The Cabinet Thursday approved the promulgation of an Ordinance to allow voluntary use of Aadhaar as identity proof for opening bank account and procuring mobile phone connection.

The Ordinance was necessitated as a bill, passed by the Lok Sabha on January 4 but pending in the Rajya Sabha, would have lapsed with the dissolution of the current Lok Sabha. The Ordinance will now give the effect to the changes in the Aadhaar Act such as giving a child an option to exit from the biometric ID programme on attaining 18 years of age.

Briefing reporters after a meeting of the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Law and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Cabinet has approved the promulgation of an Ordinance to give effect to the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill.

The amendment provides for stiff penalties for violation of norms set for the use of Aadhaar and violation of privacy. It bans storing of core biometric information as well as Aadhaar number by service providers in cases of individuals who have voluntarily offered the national ID as a means of authentication.

"Aadhaar can be used as KYC on a voluntary basis under the Telegraph Act and PMLA rules. Any entity using Aadhaar will have to adhere to privacy guidelines," Prasad said.

The amended law makes it clear that anyone not offering Aadhaar cannot be denied any service, be it opening of a bank account or obtaining a mobile phone SIM card.

The amendments will "provide for 12-digit Aadhaar number and its alternate numbers to be generated" in a manner so as to conceal the actual Aadhaar number.

The proposed changes also seeks to lay down the procedure for offline verification of an Aadhaar number holder and confer enhanced regulator-like power on the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to give directions as it may consider necessary to any entity in the Aadhaar ecosystem.

It proposes that every requesting entity to whom an authentication request is made will inform the Aadhaar number holder of alternate and viable means of identification and shall not deny any service to them for refusing to, or being unable to undergo authentication.

The changes that were proposed included a civil penalty of up to Rs 1 crore on entities that violate the provisions of the Aadhaar Act, with an additional fine of up to Rs 10 lakh per day in case of continuous non-compliance. Unauthorised use of identity information by a requesting entity or offline verification seeking entity would be punishable with imprisonment of up to three years with a fine that may extend to Rs 10,000 or in case of a company with a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh.

Punishment for unauthorised access to the Central Identities Data Repository as well as data tampering is proposed to be extended to 10 years each from the current three years. It also seeks to omit Section 57 of the Aadhaar Act relating to the use of Aadhaar by private entities.&nbsp;

The Cabinet Thursday approved the promulgation of an Ordinance to allow voluntary use of Aadhaar as identity proof for opening bank account and procuring mobile phone connection.

The Cabinet Thursday approved the promulgation of an Ordinance to allow voluntary use of Aadhaar as identity proof for opening bank account and procuring mobile phone connection. The Ordinance was necessitated as a bill, passed by the Lok Sabha on January 4 but pending in the Rajya Sabha, would have lapsed with the dissolution of the current Lok Sabha. The Ordinance will now give the effect to the changes in the Aadhaar Act such as giving a child an option to exit from the biometric ID programme on attaining 18 years of age. Briefing reporters after a meeting of the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Law and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the Cabinet has approved the promulgation of an Ordinance to give effect to the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill. The amendment provides for stiff penalties for violation of norms set for the use of Aadhaar and violation of privacy. It bans storing of core biometric information as well as Aadhaar number by service providers in cases of individuals who have voluntarily offered the national ID as a means of authentication. "Aadhaar can be used as KYC on a voluntary basis under the Telegraph Act and PMLA rules. Any entity using Aadhaar will have to adhere to privacy guidelines," Prasad said. The amended law makes it clear that anyone not offering Aadhaar cannot be denied any service, be it opening of a bank account or obtaining a mobile phone SIM card. The amendments will "provide for 12-digit Aadhaar number and its alternate numbers to be generated" in a manner so as to conceal the actual Aadhaar number. The proposed changes also seeks to lay down the procedure for offline verification of an Aadhaar number holder and confer enhanced regulator-like power on the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to give directions as it may consider necessary to any entity in the Aadhaar ecosystem. It proposes that every requesting entity to whom an authentication request is made will inform the Aadhaar number holder of alternate and viable means of identification and shall not deny any service to them for refusing to, or being unable to undergo authentication. The changes that were proposed included a civil penalty of up to Rs 1 crore on entities that violate the provisions of the Aadhaar Act, with an additional fine of up to Rs 10 lakh per day in case of continuous non-compliance. Unauthorised use of identity information by a requesting entity or offline verification seeking entity would be punishable with imprisonment of up to three years with a fine that may extend to Rs 10,000 or in case of a company with a fine of up to Rs 1 lakh. Punishment for unauthorised access to the Central Identities Data Repository as well as data tampering is proposed to be extended to 10 years each from the current three years. It also seeks to omit Section 57 of the Aadhaar Act relating to the use of Aadhaar by private entities.

Cabinet approves Aadhaar Ordinance to allow its use as ID proof for bank accounts, SIM connection

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-again-asks-pakistan-to-deny-safe-havens-to-terrorists-200393">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-again-asks-pakistan-to-deny-safe-havens-to-terrorists-200393"> again asks Pakistan to deny safe havens to terrorists</a>

The US has reaffirmed its demand that Pakistan abide by its UN Security Council commitments to deny safe havens to terrorists and block their access to funds as it welcomed Islamabad's decision to release the captured Indian Air Force pilot.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-offers-1-million-reward-to-find-bin-laden-son-200368">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-offers-1-million-reward-to-find-bin-laden-son-200368"> offers $1 million </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-offers-1-million-reward-to-find-bin-laden-son-200368">reward</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-offers-1-million-reward-to-find-bin-laden-son-200368"> to find bin Laden's son</a>

The United States on Thursday offered a $1 million reward for information on a son of late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, seeing him as an emerging face of extremism.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-tells-un-it-will-no-longer-take-in-myanmar-refugees-200371">Bangladesh tells UN it will no longer take in Myanmar refugees</a>

Bangladesh told the UN Security Council on Thursday that it will no longer be able to take in refugees from Myanmar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-between-security-forces-terrorists-underway-in-kupwara-200381">J&amp;K: Security forces gun down 2 militants in Kupwara encounter</a>

An encounter broke out in the wee hours of Friday between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/argentine-11-year-olds-c-section-sparks-new-abortion-debate-200374">11-year-old girl gives birth to rapist's baby after Argentina delays abortion request</a>

A cesarean section carried out on an 11-year-old girl raped by her grandmother's husband has reopened the debate about abortion in Argentina, where rules on pregnancy terminations are strict.

