Navratri 2026: 9 days, 9 forms of Goddess Durga and 9 colours- Check the complete list

Trump weighs firing Kimberly Guilfoyle as US ambassador to Greece amid misconduct allegations: Report

Anti-SIR protest in Mumbai: Protestors wear black masks & ribbons in Mumbai 

UK PM Andy Birnham renews claims of Russian meddling in Brexit vote

BCCI rejects venue shift reports, India vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI to remain in Delhi

1,500 drones illuminate Mumbai sky as Cordelia Cruises unveils second ship, Cordelia Sky

India Rejects Pakistan-China Boundary Commission, Tells Islamabad to Drop 'Theatrics' | GRAVITAS

Houthis warns US of 'painful response' if Washington joins Saudi war in Yemen as airlines suspend flights to Saudi Arabia

Congress demands action against chief election commissioner 

Trump defends Russian diesel deal amid bipartisan backlash over fuel prices

Apple HomeView smart home hub may launch soon with A18 chip, display and Siri controls: What to expect

VIDEO: Houthi's strike Riyadh's King Khalid International airport as passengers wait for flights

'Turn approver, resign, we'll forgive you': Rahul Gandhi claims receiving messages from CEC Gyanesh Kumar

'I will not be silenced': Ilhan Omar alleges political intimidation after federal officers search her Washington home

Use AI as your ‘second brain’: Meta AI chief Alexandr Wang’s message to young people

Robotic surgery, advanced treatment: What is coming to this small Gujarat town?

US federal agents raid Dem Rep Ilhan Omar’s home ahead of midterms

Reports: Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman is being moved to safe locations

Pakistan's government blames PTI for rise of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued

‘This is just the start’: Maaya Rajeshwaran on historic ITF title, confidence boost and future goals

How does a robot decide what to do next?

ICC penalises West Indies duo Powell, Rutherford for Code of Conduct breach

'Ouch!!! That must hurt': Kangana Ranaut hails Kamal Haasan's sharp reply to Elon Musk over Starlink row

Sidhu Moose Wala’s younger brother wins hearts by recreating late singer’s signature move at Toronto Hologram Show

UK school ditches technology, shifts from screen to pen and paper for learning

Opposition’s 10 demands in Supreme Court petition range from stay on SIR to audit of voter rolls

Portugal Federation confirms Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to national team despite suspension

New OTT releases this week (October 12-18, 2026): Sacrifice, Koffee with Karan S9, Roadies Rebirth- 6 titles coming on Netflix, JioHotstar and more

Rishabh Pant ruled out of India A squad for New Zealand tour, Kumar Kushagra named replacement

India's Ajit Doval, Iran's Mohsen Rezaei hold talks amid escalating West Asia tensions, discuss 'issues of mutual interest'

'Almost certainly': UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham says Iran's IRGC behind RAF Fairford threat

As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-government-of-punjab-takes-control-of-jud-headquarters-in-muridke-and-lahore-201842"> Jaish-e-Mohammed</a>, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border.

In a pinpointed and swift air strike that lasted less than two minutes, India pounded JeM's biggest training camp in Pakistan on February 26, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the February 14 attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama strike.

Pakistan is a "global epicentre of terrorism and it needs to take verifiable and credible steps against terrorist organisations and terrorists", said the official on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

The official also accused Pakistan and its leadership of being in denial mode and trying to create a war hysteria kind of situation between the two nuclear-weapon states.&nbsp;

"As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of JeM, are still being run in Pakistan and there has been no action against them," the official said.

The Balakot airstrike conducted by India was a counter-terrorism operation, which was well within the international laws. However, a day after on February 27, Pakistan attacked Indian military installation with as many as 20 fighter jets, the official claimed.&nbsp;

"Instead of taking action against terrorist groups, Pakistan escalated the situation and indulged in war hysteria by doing things like declaring emergency in Karachi, blocking air traffic and creating rumours, which is part of its familiar pattern," the official said, adding, "India, on the other hand, exercised restraint."

Islamabad now bears the responsibility to end terrorism, the official said and warned that "India will carry out retaliatory counter-terrorism operation like the one on February 26, deep inside Pakistan, anytime there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border".

Referring to the recent actions taken by Pakistan against several terrorist groups, the official said that these actions are "nothing unusual" as the country takes such steps after every terrorist strike in India.&nbsp;

"These actions", the official described, "are a revolving door policy, under which house arrest of terrorist leaders simply means keeping them in luxurious accommodation". 
They are released once the situation becomes normal, the official said.

But after the Pulwama attack, India has set "a new normal". "For every terrorist attack coming from across the border, India will retaliate and there will be a price that the neighbouring country would have to pay."

Accusing Pakistan of being a state sponsor of terrorism, the official said there is a feeling in India that Islamabad is unlikely to stop funding terror activities "unless the cost of it is too heavy for it to pay".

Asserting that India has the right to self-defence, the official told reporters that New Delhi by successfully carrying out strikes inside Pakistan "has been able to call the Pakistani bluff" on the nuclear front.&nbsp;

"This will not work in the future," the official said and warned Pakistan that "there will be reprisal" for every act of terrorism.

Responding to a question, the official said India has given to the US details of the violation of the end user agreement by Pakistan when it used F-16 fighter jets and advanced missiles against India on February 27.

India, the official said, is very closely engaged with the US and has the support of the Trump administration.&nbsp;

The official also said India is opposed to any IMF bailout packages to Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan has received as many as 21 bailout packages, including seven in the recent past, from the IMF. However, none of them has been able to address the economic woes of Pakistan because the money intended to improve the economy and developmental purposes have been diverted for non-civilian means.&nbsp;

As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of Jaish-e-Mohammed, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border.

As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of Jaish-e-Mohammed, are active in Pakistan, but no action is being taken against them, a senior Indian official said here on Thursday, warning that New Delhi will carry out operation similar to that of the Balakot airstrike if there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border. In a pinpointed and swift air strike that lasted less than two minutes, India pounded JeM's biggest training camp in Pakistan on February 26, killing up to 350 terrorists and trainers who were moved there for their protection after the February 14 attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in which 40 soldiers were killed. The JeM claimed responsibility for the Pulwama strike. Pakistan is a "global epicentre of terrorism and it needs to take verifiable and credible steps against terrorist organisations and terrorists", said the official on condition of anonymity. The official also accused Pakistan and its leadership of being in denial mode and trying to create a war hysteria kind of situation between the two nuclear-weapon states. "As many as 22 terrorist training camps, including nine of JeM, are still being run in Pakistan and there has been no action against them," the official said. The Balakot airstrike conducted by India was a counter-terrorism operation, which was well within the international laws. However, a day after on February 27, Pakistan attacked Indian military installation with as many as 20 fighter jets, the official claimed. "Instead of taking action against terrorist groups, Pakistan escalated the situation and indulged in war hysteria by doing things like declaring emergency in Karachi, blocking air traffic and creating rumours, which is part of its familiar pattern," the official said, adding, "India, on the other hand, exercised restraint." Islamabad now bears the responsibility to end terrorism, the official said and warned that "India will carry out retaliatory counter-terrorism operation like the one on February 26, deep inside Pakistan, anytime there is an act of terrorism coming from across the border". Referring to the recent actions taken by Pakistan against several terrorist groups, the official said that these actions are "nothing unusual" as the country takes such steps after every terrorist strike in India. "These actions", the official described, "are a revolving door policy, under which house arrest of terrorist leaders simply means keeping them in luxurious accommodation". They are released once the situation becomes normal, the official said. But after the Pulwama attack, India has set "a new normal". "For every terrorist attack coming from across the border, India will retaliate and there will be a price that the neighbouring country would have to pay." Accusing Pakistan of being a state sponsor of terrorism, the official said there is a feeling in India that Islamabad is unlikely to stop funding terror activities "unless the cost of it is too heavy for it to pay". Asserting that India has the right to self-defence, the official told reporters that New Delhi by successfully carrying out strikes inside Pakistan "has been able to call the Pakistani bluff" on the nuclear front. "This will not work in the future," the official said and warned Pakistan that "there will be reprisal" for every act of terrorism. Responding to a question, the official said India has given to the US details of the violation of the end user agreement by Pakistan when it used F-16 fighter jets and advanced missiles against India on February 27. India, the official said, is very closely engaged with the US and has the support of the Trump administration. The official also said India is opposed to any IMF bailout packages to Pakistan. Pakistan has received as many as 21 bailout packages, including seven in the recent past, from the IMF. However, none of them has been able to address the economic woes of Pakistan because the money intended to improve the economy and developmental purposes have been diverted for non-civilian means.

22 terrorist training camps active in Pakistan: Indian official

Two people were killed and 31 others were injured in a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-bus-stand-grenade-attack-police-identify-suspect-traces-hizbul-link-201820"> grenade attack at a bus stand </a>here carried out by a Hizbul Mujahideen operative who was arrested hours after the incident.

At 11.58 am, the incident of grenade blast was reported and the police immediately rushed to the site, Inspector General of Police (Jammu) MK Sinha told reporters here.

He said 33 people were injured in the explosion and they were immediately rushed to the hospital with the help of locals. Two people succumbed to their&nbsp;injuries.

One of them, identified as 17-year-old Mohd Sharik of Toda area of Haridwar in Uttarakhand, succumbed to his injuries later, Sinha said.

Of the injured people, 10 are from Jammu province, 11 from Kashmir, and 9 from other states.

Two injured persons were yet to be identified, he said.

"As soon as we came to know about the grenade attack, the police parties swung into action. Along with the civilians, we evacuated the injured to a government hospital," he said. "

Teams were constituted to work on the leads. CCTV camera footage was examined and based on oral testimony of the witnesses, we were able to identify a suspect. He was detained, his name is Yasir Bhatt, he has confessed to the crime," the IGP said.

He said Bhatt was tasked by Farooq Ahmed Bhat alias Omar, self-styled District Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen based in Kulgam in Kashmir, to carry out the grenade attack, Sinha said.

The grenade attack took place exactly three weeks after the terror strike on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, in which 40 security personnel were killed.

This is the third grenade attack by terrorists in the bus stand area of Jammu city in the last nine months.

One of the eyewitnesses, Prince Sharma told ANI, "I had just parked my bike when I heard a loud sound. I went to the spot of the explosion and saw about a dozen people were badly injured."

Two people were killed and 31 others were injured in a grenade attack at a bus stand here carried out by a Hizbul Mujahideen operative who was arrested hours after the incident.

