having a wonderful interaction with Chowkidars from across India. Join. https://t.co/UWeyAVtOIH — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 20, 2019 × ''Today every Indian is saying 'Main bhi Chowkidaar,'' Modi said during an interaction with security guards across the country. ''You must have noticed that these days everywhere it is you who is being discussed, be it TV or social media, be it in India or abroad,'' added. Accusing some ''vested interests'' of running disinformation campaign against 'chowkidaars', Modi also apologised to the listeners (Wathcmen). ''I want to apologise as some people in last few months for their vested interests have run a disinformation campaign against 'chowkidaars'. It is unfortunate that language of these people has hurt you,'' he said. Modi said maximum languages across the world have understood the word 'Chowkidaar'. ''It seems as if they all have accepted it in their vocabulary,'' Modi added.

'Today every Indian is saying 'Main bhi Chowkidaar', says Modi 

Police on Tuesday arrested fugitive billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi London's Holborn metro station. Modi is the prime accused in Punjab Nation Bank (PNB) scam. He will be produced in the Westminster court at in a short while, TV reports claimed.&nbsp;

Westminster court in London on Monday issued an arrest warrant against the diamond merchant&nbsp;

 
The following is a timeline of how the case has unfolded:

January 29, 2018:

PNB files police complaint against jewellers Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and others, saying they had colluded with two of its bank staff to defraud the bank of 2.81 billion rupees ($43.16 million)

February 5, 2018:

Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) says it has launched an investigation into the alleged scam. Bank tells stock exchange it is still probing the extent of the fraud

February 14, 2018:

PNB now discloses the amount involved in the fraud as $1.77 billion, adds other banks overseas advanced money to jewellers based on the fraudulent guarantees issued by its staff

February 15, 2018:

PNB Chief Executive Sunil Mehta holds a news conference, says working with law enforcement agencies, regulators, other banks

CBI says Modi, Choksi left India before PNB filed complaint

February 16, 2018:

CBI files case against Choksi’s Gitanjali Group and conducts searches at 20 of the jewellery retailers locations

PNB CEO tells analysts bank putting in place better checks and balances, hopes to recover within six months

February 17, 2018:

CBI makes first arrests in the case, two PNB employees and an executive of Nirav Modi’s group detained

Enforcement Directorate seizes a cumulative 56.74 billion rupees worth of diamonds, gold and jewellery from Nirav Modi's home and offices&nbsp;

February 19, 2018

CBI arrests three more PNB executives

February 20, 2018

PNB shares fall for fifth trading session, wiping off $1.9 billion in market capitalisation

Reserve Bank of India asks banks to implement measures to strengthen their oversight of the SWIFT interbank messaging platform

Jeweller Modi’s lawyer denies wrongdoing by the client; Modi writes to PNB saying his companies owe much less than the sums reported

Enforcement Directorate (ED) says investigating more than 100 shell companies allegedly used by Modi and Choksi to route funds

CBI arrests three officials from Modi’s group, two from Gitanjali

February 21, 2018:

CBI arrests PNB general manager Rajesh Jindal, who headed the bank’s Brady House branch in Mumbai between August 2009 and May 2011

Jeweller Modi writes to his employees in India saying they should look for other jobs as he would not be able to pay them salaries after the seizure of his assets

February 22, 2018:

ED seizes nine luxury cars belonging to Modi and his firms; freezes shares and mutual funds worth 78 million rupees held by Modi and 867.2 million rupees held by Choksi

February 23, 2018:

Auditor group Institute of Chartered Accountants of India begins probe into PNB fraud

RBI orders linking of SWIFT system with banks’ core accounting software by April 30, among other measures, Feb. 20 letter to banks shows

Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra announces cutting ties with Nirav Modi’s brand

February 24, 2018:

Choksi writes an open letter to employees of Gitanjali Gems protesting innocence and telling them to look for other jobs

ED seizes 21 properties including a farmhouse, a solar power plant and land belonging to Modi worth 5.24 billion rupees

February 27, 2018:

PNB says the amount of fraudulent transactions has gone up by about $204 million to $1.97 billion

Jeweller Modi’s firm Firestar Diamond files for bankruptcy in the United States

February 28, 2018:

CBI arrests former PNB auditor M.K. Sharma, who was responsible for auditing systems and practices of the bank’s Brady House branch

March 1, 2018: PNB appoints BDO India as a forensic auditor for five group companies belonging to Modi

CBI arrests another former PNB internal auditor, Bishnubrata Mishra, who was responsible for audits at the branch between 2011 and 2015

March 3, 2018:

Authorities say gold and diamond bribes given to one PNB staffer named in the fraud&nbsp;

State-run lender Allahabad Bank says its exposure to the fraud is about $367 million

March 4, 2018:

CBI makes four more arrests - two former employees of Modi’s Firestar International, an auditor of Modi’s group and a former director of one of Choksi’s companies

March 6, 2018:

CBI arrests a vice president of Gitanjali group

Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) meets executives from Axis Bank, ICICI Bank over Modi, Choksi exposure

March 8, 2018:

Choksi accuses investigating agencies of gross abuse of due process in the ongoing probe

June 2, 2018

Interpol issues Red Corner Notice against Nirav Modi for money laundering

June 25, 2018

ED moves a special court in Mumbai seeking diamond jeweller Nirav Modi's extradition

June 26, 2018

The special &nbsp;Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai issues summons against diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi to appear before the court or be declared fugitives.

