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Indian Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and other top officials of the Navy will embark on a three-day visit to the United Kingdom, starting Tuesday.

The upcoming visit of Admiral Lanba to the UK will integrate existing maritime cooperation initiatives as well as explore new avenues.

It also aims to take forward the vision that was set forth during Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s visit to the UK in November 2015.

During the three-day visit, Admiral Lanba is scheduled to hold discussions with the Chief of Defence Staff, the UK in London and the First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff of the Royal Navy at Portsmouth.

He is also scheduled to visit the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) in London, RN Submarine Rescue Facility at Glasgow and interact with the organisers of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh.

In 1995, with the constitution of Indo-UK Defence Consultative Group (DCG) and the Group (MSG) a two-tier structure of cooperation was established to progress various areas of defence cooperation.

In September 2004, the two countries had inked a pact to embark upon strategic partnership which prominently figured by defence cooperation.

The ‘Service-level Staff Talks’ forum is officially known as ‘Executive Steering Group’ which is the primary mechanism for enhancing cooperation between the two Armed forces.

Indian Navy and Royal Navy are partners in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a Maritime Cooperation construct conceptualised and pioneered by Indian Navy in 2008.

RN participated in the 10th-anniversary celebrations of IONS at Kochi in November 2018.

The bilateral naval exercise KONKAN is a significant operational link between the two navies and is held every year, alternately off the coast of India and UK.

The two navies also interact on a host of issues like training, doctrinal concepts and Maritime Domain Awareness.&nbsp;

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and other top officials of the Navy will embark on a three-day visit to the United Kingdom, starting Tuesday. The upcoming visit of Admiral Lanba to the UK will integrate existing maritime cooperation initiatives as well as explore new avenues.

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba and other top officials of the Navy will embark on a three-day visit to the United Kingdom, starting Tuesday. The upcoming visit of Admiral Lanba to the UK will integrate existing maritime cooperation initiatives as well as explore new avenues. It also aims to take forward the vision that was set forth during Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s visit to the UK in November 2015. During the three-day visit, Admiral Lanba is scheduled to hold discussions with the Chief of Defence Staff, the UK in London and the First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff of the Royal Navy at Portsmouth. He is also scheduled to visit the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) in London, RN Submarine Rescue Facility at Glasgow and interact with the organisers of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh. In 1995, with the constitution of Indo-UK Defence Consultative Group (DCG) and the Group (MSG) a two-tier structure of cooperation was established to progress various areas of defence cooperation. In September 2004, the two countries had inked a pact to embark upon strategic partnership which prominently figured by defence cooperation. The ‘Service-level Staff Talks’ forum is officially known as ‘Executive Steering Group’ which is the primary mechanism for enhancing cooperation between the two Armed forces. Indian Navy and Royal Navy are partners in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), a Maritime Cooperation construct conceptualised and pioneered by Indian Navy in 2008. RN participated in the 10th-anniversary celebrations of IONS at Kochi in November 2018. The bilateral naval exercise KONKAN is a significant operational link between the two navies and is held every year, alternately off the coast of India and UK. The two navies also interact on a host of issues like training, doctrinal concepts and Maritime Domain Awareness.

Navy Chief to embark on 3-day UK visit on Tuesday

Sanjana Singh, a transgender woman, has been appointed the personal secretary (PS) to Krishna Gopal Tiwari, Director, Department of Social Justice and Disabled Welfare (DSJDW), Madhya Pradesh government.

With this feat, Sanjana, known for proactively participating in social events in the city, has become the first transgender in the state to get a government job.

The 36-year-old transgender was appointed on March 1 by Tiwari. She has also been made a legal volunteer of the District Legal Authority, and a member of the Lok Adalat, where she will hear the pending cases along with the judge.

Sanjana, who hails from the city’s Ashoka Garden area, had to quit studies after Class XII, but lately as sources told ANI she has resumed her studies.

Talking to ANI, Sanjana said, “Tiwari Ji has taken a good step. In the coming days, the people of our community will get better opportunities. If our community is given enough opportunities, we can do a lot for the society.”

“This is a small change. In the future, there will be bigger changes,” she said while asking for reservation for the transgender community in the government jobs.

“If the reservation can be provided to others, then why not to us,” she asked, adding that there was a need to spread awareness in the society about transgender.

“If the society does not accept us, we will not be able to break our barriers,” she said.&nbsp;

Sanjana Singh, a transgender woman, has been appointed the personal secretary (PS) to Krishna Gopal Tiwari, Director, Department of Social Justice and Disabled Welfare (DSJDW), Madhya Pradesh government.

Sanjana Singh, a transgender woman, has been appointed the personal secretary (PS) to Krishna Gopal Tiwari, Director, Department of Social Justice and Disabled Welfare (DSJDW), Madhya Pradesh government. With this feat, Sanjana, known for proactively participating in social events in the city, has become the first transgender in the state to get a government job. The 36-year-old transgender was appointed on March 1 by Tiwari. She has also been made a legal volunteer of the District Legal Authority, and a member of the Lok Adalat, where she will hear the pending cases along with the judge. Sanjana, who hails from the city’s Ashoka Garden area, had to quit studies after Class XII, but lately as sources told ANI she has resumed her studies. Talking to ANI, Sanjana said, “Tiwari Ji has taken a good step. In the coming days, the people of our community will get better opportunities. If our community is given enough opportunities, we can do a lot for the society.” “This is a small change. In the future, there will be bigger changes,” she said while asking for reservation for the transgender community in the government jobs. “If the reservation can be provided to others, then why not to us,” she asked, adding that there was a need to spread awareness in the society about transgender. “If the society does not accept us, we will not be able to break our barriers,” she said.

Meet Sanjana Singh, first transgender to get government job in Madhya Pradesh

India-Afghanistan air corridor was expanded on Monday to Herat with the launch of &nbsp;Herat-NewDelhi air corridor. It was inaugurated by Governor of Herat Abdul Qaiyoum Rahimi, Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry Minister of Afganistan Ajmal Rahimzai and India's Consul General to Herat Kumar Gaurav. Air freight of 200 kilograms of Afghan saffron and 1600 kilogram of pistachios reached Delhi via the corridor on Monday.

Herat, situated in Northwestern Afghanistan, is the third largest city of the landlocked South Asian country. The air corridor will help the products from the region get a huge market in India.

Speaking to WION from Herat, CG Kumar Gaurav said, "It is a great step in the regional connectivity in the face of denial of transit rights for Afghan imports and exports by Pakistan."

"Such initiatives of air corridors and a fully operational Chabahar route will transcend the petty barriers created by the common neighbour of India and Afghanistan," he added.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been denying an overland route for India-Afghanistan trade due to which both countries decided to open an air corridor.&nbsp;

The establishment of an air freight corridor between India and Afghanistan was discussed during the visits of Afgan President Ashraf Ghani to India in September and December 2016.

The corridor was formally launched on June 19, 2017, with the first cargo flight going from Kabul to Delhi. Subsequently, the corridor was expanded to Kandahar with the first flight between Delhi and the Afghan city talking place on June 24, 2017.

Other than the air corridor, India has been connected to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port in Iran. The port was taken under Indian operations in December 2018 with Afghan goods being officially sent to India from February 2019.

India-Afghanistan air corridor was expanded on Monday to Herat with the launch of Herat-NewDelhi air corridor. It was inaugurated by Governor of Herat Abdul Qaiyoum Rahimi, Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry Minister of Afganistan Ajmal Rahimzai and India's Consul General to Herat Kumar Gaurav.

India-Afghanistan air corridor was expanded on Monday to Herat with the launch of Herat-NewDelhi air corridor. It was inaugurated by Governor of Herat Abdul Qaiyoum Rahimi, Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry Minister of Afganistan Ajmal Rahimzai and India's Consul General to Herat Kumar Gaurav. Air freight of 200 kilograms of Afghan saffron and 1600 kilogram of pistachios reached Delhi via the corridor on Monday. Herat, situated in Northwestern Afghanistan, is the third largest city of the landlocked South Asian country. The air corridor will help the products from the region get a huge market in India. Speaking to WION from Herat, CG Kumar Gaurav said, "It is a great step in the regional connectivity in the face of denial of transit rights for Afghan imports and exports by Pakistan." "Such initiatives of air corridors and a fully operational Chabahar route will transcend the petty barriers created by the common neighbour of India and Afghanistan," he added. Pakistan has been denying an overland route for India-Afghanistan trade due to which both countries decided to open an air corridor. The establishment of an air freight corridor between India and Afghanistan was discussed during the visits of Afgan President Ashraf Ghani to India in September and December 2016. The corridor was formally launched on June 19, 2017, with the first cargo flight going from Kabul to Delhi. Subsequently, the corridor was expanded to Kandahar with the first flight between Delhi and the Afghan city talking place on June 24, 2017. Other than the air corridor, India has been connected to Afghanistan via the Chabahar port in Iran. The port was taken under Indian operations in December 2018 with Afghan goods being officially sent to India from February 2019.

India, Afghan air corridor expanded to Herat

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale began a three-day visit to the US on Monday during which he will meet senior officials of the Trump administration and exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments, officials said.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Gokhale is visiting Washington in connection with bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his American counterparts.

During his visit, Gokhale is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress, he said in response to a query on the foreign secretary's visit.

The foreign secretary's visit to the US comes in the backdrop of growing tension between India and Pakistan.

"Foreign Secretary is visiting Washington DC on March 11-13 in connection with the bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his US counterparts, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale and Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Andrea Thompson respectively," Kumar said.

"These are regular high-level dialogue mechanisms to review bilateral relations, exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments and coordinate respective positions on issues of common interest," he said.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan on February 26.

Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans.