US again asks Pakistan to deny safe havens to terrorists The US has reaffirmed its demand that Pakistan abide by its UN Security Council commitments to deny safe havens to terrorists and block their access to funds as it welcomed Islamabad's decision to release the captured Indian Air Force pilot.

US again asks Pakistan to deny safe havens to terrorists The US has reaffirmed its demand that Pakistan abide by its UN Security Council commitments to deny safe havens to terrorists and block their access to funds as it welcomed Islamabad's decision to release the captured Indian Air Force pilot. US offers $1 million reward to find bin Laden's son The United States on Thursday offered a $1 million reward for information on a son of late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, seeing him as an emerging face of extremism. Bangladesh tells UN it will no longer take in Myanmar refugees Bangladesh told the UN Security Council on Thursday that it will no longer be able to take in refugees from Myanmar. J&K: Security forces gun down 2 militants in Kupwara encounter An encounter broke out in the wee hours of Friday between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district, news agency ANI reported. 11-year-old girl gives birth to rapist's baby after Argentina delays abortion request A cesarean section carried out on an 11-year-old girl raped by her grandmother's husband has reopened the debate about abortion in Argentina, where rules on pregnancy terminations are strict.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The US has reaffirmed its demand that Pakistan abide by its UN Security Council commitments to deny safe havens to terrorists and block their access to funds as it welcomed Islamabad's decision to release the captured Indian Air Force pilot.&nbsp;

In a surprise announcement during a joint session of Parliament on Thursday, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said that Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman will be released on Friday as a gesture of peace.

Pakistan detained Varthaman Wednesday following a fierce engagement between air forces of the two sides along the Line of Control when his MiG 21 fighter jet was downed.

"We welcome Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's commitment that Pakistan will release on Friday the Indian pilot held in its custody," a State Department spokesperson told responding to a question on the announcement made by Khan in the Pakistani parliament.

Simultaneously, the US has urged both India and Pakistan to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions.&nbsp;

"The United States continues to urge both sides to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation, including through direct communication. Further military activity will exacerbate the situation," the State Department spokesperson said.&nbsp;

"We reiterate our call for Pakistan to abide by its United Nations Security Council commitments to deny terrorists safe haven and block their access to funds," the spokesperson said.

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer on Thursday joined other lawmakers in expressing concern over the escalating tension between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

"This is "a result of a Pakistan-based terrorist group's brutal attack", he said.

"I urge both countries to de-escalate the mounting tensions," Hoyer said.

Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan in the wake of the February 14 Pulwama attack claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Forty CRPF soldiers were killed in the attack.

India carried out air strikes against the biggest training camp of JeM in Balakot. In the operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis who were being trained for suicide attacks were eliminated.

Pakistan on Wednesday claimed it shot down two Indian fighter jets over Pakistani air space and arrested an Indian Air Force pilot.&nbsp;

The US has reaffirmed its demand that Pakistan abide by its UN Security Council commitments to deny safe havens to terrorists and block their access to funds as it welcomed Islamabad's decision to release the captured Indian Air Force pilot.

The US has reaffirmed its demand that Pakistan abide by its UN Security Council commitments to deny safe havens to terrorists and block their access to funds as it welcomed Islamabad's decision to release the captured Indian Air Force pilot. In a surprise announcement during a joint session of Parliament on Thursday, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said that Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman will be released on Friday as a gesture of peace. Pakistan detained Varthaman Wednesday following a fierce engagement between air forces of the two sides along the Line of Control when his MiG 21 fighter jet was downed. "We welcome Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's commitment that Pakistan will release on Friday the Indian pilot held in its custody," a State Department spokesperson told responding to a question on the announcement made by Khan in the Pakistani parliament. Simultaneously, the US has urged both India and Pakistan to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions. "The United States continues to urge both sides to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation, including through direct communication. Further military activity will exacerbate the situation," the State Department spokesperson said. "We reiterate our call for Pakistan to abide by its United Nations Security Council commitments to deny terrorists safe haven and block their access to funds," the spokesperson said. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer on Thursday joined other lawmakers in expressing concern over the escalating tension between India and Pakistan. "This is "a result of a Pakistan-based terrorist group's brutal attack", he said. "I urge both countries to de-escalate the mounting tensions," Hoyer said. Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan in the wake of the February 14 Pulwama attack claimed by Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Forty CRPF soldiers were killed in the attack. India carried out air strikes against the biggest training camp of JeM in Balakot. In the operation, a very large number of JeM terrorists, trainers, senior commanders and groups of jihadis who were being trained for suicide attacks were eliminated. Pakistan on Wednesday claimed it shot down two Indian fighter jets over Pakistani air space and arrested an Indian Air Force pilot.

US again asks Pakistan to deny safe havens to terrorists

Kargil war hero and present Eastern Air Command chief Air Marshal R Nambiar has been appointed as the new chief of Indian Air Force's sword arm Western Air Command (WAC) on Thursday.

The Air Marshal is credited for shooting five of the eight Laser Guided Bombs on the Pakistani positions during the Kargil war from his plane.

The WAC is headquartered in the national capital and controls the area from north of Bikaner in Rajasthan up to Siachen Glacier and controls almost 40 per cent of the air bases of the Indian Air Force.

Nambiar has the distinction of having the highest number of flying hours on the Mirage-2000 in the IAF, with over 2300 flying hours on the aircraft to his credit, and a total of 5100 hours of flying experience.

He is a member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots and was the Project Test Pilot for the Light Combat Aircraft “Tejas”.

Air Marshal Raghunath Nambiar has been a Flight commander of a Mirage-2000 Squadron, the Senior Test Pilot and Commanding Officer of the Flight Test Squadron at Aircraft System Testing Establishment (ASTE).

He has commanded the oldest Squadron of the IAF, the prestigious No. 1 Squadron.

He flew the Mirage-2000 in combat during the Kargil conflict and has flown 25 operational missions.