June &nbsp;27, 2018

Mehul Choksi moves special court seeking cancellation of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him

June 28, 2018

India requests a group of countries to deny entry to diamantaire Nirav Modi, Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said

August 3, 2018

The government of India sends a request for the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi to the UK authorities

August 20, 2018

CBI officials request Interpol Manchester to detain Nirav Modi after the latter informs about his presence in London to Indian authorities.

September 6, 2018

Interpol issues a Red Corner Notice (RCN) against Mihir R Bhansali, an executive of the fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, in connection with the alleged USD 2 billion PNB money-laundering case

October 11, 2018

The Chief Judicial Magistrate of Surat issues an order declaring fugitive diamantaire and Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam accused Nirav Modi as an absconder in a case filed against him by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) for allegedly evading customs duty on import of diamonds and pearls

November 6, 2018

The Enforcement Directorate attaches 11 properties worth over Rs 56 crores of fugitive diamond jeweller Nirav Modi in Dubai in connection with its money-laundering probe in the USD 2-billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case.

December 25, 2018

Mehul Choksi says he cannot travel 41 hours to reach India. He, however, says he would be willing to be questioned overa&nbsp;&nbsp;video call

December 27, 2018

British authorities inform India that &nbsp;fugitive Nirav Modi is living in the UK

 
March 8, 2019

Fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi is living in a swanky 8-million pound apartment in London's West End and is now involved in a new diamond business, a British daily reports

March 9, 2019

ED says the government of United Kingdom has sent an extradition request of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi to a UK court for further proceeding

March 18, 2019

Westminster Court in London issues arrest warrant against fugitive Nirav Modi after the Indian government's request was forwarded to the court by UK Home Office

March 20, 2019

Nirav Modi arrested in London after Westminster court issued an arrest warrant against the fugitive diamantaire

Police on Tuesday arrested fugitive billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi London's Holborn metro station. Modi is the prime accused in Punjab Nation Bank (PNB) scam.

Police on Tuesday arrested fugitive billionaire diamantaire Nirav Modi London's Holborn metro station. Modi is the prime accused in Punjab Nation Bank (PNB) scam. He will be produced in the Westminster court at in a short while, TV reports claimed. Westminster court in London on Monday issued an arrest warrant against the diamond merchant The following is a timeline of how the case has unfolded: January 29, 2018: PNB files police complaint against jewellers Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi and others, saying they had colluded with two of its bank staff to defraud the bank of 2.81 billion rupees ($43.16 million) February 5, 2018: Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) says it has launched an investigation into the alleged scam. Bank tells stock exchange it is still probing the extent of the fraud February 14, 2018: PNB now discloses the amount involved in the fraud as $1.77 billion, adds other banks overseas advanced money to jewellers based on the fraudulent guarantees issued by its staff February 15, 2018: PNB Chief Executive Sunil Mehta holds a news conference, says working with law enforcement agencies, regulators, other banks CBI says Modi, Choksi left India before PNB filed complaint February 16, 2018: CBI files case against Choksi’s Gitanjali Group and conducts searches at 20 of the jewellery retailers locations PNB CEO tells analysts bank putting in place better checks and balances, hopes to recover within six months February 17, 2018: CBI makes first arrests in the case, two PNB employees and an executive of Nirav Modi’s group detained Enforcement Directorate seizes a cumulative 56.74 billion rupees worth of diamonds, gold and jewellery from Nirav Modi's home and offices February 19, 2018 CBI arrests three more PNB executives February 20, 2018 PNB shares fall for fifth trading session, wiping off $1.9 billion in market capitalisation Reserve Bank of India asks banks to implement measures to strengthen their oversight of the SWIFT interbank messaging platform Jeweller Modi’s lawyer denies wrongdoing by the client; Modi writes to PNB saying his companies owe much less than the sums reported Enforcement Directorate (ED) says investigating more than 100 shell companies allegedly used by Modi and Choksi to route funds CBI arrests three officials from Modi’s group, two from Gitanjali February 21, 2018: CBI arrests PNB general manager Rajesh Jindal, who headed the bank’s Brady House branch in Mumbai between August 2009 and May 2011 Jeweller Modi writes to his employees in India saying they should look for other jobs as he would not be able to pay them salaries after the seizure of his assets February 22, 2018: ED seizes nine luxury cars belonging to Modi and his firms; freezes shares and mutual funds worth 78 million rupees held by Modi and 867.2 million rupees held by Choksi February 23, 2018: Auditor group Institute of Chartered Accountants of India begins probe into PNB fraud RBI orders linking of SWIFT system with banks’ core accounting software by April 30, among other measures, Feb. 20 letter to banks shows Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra announces cutting ties with Nirav Modi’s brand February 24, 2018: Choksi writes an open letter to employees of Gitanjali Gems protesting innocence and telling them to look for other jobs ED seizes 21 properties including a farmhouse, a solar power plant and land belonging to Modi worth 5.24 billion rupees February 27, 2018: PNB says the amount of fraudulent transactions has gone up by about $204 million to $1.97 billion Jeweller Modi’s firm Firestar Diamond files for bankruptcy in the United States February 28, 2018: CBI arrests former PNB auditor M.K. Sharma, who was responsible for auditing systems and practices of the bank’s Brady House branch March 1, 2018: PNB appoints BDO India as a forensic auditor for five group companies belonging to Modi CBI arrests another former PNB internal auditor, Bishnubrata Mishra, who was responsible for audits at the branch between 2011 and 2015 March 3, 2018: Authorities say gold and diamond bribes given to one PNB staffer named in the fraud State-run lender Allahabad Bank says its exposure to the fraud is about $367 million March 4, 2018: CBI makes four more arrests - two former employees of Modi’s Firestar International, an auditor of Modi’s group and a former director of one of Choksi’s companies March 6, 2018: CBI arrests a vice president of Gitanjali group Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) meets executives from Axis Bank, ICICI Bank over Modi, Choksi exposure March 8, 2018: Choksi accuses investigating agencies of gross abuse of due process in the ongoing probe June 2, 2018 Interpol issues Red Corner Notice against Nirav Modi for money laundering June 25, 2018 ED moves a special court in Mumbai seeking diamond jeweller Nirav Modi's extradition June 26, 2018 The special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai issues summons against diamond jeweller Nirav Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi to appear before the court or be declared fugitives. June 27, 2018 Mehul Choksi moves special court seeking cancellation of a non-bailable warrant (NBW) issued against him June 28, 2018 India requests a group of countries to deny entry to diamantaire Nirav Modi, Ministry of External Affairs Raveesh Kumar said August 3, 2018 The government of India sends a request for the extradition of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi to the UK authorities August 20, 2018 CBI officials request Interpol Manchester to detain Nirav Modi after the latter informs about his presence in London to Indian authorities. September 6, 2018 Interpol issues a Red Corner Notice (RCN) against Mihir R Bhansali, an executive of the fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, in connection with the alleged USD 2 billion PNB money-laundering case October 11, 2018 The Chief Judicial Magistrate of Surat issues an order declaring fugitive diamantaire and Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam accused Nirav Modi as an absconder in a case filed against him by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) for allegedly evading customs duty on import of diamonds and pearls November 6, 2018 The Enforcement Directorate attaches 11 properties worth over Rs 56 crores of fugitive diamond jeweller Nirav Modi in Dubai in connection with its money-laundering probe in the USD 2-billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case. December 25, 2018 Mehul Choksi says he cannot travel 41 hours to reach India. He, however, says he would be willing to be questioned overa video call December 27, 2018 British authorities inform India that fugitive Nirav Modi is living in the UK March 8, 2019 Fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi is living in a swanky 8-million pound apartment in London's West End and is now involved in a new diamond business, a British daily reports March 9, 2019 ED says the government of United Kingdom has sent an extradition request of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi to a UK court for further proceeding March 18, 2019 Westminster Court in London issues arrest warrant against fugitive Nirav Modi after the Indian government's request was forwarded to the court by UK Home Office March 20, 2019 Nirav Modi arrested in London after Westminster court issued an arrest warrant against the fugitive diamantaire