The Indian strike on the JeM camp was carried out 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers.&nbsp;

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale began a three-day visit to the US on Monday during which he will meet senior officials of the Trump administration and exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments, officials said.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale began a three-day visit to the US on Monday during which he will meet senior officials of the Trump administration and exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments, officials said. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said Gokhale is visiting Washington in connection with bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his American counterparts. During his visit, Gokhale is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress, he said in response to a query on the foreign secretary's visit. The foreign secretary's visit to the US comes in the backdrop of growing tension between India and Pakistan. "Foreign Secretary is visiting Washington DC on March 11-13 in connection with the bilateral foreign office consultation and strategic security dialogue with his US counterparts, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale and Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Andrea Thompson respectively," Kumar said. "These are regular high-level dialogue mechanisms to review bilateral relations, exchange views on major foreign policy and security-related developments and coordinate respective positions on issues of common interest," he said. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan on February 26. Pakistan retaliated by attempting to target Indian military installations next day. However, the IAF thwarted their plans. The Indian strike on the JeM camp was carried out 12 days after the terror outfit claimed responsibility for the Pulwama terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale begins three-day visit to US, likely to meet Pompeo

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist and one of the masterminds of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/over-200-kg-of-explosives-was-used-in-pulwamas-terror-attack-197469">Pulwama attack </a>Mudasir Ahmed Khan, alias ‘Mohd Bhai’ is believed to be killed in an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-can-india-respond-like-israel-197942">encounter in the </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-can-india-respond-like-israel-197942">Tral</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-terror-attack-can-india-respond-like-israel-197942"> </a>area of Jammu and Kashmir.

Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area.

As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight.

In the encounter, so far dead bodies of two terrorists have been retrieved from the site of encounter.&nbsp;

From the incriminating materials recovered at the site of the encounter, it is understood that the terrorists have affiliated with proscribed terror outfit JeM.&nbsp;

Their identities are being ascertained. Search is going on at the site of the encounter.

A resident of Mir Mohalla of Tral, Khan joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed sometime in 2017 as an overground worker and was later drawn into the JeM fold by Noor Mohammed Tantrey, alias ‘Noor Trali’, who is believed to have helped in the revival of the terror outfit in Kashmir Valley.

After Tantray was killed in December 2017, Khan disappeared from his home on January 14, 2018, and has been active since then.

Suicide attacker Adil Ahmed Dar, who blew his explosive-laden vehicle next to a bus in a CRPF convoy on February 14, had been in constant contact with Khan, they said.

(With inputs from PTI)

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist and one of the masterminds of Pulwama attack Mudasir Ahmed Khan, alias ‘Mohd Bhai’ is believed to be killed in an encounter in the Tral area of Jammu and Kashmir.

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist and one of the masterminds of Pulwama attack Mudasir Ahmed Khan, alias ‘Mohd Bhai’ is believed to be killed in an encounter in the Tral area of Jammu and Kashmir. Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area. As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. In the encounter, so far dead bodies of two terrorists have been retrieved from the site of encounter. From the incriminating materials recovered at the site of the encounter, it is understood that the terrorists have affiliated with proscribed terror outfit JeM. Their identities are being ascertained. Search is going on at the site of the encounter. A resident of Mir Mohalla of Tral, Khan joined the Jaish-e-Mohammed sometime in 2017 as an overground worker and was later drawn into the JeM fold by Noor Mohammed Tantrey, alias ‘Noor Trali’, who is believed to have helped in the revival of the terror outfit in Kashmir Valley. After Tantray was killed in December 2017, Khan disappeared from his home on January 14, 2018, and has been active since then. Suicide attacker Adil Ahmed Dar, who blew his explosive-laden vehicle next to a bus in a CRPF convoy on February 14, had been in constant contact with Khan, they said. (With inputs from PTI)

Pulwama attack mastermind Mudasir believed to be killed in encounter: J&K Police

Russia's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-does-russia-have-what-it-takes-to-be-a-global-superpower-33363">arms export</a> to India fell by a whopping 42 per cent between 2014-18 and 2009-2013, according to a new report.

As a result, Russia accounted for 58 per cent of total Indian arms imports in 2014-2018, compared with 76 per cent in 2009-2013, according to the report "Trends in International Arms Transfers, 2018" released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's effort to reduce country's dependence on foreign arms, India's import of arms decreased by 24 per cent between 2009-2013 and 2014-2018, according to the figures released by the report.

This decline in India's import is also partly due to delays in deliveries of arms produced under license from foreign suppliers, such as combat aircraft ordered from Russia in 2001 and submarines ordered from France in 2008.

Still, India was the world's second largest importer of major arms in 2014-18 and accounted for 9.5 per cent of the global total.

Israel, the USA and France all increased their arms exports to India in 2014-18.

Pakistan's arms imports decreased by 39 per cent between 2009-13 and 2014-18. The US has become increasingly reluctant to provide military aid or sell arms to Pakistan. US arms exports to Pakistan fell by 81 per cent between 2009-13 and 2014-18, it said.

Pakistan has instead turned to other suppliers. For example, in 2018 it ordered 4 frigates and 30 combat helicopters from Turkey, it added.

The decrease in India's arms import is significant given that the volume of international transfers of major arms in 2014-18 was 7.8 per cent higher than in 2009-13 and 23 per cent higher than in 2004-2008.

The five largest exporters in 2014-18 were the United States, Russia, France, Germany and China. The five largest importers were Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, Australia and Algeria.

The US was the top arms exporter in 2014-18 and 2009-13. Its exports of major arms grew by 29 per cent between the two periods and its share of total global exports rose from 30 per cent to 36 per cent. As a result, the gap between the USA and Russia - the second largest exporter - continued to widen.

In 2009-13, US exports of major arms were 12 per cent higher than those of Russia, whereas in 2014-18 they were 75 per cent higher.

Russian exports of major arms decreased by 17 per cent between the same periods.

The fall was partly due to general reductions in Indian and Venezuelan arms imports - two countries that have been among the main recipients of Russian arms exports in previous years, the SIPRI said.

"Although India remained the chief recipient of Russian arms in 2014-18, Russian arms exports to India fell by 42 per cent between 2014-18 and 2009-13. Arms exports to Venezuela, which was the fifth largest recipient of Russian arms in 2009-13, decreased by 96 per cent between the two periods," it said.

Russia's arms export to India fell by a whopping 42 per cent between 2014-18 and 2009-2013, according to a new report. As a result, Russia accounted for 58 per cent of total Indian arms imports in 2014-2018, compared with 76 per cent in 2009-2013, according to the report "Trends in International Arms Transfers, 2018" released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

Russia's arms export to India fell by a whopping 42 per cent between 2014-18 and 2009-2013, according to a new report. As a result, Russia accounted for 58 per cent of total Indian arms imports in 2014-2018, compared with 76 per cent in 2009-2013, according to the report "Trends in International Arms Transfers, 2018" released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's effort to reduce country's dependence on foreign arms, India's import of arms decreased by 24 per cent between 2009-2013 and 2014-2018, according to the figures released by the report. This decline in India's import is also partly due to delays in deliveries of arms produced under license from foreign suppliers, such as combat aircraft ordered from Russia in 2001 and submarines ordered from France in 2008. Still, India was the world's second largest importer of major arms in 2014-18 and accounted for 9.5 per cent of the global total. Israel, the USA and France all increased their arms exports to India in 2014-18. Pakistan's arms imports decreased by 39 per cent between 2009-13 and 2014-18. The US has become increasingly reluctant to provide military aid or sell arms to Pakistan. US arms exports to Pakistan fell by 81 per cent between 2009-13 and 2014-18, it said. Pakistan has instead turned to other suppliers. For example, in 2018 it ordered 4 frigates and 30 combat helicopters from Turkey, it added. The decrease in India's arms import is significant given that the volume of international transfers of major arms in 2014-18 was 7.8 per cent higher than in 2009-13 and 23 per cent higher than in 2004-2008. The five largest exporters in 2014-18 were the United States, Russia, France, Germany and China. The five largest importers were Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, Australia and Algeria. The US was the top arms exporter in 2014-18 and 2009-13. Its exports of major arms grew by 29 per cent between the two periods and its share of total global exports rose from 30 per cent to 36 per cent. As a result, the gap between the USA and Russia - the second largest exporter - continued to widen. In 2009-13, US exports of major arms were 12 per cent higher than those of Russia, whereas in 2014-18 they were 75 per cent higher. Russian exports of major arms decreased by 17 per cent between the same periods. The fall was partly due to general reductions in Indian and Venezuelan arms imports - two countries that have been among the main recipients of Russian arms exports in previous years, the SIPRI said. "Although India remained the chief recipient of Russian arms in 2014-18, Russian arms exports to India fell by 42 per cent between 2014-18 and 2009-13. Arms exports to Venezuela, which was the fifth largest recipient of Russian arms in 2009-13, decreased by 96 per cent between the two periods," it said.

Russian arms exports to India fell by 42% between 2014-18 and 2009-13: Report

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terror and to dismantle terror infrastructure in the country.&nbsp;

According to a statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs after a meeting between India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo in Washington, the two "agreed that Pakistan needs to take concerted action to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure and to deny safe haven to all terrorist groups in its territory".

The two also agreed that those "who support or abet terrorism in any form should be held accountable".&nbsp;

The announcements come against the backdrop of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/awantipora-crpf-convoy-hit-by-explosives-laden-vehicle-several-jawans-killed-197418">February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack</a> for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group has claimed responsibility.&nbsp;

Gokhale conveyed his appreciation to the US government and to Secretary Pompeo "personally for the firm support that India received from the US" in the aftermath of the Pulwama terrorist attack. Secretary Pompeo in turn expressed his "understanding of India's concerns regarding cross-border terrorism."

On trade, the foreign secretary "underscored the significant reduction in trade deficit" in the last three years and conveyed "India's willingness to remain engaged with the US for a meaningful and mutually acceptable package".&nbsp;

Remember, the US announced recently that it would withdraw the Generalised System of Preferences (duty benefits which Washington gives to many countries) it accords to India. The withdrawal will come into effect in about 60 days.

Gokhale and Pompeo also discussed the Afghan peace process and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

Gokhale is in Washington from March 11 to 13 for the bilateral Foreign Office Consultation and Strategic Security Dialogue with his US counterpart. During his visit, the foreign secretary is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress.&nbsp;

US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo had visited India in September of 2018 for the first-ever 2+2 Dialogue.&nbsp;

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terror and to dismantle terror infrastructure in the country. According to a statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs after a meeting between India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo in Washington, the two "agreed that Pakistan needs to take concerted action to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure and to deny safe haven to all terrorist groups in its territory".