Nambiar was also awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for Gallantry by the President of India for the Kargil Operations.

He was awarded a Bar to the Vayu Sena Medal for flight testing the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) in 2002, during its first phase of flight testing.&nbsp;

Kargil war hero and present Eastern Air Command chief Air Marshal R Nambiar has been appointed as the new chief of Indian Air Force's sword arm Western Air Command (WAC) on Thursday.

Kargil war hero and present Eastern Air Command chief Air Marshal R Nambiar has been appointed as the new chief of Indian Air Force's sword arm Western Air Command (WAC) on Thursday. The Air Marshal is credited for shooting five of the eight Laser Guided Bombs on the Pakistani positions during the Kargil war from his plane. The WAC is headquartered in the national capital and controls the area from north of Bikaner in Rajasthan up to Siachen Glacier and controls almost 40 per cent of the air bases of the Indian Air Force. Nambiar has the distinction of having the highest number of flying hours on the Mirage-2000 in the IAF, with over 2300 flying hours on the aircraft to his credit, and a total of 5100 hours of flying experience. He is a member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots and was the Project Test Pilot for the Light Combat Aircraft “Tejas”. Air Marshal Raghunath Nambiar has been a Flight commander of a Mirage-2000 Squadron, the Senior Test Pilot and Commanding Officer of the Flight Test Squadron at Aircraft System Testing Establishment (ASTE). He has commanded the oldest Squadron of the IAF, the prestigious No. 1 Squadron. He flew the Mirage-2000 in combat during the Kargil conflict and has flown 25 operational missions. Nambiar was also awarded the Vayu Sena Medal for Gallantry by the President of India for the Kargil Operations. He was awarded a Bar to the Vayu Sena Medal for flight testing the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) in 2002, during its first phase of flight testing.

Kargil war hero Air Marshal Nambiar appointed chief of Western Air Command

Union Road Transport, Highways and Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari today said that the problem of pollution in Ganga would be solved within the next 13 months.

He said Ganga is now flowing uninterruptedly due to various schemes implemented under Namami Ganga project during the last four years, the minister said inaugurating and announcing various projects for the welfare of the people in the region.

He said water transport facility had been provided from Allahabad to Farakka and up to the border of Bangladesh.

Cleaning Ganga was one of the major issues in the election manifesto of the BJP before the general elections in 2014. Several attempts by the previous government to make it clean had failed.

Gadkari thanked the MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy for taking a keen interest in these projects.

“In the next five years, you will be getting around (development projects worth) 1 lakh crore rupees,” Gadkari said.

Union Road Transport, Highways and Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari today said that the problem of pollution in Ganga would be solved within the next 13 months.

Union Road Transport, Highways and Water Resources Minister Nitin Gadkari today said that the problem of pollution in Ganga would be solved within the next 13 months. He said Ganga is now flowing uninterruptedly due to various schemes implemented under Namami Ganga project during the last four years, the minister said inaugurating and announcing various projects for the welfare of the people in the region. He said water transport facility had been provided from Allahabad to Farakka and up to the border of Bangladesh. Cleaning Ganga was one of the major issues in the election manifesto of the BJP before the general elections in 2014. Several attempts by the previous government to make it clean had failed. Gadkari thanked the MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy for taking a keen interest in these projects. “In the next five years, you will be getting around (development projects worth) 1 lakh crore rupees,” Gadkari said.

Ganga to be cleaned within 13 months: Nitin Gadkari

In a boost to urban public transport, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi on Thursday approved metro rail projects of Kanpur and Agra cities in Uttar Pradesh.

The Agra metro rail project will have two corridors. These corridors will connect major public nodes, tourist places and city cluster areas of Agra. The implementation of the metro rail system will result in less vehicular traffic and better movement on the roads leading to the reduction in congestion, travel time, cost of journey and pollution.

The metro rail system will also promote transit-oriented development which will lead to the development of more residential and commercial complexes along the corridors.

The Agra metro rail project will have two corridors which will pass through the heart of the city and connect prominent tourist places including Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Sikandra as well as ISBT, Raja Ki Mandi Railway Station, Medical College, Agra Cant Railway Station, Collectorate, Sanjay Place and surrounding densely populated residential areas.

1. The length of Sikandra to Taj East Gate corridor 14.00 km, which is partly elevated and partly underground comprises of 13 stations (6-Elevated and 7-Underground).

2. The length of Agra Cantt to Kalindi Vihar corridor is 15.40 km comprising of 14 stations all elevated.

3. The estimated cost of the project is Rs&nbsp;8,379.62 crore and will be completed in five years.

About 20 lakh population of the city is expected to be benefitted by the upcoming metro project.

The proposed corridors will be having multimodal integration with railway stations and BRTS stations and will have feeder network of bus, Intermediate Public Transport (IPT) and Non-Motorised Transport (NMT).

The metro project will have non-fare box revenue from rental and advertisement as well as Value Capture Financing (VCF) through the mechanism of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and Transfer of Development Rights (TDR).

The Kanpur metro rail project will also have two corridors, which will connect major public nodes and city cluster areas of Kanpur. The implementation of the metro rail system will result in less vehicular traffic and better movement on the roads leading to a reduction in congestion, travel time, cost of journey and pollution.

It will also promote transit-oriented development which will lead to the development of more residential and commercial complexes along the corridors.

1. The length of ITT to Naubasta corridor is 23.785 km, which is partly elevated and partly underground and comprises of 22 stations (14-Elevated and 8-Underground).

2. The length of Agriculture University to Barra-8 corridor is 8.60 km comprising of four elevated and four underground stations.

3. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 11,076.48 crore and will be completed in five years.

IJT Kanpur to Naubasta corridor will pass through the heart of the city covering several prominent educational institutions, railway and bus stations, including IIT Kanpur, CSJM University, GSYM Medical College, Jhakarkati Bus Station and Kanpur Central Railway Station etc.

Agriculture University to Barra-8 corridor will provide smooth connectivity to various densely populated residential areas including Kakadeo and Govind Nagar etc.