Two people were killed and 31 others were injured in a grenade attack at a bus stand here carried out by a Hizbul Mujahideen operative who was arrested hours after the incident. At 11.58 am, the incident of grenade blast was reported and the police immediately rushed to the site, Inspector General of Police (Jammu) MK Sinha told reporters here. He said 33 people were injured in the explosion and they were immediately rushed to the hospital with the help of locals. Two people succumbed to their injuries. One of them, identified as 17-year-old Mohd Sharik of Toda area of Haridwar in Uttarakhand, succumbed to his injuries later, Sinha said. Of the injured people, 10 are from Jammu province, 11 from Kashmir, and 9 from other states. Two injured persons were yet to be identified, he said. "As soon as we came to know about the grenade attack, the police parties swung into action. Along with the civilians, we evacuated the injured to a government hospital," he said. " Teams were constituted to work on the leads. CCTV camera footage was examined and based on oral testimony of the witnesses, we were able to identify a suspect. He was detained, his name is Yasir Bhatt, he has confessed to the crime," the IGP said. He said Bhatt was tasked by Farooq Ahmed Bhat alias Omar, self-styled District Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen based in Kulgam in Kashmir, to carry out the grenade attack, Sinha said. The grenade attack took place exactly three weeks after the terror strike on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, in which 40 security personnel were killed. This is the third grenade attack by terrorists in the bus stand area of Jammu city in the last nine months. One of the eyewitnesses, Prince Sharma told ANI, "I had just parked my bike when I heard a loud sound. I went to the spot of the explosion and saw about a dozen people were badly injured."

Grenade attack at Jammu bus stand; two killed, 31 injured; Hizbul terrorist arrested

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Friday informed a Delhi Court that the probe against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots would be completed in the next two months.

The premier investigators also filed a report before a single judge bench of the Karkardooma court, presided by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Amit Arora, with regard to the lie detector test conducted on Abhishek Verma, an eyewitness in the case.

Both the reports were filed before ACMM Arora in a sealed cover.

The matter has been posted for further hearing on May 22.

Verma, a witness in the 1984 Anti-Sikh riots case, had filed a writ complaint with Delhi Police in 2017, requesting them to enhance his police protection following a death threat e-mail.

He is a witness in the case pertaining to the killing of three Sikhs- Badal Singh, Thakur Singh and, Gurcharan Singh - at Gurudwara Pulbangash in North Delhi on November 1, 1984, a day after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

Earlier in February, noting the sensitive nature of the matter, the court had directed the CBI to expedite investigations into the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case in which Tytler was given clean chit for his alleged role.

The case against Tytler was one of the three cases the Nanavati Commission had ordered to be reopened by the CBI in 2005. Tytler is accused of leading a mob in the 1984 Pul Bangash case in which three Sikhs were killed.

According to official records, about 2,800 Sikhs were killed across India, including 2,100 in Delhi, during the pogrom that broke out after Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards.

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Friday informed a Delhi Court that the probe against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots would be completed in the next two months.

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Friday informed a Delhi Court that the probe against Congress leader Jagdish Tytler in connection with the 1984 anti-Sikh riots would be completed in the next two months. The premier investigators also filed a report before a single judge bench of the Karkardooma court, presided by Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (ACMM) Amit Arora, with regard to the lie detector test conducted on Abhishek Verma, an eyewitness in the case. Both the reports were filed before ACMM Arora in a sealed cover. The matter has been posted for further hearing on May 22. Verma, a witness in the 1984 Anti-Sikh riots case, had filed a writ complaint with Delhi Police in 2017, requesting them to enhance his police protection following a death threat e-mail. He is a witness in the case pertaining to the killing of three Sikhs- Badal Singh, Thakur Singh and, Gurcharan Singh - at Gurudwara Pulbangash in North Delhi on November 1, 1984, a day after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Earlier in February, noting the sensitive nature of the matter, the court had directed the CBI to expedite investigations into the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case in which Tytler was given clean chit for his alleged role. The case against Tytler was one of the three cases the Nanavati Commission had ordered to be reopened by the CBI in 2005. Tytler is accused of leading a mob in the 1984 Pul Bangash case in which three Sikhs were killed. According to official records, about 2,800 Sikhs were killed across India, including 2,100 in Delhi, during the pogrom that broke out after Indira Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards.

CBI to conclude investigation against Jagdish Tytler in two months

On the International Women’s Day, the Samajwadi Party on Friday announced the candidature of three women, including party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s wife Dimple Yadav, for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Uttar Pradesh.

Dimple Yadav will contest from Kannauj constituency, from where the 41-year-old has already been elected twice -- in 2012 by-polls and 2014 general elections.

Purvi Verma has been fielded from Khiri constituency and Usha Verma from Hardoi, according a press statement issued by the party.

Earlier in the day, the party released <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-samajwadi-party-releases-list-of-6-candidates-mulayam-singh-yadav-to-fight-from-mainpuri-201964">its first list of six candidates</a> for the polls.

According to that list, party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav will contest from Mainpuri constituency, his nephew Dharmendra Yadav from Badaun and cousin Ram Gopal Yadav's son Akshay Yadav from Firozabad.

In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the party had won just 5 out of 80 seats at stake in the state.

Besides Dimple, Mulayam had won from Azamgarh, Dharmendra Yadav from Badaun, Akshay Yadav from Firozabad and Tej Pratap Yadav from Mainpuri.

The party also announced the candidates for three reserved constituencies- Itawa, Robertsganj and Bahraich.

According to the list, Kamlesh Katheria will contest the Etawah reserved seat, Bhailal Kol has been fielded on Robertsganj reserved seat, and Shabbir Balmiki from Bahraich.

The Samajwadi Party is contesting the polls in alliance with BSP. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will contest 38.

On the International Women’s Day, the Samajwadi Party on Friday announced the candidature of three women, including party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s wife Dimple Yadav, for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Uttar Pradesh.

On the International Women’s Day, the Samajwadi Party on Friday announced the candidature of three women, including party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s wife Dimple Yadav, for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls from Uttar Pradesh. Dimple Yadav will contest from Kannauj constituency, from where the 41-year-old has already been elected twice -- in 2012 by-polls and 2014 general elections. Purvi Verma has been fielded from Khiri constituency and Usha Verma from Hardoi, according a press statement issued by the party. Earlier in the day, the party released its first list of six candidates for the polls. According to that list, party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav will contest from Mainpuri constituency, his nephew Dharmendra Yadav from Badaun and cousin Ram Gopal Yadav's son Akshay Yadav from Firozabad. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the party had won just 5 out of 80 seats at stake in the state. Besides Dimple, Mulayam had won from Azamgarh, Dharmendra Yadav from Badaun, Akshay Yadav from Firozabad and Tej Pratap Yadav from Mainpuri. The party also announced the candidates for three reserved constituencies- Itawa, Robertsganj and Bahraich. According to the list, Kamlesh Katheria will contest the Etawah reserved seat, Bhailal Kol has been fielded on Robertsganj reserved seat, and Shabbir Balmiki from Bahraich. The Samajwadi Party is contesting the polls in alliance with BSP. According to the seat-sharing arrangement, Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while BSP will contest 38.

Lok Sabha: Samajwadi Party names 3 women candidates, Dimple Yadav to contest from Kannauj

A Pakistani intruder was on Friday arrested along the international border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Border Security Force (BSF) said.

The intruder was apprehended by BSF troops in Ramgarh sector, an official of the border guarding force said.&nbsp;

He said alert BSF personnel noticed the person and caught him soon after he sneaked into this side from Pakistan.&nbsp;

He was arrested and is being interrogated, the official said without giving further details.&nbsp;

A Pakistani intruder was on Friday arrested along the international border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Border Security Force (BSF) said. The intruder was apprehended by BSF troops in Ramgarh sector, an official of the border guarding force said.

A Pakistani intruder was on Friday arrested along the international border (IB) in Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Border Security Force (BSF) said. The intruder was apprehended by BSF troops in Ramgarh sector, an official of the border guarding force said. He said alert BSF personnel noticed the person and caught him soon after he sneaked into this side from Pakistan. He was arrested and is being interrogated, the official said without giving further details.

Pak intruder held in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba

Answering those raising questions over the Indian air strike on terror camp in Pakistan, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed in an operation.

“Arre sankhya poochte ho aap, kitne log maare gaye? Sankhya poochne walo se kehna chahta hun, Jo yudh-veer hota hai, maare gaye logon ki ginti nahi karta hai (You are asking what is the casualty figure? I want to tell you that brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed),” he said while addressing party workers here in Rajasthan.

His comment came in the wake of questions being raised by various opposition parties about the casualties inflicted in the IAF strike at Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on February 26.

IAF chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa has said that the Indian fighter jets had hit the targets given to them but it was not the job of his force to count the bodies.

Indian intelligence sources have said that there were 300 active sim-cards at the camp just before the air strike was conducted, giving a hint about the strength of the terrorists present at the facility.

The Home Minister also referred to the incidents of assaults on some Kashmiris in the country and said he has requested all states to ensure that the Kashmiris are “protected and loved”.

“Want to convey a message to the entire country. I heard about a few incidents against Kashmiri children. Kashmiris are, were and will remain our people. I have requested Chief Ministers of all states that Kashmiri students must be protected and loved,” he said.

Singh’s comments came against the backdrop of an incident in Lucknow on Wednesday when two Kashmiri dry fruit vendors were assaulted by some members of a right-wing fringe group. Four people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Answering those raising questions over the Indian air strike on terror camp in Pakistan, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed in an operation.

Answering those raising questions over the Indian air strike on terror camp in Pakistan, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday said brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed in an operation. “Arre sankhya poochte ho aap, kitne log maare gaye? Sankhya poochne walo se kehna chahta hun, Jo yudh-veer hota hai, maare gaye logon ki ginti nahi karta hai (You are asking what is the casualty figure? I want to tell you that brave warriors do not count bodies of those killed),” he said while addressing party workers here in Rajasthan. His comment came in the wake of questions being raised by various opposition parties about the casualties inflicted in the IAF strike at Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camp in Balakot in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on February 26. IAF chief Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa has said that the Indian fighter jets had hit the targets given to them but it was not the job of his force to count the bodies. Indian intelligence sources have said that there were 300 active sim-cards at the camp just before the air strike was conducted, giving a hint about the strength of the terrorists present at the facility. The Home Minister also referred to the incidents of assaults on some Kashmiris in the country and said he has requested all states to ensure that the Kashmiris are “protected and loved”. “Want to convey a message to the entire country. I heard about a few incidents against Kashmiri children. Kashmiris are, were and will remain our people. I have requested Chief Ministers of all states that Kashmiri students must be protected and loved,” he said. Singh’s comments came against the backdrop of an incident in Lucknow on Wednesday when two Kashmiri dry fruit vendors were assaulted by some members of a right-wing fringe group. Four people have been arrested in connection with the incident.