PNB scam involving Nirav Modi: Timeline and how the events unfolded leading to his arrest 

Lok Sabha elections 2019: A look at young chief ministers of India

Nirav Modi, the main accused in the US $2 billion PNB loan fraud case, has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pnb-scam-nirav-modi-arrested-in-london-204519">arrested in London</a>, Scotland Yard said on Wednesday, in a major boost to India's efforts to bring back the fugitive diamantaire.

The arrest seems to have happened on an extradition warrant, details of which would become clear when he appears before Westminster Magistrates' Court in London.

The 48-year-old's arrest would lead to him being produced before a District Judge at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London to be formally charged, following which he is expected to seek bail.

The case will then follow a similar pattern through the UK courts as that of liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya, who remains on bail since his arrest on an extradition warrant in April 2017 on fraud and money laundering charges.

UK home secretary Sajid Javid had certified India's extradition request for Nirav Modi earlier this month, triggering the legal process in the courts, kick-started with the issuance of a warrant.

News of the certification of India's request came just as Modi was tracked down to a three-bedroom flat in the Centre Point tower block of luxury apartments in the West End of London.

He is believed to have arrived in London last year and was able to travel in and out of Britain at least four times since his passport was cancelled by the Indian authorities in February 2018.

During some of his stay in London he was reportedly also living in the heart of the city above his jewellery boutique called "Nirav Modi" on Old Bond Street, which has since closed down.

Modi is now believed to be running a new business, which describes itself on the UK's Companies House register as a wholesale trader in watches and jewellery and a retailer of watches and jewellery in specialised stores.

Modi and his uncle, Mehul Choksi, are the main accused in the PNB scam and they both left India before the details of the fraud came to light in January 2018.

Nirav Modi, the main accused in the US $2 billion PNB loan fraud case, has been arrested in London, Scotland Yard said on Wednesday, in a major boost to India's efforts to bring back the fugitive diamantaire.

Nirav Modi, the main accused in the US $2 billion PNB loan fraud case, has been arrested in London, Scotland Yard said on Wednesday, in a major boost to India's efforts to bring back the fugitive diamantaire. The arrest seems to have happened on an extradition warrant, details of which would become clear when he appears before Westminster Magistrates' Court in London. The 48-year-old's arrest would lead to him being produced before a District Judge at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London to be formally charged, following which he is expected to seek bail. The case will then follow a similar pattern through the UK courts as that of liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya, who remains on bail since his arrest on an extradition warrant in April 2017 on fraud and money laundering charges. UK home secretary Sajid Javid had certified India's extradition request for Nirav Modi earlier this month, triggering the legal process in the courts, kick-started with the issuance of a warrant. News of the certification of India's request came just as Modi was tracked down to a three-bedroom flat in the Centre Point tower block of luxury apartments in the West End of London. He is believed to have arrived in London last year and was able to travel in and out of Britain at least four times since his passport was cancelled by the Indian authorities in February 2018. During some of his stay in London he was reportedly also living in the heart of the city above his jewellery boutique called "Nirav Modi" on Old Bond Street, which has since closed down. Modi is now believed to be running a new business, which describes itself on the UK's Companies House register as a wholesale trader in watches and jewellery and a retailer of watches and jewellery in specialised stores. Modi and his uncle, Mehul Choksi, are the main accused in the PNB scam and they both left India before the details of the fraud came to light in January 2018.