The metro will provide eco-friendly and sustainable public transport to residents, commuters, industrial workers, visitors and travellers. 
About 40 lakh population is expected to be benefitted by the new metro rail project.&nbsp;

In a boost to urban public transport, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi on Thursday approved metro rail projects of Kanpur and Agra cities in Uttar Pradesh.

In a boost to urban public transport, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Narendra Modi on Thursday approved metro rail projects of Kanpur and Agra cities in Uttar Pradesh. The Agra metro rail project will have two corridors. These corridors will connect major public nodes, tourist places and city cluster areas of Agra. The implementation of the metro rail system will result in less vehicular traffic and better movement on the roads leading to the reduction in congestion, travel time, cost of journey and pollution. The metro rail system will also promote transit-oriented development which will lead to the development of more residential and commercial complexes along the corridors. The Agra metro rail project will have two corridors which will pass through the heart of the city and connect prominent tourist places including Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Sikandra as well as ISBT, Raja Ki Mandi Railway Station, Medical College, Agra Cant Railway Station, Collectorate, Sanjay Place and surrounding densely populated residential areas. 1. The length of Sikandra to Taj East Gate corridor 14.00 km, which is partly elevated and partly underground comprises of 13 stations (6-Elevated and 7-Underground). 2. The length of Agra Cantt to Kalindi Vihar corridor is 15.40 km comprising of 14 stations all elevated. 3. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 8,379.62 crore and will be completed in five years. About 20 lakh population of the city is expected to be benefitted by the upcoming metro project. The proposed corridors will be having multimodal integration with railway stations and BRTS stations and will have feeder network of bus, Intermediate Public Transport (IPT) and Non-Motorised Transport (NMT). The metro project will have non-fare box revenue from rental and advertisement as well as Value Capture Financing (VCF) through the mechanism of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and Transfer of Development Rights (TDR). The Kanpur metro rail project will also have two corridors, which will connect major public nodes and city cluster areas of Kanpur. The implementation of the metro rail system will result in less vehicular traffic and better movement on the roads leading to a reduction in congestion, travel time, cost of journey and pollution. It will also promote transit-oriented development which will lead to the development of more residential and commercial complexes along the corridors. 1. The length of ITT to Naubasta corridor is 23.785 km, which is partly elevated and partly underground and comprises of 22 stations (14-Elevated and 8-Underground). 2. The length of Agriculture University to Barra-8 corridor is 8.60 km comprising of four elevated and four underground stations. 3. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 11,076.48 crore and will be completed in five years. IJT Kanpur to Naubasta corridor will pass through the heart of the city covering several prominent educational institutions, railway and bus stations, including IIT Kanpur, CSJM University, GSYM Medical College, Jhakarkati Bus Station and Kanpur Central Railway Station etc. Agriculture University to Barra-8 corridor will provide smooth connectivity to various densely populated residential areas including Kakadeo and Govind Nagar etc. The metro will provide eco-friendly and sustainable public transport to residents, commuters, industrial workers, visitors and travellers. About 40 lakh population is expected to be benefitted by the new metro rail project.

Centre approves Agra, Kanpur rail projects

Pakistan violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir for the eighth consecutive day on Friday.

At 1800 hours, Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Mendhar and Krishna Ghati sectors of Rajouri and Poonch’ Balakote.

Another violation took place in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours&nbsp;where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing.

Earlier today the Pak army had violated the ceasefire along the LoC in J&amp;K's Poonch district, leaving a woman injured. The&nbsp;woman was identified as Naseem Akhtar.

On Thursday, a woman was killed and a jawan was injured when Pakistani Army heavily shelled civilian areas and forward posts in six sectors along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts, drawing retaliation from the Indian Army.

The firing and mortar shelling continued night long in several sectors of Poonch and Rajouri districts, an official said.

The Pakistan Army has violated the ceasefire for over 60 times during the last one week by targeting over 70 civilian and forward areas along the LoC in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu and Baramulla districts of Jammu and Kashmir, in which one woman was killed and 9 people were injured.

2018 had witnessed the highest number of ceasefire violation, numbering 2,936 by Pakistani troops, in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border. Pakistan continues to violate the 2003 ceasefire agreement with India despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the pact during flag meetings between the two sides.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Pakistan violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir for the eighth consecutive day on Friday. At 1800 hours, Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Mendhar and Krishna Ghati sectors of Rajouri and Poonch’ Balakote.

Pakistan violated the ceasefire along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir for the eighth consecutive day on Friday. At 1800 hours, Pakistan violated ceasefire along LoC in Mendhar and Krishna Ghati sectors of Rajouri and Poonch’ Balakote. Another violation took place in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing. Earlier today the Pak army had violated the ceasefire along the LoC in J&K's Poonch district, leaving a woman injured. The woman was identified as Naseem Akhtar. On Thursday, a woman was killed and a jawan was injured when Pakistani Army heavily shelled civilian areas and forward posts in six sectors along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri districts, drawing retaliation from the Indian Army. The firing and mortar shelling continued night long in several sectors of Poonch and Rajouri districts, an official said. The Pakistan Army has violated the ceasefire for over 60 times during the last one week by targeting over 70 civilian and forward areas along the LoC in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu and Baramulla districts of Jammu and Kashmir, in which one woman was killed and 9 people were injured. 2018 had witnessed the highest number of ceasefire violation, numbering 2,936 by Pakistani troops, in the last 15 years along the Indo-Pak border. Pakistan continues to violate the 2003 ceasefire agreement with India despite repeated calls for restraint and adherence to the pact during flag meetings between the two sides. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire for eighth consecutive day

Slamming the Haryana government, the Supreme Court on Friday stayed the implementation of a new state law allowing construction work in the Aravalli region.

'It is really shocking. You are destroying the forest. It is not permissible,'&nbsp;a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra said.

'Don`t try to overrule the order,'&nbsp;the bench told the Haryana government while giving a warning that it should not try to invite contempt of court proceedings.

The Haryana Assembly had on Wednesday passed an amendment to the Punjab Land Preservation Act, 1900, opening thousands of acres of land under the Aravalli and Shivalik ranges for real estate development and mining.

The apex court in an earlier order had said that there should not be any construction in the Aravalli area.