Brave warriors do not count bodies: Rajnath answers those questioning casualties in air strike

India on Thursday sealed a $3 billion deal with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-after-1971-how-china-france-uk-helped-build-pakistan-navy-201805">Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered</a> attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years, military sources said.

The two countries signed an inter-governmental agreement capping months of negotiations on price and various other aspects of the deal.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Under the pact, Russia will have to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ak-203-is-latest-derivative-of-legendary-ak-47-rifle-201041">deliver the Akula class submarine</a>, to be known as Chakra III, to the Indian Navy by 2025.&nbsp;

It will be the third Russian submarine to be leased to the Indian Navy.

A spokesperson in the Defence Ministry refused to comment when asked about the deal.

India has been significantly bolstering its naval prowess in the backdrop of China's attempts to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean region. India Navy has taken two more submarines from Russia on lease.

The first Russian nuclear-powered submarine - christened INS Chakra - was taken in 1988 under a three year lease. A second INS Chakra was taken on lease in 2012 for a period of 10 years.

The lease of Chakra II will expire in 2022 and India is looking at extending the lease, sources said.

The deal for the Chakra III came days after Indo-Russian joint production facility to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian Army was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh.

In October, India signed a multi-billion dollar deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile system.&nbsp;

India on Thursday sealed a $3 billion deal with Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years, military sources said.

India on Thursday sealed a $3 billion deal with Russia for leasing of a nuclear-powered attack submarine for the Indian Navy for a period of 10 years, military sources said. The two countries signed an inter-governmental agreement capping months of negotiations on price and various other aspects of the deal. Under the pact, Russia will have to deliver the Akula class submarine, to be known as Chakra III, to the Indian Navy by 2025. It will be the third Russian submarine to be leased to the Indian Navy. A spokesperson in the Defence Ministry refused to comment when asked about the deal. India has been significantly bolstering its naval prowess in the backdrop of China's attempts to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean region. India Navy has taken two more submarines from Russia on lease. The first Russian nuclear-powered submarine - christened INS Chakra - was taken in 1988 under a three year lease. A second INS Chakra was taken on lease in 2012 for a period of 10 years. The lease of Chakra II will expire in 2022 and India is looking at extending the lease, sources said. The deal for the Chakra III came days after Indo-Russian joint production facility to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles for the Indian Army was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. In October, India signed a multi-billion dollar deal with Russia to procure a batch of S-400 air defence missile system.

Russia to lease nuclear-powered submarine to India in deal worth $3 billion

A Delhi court Friday extended till March 25 the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti in the Aircel-Maxis scam cases filed by the CBI and the ED.

Special Judge O P Saini adjourned the matter after senior advocate Sonia Mathur, appearing for the CBI, sought time to argue on their anticipatory bail applications.

Similar request was also made by ED's Special Public Prosecutors Nitesh Rana and N K Matta which was allowed by the court.

During the hearing senior advocates Kapil Sibal and A M Sinhgvi, appearing for the father-son duo, opposed the adjournment sought by the agencies, saying a lot of time has been spent since filing of the applications.

The case relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal.&nbsp;

A Delhi court Friday extended till March 25 the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti in the Aircel-Maxis scam cases filed by the CBI and the ED.

A Delhi court Friday extended till March 25 the interim protection from arrest granted to former Union minister P Chidambaram and his son Karti in the Aircel-Maxis scam cases filed by the CBI and the ED. Special Judge O P Saini adjourned the matter after senior advocate Sonia Mathur, appearing for the CBI, sought time to argue on their anticipatory bail applications. Similar request was also made by ED's Special Public Prosecutors Nitesh Rana and N K Matta which was allowed by the court. During the hearing senior advocates Kapil Sibal and A M Sinhgvi, appearing for the father-son duo, opposed the adjournment sought by the agencies, saying a lot of time has been spent since filing of the applications. The case relates to alleged irregularities in grant of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) approval in the Aircel-Maxis deal.

Aircel-Maxis case: Protection from arrest to Chidambaram, Karti's extended till March 25

&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-government-shuts-schools-suspends-working-day-as-blackout-enters-second-day-202053">Venezuela: Maduro shuts schools, suspends working day as blackout enters </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-government-shuts-schools-suspends-working-day-as-blackout-enters-second-day-202053">second</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-government-shuts-schools-suspends-working-day-as-blackout-enters-second-day-202053"> day</a>

Venezuela&nbsp;shut schools and suspended working hours on Friday after the capital Caracas and other major cities awoke without electricity for a second day due to a problem that struck the&nbsp;South American country's main hydroelectric plant.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-open-to-talks-with-north-korea-despite-missile-programme-activity-201987">Trump says open to talks with North Korea despite missile programme activity</a>

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump is open to more talks with North Korea over denuclearisation, his national security adviser said on Thursday, despite&nbsp;reports it is reactivating parts of its missile programme.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-never-seriously-cracked-down-militant-groups-that-attack-india-us-daily-202037">Pakistan never seriously cracked down militant groups that attack India: </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-never-seriously-cracked-down-militant-groups-that-attack-india-us-daily-202037">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-never-seriously-cracked-down-militant-groups-that-attack-india-us-daily-202037"> daily</a>

Pakistan has never seriously cracked down on militant groups that attack India, a leading US daily has said, warning that the threat of nuclear war between the two nations remains as a long-term solution to the conflict is unlikely without international pressure.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/carlos-ghosn-out-on-bail-will-be-under-strict-monitoring-202032">Carlos Ghosn, out on bail, will be under strict monitoring</a>

No internet, no email and surveillance cameras to monitor his comings and goings. After paying $9 million in bail, former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn is out of a Japanese jail cell where he spent 108 days, but he must live under a host of restrictions while he awaits trial, which could be a year away.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/agree-to-backstop-changes-or-risk-disorderly-brexit-theresa-may-to-eu-201993">Agree to backstop changes or risk disorderly Brexit: Theresa May warns EU</a>

British Prime Minister&nbsp;Theresa May&nbsp;put the onus on the European Union to make concessions over the thorny issue of the Irish backstop in Brexit talks, or risk Britain leaving the EU without a deal, which she said would be against EU interests.

Venezuela: Maduro shuts schools, suspends working day as blackout enters second day Venezuela shut schools and suspended working hours on Friday after the capital Caracas and other major cities awoke without electricity for a second day due to a problem that struck the South American country's main hydroelectric plant.

Venezuela: Maduro shuts schools, suspends working day as blackout enters second day Venezuela shut schools and suspended working hours on Friday after the capital Caracas and other major cities awoke without electricity for a second day due to a problem that struck the South American country's main hydroelectric plant. Trump says open to talks with North Korea despite missile programme activity US President Donald Trump is open to more talks with North Korea over denuclearisation, his national security adviser said on Thursday, despite reports it is reactivating parts of its missile programme. Pakistan never seriously cracked down militant groups that attack India: US daily Pakistan has never seriously cracked down on militant groups that attack India, a leading US daily has said, warning that the threat of nuclear war between the two nations remains as a long-term solution to the conflict is unlikely without international pressure. Carlos Ghosn, out on bail, will be under strict monitoring No internet, no email and surveillance cameras to monitor his comings and goings. After paying $9 million in bail, former Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn is out of a Japanese jail cell where he spent 108 days, but he must live under a host of restrictions while he awaits trial, which could be a year away. Agree to backstop changes or risk disorderly Brexit: Theresa May warns EU British Prime Minister Theresa May put the onus on the European Union to make concessions over the thorny issue of the Irish backstop in Brexit talks, or risk Britain leaving the EU without a deal, which she said would be against EU interests.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The highest decision-making body of RSS, Akhil Bhartiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), started its three-day long deliberation session in Gwalior on Friday. What is surprising is that the topmost body will not discuss electoral politics but the&nbsp;swayamsevaks will create awareness in the society about casting their votes.&nbsp;

This Lok Sabha election is considered very important for the BJP because it has decided to take on the opposition on core issues like nationalism and the Ram temple.&nbsp;

ABPS is the highest decision-making body which meets once a year and a representative is chosen on every 2,000 swayamsevak. The meeting is important because it provides a road-map to the entire organization.

This time around, the RSS only intends to pass a resolution on the Sabarimala issue and the promotion of family values and challenges in contemporary India. But RSS did not refrain from espousing its position on the Ayodhya issue this time.

In a strongly worded statement, published in part of the annual report, the RSS expressed strong reservation on the Ram Janambhomi case.

In its annual report, the RSS stated, "In Ram Janambhomi case, instead of accelerating the judicial process to end the long-drawn dispute, the Supreme Court has taken a surprising stand. That the Supreme Court should find no priority for the sensitive subject associated with the deep faith of Hindu society is beyond understanding. We are experiencing that Hindus are constantly being neglected. While having full respect in the judicial system we would like to say emphatically that the judgment on the dispute must expedite and remove the obstacles in constructing a grand Ram temple."

The RSS was equally scathing on the top court when it came to the Sabarimala issue. Its statement read, "Reverence and values are the pivots of the Hindu society. These accepted norms and traditions guide social behaviour. Hence, it is not just the legal process but social tradition and acceptance which are also important. The Supreme Court in the Sabarimala case, without taking into consideration all relevant entities and customs, delivered a judgement even without the consideration of the different opinion of the lone woman member of the bench.”

The RSS also addressed the issue of terrorism in its report saying, "The external forces, with the help of some anti-national internal elements, are giving shape to violent incidents. The attack on the Army is very tragic especially the attack in Pulwama. Nobody should take our tolerance as a sign of weakness.” The RSS said that the current government must take strong action against the anti-national elements, adding that it had, indeed, done praiseworthy work in this direction.

RSS Joint General Secretary Manmohan Vaidya said that to improve the outreach of the organisation, both qualitatively and quantitatively, the six sah sarkaryavahs of the organisation have taken meetings with 12,000 swayamsevaks in 43 prants. It was also noted that over 1 lakh youth, ageing between 20-35 years, joined the organisation in a year’s time.&nbsp;

It was also noted that the RSS has reached 88 per cent of the blocks in the country through its 63,637 shakhas. Its work expanded to 54,472 mandals and the number of daily RSS shakhas increased to 59,266. The meeting focused on the issue of Sabarimala and challenges to the family system in contemporary India.