Nirav Modi arrested: This is what is expected to happen next

India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/southeast-asia-wary-of-chinas-belt-and-road-project-sceptical-of-us-report-188706">China's second Belt and Road</a> Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

India boycotted the first Belt and Road Forum (BRF) in 2017 after protesting to Beijing over the controversial China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) overriding New Delhi's sovereignty concerns.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently said that next month China plans to hold a much bigger, second BRF which will also be attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Speculation is rife whether India would attend the second BRF as China has deepened its commitment to expand the USD 60 billion CPEC, which aims to connect China's Xinjiang province with Pakistan's Gwadar port with a host of road, rail, gas and oil pipelines.

China has also undertaken a host of energy projects under the aegis of the CPEC.

India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri told the state-run Global Times that "above all, connectivity initiatives must be pursued in a manner that respects the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of nations".

"No country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity," he replied to a question about India's concerns over the BRI and whether India would take part in the second BRF meet.

The Indian envoy's interview was carried by the daily on Wednesday.

"To be honest, we have made no secret of our views and our position on the BRI is clear and consistent and one that we have conveyed to the authorities concerned.

"India shares the global aspiration to strengthen connectivity and it is an integral part of our economic and diplomatic initiatives. We ourselves are working with many countries and international institutions in our region and beyond on a range of connectivity initiatives," Misri said.

"However, it is also our belief that connectivity initiatives must be based on universally recognised international norms, good governance and rule of law. They must emphasise social stability and environmental protection and preservation, promote skill and technology transfers and follow principles of openness, transparency and financial sustainability," the Indian envoy said.

India along with the US and several other countries have been highlighting the concerns over the BRI projects, leaving a number of smaller countries in debt traps.

The concerns grew louder after China took over Sri Lanka's Hambantota port on a 99-year lease as debt swap.

Several countries including Malaysia and even Pakistan have wished to reduce the Chinese projects over debt concerns.

Asked whether India-China ties are back on track, Misri said: "the bilateral relationship between India and China is of great significance not just to the two countries, but also to the larger region and the international community".

He said that the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in April 2018 was a "milestone in bilateral relations during which the two leaders exchanged views on overarching issues of bilateral and global importance, and elaborated their respective visions and priorities for national development in context of the current international situation".

Last year, the two leaders also met on the sidelines of multilateral summits.

"These meetings have reinforced strategic communication between the two countries at the highest levels and helped in elaborating a road map for continuing contacts. China is India's biggest neighbour and we assign a very high priority to this relationship," the Indian envoy said.

"Unlike some 50 years ago, when our relationship had a much narrower basis and there was not much communication, today we have what one would call a full-spectrum relationship.

"This has been possible because our respective leaders have realised that mutually-beneficial cooperation responds to the most urgent developmental needs of our people and these needs to be prioritised over other issues," Misri said.

Asked about the impact of India's elections on India-China ties, Misri said: "my own feeling is that on foreign policy issues there is a broad political consensus in India on where our national interests lie. I do not think therefore that the outcome of the elections will impact the broad contours of India's foreign policy in general or the very important relationship with China in particular".&nbsp;

India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott China's second Belt and Road Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

India on Wednesday signalled that it will boycott China's second Belt and Road Forum for a second time, saying no country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity. India boycotted the first Belt and Road Forum (BRF) in 2017 after protesting to Beijing over the controversial China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) overriding New Delhi's sovereignty concerns. Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently said that next month China plans to hold a much bigger, second BRF which will also be attended by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Speculation is rife whether India would attend the second BRF as China has deepened its commitment to expand the USD 60 billion CPEC, which aims to connect China's Xinjiang province with Pakistan's Gwadar port with a host of road, rail, gas and oil pipelines. China has also undertaken a host of energy projects under the aegis of the CPEC. India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri told the state-run Global Times that "above all, connectivity initiatives must be pursued in a manner that respects the sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity of nations". "No country can participate in an initiative that ignores its core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity," he replied to a question about India's concerns over the BRI and whether India would take part in the second BRF meet. The Indian envoy's interview was carried by the daily on Wednesday. "To be honest, we have made no secret of our views and our position on the BRI is clear and consistent and one that we have conveyed to the authorities concerned. "India shares the global aspiration to strengthen connectivity and it is an integral part of our economic and diplomatic initiatives. We ourselves are working with many countries and international institutions in our region and beyond on a range of connectivity initiatives," Misri said. "However, it is also our belief that connectivity initiatives must be based on universally recognised international norms, good governance and rule of law. They must emphasise social stability and environmental protection and preservation, promote skill and technology transfers and follow principles of openness, transparency and financial sustainability," the Indian envoy said. India along with the US and several other countries have been highlighting the concerns over the BRI projects, leaving a number of smaller countries in debt traps. The concerns grew louder after China took over Sri Lanka's Hambantota port on a 99-year lease as debt swap. Several countries including Malaysia and even Pakistan have wished to reduce the Chinese projects over debt concerns. Asked whether India-China ties are back on track, Misri said: "the bilateral relationship between India and China is of great significance not just to the two countries, but also to the larger region and the international community". He said that the Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in April 2018 was a "milestone in bilateral relations during which the two leaders exchanged views on overarching issues of bilateral and global importance, and elaborated their respective visions and priorities for national development in context of the current international situation". Last year, the two leaders also met on the sidelines of multilateral summits. "These meetings have reinforced strategic communication between the two countries at the highest levels and helped in elaborating a road map for continuing contacts. China is India's biggest neighbour and we assign a very high priority to this relationship," the Indian envoy said. "Unlike some 50 years ago, when our relationship had a much narrower basis and there was not much communication, today we have what one would call a full-spectrum relationship. "This has been possible because our respective leaders have realised that mutually-beneficial cooperation responds to the most urgent developmental needs of our people and these needs to be prioritised over other issues," Misri said. Asked about the impact of India's elections on India-China ties, Misri said: "my own feeling is that on foreign policy issues there is a broad political consensus in India on where our national interests lie. I do not think therefore that the outcome of the elections will impact the broad contours of India's foreign policy in general or the very important relationship with China in particular".