Slamming the Haryana government, the Supreme Court on Friday stayed the implementation of a new state law allowing construction work in the Aravalli region. 'It is really shocking.

Slamming the Haryana government, the Supreme Court on Friday stayed the implementation of a new state law allowing construction work in the Aravalli region. 'It is really shocking. You are destroying the forest. It is not permissible,' a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra said. 'Don`t try to overrule the order,' the bench told the Haryana government while giving a warning that it should not try to invite contempt of court proceedings. The Haryana Assembly had on Wednesday passed an amendment to the Punjab Land Preservation Act, 1900, opening thousands of acres of land under the Aravalli and Shivalik ranges for real estate development and mining. The apex court in an earlier order had said that there should not be any construction in the Aravalli area.

Supreme Court stays Haryana law allowing construction in Aravalli region

The general elections in the country will be held on time, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/women-electorate-to-play-an-important-role-in-lok-sabha-elections-2019-197199">Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora</a> said Friday, amid tensions between India-Pakistan.

The CEC is in the Uttar Pradesh capital for the past two days to review poll preparations in the state.

"The election in the country will be held on time," Arora told reporters here when asked about the poll schedule in the wake of tensions between the two countries.

He said as per a new notification of the commission, candidates will have to give details of their properties abroad, besides those in the country.

"The I-T department will look into it and, if any, discrepancies are found then it will be uploaded on the Election Commission (EC) website and strict action will be initiated," the CEC said.

When asked about the EC's stand on inflammatory speeches, Arora said in his review meetings, he tried to find out the status of such cases lodged during previous elections.

"Whatever the EC has found, I have apprised about its intentions to the chief secretary and the DGP, who assured that strict action will be taken in such cases," he said.

The commission is committed to holding free and fair polls, and will promptly act on any complaint regarding this, the CEC said.

"The C-Vigil app will be launched soon so that any citizen, whose name will be kept secret, can register his poll related complaints. Besides this, we will constitute committees to keep an eye on social media," he said.

In all the 1,63,331 polling centres, VVPAT machines will be used this time, he said.

The general elections in the country will be held on time, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said Friday, amid tensions between India-Pakistan. The CEC is in the Uttar Pradesh capital for the past two days to review poll preparations in the state.

The general elections in the country will be held on time, Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora said Friday, amid tensions between India-Pakistan. The CEC is in the Uttar Pradesh capital for the past two days to review poll preparations in the state. "The election in the country will be held on time," Arora told reporters here when asked about the poll schedule in the wake of tensions between the two countries. He said as per a new notification of the commission, candidates will have to give details of their properties abroad, besides those in the country. "The I-T department will look into it and, if any, discrepancies are found then it will be uploaded on the Election Commission (EC) website and strict action will be initiated," the CEC said. When asked about the EC's stand on inflammatory speeches, Arora said in his review meetings, he tried to find out the status of such cases lodged during previous elections. "Whatever the EC has found, I have apprised about its intentions to the chief secretary and the DGP, who assured that strict action will be taken in such cases," he said. The commission is committed to holding free and fair polls, and will promptly act on any complaint regarding this, the CEC said. "The C-Vigil app will be launched soon so that any citizen, whose name will be kept secret, can register his poll related complaints. Besides this, we will constitute committees to keep an eye on social media," he said. In all the 1,63,331 polling centres, VVPAT machines will be used this time, he said.

General elections will be held on time: Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora

Facing flak for linking India's air strike on terror camps in Pakistan with BJP's prospects in Lok Sabha polls, party Karnataka chief B S Yeddyurappa Thursday said there was no question of seeking electoral gains and the nation came first to him.

Yeddyurappa's remarks amid escalating tension between India and Pakistan drew criticism from political leaders in Karnataka and disapproval from his own party colleague and Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh.

He had on Wednesday said India's pre-emptive strikes on terror camps in Pakistan has created a wave in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will help the party win over 22 out of 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka.

The Pakistan media and the ruling party there Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf too latched on to Yeddyurappa's statement to question India whether war was an election option.

"I would like to clarify that my yesterday's statement has been completely misinterpreted. I have the highest regard for our armed forces. I salute the bravery of our men in fighting for the country's safety," Yeddyurappa said in a series of tweets.

"I stand along with my fellow countrymen and pray for the safe return of (Wing) Commander Abhinandan Varthaman (IAF pilot in Pakistan's custody). To me, the Nation comes first and then the party," he said.

In another tweet, he said, "My statement is being reported out of context. I said that 'situation is favourable for BJP' which I have been saying for the last couple of months. This is not the first time I said BJP in Karnataka will win a minimum of 22 seats under the able leadership of Modiji."

Speaking to reporters, he said there was no question of using the situation arising out of the IAF strike for electoral gains.

Noting that External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had informed about the developments at an all-party meeting, he said all political parties, including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, have welcomed India's action.

"Where is the question of using it for politics? The whole country has welcomed it. There is no question of using it for political gains," he added.

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Congress legislature party leader Siddaramaiah slammed Yeddyurappa for looking at political gains on an issue involving national security and interest.

Singh, a former Army chief, expressed his difference with Yeddyurappa on the issue.

"@BSYBJPji, I beg to differ. We stand as one nation, action taken by our government is to safeguard our nation &amp; ensure the safety of our citizens, not to win a few extra seats," Singh tweeted.

He tagged a video link of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's speech in the parliament stressing on unity among parties at times of national distress.

In a tweet tagging a news report about Yeddyurappa's statement, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's party said "Air Force excursions, war mongering, soldiers in captivity and the lives of so many people in danger all equate to 22 seats in the eyes of representatives on India's ruling party. Is war an election option? #SayNoToWar."

Hitting out at Yeddyurappa, Kumaraswamy termed his comments as "shameful."

"The entire nation is united in supporting the central govt&amp;our armed forces to fight terrorism, while #Bjp leader @BSYBJP is busy calculating how many extra LS seats the terrorattack&amp;Pak war can bring to his party.

"It's shameful to exploit our jawans' sacrifice for electoral gains," Kumaraswamy tweeted.

Questioning BJP's intention, former Chief Minister and Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Siddaramaiah demanded clarification from the prime minister.