The highest decision-making body of RSS, Akhil Bhartiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), started its three-day long deliberation session in Gwalior on Friday. What is surprising is that the topmost body will not discuss electoral politics but the swayamsevaks will create awareness in the society about casting their votes.

The highest decision-making body of RSS, Akhil Bhartiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS), started its three-day long deliberation session in Gwalior on Friday. What is surprising is that the topmost body will not discuss electoral politics but the swayamsevaks will create awareness in the society about casting their votes. This Lok Sabha election is considered very important for the BJP because it has decided to take on the opposition on core issues like nationalism and the Ram temple. ABPS is the highest decision-making body which meets once a year and a representative is chosen on every 2,000 swayamsevak. The meeting is important because it provides a road-map to the entire organization. This time around, the RSS only intends to pass a resolution on the Sabarimala issue and the promotion of family values and challenges in contemporary India. But RSS did not refrain from espousing its position on the Ayodhya issue this time. In a strongly worded statement, published in part of the annual report, the RSS expressed strong reservation on the Ram Janambhomi case. In its annual report, the RSS stated, "In Ram Janambhomi case, instead of accelerating the judicial process to end the long-drawn dispute, the Supreme Court has taken a surprising stand. That the Supreme Court should find no priority for the sensitive subject associated with the deep faith of Hindu society is beyond understanding. We are experiencing that Hindus are constantly being neglected. While having full respect in the judicial system we would like to say emphatically that the judgment on the dispute must expedite and remove the obstacles in constructing a grand Ram temple." The RSS was equally scathing on the top court when it came to the Sabarimala issue. Its statement read, "Reverence and values are the pivots of the Hindu society. These accepted norms and traditions guide social behaviour. Hence, it is not just the legal process but social tradition and acceptance which are also important. The Supreme Court in the Sabarimala case, without taking into consideration all relevant entities and customs, delivered a judgement even without the consideration of the different opinion of the lone woman member of the bench.” The RSS also addressed the issue of terrorism in its report saying, "The external forces, with the help of some anti-national internal elements, are giving shape to violent incidents. The attack on the Army is very tragic especially the attack in Pulwama. Nobody should take our tolerance as a sign of weakness.” The RSS said that the current government must take strong action against the anti-national elements, adding that it had, indeed, done praiseworthy work in this direction. RSS Joint General Secretary Manmohan Vaidya said that to improve the outreach of the organisation, both qualitatively and quantitatively, the six sah sarkaryavahs of the organisation have taken meetings with 12,000 swayamsevaks in 43 prants. It was also noted that over 1 lakh youth, ageing between 20-35 years, joined the organisation in a year’s time. It was also noted that the RSS has reached 88 per cent of the blocks in the country through its 63,637 shakhas. Its work expanded to 54,472 mandals and the number of daily RSS shakhas increased to 59,266. The meeting focused on the issue of Sabarimala and challenges to the family system in contemporary India.

Back to basics: RSS highest decision-making body refrains from discussing Lok Sabha polls

Senior advocate Sriram Panchu, named by the Supreme Court as a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-mediation-in-ayodhya-case-appoints-three-member-panel-201901">member of the panel to mediate</a> the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute, on Friday said the court had given him "a serious" responsibility and he would do his best.

"It is a very serious responsibility given to me by the Honourable Supreme Court. I will do my best," he said in a brief statement.

A five-judge constitution bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, referred the politically sensitive case for mediation on Friday and appointed a three-member panel for the purpose, asking it to complete the process within eight weeks.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Justice(Retd)FM Ibrahim Kalifullah on Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case: I understand SC has appointed a mediation committee headed by me. I'm yet to received order copy.I can say if committee has been constituted we'll take every effort to resolve the issue amicably <a href="https://t.co/AgSfBzfuGU">pic.twitter.com/AgSfBzfuGU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103915209142366208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Former Supreme Court judge FM Khaliifulah will be the chairman for the court-appointed mediation panel. Other members of panel of mediators include Shri Shri Ravi Shankar and Sriram Panchu.

Panchu, a senior advocate of the Madras High Court, is a pioneer in the mediation movement.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Sri Sri Ravishankar on being appointed in Ayodhya mediation panel by Supreme Court: I just heard of this news, I think this will be good for the country, mediation is the only way <a href="https://t.co/aj2mQAKE4i">pic.twitter.com/aj2mQAKE4i</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103935157164109825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Founder of the country's first court-annexed mediation centre -- The Mediation Chambers -- in the Madras High Court in 2005, he has authored books on mediation, including a comprehensive manual -- Mediation: Practice and Law.

Panchu has mediated a number of cases, including the one involving the boundary dispute between Assam and Nagaland.&nbsp;

Senior advocate Sriram Panchu, named by the Supreme Court as a member of the panel to mediate the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute, on Friday said the court had given him "a serious" responsibility and he would do his best.

Senior advocate Sriram Panchu, named by the Supreme Court as a member of the panel to mediate the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute, on Friday said the court had given him "a serious" responsibility and he would do his best. "It is a very serious responsibility given to me by the Honourable Supreme Court. I will do my best," he said in a brief statement. A five-judge constitution bench of the apex court, headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, referred the politically sensitive case for mediation on Friday and appointed a three-member panel for the purpose, asking it to complete the process within eight weeks. Justice(Retd)FM Ibrahim Kalifullah on Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid land dispute case: I understand SC has appointed a mediation committee headed by me. I'm yet to received order copy.I can say if committee has been constituted we'll take every effort to resolve the issue amicably pic.twitter.com/AgSfBzfuGU — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2019 × Former Supreme Court judge FM Khaliifulah will be the chairman for the court-appointed mediation panel. Other members of panel of mediators include Shri Shri Ravi Shankar and Sriram Panchu. Panchu, a senior advocate of the Madras High Court, is a pioneer in the mediation movement. Sri Sri Ravishankar on being appointed in Ayodhya mediation panel by Supreme Court: I just heard of this news, I think this will be good for the country, mediation is the only way pic.twitter.com/aj2mQAKE4i — ANI (@ANI) March 8, 2019 × Founder of the country's first court-annexed mediation centre -- The Mediation Chambers -- in the Madras High Court in 2005, he has authored books on mediation, including a comprehensive manual -- Mediation: Practice and Law. Panchu has mediated a number of cases, including the one involving the boundary dispute between Assam and Nagaland.

It's a serious responsibility, will do my best: Sriram Panchu on Ayodhya mediation

Rear Admiral Didier Malterre,&nbsp;Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean, visited India last week and discussed ways to enhance bilateral defence engagement with top officials.

The French Joint Forces Commander, during his maiden official trip to New Delhi after assuming command, first visited the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) and the Information Fusion Centre (IFC).

His trip to the two centres came after Admiral Christophe Prazuck, Chief of the French Naval Staff, made a trip there two months ago, a french Embassy statement said.

Jointly run by the Indian Navy and the Coast Guards, IMAC focuses on the analysis of maritime information across the world.

It draws on numerous sources of information for building its database on the global maritime situation, particularly by relying on its agreements with partner countries.

At the end of 2018, India also established IFC to monitor the region. It plays a central role in coordinating information in the Indian Ocean.

During the visit from February 26-28, the Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean held meetings with top officials of the Indian Navy such as Vice Admiral M S Pawar, Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command, and Vice-Admiral Ashok Kumar, Vice Chief of the Indian Navy, as well as at the Integrated Defence Staff level, represented by Lieutenant-General Amarjeet Singh Bedi.&nbsp;

Rear Admiral Didier Malterre, Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean, visited India last week and discussed ways to enhance bilateral defence engagement with top officials.

Rear Admiral Didier Malterre, Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean, visited India last week and discussed ways to enhance bilateral defence engagement with top officials. The French Joint Forces Commander, during his maiden official trip to New Delhi after assuming command, first visited the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) and the Information Fusion Centre (IFC). His trip to the two centres came after Admiral Christophe Prazuck, Chief of the French Naval Staff, made a trip there two months ago, a french Embassy statement said. Jointly run by the Indian Navy and the Coast Guards, IMAC focuses on the analysis of maritime information across the world. It draws on numerous sources of information for building its database on the global maritime situation, particularly by relying on its agreements with partner countries. At the end of 2018, India also established IFC to monitor the region. It plays a central role in coordinating information in the Indian Ocean. During the visit from February 26-28, the Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean held meetings with top officials of the Indian Navy such as Vice Admiral M S Pawar, Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command, and Vice-Admiral Ashok Kumar, Vice Chief of the Indian Navy, as well as at the Integrated Defence Staff level, represented by Lieutenant-General Amarjeet Singh Bedi.

French Joint Forces Commander in Indian Ocean visits India, holds talks with top defence officials

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Friday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to confer Param Vir Chakra, the country's highest military honour, on Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, captured by Pakistan after a dogfight in the skies and released later.

In a letter to Modi, Palaniswami said the IAF pilot, a native of Tamil Nadu, displayed amazing poise and confidence in the face of adverse condition and it would be appropriate he be awarded the highest military honour.

He noted that Varthaman was released by Pakistan "due to the diplomatic initiatives" of the Prime Minister and "intense international pressure".

"Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman displayed amazing poise and confidence in the face of adverse conditions, which has won him many hearts across the country. It is appropriate that he be awarded India's highest military honour Param Vir Chakra (PVC) for displaying most inimitable gallantry and valour," the chief minister said.

"I request the Government of India to confer the nation's highest military honour, Param Vir Chakra, on Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman," he added.

Palaniswami recalled that the MiG-21 Bison aircraft piloted by Varthaman had shot down a Pakistan Air Force fighter (F-16) when it tried to violate India's air space and that he was later taken into custody by Pakistani armed forces.

Varthaman, who was captured on February 27, returned home on March 1 after Pakistan Prime Minster Imran Khan announced he would be released as a "gesture of peace".