India may boycott China's Belt and Road Forum for second time

Fugitive businessman Nirav Modi was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nirav-modi-did-not-have-more-than-one-valid-passport-at-a-time-mea--147724"> arrested in London</a> on Tuesday even as his extradition is&nbsp;underway.

He was produced in court on Wednesday.

On Monday, Westminster court in London had issued an arrest warrant against the diamond merchant who is the prime accused in the $2 billion Punjab National Bank(PNB) loan default case.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NS9oxLG2LzM" width="560"></iframe>

Police said Modi had been arrested in the Holborn area of central London on Tuesday on behalf of Indian authorities and was due to appear at London's Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday.

UK police said Nirav Modi was arrested from London's Holborn metro station.

"Nirav Deepak Modi, (Date of Birth 24.02.71), was arrested on behalf of the Indian authorities on Tuesday, 19 March, in Holborn," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement.

"He will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 20 March," the statement added.

The Interpol had issued a Red Corner Notice(RCN) against him last year.

The Enforcement Directorate(ED) in Mumbai had filed a chargesheet against Nirav Modi under the anti-money laundering law before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court.

The ED had said on March 9 that the United Kingdom's home secretary had recently referred India's request for extraditing&nbsp;to a court for initiating legal proceedings against him.
<img alt="PNB scam accussed Nirav Modi arrested in London" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="35815baa-6e6b-4d11-937f-c80127a54cff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/PNB1.jpg" />
&nbsp;

Fugitive businessman Nirav Modi was arrested in London on Tuesday even as his extradition is underway. He was produced in court on Wednesday. On Monday, Westminster court in London had issued an arrest warrant against the diamond merchant who is the prime accused in the $2 billion Punjab National Bank(PNB) loan default case.

Fugitive businessman Nirav Modi was arrested in London on Tuesday even as his extradition is underway. He was produced in court on Wednesday. On Monday, Westminster court in London had issued an arrest warrant against the diamond merchant who is the prime accused in the $2 billion Punjab National Bank(PNB) loan default case. Police said Modi had been arrested in the Holborn area of central London on Tuesday on behalf of Indian authorities and was due to appear at London's Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday. UK police said Nirav Modi was arrested from London's Holborn metro station. "Nirav Deepak Modi, (Date of Birth 24.02.71), was arrested on behalf of the Indian authorities on Tuesday, 19 March, in Holborn," the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. "He will appear in custody at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 20 March," the statement added. The Interpol had issued a Red Corner Notice(RCN) against him last year. The Enforcement Directorate(ED) in Mumbai had filed a chargesheet against Nirav Modi under the anti-money laundering law before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court. The ED had said on March 9 that the United Kingdom's home secretary had recently referred India's request for extraditing to a court for initiating legal proceedings against him.

PNB scam: Nirav Modi arrested in London, produced in court

This is how Holi celebrations are held across India

In a major setback to the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) in North-East ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, as many as 18 BJP leaders in Arunachal Pradesh quit the party to join the National People’s Party (NPP).

Of the total 18 leaders from Arunachal, there are eight sitting MLAs including two ministers - Home Minister Kumar Waii and Tourism Minister Jarkar Gamlin. The BJP MLAs who quit the party are Thangwang Wangham, Tapuk Taku, Pani Taram, Pangka Bage, Wangling Lowandong, Kardo Nyigyor and party’s former general secretary Jarpum Gamlin, and former minister Tsering Jurmey.

Thomas Sangma, National General Secretary, NPP said, “I'm delighted to welcome eight sitting minister and MLAs to our party. National People's Party will not form an alliance with anyone. BJP's ideology is not right. It is not a secular party.”

The National People’s Party (NPP) led by Conrad Sangma who is also the Chief Minister of Meghalaya is one of the largest parties in the North East. NPP was earlier a part of the North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) and BJP’s biggest electoral ally in the North East.

However, Sangma fell out of the party after the BJP passed the Citizenship Amendment Bill.

Sources close to Sangma said that he will field close to 30-40 candidates from his own party in the 60-seat assembly in Arunachal Pradesh.

On the other hand, K Waii, the former Arunachal Pradesh home minister said hours after his joining, “If BJP was the right party, I'd have been working for it. BJP says that for them country is first, party second and person third but they are doing dynasty politics. This is a secular state but BJP is an anti-religion party.”

This apart, sources in the state unit of BJP claimed that the leaders switched over to NPP after they were denied tickets by the BJP’s central election committee.

“After assessing the ground situation, our central election committee decided whom to give tickets in the ensuing elections. Some sitting ministers and MLAs were denied tickets by the central election committee,” union minister Kiren Rijiju had said.

On Sunday evening, BJP released the candidate’s list for a total of 54 seats of the total 60 seats in the Arunachal Pradesh assembly. The state goes for the polls simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls on April 11, 2019.

In a major setback to the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) in North-East ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, as many as 18 BJP leaders in Arunachal Pradesh quit the party to join the National People’s Party (NPP).