India and the United States have called on Pakistan to act on terror and to dismantle terror infrastructure in the country. According to a statement released by India's Ministry of External Affairs after a meeting between India's Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and US Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo in Washington, the two "agreed that Pakistan needs to take concerted action to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure and to deny safe haven to all terrorist groups in its territory". The two also agreed that those "who support or abet terrorism in any form should be held accountable". The announcements come against the backdrop of the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack for which the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group has claimed responsibility. Gokhale conveyed his appreciation to the US government and to Secretary Pompeo "personally for the firm support that India received from the US" in the aftermath of the Pulwama terrorist attack. Secretary Pompeo in turn expressed his "understanding of India's concerns regarding cross-border terrorism." On trade, the foreign secretary "underscored the significant reduction in trade deficit" in the last three years and conveyed "India's willingness to remain engaged with the US for a meaningful and mutually acceptable package". Remember, the US announced recently that it would withdraw the Generalised System of Preferences (duty benefits which Washington gives to many countries) it accords to India. The withdrawal will come into effect in about 60 days. Gokhale and Pompeo also discussed the Afghan peace process and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Gokhale is in Washington from March 11 to 13 for the bilateral Foreign Office Consultation and Strategic Security Dialogue with his US counterpart. During his visit, the foreign secretary is also likely to meet with senior leaders in the US administration and US Congress. US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo had visited India in September of 2018 for the first-ever 2+2 Dialogue.

India, US ask Pakistan to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, deny safe haven to terror groups

Aviation regulator DGCA on Monday issued additional safety instructions to SpiceJet and Jet Airways for operating Boeing 737 MAX planes.

The pilot commanding the aircraft should have at least 1,000 hours of flying experience, according to the DGCA directions.

A day after a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-airlines-crash-four-indians-identified-but-still-missing-202467">737 MAX aircraft crashed in Ethiopia</a> killing 157 people, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said interim safety measures are being taken with inputs available at this stage.

"The DGCA will continue to closely monitor the situation and may impose/ take any other operational/ maintenance measures/ restrictions based on the information received from accident investigation agency/ FAA/ Boeing," the regulator said in a statement.

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DGCA issued circular for additional actions &amp; said it will continue to closely monitor the situation and may impose/ take any other operational/ maintenance measures/ restrictions based on the information received from accident investigation agency/ FAA/ Boeing <a href="https://t.co/X9Y90krGtq">https://t.co/X9Y90krGtq</a>
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The watchdog has also asked the airlines to ensure various requirements are complied with by engineering and maintenance personnel with respect to 737 MAX planes.

The operators have to ensure that no B737&nbsp;8 MAX aircraft in their fleet is operated without compliance with DGCA's latest directions with effect from 1200 hours on March 12, the statement said.&nbsp;

Aviation regulator DGCA on Monday issued additional safety instructions to SpiceJet and Jet Airways for operating Boeing 737 MAX planes. The pilot commanding the aircraft should have at least 1,000 hours of flying experience, according to the DGCA directions.

Aviation regulator DGCA on Monday issued additional safety instructions to SpiceJet and Jet Airways for operating Boeing 737 MAX planes. The pilot commanding the aircraft should have at least 1,000 hours of flying experience, according to the DGCA directions. A day after a 737 MAX aircraft crashed in Ethiopia killing 157 people, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said interim safety measures are being taken with inputs available at this stage. "The DGCA will continue to closely monitor the situation and may impose/ take any other operational/ maintenance measures/ restrictions based on the information received from accident investigation agency/ FAA/ Boeing," the regulator said in a statement. DGCA issued circular for additional actions & said it will continue to closely monitor the situation and may impose/ take any other operational/ maintenance measures/ restrictions based on the information received from accident investigation agency/ FAA/ Boeing https://t.co/X9Y90krGtq — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The watchdog has also asked the airlines to ensure various requirements are complied with by engineering and maintenance personnel with respect to 737 MAX planes. The operators have to ensure that no B737 8 MAX aircraft in their fleet is operated without compliance with DGCA's latest directions with effect from 1200 hours on March 12, the statement said.

Only pilots with 1,000 hours of flying experience to operate Boeing 737 Max: DGCA after Ethiopia crash

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">Pulwama attack mastermind Mudasir believed to be killed in encounter: J&amp;K Police</a>

Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist and one of the masterminds of Pulwama attack Mudasir Ahmed Khan, alias ‘Mohd Bhai’ is believed to be killed in an encounter in the Tral area of Jammu and Kashmir.

Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-urges-india-to-stop-buying-oil-from-venezuelas-nicolas-maduro-government-top-envoy-202463">Urge India to stop buying oil from Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro government: US top envoy</a>

The United States is pressing India to stop buying oil from Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s government, Washington’s top envoy for Venezuela said, as the Trump administration this week threatened more US sanctions to cut off Maduro’s financial lifelines.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-over-15-crore-voters-of-the-total-electorate-in-18-19-age-group-202479">Lok Sabha polls 2019: Over 1.5 crore voters of the total electorate in </a><a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-over-15-crore-voters-of-the-total-electorate-in-18-19-age-group-202479">18-19</a><a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-over-15-crore-voters-of-the-total-electorate-in-18-19-age-group-202479"> age group</a>

Lok Sabha elections 2019 will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the Election Commission announced on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-orders-its-airlines-to-suspend-use-of-boeing-737-max-aircraft-202485">After Ethiopian Airlines crash, China suspends use of Boeing 737 Max aircraft</a>

China's aviation regulator said on Monday it had ordered Chinese airlines to suspend their Boeing Co 737 MAX aircraft operations by 6 pm following a deadly crash of a 737 MAX 8 operated by Ethiopian Airlines.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-ready-to-meet-kim-jong-un-again-for-denuclearisation-talks-white-house-202451">US President Donald Trump ready to meet Kim Jong Un again for denuclearisation talks: White House</a>

US President Donald Trump is ready to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un again for denuclearisation talks, the White House said, underlining that his decision to walk out of the Hanoi summit sent a signal to other countries as well that he is not desperate for a deal unless it is in America's interest.

Pulwama attack mastermind Mudasir believed to be killed in encounter: J&K Police Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist and one of the masterminds of Pulwama attack Mudasir Ahmed Khan, alias ‘Mohd Bhai’ is believed to be killed in an encounter in the Tral area of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pulwama attack mastermind Mudasir believed to be killed in encounter: J&K Police Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist and one of the masterminds of Pulwama attack Mudasir Ahmed Khan, alias ‘Mohd Bhai’ is believed to be killed in an encounter in the Tral area of Jammu and Kashmir. Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area. Urge India to stop buying oil from Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro government: US top envoy The United States is pressing India to stop buying oil from Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s government, Washington’s top envoy for Venezuela said, as the Trump administration this week threatened more US sanctions to cut off Maduro’s financial lifelines. Lok Sabha polls 2019: Over 1.5 crore voters of the total electorate in 18-19 age group Lok Sabha elections 2019 will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the Election Commission announced on Sunday. After Ethiopian Airlines crash, China suspends use of Boeing 737 Max aircraft China's aviation regulator said on Monday it had ordered Chinese airlines to suspend their Boeing Co 737 MAX aircraft operations by 6 pm following a deadly crash of a 737 MAX 8 operated by Ethiopian Airlines. US President Donald Trump ready to meet Kim Jong Un again for denuclearisation talks: White House US President Donald Trump is ready to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un again for denuclearisation talks, the White House said, underlining that his decision to walk out of the Hanoi summit sent a signal to other countries as well that he is not desperate for a deal unless it is in America's interest.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Lok Sabha <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2019-lok-sabha-elections-check-when-your-state-ut-goes-to-the-polls-202410">elections 2019</a> will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-to-stretch-out-for-over-a-month-from-april-11-to-may-19-results-on-may-23-202404">Election Commission</a> announced on Sunday.

The polling will be held on April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19 for 543 Lok Sabha seats across the country in which nearly 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote, the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said at a packed press conference here.

Out of nearly 90 crore voter in India over 1.5 crore electors are in 18-19 years age group.&nbsp;

"The total electorate in the country as per finally published e-rolls in January 2019 is approximately 900 million compared to 814.5 million in 2014. This marks an increase of more than 84 million electors. Over 15 million electors are in 18-19 years age group. Electors in the age group of 18 to 19 years constitute 1.66 per cent of total electors," the Election Commission said on Sunday.&nbsp;

In 2014, BJP had won 282 seats out of 543 constituencies in Lok Sabha handing a crushing defeat to the 10-year-rule of the United Progressive Alliance led by Congress.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will seek to retain power, the opposition is seeking to put up a spirited fight to defeat the ruling BJP.

Lok Sabha elections 2019 will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the Election Commission announced on Sunday.

Lok Sabha elections 2019 will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the Election Commission announced on Sunday. The polling will be held on April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19 for 543 Lok Sabha seats across the country in which nearly 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote, the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said at a packed press conference here. Out of nearly 90 crore voter in India over 1.5 crore electors are in 18-19 years age group. "The total electorate in the country as per finally published e-rolls in January 2019 is approximately 900 million compared to 814.5 million in 2014. This marks an increase of more than 84 million electors. Over 15 million electors are in 18-19 years age group. Electors in the age group of 18 to 19 years constitute 1.66 per cent of total electors," the Election Commission said on Sunday. In 2014, BJP had won 282 seats out of 543 constituencies in Lok Sabha handing a crushing defeat to the 10-year-rule of the United Progressive Alliance led by Congress. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will seek to retain power, the opposition is seeking to put up a spirited fight to defeat the ruling BJP.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Over 1.5 crore voters of the total electorate in 18-19 age group

2019 Lok Sabha polls: Social media dos and don'ts for parties, candidates

The indigenously developed Pinaka-guided rocket system was successfully test fired on Monday at Pokhran desert in Rajasthan, in a boost to artillery capability of the Army, the defence ministry said.

The weapon system is equipped with state-of-the-art guidance kit comprising of an advanced navigation and control system.&nbsp;

"The indigenously developed guided Pinaka, developed by DRDO, will significantly boost the capability of the artillery to make precision hits," the defence ministry said.