According to the central government, Param Vir Chakra "is awarded for most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, at sea, or in the air."&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Friday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to confer Param Vir Chakra, the country's highest military honour, on Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, captured by Pakistan after a dogfight in the skies and released later.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Palaniswami Friday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to confer Param Vir Chakra, the country's highest military honour, on Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, captured by Pakistan after a dogfight in the skies and released later. In a letter to Modi, Palaniswami said the IAF pilot, a native of Tamil Nadu, displayed amazing poise and confidence in the face of adverse condition and it would be appropriate he be awarded the highest military honour. He noted that Varthaman was released by Pakistan "due to the diplomatic initiatives" of the Prime Minister and "intense international pressure". "Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman displayed amazing poise and confidence in the face of adverse conditions, which has won him many hearts across the country. It is appropriate that he be awarded India's highest military honour Param Vir Chakra (PVC) for displaying most inimitable gallantry and valour," the chief minister said. "I request the Government of India to confer the nation's highest military honour, Param Vir Chakra, on Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman," he added. Palaniswami recalled that the MiG-21 Bison aircraft piloted by Varthaman had shot down a Pakistan Air Force fighter (F-16) when it tried to violate India's air space and that he was later taken into custody by Pakistani armed forces. Varthaman, who was captured on February 27, returned home on March 1 after Pakistan Prime Minster Imran Khan announced he would be released as a "gesture of peace". According to the central government, Param Vir Chakra "is awarded for most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, at sea, or in the air."

Tamil Nadu CM seeks Param Vir Chakra for Abhinandan Varthaman

An Indian Air Force aircraft MiG-21 crashed in Rajasthan's Bikaner district on Friday,&nbsp;a defence ministry spokesperson said.

The aircraft was on a routine mission, news agency ANI reported.

The pilot of the aircraft ejected safely before the crash.

Court of inquiry will set up an investigation into the accident.

Bikaner Superintendent of Police Pradeep Mohan Sharma said the MiG aircraft crashed in Shobhasar ki Dhani, 12 km from Bikaner city, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

He said police teams have rushed to the spot to cordon off the area. No loss of life has been reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

An Indian Air Force aircraft MiG-21 crashed in Rajasthan's Bikaner district on Friday, a defence ministry spokesperson said. The aircraft was on a routine mission, news agency ANI reported.

An Indian Air Force aircraft MiG-21 crashed in Rajasthan's Bikaner district on Friday, a defence ministry spokesperson said. The aircraft was on a routine mission, news agency ANI reported. The pilot of the aircraft ejected safely before the crash. Court of inquiry will set up an investigation into the accident. Bikaner Superintendent of Police Pradeep Mohan Sharma said the MiG aircraft crashed in Shobhasar ki Dhani, 12 km from Bikaner city, news agency PTI reported. He said police teams have rushed to the spot to cordon off the area. No loss of life has been reported. (With inputs from agencies)

MiG-21 crashes in Rajasthan, pilot ejects safely

The Indian Air Force on Friday trolled Pakistan with a poem suggesting that its Mirage 2000 fighter jets had to cross over into Pakistan as Islamabad had crossed its limits by attacking CRPF personnel in Pulwama.

The Indian Air Force through its Twitter handle @iaf_mcc tweeted a Hindi poem by a poet named Bipin Illahabadi titled ‘Hadd Sarhad Ki, (limits of the border) this morning which suggests the reasons for the Air Force to have crossed the border and attack the Jaish terrorist camp in mainland Pakistan.

The poem in Hindi, in the beginning, says that a fighter whose name is 'Mrigmarichika'&nbsp;(Mirage) had to cross over the boundaries as someone had crossed all the limits.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
हद सरहद की 
 
आज किसी ने सरहदें पार की, 
क्योंकि किसी ने सारी हदें पार की। 
उस लड़ाकू में, जिसका अर्थ मृगमरीचिका है, 
एक हक़ीक़त, गयी रात हमने बयाँ की। 
आज किसी ने सरहदें पार की... 
 
. .. विपिन 'इलाहाबादी', २७ फरवरी २०१९ <a href="https://t.co/9nymkFLzhk">pic.twitter.com/9nymkFLzhk</a>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1103849356367679488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The poet has hinted about the cross-border strike by the Air Force on the night of February 26 in which 12 Mirage 2000 fighter jets crossed over the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir and pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

About the late night air strike, the poet also suggests that the enemy would be extra cautious in the nights as they would be living in fear of “fireworks” at that time.

The poem says that we have crossed the boundaries this time and touched the adversary in a unique way to warn him to mend his ways.

The poem also goes on to say that the adversary has been given a dose of truth and he cannot lie now.

The Air Force has come up with the Hindi poetry to troll the Pakistanis at a time when Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan started tweeting in Hindi on the ongoing conflict with India.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force on Friday trolled Pakistan with a poem suggesting that its Mirage 2000 fighter jets had to cross over into Pakistan as Islamabad had crossed its limits by attacking CRPF personnel in Pulwama.

The Indian Air Force on Friday trolled Pakistan with a poem suggesting that its Mirage 2000 fighter jets had to cross over into Pakistan as Islamabad had crossed its limits by attacking CRPF personnel in Pulwama. The Indian Air Force through its Twitter handle @iaf_mcc tweeted a Hindi poem by a poet named Bipin Illahabadi titled ‘Hadd Sarhad Ki, (limits of the border) this morning which suggests the reasons for the Air Force to have crossed the border and attack the Jaish terrorist camp in mainland Pakistan. The poem in Hindi, in the beginning, says that a fighter whose name is 'Mrigmarichika' (Mirage) had to cross over the boundaries as someone had crossed all the limits. हद सरहद की आज किसी ने सरहदें पार की, क्योंकि किसी ने सारी हदें पार की। उस लड़ाकू में, जिसका अर्थ मृगमरीचिका है, एक हक़ीक़त, गयी रात हमने बयाँ की। आज किसी ने सरहदें पार की... . .. विपिन 'इलाहाबादी', २७ फरवरी २०१९ pic.twitter.com/9nymkFLzhk — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) March 8, 2019 × The poet has hinted about the cross-border strike by the Air Force on the night of February 26 in which 12 Mirage 2000 fighter jets crossed over the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir and pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. About the late night air strike, the poet also suggests that the enemy would be extra cautious in the nights as they would be living in fear of “fireworks” at that time. The poem says that we have crossed the boundaries this time and touched the adversary in a unique way to warn him to mend his ways. The poem also goes on to say that the adversary has been given a dose of truth and he cannot lie now. The Air Force has come up with the Hindi poetry to troll the Pakistanis at a time when Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan started tweeting in Hindi on the ongoing conflict with India.

Indian Air Force tweets poem on cross border air strike, trolls Pakistan

The hearing in the Supreme Court during lawyer Prashant Bhushan's application seeking recusal of Justice Arun Mishra from adjudicating contempt plea filed against him by the Attorney General saw some heated arguments on Thursday.

The case was being heard by a bench comprising Justice Arun Mishra and Navin Sinha. Senior lawyer Dushyant Dave, appearing for Prashant Bhushan, referred to some earlier orders passed by Justice Mishra, including the one in which the apex court had made observations about lawyers going to the media on sub-judice cases, and said this has given rise to an apprehension in Bhushan's mind.

"Judges think independently. It is a matter of common knowledge that in some matters, some judges may have strict views while other judges will have different views. This is the beauty of this institution," Justice Sinha observed.

Dave said apprehension has to be seen from the mind of litigants and not from the mind of judges. "Please hear our application (seeking recusal). There are reasons in it."

To this, the bench told Dave, "Sorry, we are not with you. We should not express any opinion on this kind of application. If you want, we can pass reasoned order and then it will reflect many things. We are telling you."

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, which has also filed a separate contempt plea against Bhushan, referred to earlier orders passed by the apex court and said seeking recusal of judges has become a "pattern".

He said earlier also attempts were made to have two out of three judges recuse from hearing the pleas seeking probe into the death of special CBI judge B H Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case.

Senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for some social activists who have sought to intervene in the case, said Mehta has no locus to argue in the matter as the Centre's contempt plea against Bhushan was not maintainable.

"He (Mehta) appears in court, stands up and argues without being a party in the case," Dhavan said.

"Mr Dhavan, please maintain cool," the bench said. To this, the senior lawyer replied, "I am cool, My Lord. My biggest advantage is, I don't have blood pressure."

"Please check your blood pressure anyway", Justice Mishra commented.

During the hearing, Bhushan admitted in the court that he had made a "genuine mistake" by tweeting that the government had perhaps submitted in the apex court fabricated documents of the high-powered selection panel on appointment of interim CBI director.

Advocate Dave expressed the inclination on behalf of his client to withdraw an application seeking recusal of Justice Arun Mishra from hearing the contempt plea filed by Attorney General K K Venugopal against the activist lawyer.

When the bench said the application be withdrawn with an unconditional apology, Dave said he will tender the same on behalf of Bhushan.

However, when the bench sought Bhushan's own view, he said he was not inclined to tender an unconditional apology as the application filed by him was bona fide.

Taking note of his statement, the bench said in its order, "We make it clear that there is no reason for recusal and we will deal with it." The bench has posted the matter for further hearing on April 3.

The hearing in the Supreme Court during lawyer Prashant Bhushan's application seeking recusal of Justice Arun Mishra from adjudicating contempt plea filed against him by the Attorney General saw some heated arguments on Thursday.

The hearing in the Supreme Court during lawyer Prashant Bhushan's application seeking recusal of Justice Arun Mishra from adjudicating contempt plea filed against him by the Attorney General saw some heated arguments on Thursday. The case was being heard by a bench comprising Justice Arun Mishra and Navin Sinha. Senior lawyer Dushyant Dave, appearing for Prashant Bhushan, referred to some earlier orders passed by Justice Mishra, including the one in which the apex court had made observations about lawyers going to the media on sub-judice cases, and said this has given rise to an apprehension in Bhushan's mind. "Judges think independently. It is a matter of common knowledge that in some matters, some judges may have strict views while other judges will have different views. This is the beauty of this institution," Justice Sinha observed. Dave said apprehension has to be seen from the mind of litigants and not from the mind of judges. "Please hear our application (seeking recusal). There are reasons in it." To this, the bench told Dave, "Sorry, we are not with you. We should not express any opinion on this kind of application. If you want, we can pass reasoned order and then it will reflect many things. We are telling you." Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, which has also filed a separate contempt plea against Bhushan, referred to earlier orders passed by the apex court and said seeking recusal of judges has become a "pattern". He said earlier also attempts were made to have two out of three judges recuse from hearing the pleas seeking probe into the death of special CBI judge B H Loya, who was hearing the high-profile Sohrabuddin Sheikh fake encounter case. Senior advocate Rajeev Dhavan, appearing for some social activists who have sought to intervene in the case, said Mehta has no locus to argue in the matter as the Centre's contempt plea against Bhushan was not maintainable. "He (Mehta) appears in court, stands up and argues without being a party in the case," Dhavan said. "Mr Dhavan, please maintain cool," the bench said. To this, the senior lawyer replied, "I am cool, My Lord. My biggest advantage is, I don't have blood pressure." "Please check your blood pressure anyway", Justice Mishra commented. During the hearing, Bhushan admitted in the court that he had made a "genuine mistake" by tweeting that the government had perhaps submitted in the apex court fabricated documents of the high-powered selection panel on appointment of interim CBI director. Advocate Dave expressed the inclination on behalf of his client to withdraw an application seeking recusal of Justice Arun Mishra from hearing the contempt plea filed by Attorney General K K Venugopal against the activist lawyer. When the bench said the application be withdrawn with an unconditional apology, Dave said he will tender the same on behalf of Bhushan. However, when the bench sought Bhushan's own view, he said he was not inclined to tender an unconditional apology as the application filed by him was bona fide. Taking note of his statement, the bench said in its order, "We make it clear that there is no reason for recusal and we will deal with it." The bench has posted the matter for further hearing on April 3.