"Shocking &amp; disgusting to understand #BJPsPlot4Vote. It is unfortunate that @BJP4India is calculating electoral gains even before the dust has settled," he said in a tweet. 
 
He also said, "No patriot shall derive such sadistic gains over soldiers' death, only an anti-nationalist can. What will RSS say about this?" Siddaramaiah asked.

State Congress chief Dinesh Gundu Rao also slammed Yeddyurappa, asking whether going to war an electoral strategy for the BJP.&nbsp;

Facing flak for linking India's air strike on terror camps in Pakistan with BJP's prospects in Lok Sabha polls, party Karnataka chief B S Yeddyurappa Thursday said there was no question of seeking electoral gains and the nation came first to him.

Facing flak for linking India's air strike on terror camps in Pakistan with BJP's prospects in Lok Sabha polls, party Karnataka chief B S Yeddyurappa Thursday said there was no question of seeking electoral gains and the nation came first to him. Yeddyurappa's remarks amid escalating tension between India and Pakistan drew criticism from political leaders in Karnataka and disapproval from his own party colleague and Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh. He had on Wednesday said India's pre-emptive strikes on terror camps in Pakistan has created a wave in favour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will help the party win over 22 out of 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka. The Pakistan media and the ruling party there Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf too latched on to Yeddyurappa's statement to question India whether war was an election option. "I would like to clarify that my yesterday's statement has been completely misinterpreted. I have the highest regard for our armed forces. I salute the bravery of our men in fighting for the country's safety," Yeddyurappa said in a series of tweets. "I stand along with my fellow countrymen and pray for the safe return of (Wing) Commander Abhinandan Varthaman (IAF pilot in Pakistan's custody). To me, the Nation comes first and then the party," he said. In another tweet, he said, "My statement is being reported out of context. I said that 'situation is favourable for BJP' which I have been saying for the last couple of months. This is not the first time I said BJP in Karnataka will win a minimum of 22 seats under the able leadership of Modiji." Speaking to reporters, he said there was no question of using the situation arising out of the IAF strike for electoral gains. Noting that External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had informed about the developments at an all-party meeting, he said all political parties, including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, have welcomed India's action. "Where is the question of using it for politics? The whole country has welcomed it. There is no question of using it for political gains," he added. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and Congress legislature party leader Siddaramaiah slammed Yeddyurappa for looking at political gains on an issue involving national security and interest. Singh, a former Army chief, expressed his difference with Yeddyurappa on the issue. "@BSYBJPji, I beg to differ. We stand as one nation, action taken by our government is to safeguard our nation & ensure the safety of our citizens, not to win a few extra seats," Singh tweeted. He tagged a video link of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's speech in the parliament stressing on unity among parties at times of national distress. In a tweet tagging a news report about Yeddyurappa's statement, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's party said "Air Force excursions, war mongering, soldiers in captivity and the lives of so many people in danger all equate to 22 seats in the eyes of representatives on India's ruling party. Is war an election option? #SayNoToWar." Hitting out at Yeddyurappa, Kumaraswamy termed his comments as "shameful." "The entire nation is united in supporting the central govt&our armed forces to fight terrorism, while #Bjp leader @BSYBJP is busy calculating how many extra LS seats the terrorattack&Pak war can bring to his party. "It's shameful to exploit our jawans' sacrifice for electoral gains," Kumaraswamy tweeted. Questioning BJP's intention, former Chief Minister and Congress Legislature Party (CLP) leader Siddaramaiah demanded clarification from the prime minister. "Shocking & disgusting to understand #BJPsPlot4Vote. It is unfortunate that @BJP4India is calculating electoral gains even before the dust has settled," he said in a tweet. He also said, "No patriot shall derive such sadistic gains over soldiers' death, only an anti-nationalist can. What will RSS say about this?" Siddaramaiah asked. State Congress chief Dinesh Gundu Rao also slammed Yeddyurappa, asking whether going to war an electoral strategy for the BJP.

Under fire, Yeddyurappa says no question of seeking electoral gains from air strike

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday reached Abu Dhabi to attend a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-to-be-guest-of-honour-at-organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-oic-meet-in-dubai-199141">conclave of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation</a> (OIC) as a Guest of Honour.

"Recognising India’s engagement with the Islamic world. EAM SushmaSwaraj arrives in Abu Dhabi for the Ministerial Meeting of India has been invited by HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister of UAE as the 'Guest of Honour'," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Recognising India’s engagement with the Islamic world 
 
EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> arrives in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AbuDhabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AbuDhabi</a> for the Ministerial Meeting of <a href="https://twitter.com/OIC_OCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OIC_OCI</a>. India has been invited by HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister of UAE as the 'Guest of Honour'. <a href="https://t.co/wzQbVOGczN">pic.twitter.com/wzQbVOGczN</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1101225141428736000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 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>

Swaraj will address the plenary of the two-day 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the 57-member body. She has been invited by UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to address the OIC meeting.

Swaraj, who will be attending as a 'Guest of Honour' despite Pakistan's objections, will underscore India's long and historical relationship with the OIC member countries, sources said on Thursday.

India considers its bilateral ties with the UAE as vital, the sources said.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has threatened to boycott the OIC meet if Swaraj participated.

Before Swaraj's departure, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to discuss the recent developments and urged the need for resumption of dialogue between the two countries.

"Mohamed bin Zayed makes telephone calls to Indian and Pakistani prime ministers, stresses importance of dealing wisely with recent developments and giving priority to dialogue and communication," read a tweet.

The Indian Air Force strike on Tuesday in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa&nbsp;province&nbsp;destroyed a major terrorist training camp run by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and eliminated a "large number" of terrorists, including top commanders.