About the tests, it said the weapon systems impacted the intended targets with high precision and achieved desired accuracies.&nbsp;

"Telemetry systems tracked and monitored the vehicle all through the flight path. All the mission objectives have been met," the ministry said.&nbsp;

The indigenously developed Pinaka-guided rocket system was successfully test fired on Monday at Pokhran desert in Rajasthan, in a boost to artillery capability of the Army, the defence ministry said.

The indigenously developed Pinaka-guided rocket system was successfully test fired on Monday at Pokhran desert in Rajasthan, in a boost to artillery capability of the Army, the defence ministry said. The weapon system is equipped with state-of-the-art guidance kit comprising of an advanced navigation and control system. "The indigenously developed guided Pinaka, developed by DRDO, will significantly boost the capability of the artillery to make precision hits," the defence ministry said. About the tests, it said the weapon systems impacted the intended targets with high precision and achieved desired accuracies. "Telemetry systems tracked and monitored the vehicle all through the flight path. All the mission objectives have been met," the ministry said.

Pinaka-guided weapons system successfully test fired: Defence Ministry

The Enforcement Directorate said Monday it has attached a Paris-based property worth Rs 5.83 crore of the ex-wife of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vvip-chopper-case-delhi-court-seeks-tihars-reply-on-eds-plea-to-question-christian-michel-in-jail-202599">Christian Michel</a>, the alleged middleman arrested in the VVIP choppers scam case, under the anti-money laundering law.

It said a provisional order under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) has been issued to attach the asset at 45 Avenue, Victor Hugo in France and it is in the name of Ms SCI Solaime and belongs to Michel's ex-wife Valerie Michel.

The Enforcement Directorate alleged that the woman had received "proceeds of crime" of this scam from the accused, Michel.

The agency said its probe found that Michel "had transferred the amount received as kickbacks to various entities, including euro 9,22,185.76 (equivalent to Rs 5,83,40,422) to his ex-wife Valerie Michel and subsequently to SCI Solaime for investment in the&nbsp;purchase of the immovable property."

Michel was extradited from the UAE in December last year and was arrested by the ED. He is in judicial custody.

Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the Rs 3,600-crore case by ED and CBI. The others are foreign nationals - Guido Haschke and Carlos Gerosa.

The ED, in its charge sheet filed against Michel in June 2016, has alleged that he received euro 30 million, about Rs 225 crore, from AgustaWestland, the manufacturer of the helicopters.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate said Monday it has attached a Paris-based property worth Rs 5.83 crore of the ex-wife of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the VVIP choppers scam case, under the anti-money laundering law.

The Enforcement Directorate said Monday it has attached a Paris-based property worth Rs 5.83 crore of the ex-wife of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman arrested in the VVIP choppers scam case, under the anti-money laundering law. It said a provisional order under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) has been issued to attach the asset at 45 Avenue, Victor Hugo in France and it is in the name of Ms SCI Solaime and belongs to Michel's ex-wife Valerie Michel. The Enforcement Directorate alleged that the woman had received "proceeds of crime" of this scam from the accused, Michel. The agency said its probe found that Michel "had transferred the amount received as kickbacks to various entities, including euro 9,22,185.76 (equivalent to Rs 5,83,40,422) to his ex-wife Valerie Michel and subsequently to SCI Solaime for investment in the purchase of the immovable property." Michel was extradited from the UAE in December last year and was arrested by the ED. He is in judicial custody. Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the Rs 3,600-crore case by ED and CBI. The others are foreign nationals - Guido Haschke and Carlos Gerosa. The ED, in its charge sheet filed against Michel in June 2016, has alleged that he received euro 30 million, about Rs 225 crore, from AgustaWestland, the manufacturer of the helicopters.

VVIP choppers case: Enforcement Directorate attaches Paris property of Michel's ex-wife

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-pulwama-conspirator-killed-in-tral-encounter-today-44-terrorists-eliminated-in-first-70-days-of-2019-army-jk-police-202613">14 JeM terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army</a>

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator in the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the army's Chinar Corps, said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-in-jk-needs-to-be-tackled-militarily-first-talks-can-take-place-later-ram-madhav-202644">Terrorism in J&amp;K needs to be tackled militarily first. Talks can take place later: Ram Madhav</a>

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded.

“The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/black-box-from-crashed-ethiopian-airlines-flight-recovered-report-202611">Ethiopian Airlines crash: Black box found, says state TV</a>

The black box from the Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed on Sunday has been recovered by investigators at the crash site, Ethiopian state TV said on Monday.

The passenger jet bound for Nairobi crashed minutes after take-off, killing all 157 people on board and raising questions about the safety of the Boeing 737 MAX 8, a new model that also crashed in Indonesia in October.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-chief-sharad-pawar-says-he-will-not-contest-lok-sabha-polls-202608">NCP chief Sharad Pawar says he will not contest Lok Sabha polls</a>

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has said he will not contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

"I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar said.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-chief-michel-barnier-says-brexit-talks-now-between-uk-government-and-mps-202630">Britain braces for make-or-break Brexit vote</a>

The European Union's chief negotiator on Monday shut down hopes of a Brexit compromise with Brussels, saying it was up to Britain's government and parliament to find a way forward with less than three weeks to go before the scheduled departure date.

On the eve of a crucial vote in the House of Commons on Prime Minister Theresa May's divorce deal, Michel Barnier told AFP the British leader must negotiate with MPs rather than the EU.

14 JeM terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator in the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.

14 JeM terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator in the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the army's Chinar Corps, said. Terrorism in J&K needs to be tackled militarily first. Talks can take place later: Ram Madhav Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of Jammu and Kashmir. Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded. “The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said. Ethiopian Airlines crash: Black box found, says state TV The black box from the Ethiopian Airlines flight that crashed on Sunday has been recovered by investigators at the crash site, Ethiopian state TV said on Monday. The passenger jet bound for Nairobi crashed minutes after take-off, killing all 157 people on board and raising questions about the safety of the Boeing 737 MAX 8, a new model that also crashed in Indonesia in October. NCP chief Sharad Pawar says he will not contest Lok Sabha polls NCP chief Sharad Pawar has said he will not contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar said. Britain braces for make-or-break Brexit vote The European Union's chief negotiator on Monday shut down hopes of a Brexit compromise with Brussels, saying it was up to Britain's government and parliament to find a way forward with less than three weeks to go before the scheduled departure date. On the eve of a crucial vote in the House of Commons on Prime Minister Theresa May's divorce deal, Michel Barnier told AFP the British leader must negotiate with MPs rather than the EU.

Three militants were killed in an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-infiltrated-7-times-in-india-in-one-year-nia-202424">encounter with security forces</a> in Tral town of Pulwama district on Sunday.

Two AK-47 rifles and a pistol were recovered from the spot. The search operation is underway.

The gunfight broke out after the forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area acting on a tip-off on the presence of militants, officials said.

On March 7, one militant was killed in Handwara in an encounter. The state police said that the terrorist was a Pakistan national and was affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Three militants were killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral town of Pulwama district on Sunday. Two AK-47 rifles and a pistol were recovered from the spot.

Three militants were killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral town of Pulwama district on Sunday. Two AK-47 rifles and a pistol were recovered from the spot. The search operation is underway. The gunfight broke out after the forces launched a cordon and search operation in the area acting on a tip-off on the presence of militants, officials said. On March 7, one militant was killed in Handwara in an encounter. The state police said that the terrorist was a Pakistan national and was affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed.

J&K: Three killed in an encounter with security forces in Tral

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the&nbsp;Tral encounter earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said.&nbsp;Pakistani&nbsp;militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

"The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan.

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Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. 
Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC <a href="https://t.co/iqVrRhyZUE">pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1105053122362294272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The officials added that in the&nbsp;first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated.&nbsp;

Based on a credible input about the presence of <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">terrorists in Pinglish area of </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489">Tral</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-mastermind-mudasir-believed-to-be-killed-in-encounter-jk-police-202489"> Awantipora</a>, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area.&nbsp;

As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-mastermind-of-pulwama-attack-killed-in-encounter-4-soldiers-dead-too-198057">One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed</a> in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18.&nbsp;

A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area.

Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.&nbsp;

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day.

In a joint briefing by Jammu and Kashmir Police and the army in Srinagar on Monday, top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack, in the Tral encounter earlier in the day. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter. "The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said. Pani said one of the militants killed has been identified as 'Code Khalid' and is believed to be from Pakistan. Indian Army Sources: In first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC pic.twitter.com/iqVrRhyZUE — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated. Based on a credible input about the presence of terrorists in Pinglish area of Tral Awantipora, a cordon and search operation was launched today jointly by Police and security forces in the area. As the searches were going on, the search party was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was retaliated leading to a gunfight. Army officials state that a search operation is still underway. One of the key conspirators of the Pulwama attack, Kamran Hilaal, was killed in an encounter in the Pinglan area of Pulwama on February 18. A joint team of the Army's 55RR, CRPF and SOG Pulwama launched cordon and search operation in Pinglan area. Two terrorists — Hilal Ahmad and Kamran Hilaal — were killed in the encounter. Authorities said Kamran Hilaal, who they say is a Pakistani official, was the mastermind of the Pulwama attack.

14 Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists killed since Pulwama attack, including two key conspirators: Army

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-pulwama-conspirator-killed-in-tral-encounter-today-44-terrorists-eliminated-in-first-70-days-of-2019-army-jk-police-202613">Jammu and Kashmir</a>.&nbsp;

Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded.

“The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said.&nbsp;

Ram Madhav said that the root cause of the terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir lies elsewhere and that that needs to be dealt a serious blow. “If you hold a gun to my head and force me to talk, then I would say that it is not the way in which we believe.” &nbsp;

In a freewheeling interview with WION, Ram Madhav said Pakistan had been sent the stern message that India is not soft on terror.&nbsp;

He added that even internally, both the Congress and TDP have acted tough on Maoist terror, emphasising the point that terror will be tackled muscularly first and that only then will talks take place.