In a major setback to the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) in North-East ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, as many as 18 BJP leaders in Arunachal Pradesh quit the party to join the National People’s Party (NPP). Of the total 18 leaders from Arunachal, there are eight sitting MLAs including two ministers - Home Minister Kumar Waii and Tourism Minister Jarkar Gamlin. The BJP MLAs who quit the party are Thangwang Wangham, Tapuk Taku, Pani Taram, Pangka Bage, Wangling Lowandong, Kardo Nyigyor and party’s former general secretary Jarpum Gamlin, and former minister Tsering Jurmey. Thomas Sangma, National General Secretary, NPP said, “I'm delighted to welcome eight sitting minister and MLAs to our party. National People's Party will not form an alliance with anyone. BJP's ideology is not right. It is not a secular party.” The National People’s Party (NPP) led by Conrad Sangma who is also the Chief Minister of Meghalaya is one of the largest parties in the North East. NPP was earlier a part of the North-East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) and BJP’s biggest electoral ally in the North East. However, Sangma fell out of the party after the BJP passed the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Sources close to Sangma said that he will field close to 30-40 candidates from his own party in the 60-seat assembly in Arunachal Pradesh. On the other hand, K Waii, the former Arunachal Pradesh home minister said hours after his joining, “If BJP was the right party, I'd have been working for it. BJP says that for them country is first, party second and person third but they are doing dynasty politics. This is a secular state but BJP is an anti-religion party.” This apart, sources in the state unit of BJP claimed that the leaders switched over to NPP after they were denied tickets by the BJP’s central election committee. “After assessing the ground situation, our central election committee decided whom to give tickets in the ensuing elections. Some sitting ministers and MLAs were denied tickets by the central election committee,” union minister Kiren Rijiju had said. On Sunday evening, BJP released the candidate’s list for a total of 54 seats of the total 60 seats in the Arunachal Pradesh assembly. The state goes for the polls simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls on April 11, 2019.

Major setback for BJP in North East: 18 leaders of Arunachal quit party to join NPP

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The list includes India's Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, who was the first to say she would not be contesting the polls.&nbsp;

NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-says-he-will-not-contest-lok-sabha-polls-202608">Sharad Pawar followed her</a>, and now of course there's Mayawati.&nbsp;

The BSP supremo said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again.&nbsp;

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Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. <a href="https://t.co/88oGmtd6Ww">pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww</a>
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WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections.&nbsp;

Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and Jignesh Mewani. And should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further bring down her stature.&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati said Wednesday that she will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. Mayawati is the latest addition to a quickly growing list of party supremos and high-profile leaders who have opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. The list includes India's Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj, who was the first to say she would not be contesting the polls. NCP chief Sharad Pawar followed her, and now of course there's Mayawati. The BSP supremo said Wednesday that she had resigned from the Rajya Sabha to devote herself to the party, and that she would like to do the same thing again. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati: I will not contest the Lok Sabha elections. pic.twitter.com/88oGmtd6Ww — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 20, 2019 × WION's Political Editor Kartikeya Sharma quoted party insiders as saying Mayawati was opting out of the elections because she did not want to be tied down to one constituency but would instead like to concentrate on campaigning for the party. She is expected to campaign outside of her bastion of Uttar Pradesh. Sharma added that Mayawati also wanted to keep open the option of contesting the 2022 assembly elections. Having said that, there is also the fact that Mayawati has ceded at least some space to new Dalit leaders like the Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad and Jignesh Mewani. And should her victory margins now be less than impressive, that will further bring down her stature.

I will not contest: Mayawati drops out of 2019 Lok Sabha polls

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-pramod-sawant-takes-oath-as-goa-chief-minister-says-will-never-be-able-to-do-as-much-as-parrikar-204182">new Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant</a> has won his floor test.&nbsp;Twenty votes were cast in Sawant's favour, and 15 against.&nbsp;

Sawant was sworn in as chief minister a day after former chief minister Manohar Parrikar died on Sunday.&nbsp;Parrikar had been suffering from pancreatic cancer.&nbsp;

Sawant was sworn in as CM at 1.50 am Tuesday morning. "I will not be able to work as much as Manohar Parrikar ji but I will definitely try to work as much as possible," Sawant said shortly after taking office.

He added that it was Parrikar who had brought him into politics.&nbsp;

Sawant had been scheduled to be sworn in at 11 pm on Monday, a few hours after Parrikar's cremation, but there had been hectic parleying between the BJP and its allies, the&nbsp;Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and the Goa Forward Party, till the last minute.&nbsp;

Both Sudhin Dhavalikar of the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and Vijay Sardesai of the Goa Forward Party had laid claim to the chief ministership.&nbsp;They were both finally made deputy chief ministers, unprecedented in the tiny state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It was reported that BJP president Amit Shah had to step in to break the deadlock. Nitin Gadkari had been leading the discussions.&nbsp;

After Sawant took office, he said his aim would be to provide "stability and move ahead together with all allies".

He added that "it'll be my responsibility to complete the incomplete works."&nbsp;

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Sawant used to be Speaker of the Goa assembly before being promoted to chief minister.&nbsp;

The new Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has won his floor test. Twenty votes were cast in Sawant's favour, and 15 against. Sawant was sworn in as chief minister a day after former chief minister Manohar Parrikar died on Sunday.

