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Manohar Parrikar, who rose from a&nbsp;Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to become the country's Defence Minister and also chief minister of Goa, enjoyed a man-next-door image in the politically-volatile coastal state of Goa.

Parrikar, 63, served the state three times as chief minister and had a three-year-long stint as Defence Minister in the Narendra Modi-led cabinet.

He was a leader who enjoyed acceptance from all sections of the BJP and beyond. He played a key role in making the BJP a force to reckon with in Goa, which remained for long a Congress bastion, with regional outfits having pockets of influence.

Born on December 13, 1955 into a middle-class family in Mapusa, his political career began as an RSS pracharak and he continued working for the Sangh even after graduating from IIT-Bombay as a metallurgical engineer.

Parrikar never shied away from displaying his affiliation to the Sangh and was even photographed participating in the annual 'Sanchalan' organised by the RSS in the uniform and wielding lathi.

He became an MLA in 1994 and was the Leader of Opposition in the Goa Assembly from June to November 1999.

He was the first alumni of one of the top engineering institutes of India to become an MLA.&nbsp;

He became chief minister of Goa for the first time on October 24, 2000, but his tenure lasted only until February 27, 2002. On June 5, 2002, he was re-elected and served another term as chief minister. 
On January 29, 2005, his government was reduced to a minority in the assembly after four BJP MLAs resigned from the House.

Pratapsinh Rane of the Congress subsequently replaced Parrikar as chief minister. In 2007, the Parrikar-led BJP was defeated by the Congress-led by Digambar Kamat.

But the year 2012 saw Parrikar riding a popularity wave in the state when he took his party to the historic number of 21 out of 40 seats in the assembly.

He went on to become the chief minister again. BJP continued its victory mark in the year 2014 when the party won both the Lok Sabha seats.

After the Modi-led Cabinet was sworn at the Centre, Parrikar was offered a ministerial berth in November 2014. He remained in the union cabinet till 2017 when his party failed to garner a majority in the Goa legislative assembly polls.

When he was the Defence Minister, Manohar Parrikar prefered to use once ubiquitous ambassador car in Delhi in the era of SUVs. Parrikar also felt "jittery" when surrounded by security personnel who are part of his entourage.&nbsp;

Recounting his days as Goa chief minister, Parrikar had then said he preferred&nbsp;to stay simple by choice.&nbsp;

"Even after becoming Defence minister, I travel in an ambassador (car) in New Delhi whose doors get jammed from time to time and even the car breaks down thrice a day. But, simplicity is my comfort and I prefer to remain simple by choice. I get jittery when there are policemen surrounding me (for security)," the minister had said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Manohar Parrikar, who rose from a Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to become the country's Defence Minister and also chief minister of Goa, enjoyed a man-next-door image in the politically-volatile coastal state of Goa.

Manohar Parrikar, who rose from a Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to become the country's Defence Minister and also chief minister of Goa, enjoyed a man-next-door image in the politically-volatile coastal state of Goa. Parrikar, 63, served the state three times as chief minister and had a three-year-long stint as Defence Minister in the Narendra Modi-led cabinet. He was a leader who enjoyed acceptance from all sections of the BJP and beyond. He played a key role in making the BJP a force to reckon with in Goa, which remained for long a Congress bastion, with regional outfits having pockets of influence. Born on December 13, 1955 into a middle-class family in Mapusa, his political career began as an RSS pracharak and he continued working for the Sangh even after graduating from IIT-Bombay as a metallurgical engineer. Parrikar never shied away from displaying his affiliation to the Sangh and was even photographed participating in the annual 'Sanchalan' organised by the RSS in the uniform and wielding lathi. He became an MLA in 1994 and was the Leader of Opposition in the Goa Assembly from June to November 1999. He was the first alumni of one of the top engineering institutes of India to become an MLA. He became chief minister of Goa for the first time on October 24, 2000, but his tenure lasted only until February 27, 2002. On June 5, 2002, he was re-elected and served another term as chief minister. On January 29, 2005, his government was reduced to a minority in the assembly after four BJP MLAs resigned from the House. Pratapsinh Rane of the Congress subsequently replaced Parrikar as chief minister. In 2007, the Parrikar-led BJP was defeated by the Congress-led by Digambar Kamat. But the year 2012 saw Parrikar riding a popularity wave in the state when he took his party to the historic number of 21 out of 40 seats in the assembly. He went on to become the chief minister again. BJP continued its victory mark in the year 2014 when the party won both the Lok Sabha seats. After the Modi-led Cabinet was sworn at the Centre, Parrikar was offered a ministerial berth in November 2014. He remained in the union cabinet till 2017 when his party failed to garner a majority in the Goa legislative assembly polls. When he was the Defence Minister, Manohar Parrikar prefered to use once ubiquitous ambassador car in Delhi in the era of SUVs. Parrikar also felt "jittery" when surrounded by security personnel who are part of his entourage. Recounting his days as Goa chief minister, Parrikar had then said he preferred to stay simple by choice. "Even after becoming Defence minister, I travel in an ambassador (car) in New Delhi whose doors get jammed from time to time and even the car breaks down thrice a day. But, simplicity is my comfort and I prefer to remain simple by choice. I get jittery when there are policemen surrounding me (for security)," the minister had said. (With inputs from PTI)

Manohar Parrikar: An epitome of simplicity 

DMK Sunday announced former union ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and T R Baalu and its Rajya Sabha member Kanimozhi among its candidates for the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies it is contesting in Tamil Nadu.

Releasing the list of candidates which included another woman, party president M K Stalin said Maran will contest from Central Chennai, A Raja from Nilgiris (SC) and T R Baalu from Sriperumbudur constituencies, which they had won in 2009.

Stalin's sister and Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi will for the first time try her luck in the Lok Sabha polls as she had been fielded in Tuticorin constituency in southern Tamil Nadu.

A total of 12 candidates are new faces.

In the April 18 elections, DMK is contesting 20 out of the 39 Lok Sabha seats in the state, leaving the rest to its allies, including Congress.

The party had drawn a blank in the 2014 polls when it contested 34 seats while its arch-rival AIADMK romped home winning 37 segments. Congress had gone alone but failed to win a single seat.

Replying to questions from reporters, Stalin said DMK's manifesto will be released soon.

It would be both the "hero and heroine and definitely not a villain," he added.

DMK also named its candidates for by-polls to the 18 assembly constituencies in the state to be held along with the Lok Sabha polls on April 18.

Former union ministers of state S Jagathrakshagan and S S Palanimanickam have been fielded in Arakkonam and Thanjavur constituencies.

Kanimozhi's Rajya Sabha terms end in July this year.

T Sumathi alias Tamizhachi Thangapandian, a noted orator in Tamil, will contest from Chennai South, Kalanidhi Veerasamy from Chennai North and D M Kathir Anand, son of party Treasurer Duraimurugan, from Vellore.

While Tamizhachi is the daughter of late DMK leader V Thangapandian and sister of former state Minister Thangam Thennarasu, Kalanidhi is the son of former state Minister Arcot N Veerasamy.

Similarly, in Kallakurichi, former State Minister K Ponmudi's son Gowtham Sigamani is fielded.

Other candidates are: G Selvam (Kancheepuram-SC), S Senthilkumar (Dharmapuri), C N Annadurai (Tiruvannamalai), SR Parthiban (Salem), K Shanmugasundaram (Pollachi), P Velusamy (Dindigul), T R V S Sriramesh (Cuddalore), S Ramalingam (Mayiladuthurai), Dhanush M Kumar (Thenkasi-SC), and S Gnanathiraviam (Tirunelveli).

Parthiban was a former DMDK MLA (2011-16) and represented Mettur constituency in Salem district.

He had quit the Vijayakanth-led party to form the Makakl DMDK and later joined the DMK.

Stalin released the list of candidates after visiting the mausoleum of his late father and party patriarch M Karunanidhi at the Marina beach here.

He placed the list on the floor and paid floral tributes, symbolising seeking the late leader's blessings.

Stalin also named his party candidate for the by-poll to an assembly seat (Thattanchavadi) in neighbouring Puducherry.

DMK Sunday announced former union ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and T R Baalu and its Rajya Sabha member Kanimozhi among its candidates for the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies it is contesting in Tamil Nadu.

DMK Sunday announced former union ministers Dayanidhi Maran, A Raja and T R Baalu and its Rajya Sabha member Kanimozhi among its candidates for the 20 Lok Sabha constituencies it is contesting in Tamil Nadu. Releasing the list of candidates which included another woman, party president M K Stalin said Maran will contest from Central Chennai, A Raja from Nilgiris (SC) and T R Baalu from Sriperumbudur constituencies, which they had won in 2009. Stalin's sister and Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi will for the first time try her luck in the Lok Sabha polls as she had been fielded in Tuticorin constituency in southern Tamil Nadu. A total of 12 candidates are new faces. In the April 18 elections, DMK is contesting 20 out of the 39 Lok Sabha seats in the state, leaving the rest to its allies, including Congress. The party had drawn a blank in the 2014 polls when it contested 34 seats while its arch-rival AIADMK romped home winning 37 segments. Congress had gone alone but failed to win a single seat. Replying to questions from reporters, Stalin said DMK's manifesto will be released soon. It would be both the "hero and heroine and definitely not a villain," he added. DMK also named its candidates for by-polls to the 18 assembly constituencies in the state to be held along with the Lok Sabha polls on April 18. Former union ministers of state S Jagathrakshagan and S S Palanimanickam have been fielded in Arakkonam and Thanjavur constituencies. Kanimozhi's Rajya Sabha terms end in July this year. T Sumathi alias Tamizhachi Thangapandian, a noted orator in Tamil, will contest from Chennai South, Kalanidhi Veerasamy from Chennai North and D M Kathir Anand, son of party Treasurer Duraimurugan, from Vellore. While Tamizhachi is the daughter of late DMK leader V Thangapandian and sister of former state Minister Thangam Thennarasu, Kalanidhi is the son of former state Minister Arcot N Veerasamy. Similarly, in Kallakurichi, former State Minister K Ponmudi's son Gowtham Sigamani is fielded. Other candidates are: G Selvam (Kancheepuram-SC), S Senthilkumar (Dharmapuri), C N Annadurai (Tiruvannamalai), SR Parthiban (Salem), K Shanmugasundaram (Pollachi), P Velusamy (Dindigul), T R V S Sriramesh (Cuddalore), S Ramalingam (Mayiladuthurai), Dhanush M Kumar (Thenkasi-SC), and S Gnanathiraviam (Tirunelveli). Parthiban was a former DMDK MLA (2011-16) and represented Mettur constituency in Salem district. He had quit the Vijayakanth-led party to form the Makakl DMDK and later joined the DMK. Stalin released the list of candidates after visiting the mausoleum of his late father and party patriarch M Karunanidhi at the Marina beach here. He placed the list on the floor and paid floral tributes, symbolising seeking the late leader's blessings. Stalin also named his party candidate for the by-poll to an assembly seat (Thattanchavadi) in neighbouring Puducherry.