Speaking of the Lok Sabha elections, Ram Madhav said the BJP is all set to return to power.&nbsp;

He said the BJP has more alliance partners today than the Congress and that the Mahagathbandhan is yet to take shape.&nbsp;

The biggest achievement of the Narendra Modi administration, he added, has been to provide a corruption-free government.&nbsp;

On the other hand, he denied the narrative that the government is over-reliant on nationalism.&nbsp;

He did however admit that the Chhattisgarh assembly election result had been a rude surprise for the BJP with the party losing 10 per cent of its vote share in the state.&nbsp;

Attacking the Grand Alliance, he said, "There is no Grand Alliance in place. They have not been able to forge alliance in Delhi.” He said that the SP-BSP have come together because they cannot defeat the BJP in a one-to-one fight, but he added that the BJP does not take any adversary lightly.

On Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ram Madhav said her entry into politics is not going to change anything in Uttar Pradesh. “It is her re-entry. Priyanaka has always been around but we do not take our political opponents lightly."&nbsp;

Ram Madhav is the BJP's general secretary in-charge of both the Northeast and Jammu and Kashmir. It had been thought the Election Commission would announce simultaneous polls in J&amp;K (the state assembly was dissolved in November last year) but that did not turn out to be the case. 
&nbsp; 
Addressing the issue, Ram Madhav said the EC should be allowed to take an independent view of the matter.&nbsp;

Lastly, he said mediation has failed four times in Ayodhya and that it would only delay the matter further. “We respect the Supreme Court, but it has to be understood that millions of people believe in the place of birth of Lord Rama and the piece of land should be returned to them.”

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow.

Speaking exclusively to WION after the announcement of the general elections, Ram Madhav said that globally, insurgencies are first tackled militarily and once that is done, talks follow. The national general secretary of the BJP was speaking in the context of Jammu and Kashmir. Ram Madhav had been asked why the BJP had not initiated talks within the Valley. He answered that Home Minister Rajnath Singh had invited various sections of society to talk but that no one responded. “The other side is not willing to talk. They want to persist with terrorism. Globally, governments deal with terror sternly. We have seen it in Afghanistan also. I would include Pakistan also,” Ram Madhav said. Ram Madhav said that the root cause of the terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir lies elsewhere and that that needs to be dealt a serious blow. “If you hold a gun to my head and force me to talk, then I would say that it is not the way in which we believe.” In a freewheeling interview with WION, Ram Madhav said Pakistan had been sent the stern message that India is not soft on terror. He added that even internally, both the Congress and TDP have acted tough on Maoist terror, emphasising the point that terror will be tackled muscularly first and that only then will talks take place. Speaking of the Lok Sabha elections, Ram Madhav said the BJP is all set to return to power. He said the BJP has more alliance partners today than the Congress and that the Mahagathbandhan is yet to take shape. The biggest achievement of the Narendra Modi administration, he added, has been to provide a corruption-free government. On the other hand, he denied the narrative that the government is over-reliant on nationalism. He did however admit that the Chhattisgarh assembly election result had been a rude surprise for the BJP with the party losing 10 per cent of its vote share in the state. Attacking the Grand Alliance, he said, "There is no Grand Alliance in place. They have not been able to forge alliance in Delhi.” He said that the SP-BSP have come together because they cannot defeat the BJP in a one-to-one fight, but he added that the BJP does not take any adversary lightly. On Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Ram Madhav said her entry into politics is not going to change anything in Uttar Pradesh. “It is her re-entry. Priyanaka has always been around but we do not take our political opponents lightly." Ram Madhav is the BJP's general secretary in-charge of both the Northeast and Jammu and Kashmir. It had been thought the Election Commission would announce simultaneous polls in J&K (the state assembly was dissolved in November last year) but that did not turn out to be the case. Addressing the issue, Ram Madhav said the EC should be allowed to take an independent view of the matter. Lastly, he said mediation has failed four times in Ayodhya and that it would only delay the matter further. “We respect the Supreme Court, but it has to be understood that millions of people believe in the place of birth of Lord Rama and the piece of land should be returned to them.”

Terrorism in J&K needs to be tackled militarily first. Talks can take place later: Ram Madhav

The State Election Commission (SEC) Monday warned political parties in Kerala not to use the Sabarimala temple matter as a campaign issue.

Kerala Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Teeka Ram Meena told the media here that "citing or invoking" religious propaganda on the "Sabarimala issue" would be a clear violation of the model code of conduct.

"Inviting religious feelings, using any kind of Supreme Court judgement, invoking or soliciting the votes in the name of religion or by inciting religious feelings is a clear violation of the model code of conduct," he said.

The CEC also said the commission would not allow any kind of violation that puts a particular political party at an advantage over another.

"Citing or invoking or doing something of religious propaganda on the Sabarimala issue by invoking the name of Sabari God, etc., will be a clear violation of the model code of conduct," Meena said.

He added that the Sabarimala issue was a controversial matter as far as Kerala was concerned and political parties "need to draw a line to what extent they have to use it".

"Tomorrow, I am holding a meeting with political parties in this regard and I will be requesting them not to unnecessarily use this religious feeling or religious traditions to solicit votes as this may create some religious tensions among people.

If that happens, action will be taken against those responsible," Meena said.

Kerala witnessed widespread violence by devotees and right-wing activists after the state government decided to implement the Supreme Court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple.

The BJP has already pinned its hope on the Sabarimala issue as it believes that it was able to create momentum among its workers.

The central leadership of the saffron party brought back former BJP state chief Kummanam Rajashekharan, who was appointed as Mizoram governor nine months ago, to lead the party in the state.

The Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23. 
Kerala will go to the polls on April 23.&nbsp;

The State Election Commission (SEC) Monday warned political parties in Kerala not to use the Sabarimala temple matter as a campaign issue. Kerala Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Teeka Ram Meena told the media here that "citing or invoking" religious propaganda on the "Sabarimala issue" would be a clear violation of the model code of conduct.

The State Election Commission (SEC) Monday warned political parties in Kerala not to use the Sabarimala temple matter as a campaign issue. Kerala Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Teeka Ram Meena told the media here that "citing or invoking" religious propaganda on the "Sabarimala issue" would be a clear violation of the model code of conduct. "Inviting religious feelings, using any kind of Supreme Court judgement, invoking or soliciting the votes in the name of religion or by inciting religious feelings is a clear violation of the model code of conduct," he said. The CEC also said the commission would not allow any kind of violation that puts a particular political party at an advantage over another. "Citing or invoking or doing something of religious propaganda on the Sabarimala issue by invoking the name of Sabari God, etc., will be a clear violation of the model code of conduct," Meena said. He added that the Sabarimala issue was a controversial matter as far as Kerala was concerned and political parties "need to draw a line to what extent they have to use it". "Tomorrow, I am holding a meeting with political parties in this regard and I will be requesting them not to unnecessarily use this religious feeling or religious traditions to solicit votes as this may create some religious tensions among people. If that happens, action will be taken against those responsible," Meena said. Kerala witnessed widespread violence by devotees and right-wing activists after the state government decided to implement the Supreme Court's September 28, 2018 verdict allowing women of all ages into the Sabarimala temple. The BJP has already pinned its hope on the Sabarimala issue as it believes that it was able to create momentum among its workers. The central leadership of the saffron party brought back former BJP state chief Kummanam Rajashekharan, who was appointed as Mizoram governor nine months ago, to lead the party in the state. The Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23. Kerala will go to the polls on April 23.

Lok Sabha: Kerala poll body warns parties against use of Sabarimala issue in campaigning

A court in Panchkula, Haryana&nbsp;has reserved its verdict in the Samjhauta blast case till March 14.&nbsp;

The blast — an IED had been exploded on the Samjhauta Express train on February 18, 2007 — had led to the deaths of 68 passengers.&nbsp;

The Samjhauta Express is a twice-weekly train connecting Delhi to Lahore, Pakistan.&nbsp;

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2007 Samjhauta Express blast case: Haryana's Panchkula court reserves order for March 14. <a href="https://t.co/lafv9ntjrR">pic.twitter.com/lafv9ntjrR</a>
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The dead had included 43 Pakistanis, 10 Indians, and 15 unidentified people.&nbsp;Four of the dead were Railway&nbsp;officials.&nbsp;Twelve people, 10 Pakistanis and two Indians, were injured in the attack.&nbsp;

Naba Kumar Sarkar aka <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hindu-radical-swami-aseemanand-gets-bail-in-2007-mecca-masjid-blasts-case-13710?amp">Swami Aseemanand</a> is the prime accused in the case. He was granted bail by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2015. (Aseemanand was also an accused in the Ajmer Dargah bombing and the Mecca Masjid blast; he was acquitted in both cases.)&nbsp;

There were a total of eight accused in the Samjhauta blast case but only four went on trial.&nbsp;

The other three accused who went on trial — Kamal Chauhan, Rajinder Chaudhary and Lokesh Sharma — are in judicial custody in Ambala's Central Jail.&nbsp;

Three other accused — Amit Chouhan aka Ramesh Venkat Malhakar, Ramchandra Kalsangra and Sandeep Dange — have been declared proclaimed offenders.&nbsp;

The final accused, Sunil Joshi — the NIA, which took over the case from the Haryana Police, says he was the mastermind of the attack — was killed in December 2007 in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh.&nbsp;

A court in Panchkula, Haryana has reserved its verdict in the Samjhauta blast case till March 14. The blast — an IED had been exploded on the Samjhauta Express train on February 18, 2007 — had led to the deaths of 68 passengers.

A court in Panchkula, Haryana has reserved its verdict in the Samjhauta blast case till March 14. The blast — an IED had been exploded on the Samjhauta Express train on February 18, 2007 — had led to the deaths of 68 passengers. The Samjhauta Express is a twice-weekly train connecting Delhi to Lahore, Pakistan. 2007 Samjhauta Express blast case: Haryana's Panchkula court reserves order for March 14. pic.twitter.com/lafv9ntjrR — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The dead had included 43 Pakistanis, 10 Indians, and 15 unidentified people. Four of the dead were Railway officials. Twelve people, 10 Pakistanis and two Indians, were injured in the attack. Naba Kumar Sarkar aka Swami Aseemanand is the prime accused in the case. He was granted bail by the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2015. (Aseemanand was also an accused in the Ajmer Dargah bombing and the Mecca Masjid blast; he was acquitted in both cases.) There were a total of eight accused in the Samjhauta blast case but only four went on trial. The other three accused who went on trial — Kamal Chauhan, Rajinder Chaudhary and Lokesh Sharma — are in judicial custody in Ambala's Central Jail. Three other accused — Amit Chouhan aka Ramesh Venkat Malhakar, Ramchandra Kalsangra and Sandeep Dange — have been declared proclaimed offenders. The final accused, Sunil Joshi — the NIA, which took over the case from the Haryana Police, says he was the mastermind of the attack — was killed in December 2007 in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh.