'I am cool', says lawyer in courtroom exchange during Prashant Bhushan case hearing

US President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/alastair-cook-confident-england-can-end-world-cup-drought-198370">Donald Trump&nbsp;referred Tim Cook as "Tim Apple" in a conference </a>on Wednesday, and hours later the Apple CEO took the joke to the next level.

Tim Cook replaced his surname on Twitter with an emoji of Apple company logo.

<img alt="Tim Cook" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fdd9f9f5-0ecc-47e3-aecc-486e64cf83d8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tim%20Cook.JPG" />

On Wednesday while addressing an inaugural meeting of the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board at the White House, Trump said, "I used to say, 'Tim, you've got to start doing it over here,' and you really have. You really put a big investment in our country. We appreciate it very much, Tim Apple."&nbsp;

All this while, Tim Cook was sitting right next to Trump.

The video soon went viral sparking a row of hilarious memes on social media.

However, as Tim Cook embraced his new name, the logo was only visible to Apple users. To Android and Windows users, a blank or grey square was appearing.

The reason for this is that Apple company logo is a private use area character of the American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) which is a character encoding standard for electronic communication that is supported on iOS and macOS only.

This is not the first time Trump has goofed-up someone's&nbsp;last name with the name of the company&nbsp;they were associated with.

Last year, he referred to aerospace and defence giant Lockheed Martin's CEO Marilyn Hewson as "Marilyn Lockheed."

US President Donald Trump referred Tim Cook as "Tim Apple" in a conference on Wednesday, and hours later the Apple CEO took the joke to the next level. Tim Cook replaced his surname on Twitter with an emoji of Apple company logo.

US President Donald Trump referred Tim Cook as "Tim Apple" in a conference on Wednesday, and hours later the Apple CEO took the joke to the next level. Tim Cook replaced his surname on Twitter with an emoji of Apple company logo. On Wednesday while addressing an inaugural meeting of the American Workforce Policy Advisory Board at the White House, Trump said, "I used to say, 'Tim, you've got to start doing it over here,' and you really have. You really put a big investment in our country. We appreciate it very much, Tim Apple." All this while, Tim Cook was sitting right next to Trump. The video soon went viral sparking a row of hilarious memes on social media. However, as Tim Cook embraced his new name, the logo was only visible to Apple users. To Android and Windows users, a blank or grey square was appearing. The reason for this is that Apple company logo is a private use area character of the American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII) which is a character encoding standard for electronic communication that is supported on iOS and macOS only. This is not the first time Trump has goofed-up someone's last name with the name of the company they were associated with. Last year, he referred to aerospace and defence giant Lockheed Martin's CEO Marilyn Hewson as "Marilyn Lockheed."

After Trump goof-up, Tim Cook renames his Twitter handle as 'Tim Apple'

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/over-200-kg-of-explosives-was-used-in-pulwamas-terror-attack-197469">deadly attack</a> on a convoy of India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which claimed 40 lives in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, made headlines but there are some unsung heroes - the women soldier of CRPF - who witnessed the blast from close quarters.

Among them is Assistant Sub-Inspector Vrinda Sonkwar. Vrinda, along with 29 other women, was part of bus number three in the 78-vehicle CRPF convoy. She had a miraculous escape because the bus which was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/few-kms-from-pulwama-attack-site-kashmiri-muslims-pandits-give-message-of-communal-harmony-201280">destroyed in the attack</a> went ahead and took their position.

Vrinda breaks down every time she remembers the horrific scene but she has no time to cry. Guarding a post office in Srinagar and armed with an AK-47 rifle, she is frisking women who enter the premises.

"We are here to serve the nation. When the attack took place, we took our positions inside the bus and some were outside as well. Some people who died in the attack were my colleagues, I was very angry at that time," she said.

These daredevil women cops are deployed at several key locations in the volatile Kashmir valley to maintain peace. Many of them are deployed not just to deal with law and order issues, but also to thwart any attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorists to derail peace in the Valley.

Their challenges have only heightened after Pulwama attack.

<img alt="women-soldier-crpf" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="068451ae-1c19-49c2-84ed-3c9ac9d81554" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/women-crpf-soldier-guarding.jpg" />

These soldiers say they want to avenge Pulwama attack, but are duty bound. (WION)

But <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/pulwama-attack-cannot-be-allowed-to-go-unanswered-198875">the attack</a> hasn't lowered their morale; in fact, some of them say their parents and family feel proud of them for working in Kashmir. At CRPF Bemina camp, they are standing in a queue for their routine deployment. Holding their weapons and assault rifles, they move with the loud command of their officer.

"My father wanted to join the army but he couldn't. He feels proud that I am in the CRPF. My father boosted my morale and said keep doing your job," said Pallavi, one of the CRPF personel who is ready to be deployed.

Bishnu Thamai is stationed at Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar, she has to frisk every incoming disciple before letting them inside a sensitive temple located on top of a hillock overlooking the city of Srinagar.

"We are even ready to fight in the war if given orders. We are angry over the martyrdom of our colleagues but we are also duty-bound. We are trained well to deal with any situation," says Thamai, as she looks on.

These women soldiers want to avenge the killing of their colleagues if given an opportunity. But for now, their focus is on keeping the Kashmir valley safe. They are out once again, ready to be deployed at key locations to deal with any situation which may arise. Holding their riot gear and guns, they are ready to tackle any mob.

The deadly attack on a convoy of India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which claimed 40 lives in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, made headlines but there are some unsung heroes - the women soldier of CRPF - who witnessed the blast from close quarters.

The deadly attack on a convoy of India's Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), which claimed 40 lives in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, made headlines but there are some unsung heroes - the women soldier of CRPF - who witnessed the blast from close quarters. Among them is Assistant Sub-Inspector Vrinda Sonkwar. Vrinda, along with 29 other women, was part of bus number three in the 78-vehicle CRPF convoy. She had a miraculous escape because the bus which was destroyed in the attack went ahead and took their position. Vrinda breaks down every time she remembers the horrific scene but she has no time to cry. Guarding a post office in Srinagar and armed with an AK-47 rifle, she is frisking women who enter the premises. "We are here to serve the nation. When the attack took place, we took our positions inside the bus and some were outside as well. Some people who died in the attack were my colleagues, I was very angry at that time," she said. These daredevil women cops are deployed at several key locations in the volatile Kashmir valley to maintain peace. Many of them are deployed not just to deal with law and order issues, but also to thwart any attempt by Pakistan-backed terrorists to derail peace in the Valley. Their challenges have only heightened after Pulwama attack. These soldiers say they want to avenge Pulwama attack, but are duty bound. (WION) But the attack hasn't lowered their morale; in fact, some of them say their parents and family feel proud of them for working in Kashmir. At CRPF Bemina camp, they are standing in a queue for their routine deployment. Holding their weapons and assault rifles, they move with the loud command of their officer. "My father wanted to join the army but he couldn't. He feels proud that I am in the CRPF. My father boosted my morale and said keep doing your job," said Pallavi, one of the CRPF personel who is ready to be deployed. Bishnu Thamai is stationed at Shankaracharya temple in Srinagar, she has to frisk every incoming disciple before letting them inside a sensitive temple located on top of a hillock overlooking the city of Srinagar. "We are even ready to fight in the war if given orders. We are angry over the martyrdom of our colleagues but we are also duty-bound. We are trained well to deal with any situation," says Thamai, as she looks on. These women soldiers want to avenge the killing of their colleagues if given an opportunity. But for now, their focus is on keeping the Kashmir valley safe. They are out once again, ready to be deployed at key locations to deal with any situation which may arise. Holding their riot gear and guns, they are ready to tackle any mob.

Women CRPF soldiers recall Pulwama attack, anger rages

The Samajwadi Party on Friday released a list of six candidates <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-first-list-of-congress-candidates-out-sonia-gandhi-to-contest-from-rae-bareli-rahul-from-amethi-201869">for the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh</a>, fielding party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav from its stronghold Mainpuri.

Dharmendra Yadav will contest from Badaun, Akshay Yadav from Firozabad, Kamlesh Katheria from Etawah, Bhailal Kol from Robertsganj and Shabbir Valmiki from Bahraich, the party announced.&nbsp;

The list was signed by SP national chief general secretary Ram Gopal Yadav.

The party left Mainpuri, described as its "safest" seat, for&nbsp;Mulayam Yadav, who is MP from Azamgarh right now.&nbsp;

He represented Mainpuri in the Lok Sabha in 1996, 2004 and 2009. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Mulayam Yadav had contested from Azamgarh and Mainpuri and had won both seats.

In Mainpuri, his victory margin was a massive 3.64 lakh votes.

The Samajwadi Party on Friday released a list of six candidates for the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, fielding party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav from its stronghold Mainpuri.

The Samajwadi Party on Friday released a list of six candidates for the Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, fielding party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav from its stronghold Mainpuri. Dharmendra Yadav will contest from Badaun, Akshay Yadav from Firozabad, Kamlesh Katheria from Etawah, Bhailal Kol from Robertsganj and Shabbir Valmiki from Bahraich, the party announced. The list was signed by SP national chief general secretary Ram Gopal Yadav. The party left Mainpuri, described as its "safest" seat, for Mulayam Yadav, who is MP from Azamgarh right now. He represented Mainpuri in the Lok Sabha in 1996, 2004 and 2009. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Mulayam Yadav had contested from Azamgarh and Mainpuri and had won both seats. In Mainpuri, his victory margin was a massive 3.64 lakh votes.