DMK names Kanimozhi, former ministers Maran, TR Baalu among Lok Sabha candidates

The Gujarat BJP Sunday held a meeting to discuss names of candidates for the state's 26 Lok Sabha seats.

All 26 seats, currently held by the BJP, will go to polls in a single phase on April 23.

The meeting, which took place in Gandhinagar, was attended by Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, state Lok Sabha poll in-charge Om Mathur and state unit chief Jitu Vaghani among others.

Names of probable candidates will be discussed for three days after which a final report will be sent to the party high command in Delhi, a leader said on condition of anonymity.

Senior BJP leaders met Sunday to discuss names of probable candidates for Vadodara, Bharuch, Panchmahals, Chhota Udepur, Dahod, Valsad, Navsari, Vardoli, Surat, Anand and Kheda Lok Sabha constituencies, Rupani said in a Facebook post.

"The Lok Sabha election committee met in Gandhinagar. Discussions were held on candidates for the Lok Sabha seats based on input received by party's poll observers," Rupani said.

Rupani said names of probable candidates for Vadodara, Bharuch, Panchmahals, Chhota Udepur, Dahod, Valsad, Navsari, Vardoli, Surat, Anand and Kheda Lok Sabha seats were discussed.

Sources said sitting MPs from the 26 seats were discussed Sunday.

Discussions on rest of the seats will be held tomorrow and day after tomorrow, a party source said.

The opposition Congress also held a meeting Sunday under the leadership of state unit president Amit Chavda.

Party sources said Congress leaders from Kheda, Kutch and Surendranagar Lok Sabha constituencies were among those who met Chavda.

Discussions were also held on the party's preparations for bypolls in five Assembly constituencies, Congress sources said.

The Gujarat BJP Sunday held a meeting to discuss names of candidates for the state's 26 Lok Sabha seats. All 26 seats, currently held by the BJP, will go to polls in a single phase on April 23.

The Gujarat BJP Sunday held a meeting to discuss names of candidates for the state's 26 Lok Sabha seats. All 26 seats, currently held by the BJP, will go to polls in a single phase on April 23. The meeting, which took place in Gandhinagar, was attended by Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, state Lok Sabha poll in-charge Om Mathur and state unit chief Jitu Vaghani among others. Names of probable candidates will be discussed for three days after which a final report will be sent to the party high command in Delhi, a leader said on condition of anonymity. Senior BJP leaders met Sunday to discuss names of probable candidates for Vadodara, Bharuch, Panchmahals, Chhota Udepur, Dahod, Valsad, Navsari, Vardoli, Surat, Anand and Kheda Lok Sabha constituencies, Rupani said in a Facebook post. "The Lok Sabha election committee met in Gandhinagar. Discussions were held on candidates for the Lok Sabha seats based on input received by party's poll observers," Rupani said. Rupani said names of probable candidates for Vadodara, Bharuch, Panchmahals, Chhota Udepur, Dahod, Valsad, Navsari, Vardoli, Surat, Anand and Kheda Lok Sabha seats were discussed. Sources said sitting MPs from the 26 seats were discussed Sunday. Discussions on rest of the seats will be held tomorrow and day after tomorrow, a party source said. The opposition Congress also held a meeting Sunday under the leadership of state unit president Amit Chavda. Party sources said Congress leaders from Kheda, Kutch and Surendranagar Lok Sabha constituencies were among those who met Chavda. Discussions were also held on the party's preparations for bypolls in five Assembly constituencies, Congress sources said.

Gujarat: BJP, Congress hold meetings for Lok Sabha poll candidates

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health condition is extremely critical, his office said Sunday.

Parrikar, 63, is suffering from a serious pancreatic ailment and is currently at his private residence at Dona Paula near here.

"Chief Minister @manoharparrikar's health condition is extremely critical. Doctors are trying their best," the CMO tweeted this evening.&nbsp;

The former Defence Minister's health, which has been fluctuating for a year, took a turn for the worse in the past two days.&nbsp;

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Goa Chief Minister's Office: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health condition is extremely critical. Doctors are trying their best. <a href="https://t.co/TnytsbMMzW">pic.twitter.com/TnytsbMMzW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1107273839401156615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Police presence around the house has also been increased. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Several party leaders and allies in the state government had rushed to meet him on Saturday.&nbsp;

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health condition is extremely critical, his office said Sunday. Parrikar, 63, is suffering from a serious pancreatic ailment and is currently at his private residence at Dona Paula near here.

Ailing Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health condition is extremely critical, his office said Sunday. Parrikar, 63, is suffering from a serious pancreatic ailment and is currently at his private residence at Dona Paula near here. "Chief Minister @manoharparrikar's health condition is extremely critical. Doctors are trying their best," the CMO tweeted this evening. The former Defence Minister's health, which has been fluctuating for a year, took a turn for the worse in the past two days. Goa Chief Minister's Office: Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's health condition is extremely critical. Doctors are trying their best. pic.twitter.com/TnytsbMMzW — ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2019 × Police presence around the house has also been increased. Several party leaders and allies in the state government had rushed to meet him on Saturday.

Manohar Parrikar extremely critical: Goa CMO

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on March 16 said if party colleague Digvijaya Singh wants to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he should choose the "toughest seat" in the state.

While Nath did not mention any seat, in particular, he said there were "2-3-4 seats" in MP which the Congress had not won in the past "30-35" years.

Singh, a former chief minister and multiple times Lok Sabha MP, is currently a Rajya Sabha member.

"I have requested Digvijaya Singh that if he wants to contest Lok Sabha polls, then he should do so from the toughest seat. There are 2-3-4 seats from where we have not won elections since the last 30-35 years," Nath told reporters here.

Congress functionaries said he may have been referring to Bhopal and Indore Lok Sabha seats, both of which have been held by the BJP since 1989.

Congress sources said Nath is keen that Singh contest from Bhopal. Former President late Shankar Dayal Sharma was the last Congress winner from the seat in the 1984 general elections.

Nath, in reply to a query, however, said it was for Singh to decide from where he wants to contest.

He also added that the Congress would announce Lok Sabha candidates from the state in the next three-four days.

Nath arrived in Chhindwara on a two-day visit to address 11 rallies, with his son Nakul Nath, in all likelihood, is the Congress' Lok Sabha candidate.

Nath, who is a nine-time MP from Chhindwara, is fighting an Assembly bypoll from here scheduled for April 23.

Nath has to get elected to the MP Assembly in order to continue as chief minister. 
 
The Chhindwara Assembly seat was vacated by Dipak Saxena, who had won it in the 2018 state polls so that Nath could get an entry into the 230-member House.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on March 16 said if party colleague Digvijaya Singh wants to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he should choose the "toughest seat" in the state.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on March 16 said if party colleague Digvijaya Singh wants to contest upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he should choose the "toughest seat" in the state. While Nath did not mention any seat, in particular, he said there were "2-3-4 seats" in MP which the Congress had not won in the past "30-35" years. Singh, a former chief minister and multiple times Lok Sabha MP, is currently a Rajya Sabha member. "I have requested Digvijaya Singh that if he wants to contest Lok Sabha polls, then he should do so from the toughest seat. There are 2-3-4 seats from where we have not won elections since the last 30-35 years," Nath told reporters here. Congress functionaries said he may have been referring to Bhopal and Indore Lok Sabha seats, both of which have been held by the BJP since 1989. Congress sources said Nath is keen that Singh contest from Bhopal. Former President late Shankar Dayal Sharma was the last Congress winner from the seat in the 1984 general elections. Nath, in reply to a query, however, said it was for Singh to decide from where he wants to contest. He also added that the Congress would announce Lok Sabha candidates from the state in the next three-four days. Nath arrived in Chhindwara on a two-day visit to address 11 rallies, with his son Nakul Nath, in all likelihood, is the Congress' Lok Sabha candidate. Nath, who is a nine-time MP from Chhindwara, is fighting an Assembly bypoll from here scheduled for April 23. Nath has to get elected to the MP Assembly in order to continue as chief minister. The Chhindwara Assembly seat was vacated by Dipak Saxena, who had won it in the 2018 state polls so that Nath could get an entry into the 230-member House.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: MP CM Kamal Nath wants Digvijaya Singh to take up 'toughest seat'

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders Sunday joined the party's "chowkidar" social media poll campaign, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi added "chowkidar" to his Twitter handle profile and asked people to take the #MainBhiChowkidar pledge against corruption.

Among the leaders was former MP chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and state unit chief Rakesh Singh.

"Chowkidar" is a term often used by the PM to describe his role at the Centre as a watchdog against corruption as well as his hands-on style of work.

However, the Congress, which has alleged corruption to the tune of several thousand crore in the Rafale fighter jet purchase deal, has been hitting back with the slogan "chowkidar chor hai" (watchman is a thief).

The ruling BJP has now turned the watchman moniker into Lok Sabha poll campaign ammunition by asking people to use it along with their names on social media platforms.

Several Union ministers and BJP leaders have already made the "chowkidar" addition to their social media profiles.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders Sunday joined the party's "chowkidar" social media poll campaign, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi added "chowkidar" to his Twitter handle profile and asked people to take the #MainBhiChowkidar pledge against corruption.