Samjhauta blast case: Panchkula court reserves verdict for March 14

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has said he will not contest <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-to-stretch-out-for-over-a-month-from-april-11-to-may-19-results-on-may-23-202404">the 2019 Lok Sabha polls</a>.&nbsp;

"I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar said.&nbsp;

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NCP Chief Sharad Pawar: I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past <a href="https://t.co/Q7ElDQqXte">pic.twitter.com/Q7ElDQqXte</a>
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Pawar is president of the Nationalist Congress Party which he founded in 1999 after breaking away from the Congress

He is currently a Rajya Sabha member of parliament, and leader of his party in the upper house.&nbsp;

Pawar has been chief minister of Maharashtra three times. He has also been a union minister of defence and agriculture.&nbsp;

Pawar was on Monday asked if he was not contesting the upcoming polls because <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/party-getting-maximum-seats-will-claim-pms-post-says-sharad-pawar-161885">he was worried he might be beaten</a>.

"I have successfully faced 14 elections. Do you think a fifteenth will deter me?" the news agency PTI quoted Pawar as replying.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has said he will not contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar said.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has said he will not contest the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. "I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past," Pawar said. NCP Chief Sharad Pawar: I thought that already two members of my family are contesting polls this time and hence I felt this is right time to take decision to not contest since I already have contested 14 times in the past pic.twitter.com/Q7ElDQqXte — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × Pawar is president of the Nationalist Congress Party which he founded in 1999 after breaking away from the Congress He is currently a Rajya Sabha member of parliament, and leader of his party in the upper house. Pawar has been chief minister of Maharashtra three times. He has also been a union minister of defence and agriculture. Pawar was on Monday asked if he was not contesting the upcoming polls because he was worried he might be beaten. "I have successfully faced 14 elections. Do you think a fifteenth will deter me?" the news agency PTI quoted Pawar as replying.

NCP chief Sharad Pawar says he will not contest Lok Sabha polls

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a fresh charge sheet against PNB scam accused Nirav Modi under the anti-money laundering law, officials said Monday.

They said the charge sheet or the prosecution complaint has been filed before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Mumbai.

This is a supplementary charge sheet against the diamantaire and few others and the agency has recorded additional evidence gathered in the case and attachments made, they said.

Further details about the contents of the charge sheet are awaited.

The development comes two days after a British daily reported that Nirav Modi, accused in the $2-billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, is living in a swanky 8-million pound apartment in London's West End and is now involved in new diamond business.

The ED had said on March 9 that the United Kingdom's home secretary has recently referred India's request for extraditing the tainted businessman to a court for initiating legal proceedings against him.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had filed the first charge sheet in this case in May last year.

The agency and the CBI are investigating Nirav Modi, his uncle Mehul Choksi and others for alleged money laundering and corruption to perpetrate the alleged scam in the Brady House branch of the PNB in Mumbai that was unearthed last year.

Nirav Modi, 48, is currently living in a three-bedroom flat occupying half of a floor of the landmark Centre Point tower block in London, where rent is estimated to cost 17,000 pounds a month, The Telegraph had reported.

It has also attached his assets worth Rs 1,873.08 crore under the PMLA and has seized assets linked to him and his family worth Rs 489.75 crore.&nbsp;

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a fresh charge sheet against PNB scam accused Nirav Modi under the anti-money laundering law, officials said Monday. They said the charge sheet or the prosecution complaint has been filed before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Mumbai.

The Enforcement Directorate has filed a fresh charge sheet against PNB scam accused Nirav Modi under the anti-money laundering law, officials said Monday. They said the charge sheet or the prosecution complaint has been filed before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court in Mumbai. This is a supplementary charge sheet against the diamantaire and few others and the agency has recorded additional evidence gathered in the case and attachments made, they said. Further details about the contents of the charge sheet are awaited. The development comes two days after a British daily reported that Nirav Modi, accused in the $2-billion Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam, is living in a swanky 8-million pound apartment in London's West End and is now involved in new diamond business. The ED had said on March 9 that the United Kingdom's home secretary has recently referred India's request for extraditing the tainted businessman to a court for initiating legal proceedings against him. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had filed the first charge sheet in this case in May last year. The agency and the CBI are investigating Nirav Modi, his uncle Mehul Choksi and others for alleged money laundering and corruption to perpetrate the alleged scam in the Brady House branch of the PNB in Mumbai that was unearthed last year. Nirav Modi, 48, is currently living in a three-bedroom flat occupying half of a floor of the landmark Centre Point tower block in London, where rent is estimated to cost 17,000 pounds a month, The Telegraph had reported. It has also attached his assets worth Rs 1,873.08 crore under the PMLA and has seized assets linked to him and his family worth Rs 489.75 crore.

PNB scam: Enforcement Directorate files fresh charge sheet against Nirav Modi

Aviation regulator DGCA will soon issue additional safety instructions on Boeing 737 MAX planes for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jet-airways-spicejet-to-be-questioned-on-boeing-b737-max-planes-after-ethiopian-crash-202539">domestic airlines</a> in the wake of the crash of an aircraft in Ethiopia that killed 157 people, a senior official said Monday.

Earlier in the day, another senior official said the civil aviation ministry would discuss with the DGCA on the action that needs to be taken regarding 737 MAX planes being operated in India.

With full-service carrier Jet Airways and budget airline SpiceJet operating 737 MAX planes, the DGCA had decided to seek information about the aircraft from Boeing as well as the two domestic carriers.

This is for the second time in less than five months that a Boeing 737 MAX 8 plane crashed. In October 2018, an aircraft operated by Lion Air crashed killing over 180 people in Indonesia.

A senior DGCA official said the regulator is reviewing "safety issues" post-accident of 737 MAX plane in Ethiopia on Sunday.

"The DGCA shall issue additional safety instructions tonight or tomorrow morning in this regard for Indian operators," the official added.

Earlier, a senior civil aviation ministry official told PTI it would discuss with the DGCA on the action that needs to be taken with regard to 737 MAX aircraft.

Jet Airways has placed orders for 225 737 MAX planes with Boeing and some have already been delivered.

SpiceJet, which has embarked on ambitious expansion plans, has a deal with Boeing for up to 205 aircraft, including at least 155 737 MAX 8 planes.

The two airlines did not offer any immediate comments regarding the MAX planes.

The 737 MAX is the fastest selling airplane in Boeing's history.

Currently, SpiceJet has 13 737 MAX 8 planes and Jet Airways has 8 such aircraft in their fleets, as per data available with planespotters.Net website.

On Sunday, 157 people, including four Indians, were killed when a Nairobi-bound Ethiopian Airlines' 737 MAX aircraft crashed after taking off from Addis Ababa.

In the wake of the incident, various jurisdictions and airlines have initiated actions, including the grounding of the 737 MAX aircraft. The Civil Aviation Administration of China has asked its local carriers to stop commercial flights with 737 MAX 8 planes and Ethiopian Airlines has grounded its fleet of such aircraft.

Last December, the DGCA asked Jet Airways and SpiceJet to immediately report any "abnormal" issues related to the MAX plane's Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), following the Lion Air crash.

MCAS is a kind of stall-recovery system that is used in Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and generally alerts the pilot in case there is stalling of the plane or fall in speed, among others.

Prior to that, the DGCA, in November 2018, asked the two carriers to take corrective action to address possible issues with their 737 MAX planes that could lead to "significant altitude loss" of the aircraft.

After the crash in Ethiopia, Boeing, on Sunday, said it was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the passengers and crew on Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, a 737 MAX 8 airplane.

"A Boeing technical team will be travelling to the crash site to provide technical assistance under the direction of the Ethiopia Accident Investigation Bureau and US National Transportation Safety Board," the aircraft maker said in a statement.

"The 737 MAX is the fastest selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating nearly 4,700 orders from more than 100 customers, worldwide," according to Boeing website.&nbsp;

Aviation regulator DGCA will soon issue additional safety instructions on Boeing 737 MAX planes for domestic airlines in the wake of the crash of an aircraft in Ethiopia that killed 157 people, a senior official said Monday.

Aviation regulator DGCA will soon issue additional safety instructions on Boeing 737 MAX planes for domestic airlines in the wake of the crash of an aircraft in Ethiopia that killed 157 people, a senior official said Monday. Earlier in the day, another senior official said the civil aviation ministry would discuss with the DGCA on the action that needs to be taken regarding 737 MAX planes being operated in India. With full-service carrier Jet Airways and budget airline SpiceJet operating 737 MAX planes, the DGCA had decided to seek information about the aircraft from Boeing as well as the two domestic carriers. This is for the second time in less than five months that a Boeing 737 MAX 8 plane crashed. In October 2018, an aircraft operated by Lion Air crashed killing over 180 people in Indonesia. A senior DGCA official said the regulator is reviewing "safety issues" post-accident of 737 MAX plane in Ethiopia on Sunday. "The DGCA shall issue additional safety instructions tonight or tomorrow morning in this regard for Indian operators," the official added. Earlier, a senior civil aviation ministry official told PTI it would discuss with the DGCA on the action that needs to be taken with regard to 737 MAX aircraft. Jet Airways has placed orders for 225 737 MAX planes with Boeing and some have already been delivered. SpiceJet, which has embarked on ambitious expansion plans, has a deal with Boeing for up to 205 aircraft, including at least 155 737 MAX 8 planes. The two airlines did not offer any immediate comments regarding the MAX planes. The 737 MAX is the fastest selling airplane in Boeing's history. Currently, SpiceJet has 13 737 MAX 8 planes and Jet Airways has 8 such aircraft in their fleets, as per data available with planespotters.Net website. On Sunday, 157 people, including four Indians, were killed when a Nairobi-bound Ethiopian Airlines' 737 MAX aircraft crashed after taking off from Addis Ababa. In the wake of the incident, various jurisdictions and airlines have initiated actions, including the grounding of the 737 MAX aircraft. The Civil Aviation Administration of China has asked its local carriers to stop commercial flights with 737 MAX 8 planes and Ethiopian Airlines has grounded its fleet of such aircraft. Last December, the DGCA asked Jet Airways and SpiceJet to immediately report any "abnormal" issues related to the MAX plane's Manoeuvring Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), following the Lion Air crash. MCAS is a kind of stall-recovery system that is used in Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and generally alerts the pilot in case there is stalling of the plane or fall in speed, among others. Prior to that, the DGCA, in November 2018, asked the two carriers to take corrective action to address possible issues with their 737 MAX planes that could lead to "significant altitude loss" of the aircraft. After the crash in Ethiopia, Boeing, on Sunday, said it was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the passengers and crew on Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, a 737 MAX 8 airplane. "A Boeing technical team will be travelling to the crash site to provide technical assistance under the direction of the Ethiopia Accident Investigation Bureau and US National Transportation Safety Board," the aircraft maker said in a statement. "The 737 MAX is the fastest selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating nearly 4,700 orders from more than 100 customers, worldwide," according to Boeing website.