The new Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has won his floor test. Twenty votes were cast in Sawant's favour, and 15 against. Sawant was sworn in as chief minister a day after former chief minister Manohar Parrikar died on Sunday. Parrikar had been suffering from pancreatic cancer. Sawant was sworn in as CM at 1.50 am Tuesday morning. "I will not be able to work as much as Manohar Parrikar ji but I will definitely try to work as much as possible," Sawant said shortly after taking office. He added that it was Parrikar who had brought him into politics. Sawant had been scheduled to be sworn in at 11 pm on Monday, a few hours after Parrikar's cremation, but there had been hectic parleying between the BJP and its allies, the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and the Goa Forward Party, till the last minute. Both Sudhin Dhavalikar of the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and Vijay Sardesai of the Goa Forward Party had laid claim to the chief ministership. They were both finally made deputy chief ministers, unprecedented in the tiny state. It was reported that BJP president Amit Shah had to step in to break the deadlock. Nitin Gadkari had been leading the discussions. After Sawant took office, he said his aim would be to provide "stability and move ahead together with all allies". He added that "it'll be my responsibility to complete the incomplete works." Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant wins floor test after 20 MLAs voted in his favor in the state assembly. pic.twitter.com/kBbxcAvwGU — ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2019 × Sawant used to be Speaker of the Goa assembly before being promoted to chief minister.

New Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant wins floor test

The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) has cancelled its annual maritime security dialogue with India. The meet between the India Coast Guard and the PMSA was to happen from March 19 to 21.

Pakistan blamed the cancellation on the prevailing conditions.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force had launched an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakote on February 26. A day later, Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control. India said the bombs were aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets.&nbsp;

The JeM had claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan held their first maritime dialogue last year after a gap of two years with Indian Coast Guard Director General Rajendra Singh and PMSA chief Rear Admiral Zaka Ur Rehman meeting in Delhi.&nbsp;

Before that, the two sides had met in Islamabad in 2016.

In the 2018 meeting, the release of Indian fisherman had been New Delhi's key focus.&nbsp;

"During the meeting, the Indian side reiterated the need for instituting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for immediate release and repatriation of the fishermen who cross the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) inadvertently as the issue needs to be approached in humanitarian context," the Indian Coast Guard said in a statement. &nbsp;

483 Indian fishermen are currently in Pakistani custody, according to a list exchanged between India and Pakistan on January 1 as part of a 2008 agreement.

On January 17 this year, Indian authorities said the PMSA fired on an Indian fishing boat near Gujarat's Mitha port. One Indian fishermen died, while six were rescued.&nbsp;

The martime dialogue between India and Pakistan is part of a memorandum of understanding signed between India and Pakistan in 2005. The heads of &nbsp;the ICG and the PMSA, like the two countries' DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) are also connected by a hotline, part of the same 2005 agreement.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) has cancelled its annual maritime security dialogue with India. The meet between the India Coast Guard and the PMSA was to happen from March 19 to 21.

The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) has cancelled its annual maritime security dialogue with India. The meet between the India Coast Guard and the PMSA was to happen from March 19 to 21. Pakistan blamed the cancellation on the prevailing conditions. The Indian Air Force had launched an air strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed training camp in Pakistan's Balakote on February 26. A day later, Pakistan dropped bombs on Indian territory from its side of the Line of Control. India said the bombs were aimed at Indian military installations but that they missed their targets. The JeM had claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack which left over 40 CRPF personnel dead. India and Pakistan held their first maritime dialogue last year after a gap of two years with Indian Coast Guard Director General Rajendra Singh and PMSA chief Rear Admiral Zaka Ur Rehman meeting in Delhi. Before that, the two sides had met in Islamabad in 2016. In the 2018 meeting, the release of Indian fisherman had been New Delhi's key focus. "During the meeting, the Indian side reiterated the need for instituting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for immediate release and repatriation of the fishermen who cross the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) inadvertently as the issue needs to be approached in humanitarian context," the Indian Coast Guard said in a statement. 483 Indian fishermen are currently in Pakistani custody, according to a list exchanged between India and Pakistan on January 1 as part of a 2008 agreement. On January 17 this year, Indian authorities said the PMSA fired on an Indian fishing boat near Gujarat's Mitha port. One Indian fishermen died, while six were rescued. The martime dialogue between India and Pakistan is part of a memorandum of understanding signed between India and Pakistan in 2005. The heads of the ICG and the PMSA, like the two countries' DGMOs (Director General of Military Operations) are also connected by a hotline, part of the same 2005 agreement.

Pakistan cancels annual maritime dialogue with India, says prevailing conditions to blame

In the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, the worst tropical cyclone to impact Africa that caused massive damage in several South East African nations -- ozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Malawi, Madagascar -- India became the first country to respond to the disaster-hit nations by providing assistance.

The three ships operating in the Southern Indian Ocean were immediately diverted to Port Beira in Mozambique to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR).

India rushed its ships --INS Sujata, INS Sarathi and INS Shardul--in response to the request received from Mozambique government.

The category four cyclone stuck on March 15 and caused massive damage in central and northern provinces Mozambique while causing large scale devastation in the city of Beira.

According to an Indian Navy Release, "The disembarkation of HADR stores including food, medicines and clothing to the Mozambique Defence authorities has been completed. Arrangements are in progress to disembark potable water."

INS Sujata along with INS Sarathi arrived at Port Beira morning of March 18 while INS Shardul arrived on March 19.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a release said, "In this hour of tragedy, Government of India stands ready to extend support to the affected people."

How Indian ships helping the country

Indian Naval Ships are providing relief material in the form of food, clothes and medicine to the affected people. The Indian ships already had three medical practitioners and five nurses to provide immediate medical help and a medical camp has been set up.

Helicopters on board INS Shardul are operating from the local airport for rescue along with boats. Landing Craft Assault and Gemini rubberised craft with divers are being used to provide assistance for evacuation of marooned personnel.