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders Sunday joined the party's "chowkidar" social media poll campaign, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi added "chowkidar" to his Twitter handle profile and asked people to take the #MainBhiChowkidar pledge against corruption. Among the leaders was former MP chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya and state unit chief Rakesh Singh. "Chowkidar" is a term often used by the PM to describe his role at the Centre as a watchdog against corruption as well as his hands-on style of work. However, the Congress, which has alleged corruption to the tune of several thousand crore in the Rafale fighter jet purchase deal, has been hitting back with the slogan "chowkidar chor hai" (watchman is a thief). The ruling BJP has now turned the watchman moniker into Lok Sabha poll campaign ammunition by asking people to use it along with their names on social media platforms. Several Union ministers and BJP leaders have already made the "chowkidar" addition to their social media profiles.

Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders join party's 'chowkidar' social media campaign

Senior Congress leader and former Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Sunday denied the rumours of him joining BJP and said that he went to Delhi for some personal work.

''News about my entry in BJP is being planted by vested interests, it is bogus,'' he said.

''I will return to Goa tonight and attend the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on Monday. I had gone to Delhi for personal work,'' news agency ANI quoted former Goa CM as saying.

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Congress MLA &amp; former Goa CM Digambar Kamat to ANI: News about my entry in BJP is being planted by vested interests, it is bogus. I will return to Goa tonight &amp; attend the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on Monday. I had gone to Delhi for personal work. (File pic) <a href="https://t.co/sxytHWUcLg">pic.twitter.com/sxytHWUcLg</a>
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Speculations were rife that Kamat may be inducted into the BJP and given a major position in the state government, considering current Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's deteriorating health.

Kamat was second in command in the BJP till 2005 when he switched over to the Congress.

The senior Congress leader held the reigns of the state from 2007 to 2012.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Senior Congress leader and former Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Sunday denied the rumours of him joining BJP and said that he went to Delhi for some personal work.

Senior Congress leader and former Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamat on Sunday denied the rumours of him joining BJP and said that he went to Delhi for some personal work. ''News about my entry in BJP is being planted by vested interests, it is bogus,'' he said. ''I will return to Goa tonight and attend the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on Monday. I had gone to Delhi for personal work,'' news agency ANI quoted former Goa CM as saying. Congress MLA & former Goa CM Digambar Kamat to ANI: News about my entry in BJP is being planted by vested interests, it is bogus. I will return to Goa tonight & attend the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on Monday. I had gone to Delhi for personal work. (File pic) pic.twitter.com/sxytHWUcLg — ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2019 × Speculations were rife that Kamat may be inducted into the BJP and given a major position in the state government, considering current Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar's deteriorating health. Kamat was second in command in the BJP till 2005 when he switched over to the Congress. The senior Congress leader held the reigns of the state from 2007 to 2012. (With inputs from PTI)

'News about me joining BJP is not true': Former Goa CM Digambar Kamat

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-says-ins-vikramaditya-nuclear-submarines-deployed-in-northern-arabian-sea-amid-indo-pak-tensions-203846">Indian Navy says INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines were deployed in </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-says-ins-vikramaditya-nuclear-submarines-deployed-in-northern-arabian-sea-amid-indo-pak-tensions-203846">northern</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-says-ins-vikramaditya-nuclear-submarines-deployed-in-northern-arabian-sea-amid-indo-pak-tensions-203846"> Arabian Sea after Pulwama terror attack</a>

The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-releases-andhra-arunachal-candidates-list-203879">Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases Andhra, Arunachal candidates list</a>

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its list of candidates for the 54 seats of Arunachal Pradesh and 123 seats of Andhra Pradesh for upcoming legislative assembly elections on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-returns-the-favour-leaves-seven-seats-for-sp-bsp-combine-in-uttar-pradesh-203877">Lok Sabha polls: Congress returns the favour, leaves seven seats for SP-BSP combine in Uttar Pradesh&nbsp;</a>

Pakistan: Four killed, 10 wounded after bomb went off on train track in Balochistan

Four people were killed and 10 injured in Pakistan on Sunday when a bomb went off on a train track in the resource-rich province of Balochistan, where separatist rebels have been fighting the security forces for years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suspicious-package-shutters-new-zealands-dunedin-airport-203848">'Suspicious package' shutters New Zealand's Dunedin airport</a>

New Zealand police closed Dunedin airport late Sunday after a suspicious device was reported on the airfield.&nbsp;

'Dunedin Airport is currently closed' a statement said. 'Police are at the scene and specialist teams have been deployed to determine the nature of the package.'

Indian Navy says INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines were deployed in northern Arabian Sea after Pulwama terror attack The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14.

Indian Navy says INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines were deployed in northern Arabian Sea after Pulwama terror attack The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases Andhra, Arunachal candidates list The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its list of candidates for the 54 seats of Arunachal Pradesh and 123 seats of Andhra Pradesh for upcoming legislative assembly elections on Sunday. Lok Sabha polls: Congress returns the favour, leaves seven seats for SP-BSP combine in Uttar Pradesh Pakistan: Four killed, 10 wounded after bomb went off on train track in Balochistan Four people were killed and 10 injured in Pakistan on Sunday when a bomb went off on a train track in the resource-rich province of Balochistan, where separatist rebels have been fighting the security forces for years. 'Suspicious package' shutters New Zealand's Dunedin airport New Zealand police closed Dunedin airport late Sunday after a suspicious device was reported on the airfield. 'Dunedin Airport is currently closed' a statement said. 'Police are at the scene and specialist teams have been deployed to determine the nature of the package.'

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-bjp-releases-andhra-arunachal-candidates-list-203879">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> is yet to hit the campaign trail after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced on March 10 but he has already addressed public meetings or BJP workers in over 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 22 states in the past few weeks, the party said on Sunday. 
 
The party's media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said the BJP through a series of programmes such as 'Mera Parivar, Bhajapa Parivar', mega contact drive and 'Vijay Sankalp' rallies, has reached out to over 10 crore people recently. 
 
While Modi has relied on rallies and addressing party workers and beneficiaries of his government's schemes through video- conferences for his campaign, party president Amit Shah has done so by holding public meetings, speaking to social media volunteers and addressing booth-level workers in over 130 Lok Sabha constituencies. 
 
Election to the 543-member Lok Sabha will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19. 
 
Modi began his public outreach ahead of the Lok Sabha elections with programmes, including a rally, in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on December 29 and 30 and has travelled to different parts of the country while also using the tool of video-conference to contact the masses and party workers, the BJP said. 
 
Shah started his campaign for the polls with a visit to Tripura on January 5 and has held over 45 public meetings till March 7. 
 
After the announcement of the poll schedule by the Election Commission, Modi and Shah have not begun their campaign yet. 
 
Baluni asserted that people have been showing massive support for Modi and the BJP. 
 
'People have decided on having the Modi government once more,'&nbsp;he said, adding that India has become 'prosperous, secure and decisive'&nbsp;under him.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is yet to hit the campaign trail after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced on March 10 but he has already addressed public meetings or BJP workers in over 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 22 states in the past few weeks, the party said on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is yet to hit the campaign trail after the Lok Sabha election schedule was announced on March 10 but he has already addressed public meetings or BJP workers in over 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 22 states in the past few weeks, the party said on Sunday. The party's media head and Rajya Sabha MP Anil Baluni said the BJP through a series of programmes such as 'Mera Parivar, Bhajapa Parivar', mega contact drive and 'Vijay Sankalp' rallies, has reached out to over 10 crore people recently. While Modi has relied on rallies and addressing party workers and beneficiaries of his government's schemes through video- conferences for his campaign, party president Amit Shah has done so by holding public meetings, speaking to social media volunteers and addressing booth-level workers in over 130 Lok Sabha constituencies. Election to the 543-member Lok Sabha will be held in seven phases between April 11 and May 19. Modi began his public outreach ahead of the Lok Sabha elections with programmes, including a rally, in Andaman and Nicobar Islands on December 29 and 30 and has travelled to different parts of the country while also using the tool of video-conference to contact the masses and party workers, the BJP said. Shah started his campaign for the polls with a visit to Tripura on January 5 and has held over 45 public meetings till March 7. After the announcement of the poll schedule by the Election Commission, Modi and Shah have not begun their campaign yet. Baluni asserted that people have been showing massive support for Modi and the BJP. 'People have decided on having the Modi government once more,' he said, adding that India has become 'prosperous, secure and decisive' under him.

PM Modi addressed rallies in 100 Lok Sabha seats in last few weeks: BJP

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its list of candidates for the 54 seats of Arunachal Pradesh and 123 seats of Andhra Pradesh for upcoming legislative assembly elections on Sunday.

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Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has been fielded from Mukto constituency.

In Andhra Pradesh, the two main challengers for power are Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP and Jaganmohan Reddy-led YSR Congress with the BJP hoping to improve its tally.

BJP late Saturday held a meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah, to shortlist candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections.

According to news agency ANI, in Saturday's meeting there was no discussion on Uttar Pradesh, which has 80 parliamentary seats.

Amit Shah is likely to meet with the core committee of the party on Sunday.

The BJP Central Election Committee is likely to meet again on Monday and by March 22 the party may announce the list of all candidates, sources said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its list of candidates for the 54 seats of Arunachal Pradesh and 123 seats of Andhra Pradesh for upcoming legislative assembly elections on Sunday.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released its list of candidates for the 54 seats of Arunachal Pradesh and 123 seats of Andhra Pradesh for upcoming legislative assembly elections on Sunday. BJP releases its list of candidates for the 54 seats of Arunachal Pradesh for upcoming legislative assembly elections pic.twitter.com/iOZ2CEx156 — ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2019 × BJP releases its list of candidates for the 123 seats of Andhra Pradesh for upcoming legislative assembly elections pic.twitter.com/A3kkwBhQI8 — ANI (@ANI) March 17, 2019 × Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has been fielded from Mukto constituency. In Andhra Pradesh, the two main challengers for power are Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu-led TDP and Jaganmohan Reddy-led YSR Congress with the BJP hoping to improve its tally. BJP late Saturday held a meeting, presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and party president Amit Shah, to shortlist candidates for the ensuing Lok Sabha elections. According to news agency ANI, in Saturday's meeting there was no discussion on Uttar Pradesh, which has 80 parliamentary seats. Amit Shah is likely to meet with the core committee of the party on Sunday. The BJP Central Election Committee is likely to meet again on Monday and by March 22 the party may announce the list of all candidates, sources said. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha polls: BJP releases Andhra, Arunachal candidates list

BJP's National general secretary and in-charge of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-stays-haryana-law-allowing-construction-in-aravalli-region-200553">Haryana</a>, Anil Jain said that party is not going for an alliance with any other party in Haryana and is confident of winning all the 10 Lok Sabha seats on its own. 
 