Lok Sabha polls: Samajwadi Party releases list of 6 candidates; Mulayam Singh Yadav to fight from Mainpuri

Kartarpur corridor construction in full swing, will open in November

Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has admitted that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) is a terror organisation and claimed that Pakistani intelligence had used the outfit to carry out suicide attacks in India during his tenure.

In a telephonic interview with Pakistani journalist Nadeem Malik of Hum News on March 5, Musharraf welcomed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government's move of taking action against JeM and blamed the terror outfit for carrying out a suicide attack on him at Jhanda Chichi in Rawalpindi in 2003 when he was Pakistan's president.

"I have always said that JeM is a terror organisation and they tried to assassinate me in a suicide attack at Jhanda Chichi in Rawalpindi in 2003. The suicide bomber pressed a button a few seconds late and I had crossed the bridge by that time. Action should be taken against them (JeM). I am happy that the government is taking a tough stand against them," said Musharraf, who served as Pakistan's president from 2001 to 2008.

Facing mounting international pressure, the Pakistan government on Tuesday said that 44 activists of various outfits, including Azhar's brother Mufti Abdur Rauf and son Hamza Azhar, have been taken into "preventive detention" as part of a crackdown on terror groups.

Asked why he himself had not taken any action against the Masood Azhar-led outfit when he was in power, Musharraf acknowledged that he should have done so while claiming that "those were different times."

"Our intelligence was involved in a tit-for-tat between India and Pakistan. They were carrying out bomb blasts in Pakistan and we were getting it done there (in India). This was going on and amidst this, no action was taken against JeM. I also did not insist on taking action," he said.

Musharraf's statement is contradictory to what the Pakistan Army had said, claiming that JeM "does not exist" in the country.

"Jaish-e-Mohammad does not exist in Pakistan. It has been proscribed by the United Nations and Pakistan," Major General Asif Ghafoor, the Pakistani Army's spokesperson, told CNN on Wednesday.

Earlier this week, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the Imran Khan-led government had contacted the Jaish leadership after the Pulwama terror attack and it had denied responsibility. He had also admitted that Azhar was in Pakistan and is "very unwell."

"He (Azhar) is in Pakistan. According to my information, he is very unwell. He's unwell to the extent that he cannot leave his house because he is really unwell. So, that's the information I have”, Qureshi told CNN in an interview.

There has been intense global pressure against Pakistan to stop supporting terrorists and terror outfits after India mounted a diplomatic campaign in this regard.

Tensions have been soaring between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terror attack, the responsibility of which has been taken by JeM. India lost 40 CRPF personnel when a suicide bomber targeted their convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14.

India recently shared a dossier with Pakistan and key foreign powers, specifying how JeM was involved in Pulwama and various other terror attacks in the country.

Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has admitted that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) is a terror organisation and claimed that Pakistani intelligence had used the outfit to carry out suicide attacks in India during his tenure.

Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has admitted that Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) is a terror organisation and claimed that Pakistani intelligence had used the outfit to carry out suicide attacks in India during his tenure. In a telephonic interview with Pakistani journalist Nadeem Malik of Hum News on March 5, Musharraf welcomed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government's move of taking action against JeM and blamed the terror outfit for carrying out a suicide attack on him at Jhanda Chichi in Rawalpindi in 2003 when he was Pakistan's president. "I have always said that JeM is a terror organisation and they tried to assassinate me in a suicide attack at Jhanda Chichi in Rawalpindi in 2003. The suicide bomber pressed a button a few seconds late and I had crossed the bridge by that time. Action should be taken against them (JeM). I am happy that the government is taking a tough stand against them," said Musharraf, who served as Pakistan's president from 2001 to 2008. Facing mounting international pressure, the Pakistan government on Tuesday said that 44 activists of various outfits, including Azhar's brother Mufti Abdur Rauf and son Hamza Azhar, have been taken into "preventive detention" as part of a crackdown on terror groups. Asked why he himself had not taken any action against the Masood Azhar-led outfit when he was in power, Musharraf acknowledged that he should have done so while claiming that "those were different times." "Our intelligence was involved in a tit-for-tat between India and Pakistan. They were carrying out bomb blasts in Pakistan and we were getting it done there (in India). This was going on and amidst this, no action was taken against JeM. I also did not insist on taking action," he said. Musharraf's statement is contradictory to what the Pakistan Army had said, claiming that JeM "does not exist" in the country. "Jaish-e-Mohammad does not exist in Pakistan. It has been proscribed by the United Nations and Pakistan," Major General Asif Ghafoor, the Pakistani Army's spokesperson, told CNN on Wednesday. Earlier this week, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the Imran Khan-led government had contacted the Jaish leadership after the Pulwama terror attack and it had denied responsibility. He had also admitted that Azhar was in Pakistan and is "very unwell." "He (Azhar) is in Pakistan. According to my information, he is very unwell. He's unwell to the extent that he cannot leave his house because he is really unwell. So, that's the information I have”, Qureshi told CNN in an interview. There has been intense global pressure against Pakistan to stop supporting terrorists and terror outfits after India mounted a diplomatic campaign in this regard. Tensions have been soaring between India and Pakistan following the Pulwama terror attack, the responsibility of which has been taken by JeM. India lost 40 CRPF personnel when a suicide bomber targeted their convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on February 14. India recently shared a dossier with Pakistan and key foreign powers, specifying how JeM was involved in Pulwama and various other terror attacks in the country.

Pakistan intel used Jaish-e-Mohammed for carrying out attacks in India during my tenure: Pak's former President Pervez Musharraf

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Wednesday announced that his government will increase the reservation quota for Other Backward Class (OBC) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent in the state.

The Chief Minister also assured that 10 per cent reservation for the economically weaker section in general category will also be implemented in Madhya Pradesh.

He made the announcement after laying the foundation stone for 33 Gaushala’s (cow shelters) here.

Nath also distributed loan waiver certificates to the farmers under "Jai Kisan Fasal Rin Mafi Yojana".

"The state government is constantly working for the happiness of farmers and progress of the youth. Schemes like 'Yuva Swabhiman'&nbsp;were introduced for providing employment to youths,” said Kamal Nath, while addressing the gathering at the event."

The state government is executing the historical task to get rid the farmers of debt under Kisan Rin Mafi Yojana. The government is going to waive loan of 25 lakh farmers. After that, we will provide the benefit under the scheme to 25 lakh more farmers," he added.

He asserted that the Congress government in the state is creating an environment of trust."Our youth is future of developed Madhya Pradesh. We are moving towards providing a job to every person through investment. It is unfortunate that the industries proposed for investment either closed down or are on the verge of closure. The government is making all-out effort to revive them,"&nbsp;said Chief Minister.&nbsp;

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Wednesday announced that his government will increase the reservation quota for Other Backward Class (OBC) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent in the state.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath on Wednesday announced that his government will increase the reservation quota for Other Backward Class (OBC) from 14 per cent to 27 per cent in the state. The Chief Minister also assured that 10 per cent reservation for the economically weaker section in general category will also be implemented in Madhya Pradesh. He made the announcement after laying the foundation stone for 33 Gaushala’s (cow shelters) here. Nath also distributed loan waiver certificates to the farmers under "Jai Kisan Fasal Rin Mafi Yojana". "The state government is constantly working for the happiness of farmers and progress of the youth. Schemes like 'Yuva Swabhiman' were introduced for providing employment to youths,” said Kamal Nath, while addressing the gathering at the event." The state government is executing the historical task to get rid the farmers of debt under Kisan Rin Mafi Yojana. The government is going to waive loan of 25 lakh farmers. After that, we will provide the benefit under the scheme to 25 lakh more farmers," he added. He asserted that the Congress government in the state is creating an environment of trust."Our youth is future of developed Madhya Pradesh. We are moving towards providing a job to every person through investment. It is unfortunate that the industries proposed for investment either closed down or are on the verge of closure. The government is making all-out effort to revive them," said Chief Minister.

Kamal Nath government to increase OBC quota to 27 %

A team of United Nations and&nbsp; World Wildlife Fund will visit Balakot in Pakistan today to take a witness account on the loss of trees in the strikes by India earlier, officials from Pakistan's Ministry of climate change&nbsp;told WION.

Tensions have been high between India and Pakistan after around 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14, the responsibility of which has been claimed by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/radar-satellite-images-of-iaf-strikes-in-balakot-show-significant-damage-sources-201636">Radar, satellite images of IAF strike on Pakistan's Balakot show 'significant damage'</a>

In retaliation, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-pilots-werent-supposed-to-land-and-count-number-of-terrorists-killed-in-balakot-rajnath-singh-201634">Indian Air Force carried out anti-terror strikes</a> at a JeM terror training camp in Pakistan's Balakot last week, in which a large number of terrorists were killed, according to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

Following the IAF strikes, Pakistan was planning to lodge a complaint against India at the United Nations, accusing it of "eco-terrorism".

Climate Change Minister Malik Amin Aslam had said Indian jets bombed a "forest reserve" and the government was undertaking an environmental impact assessment, which will be the basis of a complaint at the United Nations and other forums.

Today, officials from the&nbsp;Pakistani ministry of climate change told WION&nbsp;that&nbsp;"a total of 19 trees were severely damaged due to the Balakot air strikes last week".

The United Nations states that "destruction of the environment, not justified by military necessity and carried out wantonly, is clearly contrary to existing international law", according to the UN&nbsp;General Assembly resolution 47/37.

In the wake of Pulwama terror attack, there is mounting international pressure on Pakistan to cease providing support and a safe haven to terrorists and terror outfits.

(With inputs from news agencies)

A team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund will visit Balakot in Pakistan today to take a witness account on the loss of trees in the strikes by India earlier, officials from Pakistan's Ministry of climate change told WION.