On Wednesday morning, India foiled an attempt by Pakistan Air Force to carry out strikes in Jammu and Kashmir by shooting down an F-16 fighter plane while losing its own MiG-21 jet after which a pilot was “missing in action”.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday reached Abu Dhabi to attend a conclave of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as a Guest of Honour. "Recognising India’s engagement with the Islamic world.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday reached Abu Dhabi to attend a conclave of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) as a Guest of Honour. "Recognising India’s engagement with the Islamic world. EAM SushmaSwaraj arrives in Abu Dhabi for the Ministerial Meeting of India has been invited by HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister of UAE as the 'Guest of Honour'," tweeted Ministry of External Affairs. Recognising India’s engagement with the Islamic world EAM @SushmaSwaraj arrives in #AbuDhabi for the Ministerial Meeting of @OIC_OCI. India has been invited by HH Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Foreign Minister of UAE as the 'Guest of Honour'. pic.twitter.com/wzQbVOGczN — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 28, 2019 × Swaraj will address the plenary of the two-day 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the 57-member body. She has been invited by UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to address the OIC meeting. Swaraj, who will be attending as a 'Guest of Honour' despite Pakistan's objections, will underscore India's long and historical relationship with the OIC member countries, sources said on Thursday. India considers its bilateral ties with the UAE as vital, the sources said. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has threatened to boycott the OIC meet if Swaraj participated. Before Swaraj's departure, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, called Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to discuss the recent developments and urged the need for resumption of dialogue between the two countries. "Mohamed bin Zayed makes telephone calls to Indian and Pakistani prime ministers, stresses importance of dealing wisely with recent developments and giving priority to dialogue and communication," read a tweet. The Indian Air Force strike on Tuesday in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province destroyed a major terrorist training camp run by Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and eliminated a "large number" of terrorists, including top commanders. On Wednesday morning, India foiled an attempt by Pakistan Air Force to carry out strikes in Jammu and Kashmir by shooting down an F-16 fighter plane while losing its own MiG-21 jet after which a pilot was “missing in action”.

Sushma Swaraj reaches Abu Dhabi to address OIC conclave

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-iaf-pilot-captain-abhinandans-homecoming-from-pakistan-200416">Live updates: IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman set to cross Wagah border shortly</a>

Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commmander Abhinandan Varthaman will be crossing the Wagah border in a few minutes as a large crowd gathers to welcome him amid heavy security.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-awaits-pilots-return-beating-the-retreat-ceremony-cancelled-at-wagah-border-200496">Beating the Retreat ceremony cancelled at Wagah border</a>

As Indian authorities wait for&nbsp;captured Indian pilot to return home, it was announced that the Beating the Retreat ceremony won't be taking place at the Wagah border today.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-for-eighth-consecutive-day-200530">Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire for eighth consecutive day</a>

The ceasefire was violated in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours today where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/welcome-goodwill-signal-pakistan-has-always-been-opposed-to-terrorism-china-200500">Welcome goodwill signal, Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism: China</a>

China on Friday welcomed Pakistan's decision to release the&nbsp;Indian Air Force pilot and encouraged&nbsp;the two countries to engage in more counter-terrorism cooperation and dialogue for the regional peace and stability.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-84-people-two-thirds-young-children-died-on-way-to-al-hol-camp-in-syria-un-200531">At least 84 people, two-thirds young children, died on way to al-Hol camp in Syria: UN</a>

At least 84 people,&nbsp;two-thirds of them young children, have died since December on their way to al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria after fleeing Islamic State in the Deir al-Zor region, the United Nations said on Friday.

&nbsp;

Live updates: IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman set to cross Wagah border shortly Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commmander Abhinandan Varthaman will be crossing the Wagah border in a few minutes as a large crowd gathers to welcome him amid heavy security.

Live updates: IAF pilot Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman set to cross Wagah border shortly Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commmander Abhinandan Varthaman will be crossing the Wagah border in a few minutes as a large crowd gathers to welcome him amid heavy security. Beating the Retreat ceremony cancelled at Wagah border As Indian authorities wait for captured Indian pilot to return home, it was announced that the Beating the Retreat ceremony won't be taking place at the Wagah border today. Jammu & Kashmir: Pakistan violates ceasefire for eighth consecutive day The ceasefire was violated in Rajouri district's Nowshera sector at 16:15 hours today where the Indian Army retaliated in counter-firing. Welcome goodwill signal, Pakistan has always been opposed to terrorism: China China on Friday welcomed Pakistan's decision to release the Indian Air Force pilot and encouraged the two countries to engage in more counter-terrorism cooperation and dialogue for the regional peace and stability. At least 84 people, two-thirds young children, died on way to al-Hol camp in Syria: UN At least 84 people, two-thirds of them young children, have died since December on their way to al-Hol camp in northeastern Syria after fleeing Islamic State in the Deir al-Zor region, the United Nations said on Friday.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday urged Pakistan to admit to, and release the Prisoners of War (POWs) still in its captivity from the 1971 war.

In an informal chat with media persons as part of his tour of the border areas in the wake of the escalating tensions at the LoC, the Chief Minister also urged the Indian government to take up the issue with Islamabad.

Expressing happiness that talks to further thrash out the modalities for Kartarpur corridor were on track despite the tensions, Captain Amarinder requested the Central government to allow 5,000-10,000 pilgrims to cross through every day once the corridor becomes operational.

He recalled his own family’s close connection with the Kartarpur Gurdwara, which his grandfather Bhupinder Singh had helped to rebuild after the 1928 floods.

On the compensation to the people whose land was being acquired for the corridor, Captain Amarinder said, “The state government will thrash out the matter with the Indian government.”

He hoped that tensions along the border are resolved soon and Sikhs across the globe get the opportunity to have ‘Khule Darshan Deedar’ of the historic Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara with the fast completion of the corridor.

The Chief Minister, who went around Haruwal village in Gurdaspur district as part of his tour of the border villages to instil confidence among the residents, said he would be the first one to cross the border to pay his obeisance at the historic Gurdwara.

The Chief Minister assured the residents that there was no need for panic or fear as the armed forces were fully prepared to deal with the situation. He urged the people not to worry and assured them of his government’s full support.

Addressing a gathering at Dera Baba Nanak, the Chief Minister said he was in constant touch with the central government and the state government was well prepared for any eventuality.

Amid loud cheers and slogans of Jai Hind, the Chief Minister said that even when he had come here as a serving military officer, what struck him the most was the indomitable courage and enthusiasm of the people.

During his tour, the Chief Minister shared a cup of tea with BSF personnel at the BSF border observation post in Dera Baba Nanak, Gurdaspur (10 Battalion BSF sector HQ BSF Gurdaspur). &nbsp;

He also interacted with Indian Army officers and men at an army camp in the border district of Gurdaspur to boost their morale and appreciated their courage in these stressful times.