'BJP is not going to do any alliance in Haryana. On all the 10 Lok Sabha seats BJP will contest and will win,'&nbsp;he said. 
 
Jain also said that there is no "Mahagathbandhan" (Grand-alliance) of opposition in Haryana as the BJP is the "strongest in the state.' 
 
He also targeted Congress party saying that despite the fact that its top leadership is "mired neck deep into corruption" they "shamelessly" accuse Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the same. 
 
'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/does-rahul-gandhi-need-certificate-from-pakistan-on-rafale-bjp-201717">Rahul Gandhi</a>, his mother, his brother-in-law, and sister have all been involved in corruption and they allege a person like Prime Minister Narendra Modi of corruption is shamelessness. 
 
Nobody will believe them,'&nbsp;said Jain. All the 10 Lok Sabha constituencies in Haryana will go to polls on May 12 in the sixth phase of 7 phased Lok Sabha elections. 
 
Polling for the general elections will be held in seven phases starting April 11 and will conclude on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

BJP's National general secretary and in-charge of Haryana, Anil Jain said that party is not going for an alliance with any other party in Haryana and is confident of winning all the 10 Lok Sabha seats on its own.

BJP's National general secretary and in-charge of Haryana, Anil Jain said that party is not going for an alliance with any other party in Haryana and is confident of winning all the 10 Lok Sabha seats on its own. 'BJP is not going to do any alliance in Haryana. On all the 10 Lok Sabha seats BJP will contest and will win,' he said. Jain also said that there is no "Mahagathbandhan" (Grand-alliance) of opposition in Haryana as the BJP is the "strongest in the state.' He also targeted Congress party saying that despite the fact that its top leadership is "mired neck deep into corruption" they "shamelessly" accuse Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the same. 'Rahul Gandhi, his mother, his brother-in-law, and sister have all been involved in corruption and they allege a person like Prime Minister Narendra Modi of corruption is shamelessness. Nobody will believe them,' said Jain. All the 10 Lok Sabha constituencies in Haryana will go to polls on May 12 in the sixth phase of 7 phased Lok Sabha elections. Polling for the general elections will be held in seven phases starting April 11 and will conclude on May 19. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

BJP will not form any alliance in Haryana: Anil Jain

Former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Shah Faesal launched his party - the Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement - here on Sunday.

Faesal had quit government service in January this year as a mark of protest against the "unabated killings" in Kashmir and "lack of any sincere reach-out from the Union government."&nbsp;

He had also alleged "insidious attacks on the special identity of the Jammu and Kashmir and growing culture of intolerance and hate in mainland India in the name of hypernationalism."

Speaking at the launch of his political quarter, Faesal said, "I went into civil service to help people but the situation in the state has made me switch my path and I am entering into politics."&nbsp;

He also praised Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for their "political commitment".&nbsp;

"I praise both of them because even after facing so many challenges in politics they never bowed down," he said.&nbsp;

The vision document of the party stated that the Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement "shall pursue a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir problem as per the will and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir State."

The party aims at achieving "sustainable peace" in the state and has also pledged to open the "ancient Silk Route civilization so that Jammu and Kashmir can reemerge as a corridor of peace between various South Asian neighbours."

In an effort to emerge as an inclusive outfit, the party seeks "political representation for under-represented communities like Buddhists, Sikhs, Christians and Kashmiri Pandits."

Former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student leader and activist Sheila Rashid also joined the Jammu and Kashmir People`s Movement.

Former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Shah Faesal launched his party - the Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement - here on Sunday. Faesal had quit government service in January this year as a mark of protest against the "unabated killings" in Kashmir and "lack of any sincere reach-out from the Union government.

Former Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer Shah Faesal launched his party - the Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement - here on Sunday. Faesal had quit government service in January this year as a mark of protest against the "unabated killings" in Kashmir and "lack of any sincere reach-out from the Union government." He had also alleged "insidious attacks on the special identity of the Jammu and Kashmir and growing culture of intolerance and hate in mainland India in the name of hypernationalism." Speaking at the launch of his political quarter, Faesal said, "I went into civil service to help people but the situation in the state has made me switch my path and I am entering into politics." He also praised Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for their "political commitment". "I praise both of them because even after facing so many challenges in politics they never bowed down," he said. The vision document of the party stated that the Jammu and Kashmir People's Movement "shall pursue a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir problem as per the will and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir State." The party aims at achieving "sustainable peace" in the state and has also pledged to open the "ancient Silk Route civilization so that Jammu and Kashmir can reemerge as a corridor of peace between various South Asian neighbours." In an effort to emerge as an inclusive outfit, the party seeks "political representation for under-represented communities like Buddhists, Sikhs, Christians and Kashmiri Pandits." Former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student leader and activist Sheila Rashid also joined the Jammu and Kashmir People`s Movement.

Former IAS officer Shah Faesal launches new party in Jammu and Kashmir

Returning the favour to SP-BSP coalition, Congress party on Sunday left seven seats vacant for &nbsp;SP, BSP and RLD in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

''We are leaving seven seats vacant for SP, BSP and RLD.These include Mainpuri, Kannauj, Firozabad and whatever seats Mayawati and RLD's Jayant and Ajit Singh contest from,'' Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

Earlier, while announcing the seat-sharing agreement in Uttar Pradesh, SP-BSP combine&nbsp;said they will not be contesting from Amethi and Rae Bareli -- constituencies of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former Congress president and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi.&nbsp;

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UP Congress chief Raj Babbar: We are leaving 7 seats vacant for SP, BSP and RLD. These include Mainpuri, Kannauj, Firozabad and whatever seats Mayawati ji &amp; RLD's Jayant ji and Ajit Singh contest from. We will also give two seats to Apna Dal - Gonda &amp; Pilibhit. <a href="https://t.co/n37SFNa04L">pic.twitter.com/n37SFNa04L</a>
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Congress also gave Gonda and Pilibhit seats to one of its allies Apna Dal.&nbsp;

The alliance between the Congress and Apna Dal was finalised at a meeting in Delhi, where Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Jyotiraditya Scindia finalised the deal in the presence of Apna Dal president Krishna Patel and party general secretary Pankaj Niranjan Singh Chandel.

Babbar further said Congress party had reached an agreement on seven seats with Jan Adhikar party (JAP). Out of those seven, JAP will fight in five and while Congress will contest from two seats, he added.&nbsp;

''We had talked to Mahan Dal earlier. They had said they were fine with whatever seats we give them, all they wanted was to contest Vidhan Sabha election. For Lok Sabha elections they had said they'll contest on our symbol. We'll find out a way to work with them.

Returning the favour to SP-BSP coalition, Congress party on Sunday left seven seats vacant for SP, BSP and RLD in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI.

Returning the favour to SP-BSP coalition, Congress party on Sunday left seven seats vacant for SP, BSP and RLD in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, reported news agency ANI. ''We are leaving seven seats vacant for SP, BSP and RLD.These include Mainpuri, Kannauj, Firozabad and whatever seats Mayawati and RLD's Jayant and Ajit Singh contest from,'' Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Raj Babbar was quoted as saying. Earlier, while announcing the seat-sharing agreement in Uttar Pradesh, SP-BSP combine said they will not be contesting from Amethi and Rae Bareli -- constituencies of Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former Congress president and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. UP Congress chief Raj Babbar: We are leaving 7 seats vacant for SP, BSP and RLD. These include Mainpuri, Kannauj, Firozabad and whatever seats Mayawati ji & RLD's Jayant ji and Ajit Singh contest from. We will also give two seats to Apna Dal - Gonda & Pilibhit. pic.twitter.com/n37SFNa04L — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) March 17, 2019 × Congress also gave Gonda and Pilibhit seats to one of its allies Apna Dal. The alliance between the Congress and Apna Dal was finalised at a meeting in Delhi, where Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Jyotiraditya Scindia finalised the deal in the presence of Apna Dal president Krishna Patel and party general secretary Pankaj Niranjan Singh Chandel. Babbar further said Congress party had reached an agreement on seven seats with Jan Adhikar party (JAP). Out of those seven, JAP will fight in five and while Congress will contest from two seats, he added. ''We had talked to Mahan Dal earlier. They had said they were fine with whatever seats we give them, all they wanted was to contest Vidhan Sabha election. For Lok Sabha elections they had said they'll contest on our symbol. We'll find out a way to work with them.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress returns the favour, leaves seven seats for SP-BSP combine in Uttar Pradesh 

The Congress has announced its candidates for five out of the total 11 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, giving a chance to three of its sitting MLAs.

The names of candidates for Surguja, Bastar, Raigarh and Kanker seats, reserved for the Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Janjgir-Champa, which is allocated to a Scheduled Caste (SCs) candidate, were declared late Saturday night.

Prominent tribal leader Khelsai Singh, currently an MLA from Premnagar Assembly seat, has been nominated from Surguja Lok Sabha constituency.

Mr Singh, a four-time MLA, earlier represented the Surguja Lok Sabha seat thrice in 1991, 1996 and 1999.

Another tribal leader Dipak Baij, who is a legislator from Chitrakot Assembly seat, will contest from Bastar Lok Sabha constituency.

Also, Dharamjaigarh seat MLA Laljeet Singh Rathiya has been fielded from Raigarh Lok Sabha constituency.

His father Chanesh Ram Rathiya had been a Congress MLA from Madhya Pradesh before Chhattisgarh was carved out of it.

Besides, the Congress has fielded Biresh Thakur from Kanker Lok Sabha seat.