Boeing 737 MAX planes: DGCA to soon issue safety instructions for domestic carriers

A Delhi court Monday sought a response from Tihar Jail authorities on the Enforcement Directorate's plea to interrogate Christian Michel, who was arrested in the AgustaWestland chopper case, inside the prison.

The jail authority has been asked to submit its response by Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Special Judge Arvind Kumar also issued a production warrant for Tuesday against Michel after his lawyer alleged mental torture inside jail.

He was arrested by the ED on December 22 last year after his extradition from Dubai.

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Agusta Westland case:Delhi's Patiala House Court issued notice to Tihar Jail authorities on ED application seeking permission to further question alleged middleman Christian Michel again.Matter is posted for tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/lob7ER1EM4">https://t.co/lob7ER1EM4</a>
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The court had earlier lashed out at the jail's authorities for failing to justify the shifting of Michel to a high-security cell in isolation, saying it will start an inquiry if it does not get a proper response.

Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the scam by ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation. The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa.&nbsp;

A Delhi court Monday sought a response from Tihar Jail authorities on the Enforcement Directorate's plea to interrogate Christian Michel, who was arrested in the AgustaWestland chopper case, inside the prison.

A Delhi court Monday sought a response from Tihar Jail authorities on the Enforcement Directorate's plea to interrogate Christian Michel, who was arrested in the AgustaWestland chopper case, inside the prison. The jail authority has been asked to submit its response by Tuesday. Special Judge Arvind Kumar also issued a production warrant for Tuesday against Michel after his lawyer alleged mental torture inside jail. He was arrested by the ED on December 22 last year after his extradition from Dubai. Agusta Westland case:Delhi's Patiala House Court issued notice to Tihar Jail authorities on ED application seeking permission to further question alleged middleman Christian Michel again.Matter is posted for tomorrow. https://t.co/lob7ER1EM4 — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × The court had earlier lashed out at the jail's authorities for failing to justify the shifting of Michel to a high-security cell in isolation, saying it will start an inquiry if it does not get a proper response. Michel is among the three alleged middlemen being probed in the scam by ED and the Central Bureau of Investigation. The others are Guido Haschke and Carlo Gerosa.

VVIP chopper case: Delhi court seeks Tihar's reply on ED's plea to question Christian Michel in jail

Jodhpur High Court on Monday issued a notice to Bollywood actors Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam Kothari, Tabu and Dushyant Singh on an appeal by Rajasthan government that challenged their acquittal in the blackbuck case by a local court.&nbsp;

The actors were acquitted in the case on April 5 2018.&nbsp;

Actor Salman Khan's appeal against the CJM Rural Court ruling in the blackbuck case has been adjourned till April 3. The actor had challenged his five-year jail sentence for killing endangered blackbucks in 1998, new agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

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Black Buck Poaching case: Jodhpur High Court issues a notice to Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam Kothari, Tabu and Dushyant Singh on an appeal by state govt challenging their acquittal in the case by a local court. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> <a href="https://t.co/ugq6ncUn6n">pic.twitter.com/ugq6ncUn6n</a>
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In October 1998, a total of three cases in connection with poaching and one under the Arms Act were registered against Salman. The 52-year-old actor allegedly shot two blackbucks in Bhagoda ki Dhani in Kankani village near Jodhpur during the shooting of 'Hum Saath Saath Hain'.

Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Tabu and Neelam were also present in the vehicle Salman allegedly used for hunting the endangered species protected under Schedule 1 of the Indian Wildlife Act.

Salman was charged under Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and others under Section 51 read with Section 149 (unlawful assembly) of the Indian Penal Code.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Jodhpur High Court on Monday issued a notice to Bollywood actors Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam Kothari, Tabu and Dushyant Singh on an appeal by Rajasthan government that challenged their acquittal in the blackbuck case by a local court.

Jodhpur High Court on Monday issued a notice to Bollywood actors Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam Kothari, Tabu and Dushyant Singh on an appeal by Rajasthan government that challenged their acquittal in the blackbuck case by a local court. The actors were acquitted in the case on April 5 2018. Actor Salman Khan's appeal against the CJM Rural Court ruling in the blackbuck case has been adjourned till April 3. The actor had challenged his five-year jail sentence for killing endangered blackbucks in 1998, new agency ANI reported. Black Buck Poaching case: Jodhpur High Court issues a notice to Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Neelam Kothari, Tabu and Dushyant Singh on an appeal by state govt challenging their acquittal in the case by a local court. #Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/ugq6ncUn6n — ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2019 × In October 1998, a total of three cases in connection with poaching and one under the Arms Act were registered against Salman. The 52-year-old actor allegedly shot two blackbucks in Bhagoda ki Dhani in Kankani village near Jodhpur during the shooting of 'Hum Saath Saath Hain'. Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Tabu and Neelam were also present in the vehicle Salman allegedly used for hunting the endangered species protected under Schedule 1 of the Indian Wildlife Act. Salman was charged under Section 51 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and others under Section 51 read with Section 149 (unlawful assembly) of the Indian Penal Code. (With inputs from ANI)

Blackbuck poaching case: Jodhpur High Court issues notice to Saif Ali Khan, Sonali Bendre, Tabu and others

Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the Election Commission announced Sunday, kick-starting the countdown for a mega electoral battle where the BJP will pitch for a re-election of the Modi government amid the Opposition's efforts for a united fight to unseat it.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/2019-lok-sabha-elections-check-when-your-state-ut-goes-to-the-polls-202410">polling will be held on</a> April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19 for 543 Lok Sabha seats across the country in which nearly 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote, the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said at a packed press conference here.

Assembly elections will also be held in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Odisha simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls, the CEC said.&nbsp;

However, elections for Jammu and Kashmir assembly will not to be held along with the Lok Sabha polls, the EC said citing security reasons. The state has been under Governor's rule after the ruling alliance between the BJP and People's Democratic Party fell apart last year.&nbsp;

National Conference, Congress and other opposition parties slammed the decision to not hold assembly polls in J&amp;K, while opposition leaders elsewhere including in West Bengal also latched onto the EC decision to hold multi-phase elections in their states to slam the government on law and order situation.

Arora said the model code of conduct would come into immediate effect from Sunday and 10 lakhs polling stations would be set up this time as against about nine lakhs in 2014.

Among other restrictions, the model code bars the government from announcing any policy move that may impact voters' decision.

The EC said the 'voter verifiable paper audit trail' (VVPAT) will be used in all polling stations this time.

Counting of votes for all seven phases would be done on May 23, Arora said. 
 
In 2014, BJP had won 282 seats out of 543 constituencies in Lok Sabha handing a crushing defeat to the 10-year-rule of the United Progressive Alliance led by Congress.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will seek to retain power, the opposition is seeking to put up a spirited fight to defeat the ruling BJP.

"Best wishes to the Election Commission, all those officials and security personnel who will be on the field, across the length and breadth of India assuring smooth elections. India is very proud of the EC for assiduously organising elections for several years," Modi tweeted.

In the press briefing, Arora also reassured the nation of the EC's "solemn resolve and deep commitment to fulfil its constitutional mandate to conduct free, fair and credible elections."

He said all political advertisements on social media will need pre-certification and that the candidates will have to give details of their social media accounts to the election commission.

The CEC said 91 constituencies will go for polls in first phase, 97 in second phase, 115 in third phase, 71 in fourth, 51 in fifth, 59 in sixth and 59 in the seventh phase.&nbsp;

The election will pit the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance against mostly different opposition groupings in various states, including of Congress, Left and regional forces who are continuing to work out a grand alliance to minimise a division of votes against the Modi government.

The BJP has worked out a seat-sharing formula with some new allies and several old partners, by even making concessions in states like Bihar. However, opposition parties are yet to do so in several states.

While the NDA hopes to make history by coming back to power for a second full term, the Opposition wants to unseat the Modi government by raising questions on its performance on a host of issues, including economic growth, employment, corruption and social harmony.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee had led the NDA to back-to-back wins in 1998 and 1999 general elections but he was at the helm for only one full term.&nbsp;

After losing three assemblies last year, the BJP believes its Lok Sabha campaign is back on track following decisions like 10 per cent quota for the general category poor, money transfer to farmers and a populist budget.&nbsp;

What has injected further confidence into the NDA fold is the fronting of the nationalist plank in the poll campaign after the Indian Air Force' strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan after Pulwama terror attack, which killed 40 CRPF personnel.

The BJP has been citing 2016 surgical strikes on terror launch pads and the Balakot air strikes to assert that only a government headed by Modi will be capable of taking on Pakistan over terrorism.

Modi has already launched an aggressive campaign accusing opposition parties of coming together for the sole purpose of removing him when he is working to "remove poverty, corruption and terrorism".

He had led the NDA to a sweeping victory in 2014 as it won 336 of 543 Lok Sabha seats, reducing the incumbent Congress to its lowest total of 44 seats.