The Defence Minister of Mozambique visited the Indian ships to oversee the relief efforts.&nbsp;

Reports of about 5000 personnel marooned at Buzi near Beira and those who required immediate evacuation are coming.

In 2016, after a drought in Mozambique, India had provided $10 million for the purchase of wheat and a donation of 100 tons of essential medicines and Transport vehicles for the country's Health and Interior ministry.

This is not the first time India has rushed its ships and provided support to regional countries. In past India provided help to countries like Sri Lanka in the aftermath of flooding in the country.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, the worst tropical cyclone to impact Africa that caused massive damage in several South East African nations -- ozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Malawi, Madagascar -- India became the first country to respond to the disaster-hit nations by providing assistance.

In the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, the worst tropical cyclone to impact Africa that caused massive damage in several South East African nations -- ozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Malawi, Madagascar -- India became the first country to respond to the disaster-hit nations by providing assistance. The three ships operating in the Southern Indian Ocean were immediately diverted to Port Beira in Mozambique to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). India rushed its ships --INS Sujata, INS Sarathi and INS Shardul--in response to the request received from Mozambique government. The category four cyclone stuck on March 15 and caused massive damage in central and northern provinces Mozambique while causing large scale devastation in the city of Beira. According to an Indian Navy Release, "The disembarkation of HADR stores including food, medicines and clothing to the Mozambique Defence authorities has been completed. Arrangements are in progress to disembark potable water." INS Sujata along with INS Sarathi arrived at Port Beira morning of March 18 while INS Shardul arrived on March 19. The Ministry of External Affairs in a release said, "In this hour of tragedy, Government of India stands ready to extend support to the affected people." How Indian ships helping the country Indian Naval Ships are providing relief material in the form of food, clothes and medicine to the affected people. The Indian ships already had three medical practitioners and five nurses to provide immediate medical help and a medical camp has been set up. Helicopters on board INS Shardul are operating from the local airport for rescue along with boats. Landing Craft Assault and Gemini rubberised craft with divers are being used to provide assistance for evacuation of marooned personnel. The Defence Minister of Mozambique visited the Indian ships to oversee the relief efforts. Reports of about 5000 personnel marooned at Buzi near Beira and those who required immediate evacuation are coming. In 2016, after a drought in Mozambique, India had provided $10 million for the purchase of wheat and a donation of 100 tons of essential medicines and Transport vehicles for the country's Health and Interior ministry. This is not the first time India has rushed its ships and provided support to regional countries. In past India provided help to countries like Sri Lanka in the aftermath of flooding in the country.

India is first country to offer help to African nations wracked by Cyclone Idai

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror.

Speaking at the 80th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Gurugram, where he was the chief guest, Doval said, "India will continue to act against terrorism and supporters of terrorist and the time and location will be decided by the leadership".

Paying homage to the CRPF security personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack, Doval said, "the country will never forget the sacrifices made by them".

Pakistan-based, United Nations-listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the Pulwama attack which is being described as the worst on Indian security personnel in the last 2 decades. Over 40 CRPF personnel died in the terror attack.

This is the first time Doval spoke at a public event since the Pulwama terror attack. There wasn't any cultural programme at the Raising Day celebrations this time as a mark of respect to the Pulwama martyrs.

Since the Pulwama attack, India has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status from Pakistan, increasing customs duty on Pak goods by 200 per cent. India also carried out a non-military, counter-terror strike on JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan. 
&nbsp;

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror.

Talking tough with Pakistan, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said strong action against terrorism will continue including those who support terror. Speaking at the 80th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Gurugram, where he was the chief guest, Doval said, "India will continue to act against terrorism and supporters of terrorist and the time and location will be decided by the leadership". Paying homage to the CRPF security personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack, Doval said, "the country will never forget the sacrifices made by them". Pakistan-based, United Nations-listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed took responsibility for the Pulwama attack which is being described as the worst on Indian security personnel in the last 2 decades. Over 40 CRPF personnel died in the terror attack. This is the first time Doval spoke at a public event since the Pulwama terror attack. There wasn't any cultural programme at the Raising Day celebrations this time as a mark of respect to the Pulwama martyrs. Since the Pulwama attack, India has withdrawn Most Favoured Nation status from Pakistan, increasing customs duty on Pak goods by 200 per cent. India also carried out a non-military, counter-terror strike on JeM camps in Balakot, Pakistan.

NSA Doval talks tough with Pakistan, says India will continue acting against terrorism and its supporters 

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PNB scam: Nirav Modi denied bail, to stay in London jail till March 29th

News brief: Big stories of the day

Congress has surrendered to pro-separatist agenda of NC: BJP

All four accused in Samjhauta blast case acquitted

Holi celebrations begin in India with sweets and colours

'Today every Indian is saying 'Main bhi Chowkidaar', says Modi

PNB scam involving Nirav Modi: Timeline and how the events unfolded leading to his arrest

Lok Sabha elections 2019: A look at young chief ministers of India

Nirav Modi arrested: This is what is expected to happen next

India may boycott China's Belt and Road Forum for second time

PNB scam: Nirav Modi arrested in London, produced in court

This is how Holi celebrations are held across India

Major setback for BJP in North East: 18 leaders of Arunachal quit party to join NPP

I will not contest: Mayawati drops out of 2019 Lok Sabha polls

New Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant wins floor test

Pakistan cancels annual maritime dialogue with India, says prevailing conditions to blame

India is first country to offer help to African nations wracked by Cyclone Idai

NSA Doval talks tough with Pakistan, says India will continue acting against terrorism and its supporters