He is currently a member of the Kanker Zila panchayat. His father Satyanarayan Singh Thakur and grandfather Ratan Singh Thakur had also earlier served as Congress MLAs in MP.

Former Congress MP Parasram Bhardwaj's son Ravi Bhardwaj will contest from Janjgir-Champa (SC) Lok Sabha seat.

"All the five candidates are active in their regions. The way Congress unseated the BJP in last year's Assembly polls, it will also win all the 11 Lok Sabha seats in the state," state Congress spokesperson RP Singh told PTI.

The party is yet to announced its candidates for the remaining six general category Lok Sabha seats - Raipur, Mahasamund, Rajnandgaon, Bilaspur, Korba and Durg.

In the 2014 general elections, the BJP won 10 out of the 11 seats in the state.

Tamradhwaj Sahu was the lone Congress candidate who won from Durg parliamentary seat.

The BJP is yet to announce its candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, to be held in three phases in the state on April 11, 18 and 23.

The Congress has announced its candidates for five out of the total 11 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, giving a chance to three of its sitting MLAs. The names of candidates for Surguja, Bastar, Raigarh and Kanker seats, reserved for the Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Janjgir-Champa, which is allocated to a Scheduled Caste (SCs) candidate, were declared late Saturday night.

The Congress has announced its candidates for five out of the total 11 Lok Sabha seats in Chhattisgarh, giving a chance to three of its sitting MLAs. The names of candidates for Surguja, Bastar, Raigarh and Kanker seats, reserved for the Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Janjgir-Champa, which is allocated to a Scheduled Caste (SCs) candidate, were declared late Saturday night. Prominent tribal leader Khelsai Singh, currently an MLA from Premnagar Assembly seat, has been nominated from Surguja Lok Sabha constituency. Mr Singh, a four-time MLA, earlier represented the Surguja Lok Sabha seat thrice in 1991, 1996 and 1999. Another tribal leader Dipak Baij, who is a legislator from Chitrakot Assembly seat, will contest from Bastar Lok Sabha constituency. Also, Dharamjaigarh seat MLA Laljeet Singh Rathiya has been fielded from Raigarh Lok Sabha constituency. His father Chanesh Ram Rathiya had been a Congress MLA from Madhya Pradesh before Chhattisgarh was carved out of it. Besides, the Congress has fielded Biresh Thakur from Kanker Lok Sabha seat. He is currently a member of the Kanker Zila panchayat. His father Satyanarayan Singh Thakur and grandfather Ratan Singh Thakur had also earlier served as Congress MLAs in MP. Former Congress MP Parasram Bhardwaj's son Ravi Bhardwaj will contest from Janjgir-Champa (SC) Lok Sabha seat. "All the five candidates are active in their regions. The way Congress unseated the BJP in last year's Assembly polls, it will also win all the 11 Lok Sabha seats in the state," state Congress spokesperson RP Singh told PTI. The party is yet to announced its candidates for the remaining six general category Lok Sabha seats - Raipur, Mahasamund, Rajnandgaon, Bilaspur, Korba and Durg. In the 2014 general elections, the BJP won 10 out of the 11 seats in the state. Tamradhwaj Sahu was the lone Congress candidate who won from Durg parliamentary seat. The BJP is yet to announce its candidates for the Lok Sabha polls, to be held in three phases in the state on April 11, 18 and 23.

Lok Sabha polls: Congress announces candidates for 5 seats in Chhattisgarh

Seeking to raise awareness among the electorate in Delhi that a photo voter slip can no longer be used as a valid standalone identification document during elections, the CEO office here will soon launch a campaign, officials said. 
 
The campaign comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and Delhi's seven parliamentary seats will go to polls on May 12. 
 
The office of Delhi's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has also stepped up its drive to raise awareness on the use of various mobile apps, including 'cVigil', and on the significance of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPATs). 
 
'cVigil', which stands for 'citizens' vigil', is a unique Internet-based mobile application through which a person can send to poll authorities, geo-tagged videos and photos of illegal money being distributed or a hate speech being made during polls. 
 
The app will work only during the time the model code of conduct is in place in a poll-bound state.&nbsp; 
 
The CEO office under its Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme are also preparing to start a campaign in both print and audio-visual media to raise awareness on the photo voter slip. 
 
The Election Commission late February had said a photo voter slip shall no longer be used as a standalone identification document during elections, and a voter will have to carry any of the 12 approved identity cards to the polling station. 
 
The documents accepted for identification include - EPIC (Electoral Photo Identity Card), passport, Aadhaar card, driving licence, service identity cards with photographs issued to employees by central and state government, PSUs, public limited companies, passbooks issued by a bank or post office, PAN card and smart card issued by the Registrar General of India under the National Populations Register. 
 
'At present, we have intensified our campaign on raising awareness on the use of 'cVigil' so that more number of people can report violations of the moral code of conduct for the polls. A radio spot has already been made and is being used. Besides, we have just launched a print advertisement on its use, in national dailies also,'&nbsp;a senior official from the SVEEP programme said. 
 
'People can also report poll code violations through helpline -1950, or making a call to the district level or state-level control rooms. The purpose is to stop such violations as soon as possible," the official said. 
 
The CEO office in Delhi has already roped in cricketer Rishabh Pant and ace tennis player Manika Batra as brand ambassadors for raising awareness ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. 
'Both sportspersons will also be soon seen in the print and audio-visual advertisements to raise awareness among voters,'&nbsp;he said. 
 
On photo voter slip, Delhi CEO Ranbir Singh had earlier said the slip will also carry a disclaimer in bold letters that it won't be accepted for the purpose of identification. 
 
'But, we will carry out awareness campaigns from our own side to tell voters that it is no longer valid as a standalone proof for identification,'&nbsp;he said. 
 
However, the Election Commission had also said such slips will continue to be prepared and issued to electors as part of the awareness building exercise. 
 
The senior official of the SVEEP programme said, for the first time, publicity material has been used on auto-rickshaws under the Voter Verification and Information Programme (VVIP) segment. 
 
'We have used them on 3,000 auto-rickshaws across Delhi under VVIP'&nbsp;he said. 
 
The VVIP was launched last month by the Election Commission for citizens for verification of their names, new registrations, changes in the voter details and corrections in voter identity cards ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. 
 
Besides, cinema halls and radio spots are also part of the campaign to raise awareness on voting and use of VVPATs. 
 
A VVPAT is intended as an independent verification system for electronic voting machines designed to allow voters to verify that their vote was cast correctly, to detect possible fraud or malfunction, and to provide a means to audit the stored electronic results. 
 
A senior official of the Delhi CEO office had earlier said that for the 'first time', VVPATs will be used at all polling stations in Delhi, and in a Lok Sabha poll here. 
 
'We have 20,435 VVPATs for 13,816 polling stations. As per EVMs, we have 34,953 Ballot Units and 19,002 Control Units. VVPATs were used only in Delhi Cantonment in 2015 Assembly polls. They were not used in 2014 Lok Sabha elections,'&nbsp;the official had said. 
 
There are nearly 1.39 crore voters in the electoral roll of the national capital as of now, an increase of nearly two lakh from the corresponding figure on January 18 this year.

Seeking to raise awareness among the electorate in Delhi that a photo voter slip can no longer be used as a valid standalone identification document during elections, the CEO office here will soon launch a campaign, officials said.

Seeking to raise awareness among the electorate in Delhi that a photo voter slip can no longer be used as a valid standalone identification document during elections, the CEO office here will soon launch a campaign, officials said. The campaign comes ahead of the Lok Sabha elections and Delhi's seven parliamentary seats will go to polls on May 12. The office of Delhi's Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has also stepped up its drive to raise awareness on the use of various mobile apps, including 'cVigil', and on the significance of voter-verifiable paper audit trail (VVPATs). 'cVigil', which stands for 'citizens' vigil', is a unique Internet-based mobile application through which a person can send to poll authorities, geo-tagged videos and photos of illegal money being distributed or a hate speech being made during polls. The app will work only during the time the model code of conduct is in place in a poll-bound state. The CEO office under its Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme are also preparing to start a campaign in both print and audio-visual media to raise awareness on the photo voter slip. The Election Commission late February had said a photo voter slip shall no longer be used as a standalone identification document during elections, and a voter will have to carry any of the 12 approved identity cards to the polling station. The documents accepted for identification include - EPIC (Electoral Photo Identity Card), passport, Aadhaar card, driving licence, service identity cards with photographs issued to employees by central and state government, PSUs, public limited companies, passbooks issued by a bank or post office, PAN card and smart card issued by the Registrar General of India under the National Populations Register. 'At present, we have intensified our campaign on raising awareness on the use of 'cVigil' so that more number of people can report violations of the moral code of conduct for the polls. A radio spot has already been made and is being used. Besides, we have just launched a print advertisement on its use, in national dailies also,' a senior official from the SVEEP programme said. 'People can also report poll code violations through helpline -1950, or making a call to the district level or state-level control rooms. The purpose is to stop such violations as soon as possible," the official said. The CEO office in Delhi has already roped in cricketer Rishabh Pant and ace tennis player Manika Batra as brand ambassadors for raising awareness ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. 'Both sportspersons will also be soon seen in the print and audio-visual advertisements to raise awareness among voters,' he said. On photo voter slip, Delhi CEO Ranbir Singh had earlier said the slip will also carry a disclaimer in bold letters that it won't be accepted for the purpose of identification. 'But, we will carry out awareness campaigns from our own side to tell voters that it is no longer valid as a standalone proof for identification,' he said. However, the Election Commission had also said such slips will continue to be prepared and issued to electors as part of the awareness building exercise. The senior official of the SVEEP programme said, for the first time, publicity material has been used on auto-rickshaws under the Voter Verification and Information Programme (VVIP) segment. 'We have used them on 3,000 auto-rickshaws across Delhi under VVIP' he said. The VVIP was launched last month by the Election Commission for citizens for verification of their names, new registrations, changes in the voter details and corrections in voter identity cards ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. Besides, cinema halls and radio spots are also part of the campaign to raise awareness on voting and use of VVPATs. A VVPAT is intended as an independent verification system for electronic voting machines designed to allow voters to verify that their vote was cast correctly, to detect possible fraud or malfunction, and to provide a means to audit the stored electronic results. A senior official of the Delhi CEO office had earlier said that for the 'first time', VVPATs will be used at all polling stations in Delhi, and in a Lok Sabha poll here. 'We have 20,435 VVPATs for 13,816 polling stations. As per EVMs, we have 34,953 Ballot Units and 19,002 Control Units. VVPATs were used only in Delhi Cantonment in 2015 Assembly polls. They were not used in 2014 Lok Sabha elections,' the official had said. There are nearly 1.39 crore voters in the electoral roll of the national capital as of now, an increase of nearly two lakh from the corresponding figure on January 18 this year.