In 2014, the Lok Sabha elections were held across nine phases beginning April 7 and ending May 9. Votes were counted on May 16.

The total contestants in fray were 8,251, with an average of 15 candidates in each constituency, though deposits got forfeited for 7,000 contestants.

A total of over 55 crore voters (66.3 per cent) exercised their vote, while there were nearly 60 lakh 'NOTA' votes. A total of 668 women candidates contested, out of which 62 won.&nbsp;

Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the Election Commission announced Sunday, kick-starting the countdown for a mega electoral battle where the BJP will pitch for a re-election of the Modi government amid the Opposition's efforts for a united fight to unseat it.

Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and continue for over a month till May 19 across seven phases, followed by counting of votes on May 23, the Election Commission announced Sunday, kick-starting the countdown for a mega electoral battle where the BJP will pitch for a re-election of the Modi government amid the Opposition's efforts for a united fight to unseat it. The polling will be held on April 11, April 18, April 23, April 29, May 6, May 12 and May 19 for 543 Lok Sabha seats across the country in which nearly 90 crore voters would be eligible to vote, the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said at a packed press conference here. Assembly elections will also be held in Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Odisha simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls, the CEC said. However, elections for Jammu and Kashmir assembly will not to be held along with the Lok Sabha polls, the EC said citing security reasons. The state has been under Governor's rule after the ruling alliance between the BJP and People's Democratic Party fell apart last year. National Conference, Congress and other opposition parties slammed the decision to not hold assembly polls in J&K, while opposition leaders elsewhere including in West Bengal also latched onto the EC decision to hold multi-phase elections in their states to slam the government on law and order situation. Arora said the model code of conduct would come into immediate effect from Sunday and 10 lakhs polling stations would be set up this time as against about nine lakhs in 2014. Among other restrictions, the model code bars the government from announcing any policy move that may impact voters' decision. The EC said the 'voter verifiable paper audit trail' (VVPAT) will be used in all polling stations this time. Counting of votes for all seven phases would be done on May 23, Arora said. In 2014, BJP had won 282 seats out of 543 constituencies in Lok Sabha handing a crushing defeat to the 10-year-rule of the United Progressive Alliance led by Congress. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will seek to retain power, the opposition is seeking to put up a spirited fight to defeat the ruling BJP. "Best wishes to the Election Commission, all those officials and security personnel who will be on the field, across the length and breadth of India assuring smooth elections. India is very proud of the EC for assiduously organising elections for several years," Modi tweeted. In the press briefing, Arora also reassured the nation of the EC's "solemn resolve and deep commitment to fulfil its constitutional mandate to conduct free, fair and credible elections." He said all political advertisements on social media will need pre-certification and that the candidates will have to give details of their social media accounts to the election commission. The CEC said 91 constituencies will go for polls in first phase, 97 in second phase, 115 in third phase, 71 in fourth, 51 in fifth, 59 in sixth and 59 in the seventh phase. The election will pit the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance against mostly different opposition groupings in various states, including of Congress, Left and regional forces who are continuing to work out a grand alliance to minimise a division of votes against the Modi government. The BJP has worked out a seat-sharing formula with some new allies and several old partners, by even making concessions in states like Bihar. However, opposition parties are yet to do so in several states. While the NDA hopes to make history by coming back to power for a second full term, the Opposition wants to unseat the Modi government by raising questions on its performance on a host of issues, including economic growth, employment, corruption and social harmony. Atal Bihari Vajpayee had led the NDA to back-to-back wins in 1998 and 1999 general elections but he was at the helm for only one full term. After losing three assemblies last year, the BJP believes its Lok Sabha campaign is back on track following decisions like 10 per cent quota for the general category poor, money transfer to farmers and a populist budget. What has injected further confidence into the NDA fold is the fronting of the nationalist plank in the poll campaign after the Indian Air Force' strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan after Pulwama terror attack, which killed 40 CRPF personnel. The BJP has been citing 2016 surgical strikes on terror launch pads and the Balakot air strikes to assert that only a government headed by Modi will be capable of taking on Pakistan over terrorism. Modi has already launched an aggressive campaign accusing opposition parties of coming together for the sole purpose of removing him when he is working to "remove poverty, corruption and terrorism". He had led the NDA to a sweeping victory in 2014 as it won 336 of 543 Lok Sabha seats, reducing the incumbent Congress to its lowest total of 44 seats. In 2014, the Lok Sabha elections were held across nine phases beginning April 7 and ending May 9. Votes were counted on May 16. The total contestants in fray were 8,251, with an average of 15 candidates in each constituency, though deposits got forfeited for 7,000 contestants. A total of over 55 crore voters (66.3 per cent) exercised their vote, while there were nearly 60 lakh 'NOTA' votes. A total of 668 women candidates contested, out of which 62 won.

Lok Sabha polls to stretch out for over a month from April 11 to May 19, results on May 23

The Supreme Court on Monday said it is not in favour of passing an order at this stage to refer the issue of 10 per cent quota for economically weaker sections across all classes to a Constitution bench.

A bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, said it will hear the plea on March 28 and will consider whether the matter is required to be referred to a Constitution bench.

The bench, also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna, asked senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, who was appearing for the petitioner, to file a short note of the points which they have raised in their application.&nbsp;

The apex court had earlier refused to stay the Centre's decision to grant 10 per cent quota in jobs and admissions to poor candidates in the general category.

However, the court had agreed to examine the validity of the law and issued a notice to the Centre on the plea filed by businessman and Congress supporter Tehseen Poonawalla.

Dhavan, appearing for Poonawalla, had told the bench that his only grievance at this stage was that this quota should not breach the ceiling of 50 per cent as mandated by the apex court.

The top court had earlier issued a notice to the Centre on similar petitions and ordered tagging of the fresh plea of Poonawalla with pending ones. 
Petitions have been filed by parties, including 'Janhit Abhiyan' and NGO 'Youth For Equality', challenging the Centre's decision.

The petition, filed by Youth For Equality through its president Kaushal Kant Mishra, has sought the quashing of the Constitution (103 Amendment) Act, 2019, saying economic criterion cannot be the sole basis for reservation.

It said the bill violates the basic feature of the Constitution as a reservation on economic grounds cannot be limited to the general category and the overall 50 per cent ceiling limit cannot be breached.

In the present form, the upper limit of quota goes up to 60 per cent which violates the decisions of the apex court, the plea claimed.

Referring to the nine-judge bench decision of the apex court in the landmark 1992 Indira Sawhney case, the petition said the latest amendment completely violated the Constitutional norm that economic criterion cannot be the only basis of reservation.

It also said the amendments fail to consider that articles 14 and 16 form the basic feature of equality and that they have been violated with the doing away of the restraints that were imposed on the reservation policy, that is the 50 per cent ceiling limit and the exclusion of economic status as a sole criterion.

The plea filed by businessman Poonawalla had sought quashing of the Constitution (103 Amendment) Bill, 2019, saying that backwardness for the purpose of reservation cannot be defined by "economic status alone".

The top court had earlier refused to stay the Modi government's decision to grant the reservation but agreed to examine the validity of the constitutional amendment which paved the way for this quota.

In a poll year, the Modi government has come out with the constitutional amendment bill giving quota benefits to the poor among general category candidates.

The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha cleared the bill on January 8 and 9 respectively and has been signed by President Ram Nath Kovind.&nbsp; 
The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to SCs, STs and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

The Supreme Court on Monday said it is not in favour of passing an order at this stage to refer the issue of 10 per cent quota for economically weaker sections across all classes to a Constitution bench.

The Supreme Court on Monday said it is not in favour of passing an order at this stage to refer the issue of 10 per cent quota for economically weaker sections across all classes to a Constitution bench. A bench, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, said it will hear the plea on March 28 and will consider whether the matter is required to be referred to a Constitution bench. The bench, also comprising Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna, asked senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, who was appearing for the petitioner, to file a short note of the points which they have raised in their application. The apex court had earlier refused to stay the Centre's decision to grant 10 per cent quota in jobs and admissions to poor candidates in the general category. However, the court had agreed to examine the validity of the law and issued a notice to the Centre on the plea filed by businessman and Congress supporter Tehseen Poonawalla. Dhavan, appearing for Poonawalla, had told the bench that his only grievance at this stage was that this quota should not breach the ceiling of 50 per cent as mandated by the apex court. The top court had earlier issued a notice to the Centre on similar petitions and ordered tagging of the fresh plea of Poonawalla with pending ones. Petitions have been filed by parties, including 'Janhit Abhiyan' and NGO 'Youth For Equality', challenging the Centre's decision. The petition, filed by Youth For Equality through its president Kaushal Kant Mishra, has sought the quashing of the Constitution (103 Amendment) Act, 2019, saying economic criterion cannot be the sole basis for reservation. It said the bill violates the basic feature of the Constitution as a reservation on economic grounds cannot be limited to the general category and the overall 50 per cent ceiling limit cannot be breached. In the present form, the upper limit of quota goes up to 60 per cent which violates the decisions of the apex court, the plea claimed. Referring to the nine-judge bench decision of the apex court in the landmark 1992 Indira Sawhney case, the petition said the latest amendment completely violated the Constitutional norm that economic criterion cannot be the only basis of reservation. It also said the amendments fail to consider that articles 14 and 16 form the basic feature of equality and that they have been violated with the doing away of the restraints that were imposed on the reservation policy, that is the 50 per cent ceiling limit and the exclusion of economic status as a sole criterion. The plea filed by businessman Poonawalla had sought quashing of the Constitution (103 Amendment) Bill, 2019, saying that backwardness for the purpose of reservation cannot be defined by "economic status alone". The top court had earlier refused to stay the Modi government's decision to grant the reservation but agreed to examine the validity of the constitutional amendment which paved the way for this quota. In a poll year, the Modi government has come out with the constitutional amendment bill giving quota benefits to the poor among general category candidates. The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha cleared the bill on January 8 and 9 respectively and has been signed by President Ram Nath Kovind. The quota will be over and above the existing 50 per cent reservation to SCs, STs and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

Supreme Court not in favour of passing order at this stage to refer 10% quota issue to Constitution bench

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Supreme Court not in favour of passing order at this stage to refer 10% quota issue to Constitution bench