A team of United Nations and World Wildlife Fund will visit Balakot in Pakistan today to take a witness account on the loss of trees in the strikes by India earlier, officials from Pakistan's Ministry of climate change told WION. Tensions have been high between India and Pakistan after around 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack on February 14, the responsibility of which has been claimed by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Also read: Radar, satellite images of IAF strike on Pakistan's Balakot show 'significant damage' In retaliation, the Indian Air Force carried out anti-terror strikes at a JeM terror training camp in Pakistan's Balakot last week, in which a large number of terrorists were killed, according to Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. Following the IAF strikes, Pakistan was planning to lodge a complaint against India at the United Nations, accusing it of "eco-terrorism". Climate Change Minister Malik Amin Aslam had said Indian jets bombed a "forest reserve" and the government was undertaking an environmental impact assessment, which will be the basis of a complaint at the United Nations and other forums. Today, officials from the Pakistani ministry of climate change told WION that "a total of 19 trees were severely damaged due to the Balakot air strikes last week". The United Nations states that "destruction of the environment, not justified by military necessity and carried out wantonly, is clearly contrary to existing international law", according to the UN General Assembly resolution 47/37. In the wake of Pulwama terror attack, there is mounting international pressure on Pakistan to cease providing support and a safe haven to terrorists and terror outfits. (With inputs from news agencies)

Pakistan: UN, WWF team to visit Balakot to account 'loss' of trees due to IAF strikes

French Space Agency CNES on Wednesday signed an agreement with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to set up a maritime surveillance centre in the country.

A press statement issued by the CNES said that the agreement was signed by CNES President Jean-Yves Le Gall and India's space agency Chairman K&nbsp;Sivan in Bengaluru.

This signature follows on from the broader agreement signed last March during President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to India.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-push-for-designation-of-jaish-chief-masood-azhar-as-global-terrorist-france-201668">Will push for designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-push-for-designation-of-jaish-chief-masood-azhar-as-global-terrorist-france-201668">global</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-push-for-designation-of-jaish-chief-masood-azhar-as-global-terrorist-france-201668"> terrorist, says France</a>

"The CNES-ISRO agreement, intended to supply an operational system for detecting, identifying and tracking ships in the Indian Ocean, provides for a maritime surveillance centre to be set up in India in May this year, sharing of capacity to process existing satellite data and joint development of associated algorithms,"&nbsp;the statement read.

"For the next phase of the programme, studies for an orbital infrastructure to be operated jointly by the two countries are ongoing. CNES is working with its industry partners and with ISRO to devise the most appropriate technical solution,"&nbsp;CNES added.

The meeting between CNES’s President and ISRO's Chairman also offered the opportunity to confirm the progress of the agencies'&nbsp;work in the field of human spaceflight to lay the groundwork for missions of future Indian astronauts.

A team of experts from ISRO will start receiving training this month at the Toulouse Space Centre, the CADMOS centre for the development of microgravity applications and space operations and the MEDES space clinic, the statement said.

At the end of his visit, Gall commented, "Our relationship with India is flourishing and maritime surveillance from space is a domain of strategic interest to our two nations. It is through the remarkable integration of CNES and ISRO teams that we have been able to deploy this programme in such a short time after it was launched during President Macron’s state visit to India just a year ago."

French Space Agency CNES on Wednesday signed an agreement with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to set up a maritime surveillance centre in the country.

French Space Agency CNES on Wednesday signed an agreement with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to set up a maritime surveillance centre in the country. A press statement issued by the CNES said that the agreement was signed by CNES President Jean-Yves Le Gall and India's space agency Chairman K Sivan in Bengaluru. This signature follows on from the broader agreement signed last March during President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to India. Also read: Will push for designation of Jaish chief Masood Azhar as global terrorist, says France "The CNES-ISRO agreement, intended to supply an operational system for detecting, identifying and tracking ships in the Indian Ocean, provides for a maritime surveillance centre to be set up in India in May this year, sharing of capacity to process existing satellite data and joint development of associated algorithms," the statement read. "For the next phase of the programme, studies for an orbital infrastructure to be operated jointly by the two countries are ongoing. CNES is working with its industry partners and with ISRO to devise the most appropriate technical solution," CNES added. The meeting between CNES’s President and ISRO's Chairman also offered the opportunity to confirm the progress of the agencies' work in the field of human spaceflight to lay the groundwork for missions of future Indian astronauts. A team of experts from ISRO will start receiving training this month at the Toulouse Space Centre, the CADMOS centre for the development of microgravity applications and space operations and the MEDES space clinic, the statement said. At the end of his visit, Gall commented, "Our relationship with India is flourishing and maritime surveillance from space is a domain of strategic interest to our two nations. It is through the remarkable integration of CNES and ISRO teams that we have been able to deploy this programme in such a short time after it was launched during President Macron’s state visit to India just a year ago."

France space agency signs agreement with ISRO to set up maritime surveillance centres in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags-off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. <a href="https://t.co/0n6ohgcok3">pic.twitter.com/0n6ohgcok3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1103633939569262592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

During inaugurating speech, PM Modi said, ''Common mobility card will not only be useful for transport but you will also be able to do online payments through it. It will be both your express card and debit/credit card, now your RuPay card and mobility card are merging.''

Nagpur became the second city in Maharashtra after Mumbai to get a Metro rail.

Modi termed the Nagpur metro launch as ''historic occasion'' and also mentioned that metro rail projects were coming up in Pune and Thane as well.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags-off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flags-off Nagpur Metro via video conferencing. pic.twitter.com/0n6ohgcok3 — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × During inaugurating speech, PM Modi said, ''Common mobility card will not only be useful for transport but you will also be able to do online payments through it. It will be both your express card and debit/credit card, now your RuPay card and mobility card are merging.'' Nagpur became the second city in Maharashtra after Mumbai to get a Metro rail. Modi termed the Nagpur metro launch as ''historic occasion'' and also mentioned that metro rail projects were coming up in Pune and Thane as well.

PM Modi inaugurates Nagpur metro rail via video conferencing

The UK government on Thursday unveiled changes to its visa and immigration system which includes two new visa categories for business people from around the world and an expansion of the list of countries offered streamlined student visa procedures.

India once again failed to make the cut to be added to the expanded list of countries, which has now included Brazil, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Oman, Peru and Tunisia.&nbsp;

The UK Home Office said the change will not only benefit students, who will be able to apply for visas through a more streamlined process, but also help to ensure that the UK's "world-leading education institutions remain competitive internationally".

This is the second time in months when a review of the so-called Appendix H list for Tier 4 student visas, which includes China and Mexico among other countries, has overlooked India - among the top source countries for foreign students applying to UK universities.&nbsp;

The UK government claims that India does not meet the "required criteria" to be included on the expanded list and that Indian students will experience no change in the service they receive.

The other key changes unveiled by the UK Home Office on Thursday include two new visa routes open to skilled business people to set up businesses in the UK.&nbsp;

The Start-up visa route will be open to those starting a business for the first time in the UK, while the Innovator visa route will be for more experienced business people who have funds to invest in their business.

Both routes will see endorsing bodies and business experts rather than the UK Home Office assessing applicants' business ideas. This will make sure that the routes are focussed on only the most innovative, viable and scalable businesses.

"My priority is making sure that talented business people continue to see the UK as an attractive destination to develop their businesses. This will help create more jobs across the country and ensure our economy continues to thrive," said UK immigration minister Caroline Nokes.

Alongside these new routes, the Home Office is also bringing forward reforms to the Tier 1 (Investor) route. The government said the reformed route will better protect the UK from illegally obtained funds, whilst ensuring that genuine investors have access to a viable visa route.&nbsp;

Applicants will be required to prove that they have had control of the required 2 million pounds for at least two years, rather than 90 days, or provide evidence of the source of those funds seen as an effort to combat fears of money laundering.

"What we will not tolerate is those who seek to abuse our system and that&nbsp; 
is why I am bringing forward new measures which will make sure that only genuine investors, who intend to support UK businesses, can benefit from our immigration system," Nokes said.

The Home Office will also extend the salary exemption in Tier 2 (General) visa so that the state-funded NHS and schools can continue to attract and hire experienced teachers, nurses and paramedics from overseas, including India.&nbsp;

The salary exemption applies to all nurses and paramedics, medical radiographers and secondary school teachers whose subjects are in maths, physics, chemistry, computer science and Mandarin.

A two-year scheme, which will allow up to 20 nurses from Jamaica to come to the UK to gain vital experience in NHS hospitals as part of an exchange scheme, has also been announced.

The UK government on Thursday unveiled changes to its visa and immigration system which includes two new visa categories for business people from around the world and an expansion of the list of countries offered streamlined student visa procedures.

The UK government on Thursday unveiled changes to its visa and immigration system which includes two new visa categories for business people from around the world and an expansion of the list of countries offered streamlined student visa procedures. India once again failed to make the cut to be added to the expanded list of countries, which has now included Brazil, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Oman, Peru and Tunisia. The UK Home Office said the change will not only benefit students, who will be able to apply for visas through a more streamlined process, but also help to ensure that the UK's "world-leading education institutions remain competitive internationally". This is the second time in months when a review of the so-called Appendix H list for Tier 4 student visas, which includes China and Mexico among other countries, has overlooked India - among the top source countries for foreign students applying to UK universities. The UK government claims that India does not meet the "required criteria" to be included on the expanded list and that Indian students will experience no change in the service they receive. The other key changes unveiled by the UK Home Office on Thursday include two new visa routes open to skilled business people to set up businesses in the UK. The Start-up visa route will be open to those starting a business for the first time in the UK, while the Innovator visa route will be for more experienced business people who have funds to invest in their business. Both routes will see endorsing bodies and business experts rather than the UK Home Office assessing applicants' business ideas. This will make sure that the routes are focussed on only the most innovative, viable and scalable businesses. "My priority is making sure that talented business people continue to see the UK as an attractive destination to develop their businesses. This will help create more jobs across the country and ensure our economy continues to thrive," said UK immigration minister Caroline Nokes. Alongside these new routes, the Home Office is also bringing forward reforms to the Tier 1 (Investor) route. The government said the reformed route will better protect the UK from illegally obtained funds, whilst ensuring that genuine investors have access to a viable visa route. Applicants will be required to prove that they have had control of the required 2 million pounds for at least two years, rather than 90 days, or provide evidence of the source of those funds seen as an effort to combat fears of money laundering. "What we will not tolerate is those who seek to abuse our system and that is why I am bringing forward new measures which will make sure that only genuine investors, who intend to support UK businesses, can benefit from our immigration system," Nokes said. The Home Office will also extend the salary exemption in Tier 2 (General) visa so that the state-funded NHS and schools can continue to attract and hire experienced teachers, nurses and paramedics from overseas, including India. The salary exemption applies to all nurses and paramedics, medical radiographers and secondary school teachers whose subjects are in maths, physics, chemistry, computer science and Mandarin. A two-year scheme, which will allow up to 20 nurses from Jamaica to come to the UK to gain vital experience in NHS hospitals as part of an exchange scheme, has also been announced.

Indian students fail to make cut for easier UK visa norms

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news