Awareness drive on photo voter slip to begin soon; use of 'cVigil' being promoted

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera Sunday joined the BJP after being with the Congress for 20 years, with Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan saying his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. 
 
Behera, who represents Cuttack's Salepur constituency, quit the Congress on Saturday. 
 
Joining the BJP during a party press conference here, he said, 'I have faith in Narendra Modi's leadership and the youngsters in my constituency are really impressed with the government's decision of carrying out surgical strikes.' 
 
He said he quit the Congress because he was ignored by the party's state leadership.&nbsp; 
 
Pradhan welcomed him into the BJP fold and said his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under the Modi leadership.&nbsp;

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera Sunday joined the BJP after being with the Congress for 20 years, with Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan saying his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera Sunday joined the BJP after being with the Congress for 20 years, with Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan saying his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Behera, who represents Cuttack's Salepur constituency, quit the Congress on Saturday. Joining the BJP during a party press conference here, he said, 'I have faith in Narendra Modi's leadership and the youngsters in my constituency are really impressed with the government's decision of carrying out surgical strikes.' He said he quit the Congress because he was ignored by the party's state leadership. Pradhan welcomed him into the BJP fold and said his presence will help the party bring about changes in Odisha under the Modi leadership.

Odisha MLA Prakash Chandra Behera joins BJP

A mild 4.0 magnitude <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/70-magnitude-earthquake-hits-southeast-peru-200498">earthquake</a> was felt in some parts of Rajasthan in the early hours of Sunday. 
 
Sikar was the epicenter of the earthquake, according to the Meteorological Department. 
 
No loss of life or damage to property was reported.

A mild 4.0 magnitude earthquake was felt in some parts of Rajasthan in the early hours of Sunday. Sikar was the epicenter of the earthquake, according to the Meteorological Department.

A mild 4.0 magnitude earthquake was felt in some parts of Rajasthan in the early hours of Sunday. Sikar was the epicenter of the earthquake, according to the Meteorological Department. No loss of life or damage to property was reported.

Magnitude 4 earthquake hits  Rajasthan

The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14.

The assets were redeployed from the TROPEX 19 or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise which is the largest war games of the Indian navy and commenced on January 7.

The Navy in the release said," Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) sponsored terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14 led to the rapid redeployment of the Indian Navy for Operations in North Arabian Sea."

"The major combat units of the Indian Navy including the Carrier Battle Group with INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines and scores of other ships, submarines and aircraft swiftly transited from exercise to operational deployment mode as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated," he added.

JeM is a United Nations listed Pakistan based terror group responsible for the Pulwama attack, the worst attack on Indian security personnel in the last two decades.&nbsp;

Sixty ships of the Indian Navy, 12 ships of the Indian Coast Guard and 60 aircraft were part of TROPEX 19.

The Navy said, "The overwhelming superiority of the Indian Navy in all three dimensions forced the Pakistan Navy to remain deployed close to the Makran coast and not venture out in the open ocean."

During a&nbsp;joint press conference on February 28 by tri-services, it was informed that Indian Navy remained&nbsp;deployed as necessary to protect National Maritime Interests and prevent any misadventure by Pakistan in the maritime domain.

The tri-services press conference took place a day after Pakistan launched strikes against Indian military installations on February 27 in response to India's counter-terror operation against JeM terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan.&nbsp;

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba will be in Kochi on March 18 to preside over the debrief of TROPEX 19.

The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14.

The Indian navy said that it had deployed its assets including INS Vikramaditya and nuclear submarines in northern Arabian sea in the last week of February amid tension between India and Pakistan following Pulwama terror attack on February 14. The assets were redeployed from the TROPEX 19 or Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise which is the largest war games of the Indian navy and commenced on January 7. The Navy in the release said," Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) sponsored terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14 led to the rapid redeployment of the Indian Navy for Operations in North Arabian Sea." "The major combat units of the Indian Navy including the Carrier Battle Group with INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines and scores of other ships, submarines and aircraft swiftly transited from exercise to operational deployment mode as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated," he added. JeM is a United Nations listed Pakistan based terror group responsible for the Pulwama attack, the worst attack on Indian security personnel in the last two decades. Sixty ships of the Indian Navy, 12 ships of the Indian Coast Guard and 60 aircraft were part of TROPEX 19. The Navy said, "The overwhelming superiority of the Indian Navy in all three dimensions forced the Pakistan Navy to remain deployed close to the Makran coast and not venture out in the open ocean." During a joint press conference on February 28 by tri-services, it was informed that Indian Navy remained deployed as necessary to protect National Maritime Interests and prevent any misadventure by Pakistan in the maritime domain. The tri-services press conference took place a day after Pakistan launched strikes against Indian military installations on February 27 in response to India's counter-terror operation against JeM terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba will be in Kochi on March 18 to preside over the debrief of TROPEX 19.

Indian Navy says INS Vikramaditya, nuclear submarines were deployed in northern Arabian Sea after Pulwama terror attack

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Sunday exuded confidence that people will make the right choice in the forthcoming general elections by electing a stable government rather than 'mahamilawat gathbandhan', which is being envisaged as a road to disaster.

The mahamilawat gathbandhan, which has leaders and political parties of different ideologies, can only promise political instability, said Jaitley in his seventh blog on 'Agenda 2019'.

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Agenda 2019 – Part – 7 : Mahamilawat or Gathbandhan – A Race to the Bottom <a href="https://t.co/w9L9LCIp0w">https://t.co/w9L9LCIp0w</a>
— Chowkidar Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) <a href="https://twitter.com/arunjaitley/status/1107211543018651649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"At the cusp of history, India and Indians have a choice to make. Are they electing a six month Government or a five year Government? Are they choosing between a tried, tested and a performing leader or a chaotic crowd of non-leaders?

"Is India looking at a Government which accelerates growth, development and poverty alleviation or is it looking for a Government made by persons who excel only at self-enrichment? I am confident that aspirational people of an evolving society will make the right choice," said Jaitley who is also the head of the publicity wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Mahamilawat gathbandhan, being formed with the objective of ousting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, "is a road to disaster. It is a race to the bottom," said the minister.

Jaitley said while in the NDA government, the last word belonged to the Prime Minister, there is a "tug of war" on the issue of leader in the coalition proposed by the opposition parties, including Congress, BSP, SP, TMC, and TDP.

"Four people have clearly indicated their desire to be Prime Ministers - Shri Rahul Gandhi, Behan Mayawati, Mamata Didi and Shri Sharad Pawar. Each desires to expand his or her own base and reduce that of the competitor," the minister said in the blog.

He further said that the gathbandhan unquestionably promises only political instability.

Such non-ideological alliances have only lasted for a few months, he said while citing examples of governments headed by Chaudhary Charan Singh, V P Singh, Chandrasekhar, H D Deve Gowda and I K Gujral, which did not last full term.

"Who would want to invest in India in an environment of political instability? Would even Indian investors prefer to go outside and look for more stable countries for investment? Where there is instability, there is corruption.

"People with brief political opportunities make the best of them. This is the experience of the past," said the senior BJP leader.

Jaitley further said federalism in India is inherent both geographically and constitutionally.

The Constitution defines 'India' i.E. 'Bharat ? a Union of States'. 
The states must be fiscally strong. This is the essence of Indian federalism.

Equally, if not more important, is the fact that for India to be a Union of States, there must be a strong Union, he said, adding if there is no strong Union, both India and India's federalism will stand to suffer.

"Let there be absolute clarity. India is a Union of States. It is not a Confederation of States. That is the fundamental difference between NDA and the UPA. This is also the fundamental flaw in this idea of the federal front," he said.

He said the framers of the Constitution had a vision and they were men of wisdom.

When prominent areas like defence, sovereignty, security of India, foreign policy and eventually the war against terror were maintained as primary responsibility of the Union Government, can India be ever defended without a strong Union? he wondered.

"There can be no 'federal front' without a strong Central party," Jaitley said, adding that in the both the NDA governments the nucleus of the coalition was a large party.

"There was no completion for leadership. The last word belonged to the Prime Minister. That is how the two Governments functioned. There was clarity in terms of policy and the Government had the capacity to take difficult decisions and deliver," he said.

The minister further said that today we have reached a situation where India grows faster than others in the world.

"The essential pre-requisite for accelerating our movement in this direction is that India must have political stability, a clear policy direction, a strong and decisive leadership. If we falter on any one of these, we will be letting down our own people and future generations. India cannot afford lost opportunities at this stage," he said.

About 900 million Indians would start voting from April 11 to elect the next government in a seven-phased election. The votes are scheduled to be counted on May 23.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Sunday exuded confidence that people will make the right choice in the forthcoming general elections by electing a stable government rather than 'mahamilawat gathbandhan', which is being envisaged as a road to disaster.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Sunday exuded confidence that people will make the right choice in the forthcoming general elections by electing a stable government rather than 'mahamilawat gathbandhan', which is being envisaged as a road to disaster. The mahamilawat gathbandhan, which has leaders and political parties of different ideologies, can only promise political instability, said Jaitley in his seventh blog on 'Agenda 2019'. Agenda 2019 – Part – 7 : Mahamilawat or Gathbandhan – A Race to the Bottom https://t.co/w9L9LCIp0w — Chowkidar Arun Jaitley (@arunjaitley) March 17, 2019 × "At the cusp of history, India and Indians have a choice to make. Are they electing a six month Government or a five year Government? Are they choosing between a tried, tested and a performing leader or a chaotic crowd of non-leaders? "Is India looking at a Government which accelerates growth, development and poverty alleviation or is it looking for a Government made by persons who excel only at self-enrichment? I am confident that aspirational people of an evolving society will make the right choice," said Jaitley who is also the head of the publicity wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Mahamilawat gathbandhan, being formed with the objective of ousting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, "is a road to disaster. It is a race to the bottom," said the minister. Jaitley said while in the NDA government, the last word belonged to the Prime Minister, there is a "tug of war" on the issue of leader in the coalition proposed by the opposition parties, including Congress, BSP, SP, TMC, and TDP. "Four people have clearly indicated their desire to be Prime Ministers - Shri Rahul Gandhi, Behan Mayawati, Mamata Didi and Shri Sharad Pawar. Each desires to expand his or her own base and reduce that of the competitor," the minister said in the blog. He further said that the gathbandhan unquestionably promises only political instability. Such non-ideological alliances have only lasted for a few months, he said while citing examples of governments headed by Chaudhary Charan Singh, V P Singh, Chandrasekhar, H D Deve Gowda and I K Gujral, which did not last full term. "Who would want to invest in India in an environment of political instability? Would even Indian investors prefer to go outside and look for more stable countries for investment? Where there is instability, there is corruption. "People with brief political opportunities make the best of them. This is the experience of the past," said the senior BJP leader. Jaitley further said federalism in India is inherent both geographically and constitutionally. The Constitution defines 'India' i.E. 'Bharat ? a Union of States'. The states must be fiscally strong. This is the essence of Indian federalism. Equally, if not more important, is the fact that for India to be a Union of States, there must be a strong Union, he said, adding if there is no strong Union, both India and India's federalism will stand to suffer. "Let there be absolute clarity. India is a Union of States. It is not a Confederation of States. That is the fundamental difference between NDA and the UPA. This is also the fundamental flaw in this idea of the federal front," he said. He said the framers of the Constitution had a vision and they were men of wisdom. When prominent areas like defence, sovereignty, security of India, foreign policy and eventually the war against terror were maintained as primary responsibility of the Union Government, can India be ever defended without a strong Union? he wondered. "There can be no 'federal front' without a strong Central party," Jaitley said, adding that in the both the NDA governments the nucleus of the coalition was a large party. "There was no completion for leadership. The last word belonged to the Prime Minister. That is how the two Governments functioned. There was clarity in terms of policy and the Government had the capacity to take difficult decisions and deliver," he said. The minister further said that today we have reached a situation where India grows faster than others in the world. "The essential pre-requisite for accelerating our movement in this direction is that India must have political stability, a clear policy direction, a strong and decisive leadership. If we falter on any one of these, we will be letting down our own people and future generations. India cannot afford lost opportunities at this stage," he said. About 900 million Indians would start voting from April 11 to elect the next government in a seven-phased election. The votes are scheduled to be counted on May 23.

People will make the right choice in upcoming elections: Arun Jaitley

The core committee of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/goa-cm-manohar-parrikars-health-has-deteriorated-but-he-is-stable-vijai-sardesai-203759">Goa</a> BJP Sunday met to finalize candidates for the two Lok Sabha seats in the coastal state. 
 
Elections to the two Lok Sabha seats and three Assembly seats in Goa will be held on April 23. 
 
Assembly Speaker Pramod Sawant said names have been finalized for the North Goa and South Goa seats but refused to reveal who they were. 
 
He said the two names finalized would be sent to the party high command in Delhi which will make the official announcement. 
 
North Goa and South Goa are currently with the BJP and are represented by Union AYUSH Minister Shripad Naik and Narendra Sawaikar respectively. 
 
With Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar ailing and his health deteriorating on Saturday, leaders said there was no discussion on leadership change. 
 
BJP Goa general secretary Sadanand Tanavade said it was a meeting to shortlist Lok Sabha candidates and no discussion took place on the leadership issue. 
 
However, former state minister and core committee member Dayanand Mandrekar said there was a need for leadership change as Parrikar was not keeping well.&nbsp;

The core committee of the Goa BJP Sunday met to finalize candidates for the two Lok Sabha seats in the coastal state. Elections to the two Lok Sabha seats and three Assembly seats in Goa will be held on April 23.

The core committee of the Goa BJP Sunday met to finalize candidates for the two Lok Sabha seats in the coastal state. Elections to the two Lok Sabha seats and three Assembly seats in Goa will be held on April 23. Assembly Speaker Pramod Sawant said names have been finalized for the North Goa and South Goa seats but refused to reveal who they were. He said the two names finalized would be sent to the party high command in Delhi which will make the official announcement. North Goa and South Goa are currently with the BJP and are represented by Union AYUSH Minister Shripad Naik and Narendra Sawaikar respectively. With Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar ailing and his health deteriorating on Saturday, leaders said there was no discussion on leadership change. BJP Goa general secretary Sadanand Tanavade said it was a meeting to shortlist Lok Sabha candidates and no discussion took place on the leadership issue. However, former state minister and core committee member Dayanand Mandrekar said there was a need for leadership change as Parrikar was not keeping well.

Lok Sabha polls: Goa BJP finalises names of candidates for two seats in state

Starting Monday, commuters of the Delhi Metro can participate in an online survey conducted by a global transport body across various parameters, including availability, accessibility, and security, officials said Sunday. 
 
The Railway and Transport Strategy Centre (RTSC) in London, which manages CoMET (Community of Metros) and Nova benchmarking groups, will be conducting the 'Sixth Online Customer Satisfaction Survey' from March 18 to April 14. 
 
'The main objective of the survey is to know what the commuters think about various aspects of metro operations, and can give feedback or suggestions on improving the quality of service,'&nbsp;the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said in a statement. 
 
Commuters who wish to participate in the survey can visit DMRC's official website and submit it online by clicking on the relevant links. The survey form will be available in both English and Hindi, it said. 
 
The commuters will be able to give their feedback on all the important aspects of metro functioning such as -- availability, accessibility, reliability, information availability, quality of service, customer care, safety and security, ease of use, information prior to travel and during the travel, comfort, and crowding, it added. 
 
'This kind of survey organized by the RTSC is being conducted by metros across the world at the same time to find out what their passengers think of the service they provide," the DMRC said. 
 
'These metro organizations will compare the results of the surveys so that they can learn from each other and work toward giving customers even better service,'&nbsp;it said.

Starting Monday, commuters of the Delhi Metro can participate in an online survey conducted by a global transport body across various parameters, including availability, accessibility, and security, officials said Sunday.

Starting Monday, commuters of the Delhi Metro can participate in an online survey conducted by a global transport body across various parameters, including availability, accessibility, and security, officials said Sunday. The Railway and Transport Strategy Centre (RTSC) in London, which manages CoMET (Community of Metros) and Nova benchmarking groups, will be conducting the 'Sixth Online Customer Satisfaction Survey' from March 18 to April 14. 'The main objective of the survey is to know what the commuters think about various aspects of metro operations, and can give feedback or suggestions on improving the quality of service,' the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) said in a statement. Commuters who wish to participate in the survey can visit DMRC's official website and submit it online by clicking on the relevant links. The survey form will be available in both English and Hindi, it said. The commuters will be able to give their feedback on all the important aspects of metro functioning such as -- availability, accessibility, reliability, information availability, quality of service, customer care, safety and security, ease of use, information prior to travel and during the travel, comfort, and crowding, it added. 'This kind of survey organized by the RTSC is being conducted by metros across the world at the same time to find out what their passengers think of the service they provide," the DMRC said. 'These metro organizations will compare the results of the surveys so that they can learn from each other and work toward giving customers even better service,' it said.

Delhi Metro to conduct customer satisfaction survey from March 18 to April 14

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday changed his name on his Twitter profile to 'Chowkidar' Narendra Modi, and a number of BJP bigwigs including party president Amit Shah and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal followed suit.&nbsp;

Modi had first referred to himself as the chowkidar (watchman) of the nation in the run-up to the 2014 general elections. "Na khaoonga, na khaane doonga (I will not be corrupt, I will not let others be corrupt)," he had said then. &nbsp;

"<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/your-chowkidar-is-standing-firm-and-serving-nation-pm-modi-203679">Your Chowkidar is standing firm &amp; serving the nation</a>," Modi had tweeted on Saturday.&nbsp;

"But, I am not alone," he said. "Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar."&nbsp;

"Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he added.&nbsp;

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Your Chowkidar is standing firm &amp; serving the nation. 
 
But, I am not alone. 
 
Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. 
 
Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. 
 
Today, every Indian is saying-<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MainBhiChowkidar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MainBhiChowkidar</a>
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1106759555315314689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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जिसने बनाया स्वच्छता को संस्कार...वो है चौकीदार। <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MainBhiChowkidar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MainBhiChowkidar</a> 
 
कहो दिल से <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChowkidarPhirSe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChowkidarPhirSe</a> <a href="https://t.co/jLqn6atvXR">pic.twitter.com/jLqn6atvXR</a>
— Chowkidar Amit Shah (@AmitShah) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmitShah/status/1107163540291571712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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As Chowkidars of our nation, we are committed to creating a clean economy by using cashless financial transactions. 
 
The menace of corruption and black money has adversely affected us for decades. Time to eliminate these for a better future. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MainBhiChowkidar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MainBhiChowkidar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChowkidarPhirSe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChowkidarPhirSe</a> <a href="https://t.co/y44vwyM4xs">pic.twitter.com/y44vwyM4xs</a>
— Chowkidar Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1107160729403252736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The others to add the prefix 'Chowkidar' to their Twitter profiles Sunday included BJP president Amit Shah, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, and Health Minister JP Nadda.&nbsp;

"As Chowkidars of our nation, we are committed to creating a clean economy by using cashless financial transactions," Goyal tweeted.&nbsp;

"The menace of corruption and black money has adversely affected us for decades. Time to eliminate these for a better future," he added.&nbsp;

Modi's adding of the prefix 'Chowkidar' to his name on Twitter is being seen as a response to Congress president Rahul Gandhi's allegation that "Chowkidar chor hai".&nbsp;

Rahul has for some time now been attacking Modi over the Rafale deal, especially the choosing of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as an offset partner of Dassault Aviation — the French manufacturer of the Rafales — considering Ambani's firm has no experience in the defence or aerospace industries.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday changed his name on his Twitter profile to 'Chowkidar' Narendra Modi, and a number of BJP bigwigs including party president Amit Shah and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal followed suit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday changed his name on his Twitter profile to 'Chowkidar' Narendra Modi, and a number of BJP bigwigs including party president Amit Shah and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal followed suit. Modi had first referred to himself as the chowkidar (watchman) of the nation in the run-up to the 2014 general elections. "Na khaoonga, na khaane doonga (I will not be corrupt, I will not let others be corrupt)," he had said then. "Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation," Modi had tweeted on Saturday. "But, I am not alone," he said. "Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar." "Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar," he added. Your Chowkidar is standing firm & serving the nation. But, I am not alone. Everyone who is fighting corruption, dirt, social evils is a Chowkidar. Everyone working hard for the progress of India is a Chowkidar. Today, every Indian is saying-#MainBhiChowkidar — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2019 × जिसने बनाया स्वच्छता को संस्कार...वो है चौकीदार। #MainBhiChowkidar कहो दिल से #ChowkidarPhirSe pic.twitter.com/jLqn6atvXR — Chowkidar Amit Shah (@AmitShah) March 17, 2019 × As Chowkidars of our nation, we are committed to creating a clean economy by using cashless financial transactions. The menace of corruption and black money has adversely affected us for decades. Time to eliminate these for a better future. #MainBhiChowkidar #ChowkidarPhirSe pic.twitter.com/y44vwyM4xs — Chowkidar Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) March 17, 2019 × The others to add the prefix 'Chowkidar' to their Twitter profiles Sunday included BJP president Amit Shah, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal, and Health Minister JP Nadda. "As Chowkidars of our nation, we are committed to creating a clean economy by using cashless financial transactions," Goyal tweeted. "The menace of corruption and black money has adversely affected us for decades. Time to eliminate these for a better future," he added. Modi's adding of the prefix 'Chowkidar' to his name on Twitter is being seen as a response to Congress president Rahul Gandhi's allegation that "Chowkidar chor hai". Rahul has for some time now been attacking Modi over the Rafale deal, especially the choosing of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as an offset partner of Dassault Aviation — the French manufacturer of the Rafales — considering Ambani's firm has no experience in the defence or aerospace industries.

PM changes name on Twitter to 'Chowkidar' Narendra Modi; Amit Shah, Piyush Goyal follow suit

The name of former Supreme Court judge Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose is said to be in active consideration for appointment as the chief of country's first Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman, officials said Sunday.

Justice Ghose, who retired from the Supreme Court in May 2017, is a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

His name for the post is understood to be in active consideration by the Lokpal selection panel headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, they said.

There was no official announcement of his appointment by the government.

His appointment, if made by the government, may trigger a controversy as Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge had boycotted the selection panel's meet on Friday.

The Lokpal Act, which envisages the establishment of anti-graft body Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in states to look into cases of corruption against certain categories of public servants, was passed in 2013.&nbsp;

The name of former Supreme Court judge Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose is said to be in active consideration for appointment as the chief of country's first Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman, officials said Sunday.

The name of former Supreme Court judge Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose is said to be in active consideration for appointment as the chief of country's first Lokpal, the anti-corruption ombudsman, officials said Sunday. Justice Ghose, who retired from the Supreme Court in May 2017, is a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). His name for the post is understood to be in active consideration by the Lokpal selection panel headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, they said. There was no official announcement of his appointment by the government. His appointment, if made by the government, may trigger a controversy as Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge had boycotted the selection panel's meet on Friday. The Lokpal Act, which envisages the establishment of anti-graft body Lokpal at the Centre and Lokayuktas in states to look into cases of corruption against certain categories of public servants, was passed in 2013.

Former SC judge Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose tipped to be India's first Lokpal

A carnage in far way New Zealand has left three families grieving in Gujarat as four of their relatives are among those killed in the shootings at two mosques in Christchurch that shook the world. 
 
At least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-indians-confirmed-dead-in-new-zealand-terror-attack-death-toll-rises-to-50-203766">50 people were killed</a> in the ghastly terror attack on Friday as worshippers gathered for weekly prayers. 
 
Two of the deceased were natives of Bharuch and Navsari districts in Gujarat. 
 
Besides, a father-son duo killed in the attack hailed from Vadodara and their family back home is shattered and finding it hard to cope with the loss of two of their members in the gun attack on a mosque in New Zealand last Friday. 
 
Yasmeen Vora from Vadodara said their relative Arif Vora (58) went to New Zealand with his wife on February 14 to see their son Rameez Vora (28), who was recently blessed with a baby boy. 
 
Rameez Vora, who was settled in New Zealand, took his parents to offer Friday prayers at the mosque when the incident took place, she said. 
 
'Arif's other son Raheel, who lives in Australia, confirmed that both Arif Bhai and Rameez were killed in the attack,'&nbsp;said the distraught woman. 
 
The family members approached Lok Sabha member from Vadodara, Ranjan Bhatt, who has assured help, she said. 
 
Equally, heart-wrenching is the case of deceased Hafiz Musa Patel (56), an Imam hailing from Luwara village in Bharuch, who had gone to New Zealand only a few weeks back as he was planning to settle there, his relative Ayub Ghadi said. 
 
Patel was living in Fiji for the last three decades. His two daughters and three sons are settled in Australia and New Zealand. 
 
'He went to New Zealand three weeks ago after his citizenship there was confirmed,'&nbsp;Ghadi said. 
 
'He had gone to the mosque to offer Friday prayers with his wife and a friend when the shooting happened. Bullets hit Patel's back following which he was shifted to a hospital in Christchurch where he succumbed,'&nbsp;he said. 
 
Besides, Juned Kara from Navsari was also among those killed in the attack, district Superintendent of Police Girish Pandya said. 
 
'Kara, a native of Adada village in Navsari, was among those killed in the attack. It was confirmed last night'&nbsp;Pandya said.

A carnage in far way New Zealand has left three families grieving in Gujarat as four of their relatives are among those killed in the shootings at two mosques in Christchurch that shook the world.

A carnage in far way New Zealand has left three families grieving in Gujarat as four of their relatives are among those killed in the shootings at two mosques in Christchurch that shook the world. At least 50 people were killed in the ghastly terror attack on Friday as worshippers gathered for weekly prayers. Two of the deceased were natives of Bharuch and Navsari districts in Gujarat. Besides, a father-son duo killed in the attack hailed from Vadodara and their family back home is shattered and finding it hard to cope with the loss of two of their members in the gun attack on a mosque in New Zealand last Friday. Yasmeen Vora from Vadodara said their relative Arif Vora (58) went to New Zealand with his wife on February 14 to see their son Rameez Vora (28), who was recently blessed with a baby boy. Rameez Vora, who was settled in New Zealand, took his parents to offer Friday prayers at the mosque when the incident took place, she said. 'Arif's other son Raheel, who lives in Australia, confirmed that both Arif Bhai and Rameez were killed in the attack,' said the distraught woman. The family members approached Lok Sabha member from Vadodara, Ranjan Bhatt, who has assured help, she said. Equally, heart-wrenching is the case of deceased Hafiz Musa Patel (56), an Imam hailing from Luwara village in Bharuch, who had gone to New Zealand only a few weeks back as he was planning to settle there, his relative Ayub Ghadi said. Patel was living in Fiji for the last three decades. His two daughters and three sons are settled in Australia and New Zealand. 'He went to New Zealand three weeks ago after his citizenship there was confirmed,' Ghadi said. 'He had gone to the mosque to offer Friday prayers with his wife and a friend when the shooting happened. Bullets hit Patel's back following which he was shifted to a hospital in Christchurch where he succumbed,' he said. Besides, Juned Kara from Navsari was also among those killed in the attack, district Superintendent of Police Girish Pandya said. 'Kara, a native of Adada village in Navsari, was among those killed in the attack. It was confirmed last night' Pandya said.

New Zealand attack: Three families in Gujarat mourn their relatives' death

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Lokpal Selection Committee has reportedly appointed former Supreme Court judge Pinaki Chandra Ghosh as the country's first Lokpal.&nbsp;

The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was notified in early 2014, but no one has been appointed to the post so far.

The government may make an announcement of the appointment of Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghosh as chairman of Lokpal on Monday.&nbsp;

Justice Ghose retired from the Supreme Court in May 2017. Before his elevation to the apex court, he was a Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court and Calcutta High Court. At present, he is a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

The Lokpal Act was notified in 2014 to form a panel of ombudsmen to look into cases of corruption and maladministration by public servants.

The Lokpal has the authority to probe complaints against current and former prime ministers, union ministers, Members of Parliament, government and PSU employees, and employees of non-governmental organisations receiving more than Rs 10 lakh-a-year in foreign contributions, among others.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Lokpal Selection Committee has reportedly appointed former Supreme Court judge Pinaki Chandra Ghosh as the country's first Lokpal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led Lokpal Selection Committee has reportedly appointed former Supreme Court judge Pinaki Chandra Ghosh as the country's first Lokpal. The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was notified in early 2014, but no one has been appointed to the post so far. The government may make an announcement of the appointment of Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghosh as chairman of Lokpal on Monday. Justice Ghose retired from the Supreme Court in May 2017. Before his elevation to the apex court, he was a Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court and Calcutta High Court. At present, he is a member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The Lokpal Act was notified in 2014 to form a panel of ombudsmen to look into cases of corruption and maladministration by public servants. The Lokpal has the authority to probe complaints against current and former prime ministers, union ministers, Members of Parliament, government and PSU employees, and employees of non-governmental organisations receiving more than Rs 10 lakh-a-year in foreign contributions, among others. (With inputs from agencies)

Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghosh to be appointed first Lokpal of India: Reports

Lok Sabha polls 2019: A closer look at the key constituents of the United Progressive Alliance

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