Earlier, on arrival in Gurdaspur, the Chief Minister took stock of the situation and was briefed by DIG Border Range and Deputy Commissioner Gurdaspur regarding the steps taken for the safety and security of the residents.

The Chief Minister asked the Civil and Public administration to keep up the preparedness level and further intensify dissemination of information useful to the public to ensure their safety and security at all costs.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday urged Pakistan to admit to, and release the Prisoners of War (POWs) still in its captivity from the 1971 war.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday urged Pakistan to admit to, and release the Prisoners of War (POWs) still in its captivity from the 1971 war. In an informal chat with media persons as part of his tour of the border areas in the wake of the escalating tensions at the LoC, the Chief Minister also urged the Indian government to take up the issue with Islamabad. Expressing happiness that talks to further thrash out the modalities for Kartarpur corridor were on track despite the tensions, Captain Amarinder requested the Central government to allow 5,000-10,000 pilgrims to cross through every day once the corridor becomes operational. He recalled his own family’s close connection with the Kartarpur Gurdwara, which his grandfather Bhupinder Singh had helped to rebuild after the 1928 floods. On the compensation to the people whose land was being acquired for the corridor, Captain Amarinder said, “The state government will thrash out the matter with the Indian government.” He hoped that tensions along the border are resolved soon and Sikhs across the globe get the opportunity to have ‘Khule Darshan Deedar’ of the historic Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara with the fast completion of the corridor. The Chief Minister, who went around Haruwal village in Gurdaspur district as part of his tour of the border villages to instil confidence among the residents, said he would be the first one to cross the border to pay his obeisance at the historic Gurdwara. The Chief Minister assured the residents that there was no need for panic or fear as the armed forces were fully prepared to deal with the situation. He urged the people not to worry and assured them of his government’s full support. Addressing a gathering at Dera Baba Nanak, the Chief Minister said he was in constant touch with the central government and the state government was well prepared for any eventuality. Amid loud cheers and slogans of Jai Hind, the Chief Minister said that even when he had come here as a serving military officer, what struck him the most was the indomitable courage and enthusiasm of the people. During his tour, the Chief Minister shared a cup of tea with BSF personnel at the BSF border observation post in Dera Baba Nanak, Gurdaspur (10 Battalion BSF sector HQ BSF Gurdaspur). He also interacted with Indian Army officers and men at an army camp in the border district of Gurdaspur to boost their morale and appreciated their courage in these stressful times. Earlier, on arrival in Gurdaspur, the Chief Minister took stock of the situation and was briefed by DIG Border Range and Deputy Commissioner Gurdaspur regarding the steps taken for the safety and security of the residents. The Chief Minister asked the Civil and Public administration to keep up the preparedness level and further intensify dissemination of information useful to the public to ensure their safety and security at all costs.

Captain Amarinder seeks release of 1971 war prisoners from Pakistan

The Bombay High Court Friday issued show cause notices to the Congress, the BSP and the Shiv Sena, asking why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for putting up illegal hoardings and banners across Maharashtra.

A division bench, headed by Justice A S Oka, said it was of the prima facie opinion that these political parties had committed a breach of previous court orders that prohibited display of hoarding or banner without requisite permission.

"There is material to show that these political parties have indulged in display of illegal hoardings, banners and so on. We issue notices to these parties asking them to show cause as to why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them," the court said.

The bench sought the parties' responses by March 27.

The bench warned that if the parties fail to take appropriate action on the matter, it will issue notices to their leaders.

"Today, we are issuing notices to the political parties, but if we feel that proper action has not been taken on the issue then we will issue notices against the leaders," Justice Oka said.

The court was hearing a bunch of petitions filed before it, raising the issue of numerous hoardings and banners put up on public roads illegally.&nbsp;

The Bombay High Court Friday issued show cause notices to the Congress, the BSP and the Shiv Sena, asking why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for putting up illegal hoardings and banners across Maharashtra.

The Bombay High Court Friday issued show cause notices to the Congress, the BSP and the Shiv Sena, asking why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for putting up illegal hoardings and banners across Maharashtra. A division bench, headed by Justice A S Oka, said it was of the prima facie opinion that these political parties had committed a breach of previous court orders that prohibited display of hoarding or banner without requisite permission. "There is material to show that these political parties have indulged in display of illegal hoardings, banners and so on. We issue notices to these parties asking them to show cause as to why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them," the court said. The bench sought the parties' responses by March 27. The bench warned that if the parties fail to take appropriate action on the matter, it will issue notices to their leaders. "Today, we are issuing notices to the political parties, but if we feel that proper action has not been taken on the issue then we will issue notices against the leaders," Justice Oka said. The court was hearing a bunch of petitions filed before it, raising the issue of numerous hoardings and banners put up on public roads illegally.

Bombay High Court issues notices to Congress, BSP, Sena for putting up illegal hoardings, banners

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-strike-heres-why-balakot-was-chosen-by-indian-air-force-199792">terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot</a> in Pakistan.

BJP's state president Dilip Ghosh also criticised her saying it is "condemnable" that an Indian politician, and not a Pakistani one, is demanding evidence of success of the air strike.

"It is a matter of shame that just for the sake of politics, a chief minister is doubting our armed forces, when the entire country stands by the armed forces. We condemn such statements," Vijayvergiya told reporters on the sidelines of a party meeting here.

Banerjee Thursday said the nation has a right to know what actually happened at Balakot in Pakistan following the IAF's air strike there, as several foreign media had reported that not much damage was done by the air strike.

She had said, "We have the right to know, people of this country want to know how many were killed. Where was the bomb actually dropped? Was it dropped on the target?"

Government officials had said on Tuesday that in a pre-dawn strike, the IAF bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp at Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders.

Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack that left over 40 CRPF jawans dead on February 14.

It was up to the political leadership to decide when and how to release evidence of the Balakot strike's success, Air Vice Marshal R G K Kapoor, assistant chief of Air Staff, said Thursday on the scepticism in some quarters about whether IAF fighters had hit the intended targets.

State BJP president Dilip Ghosh too slammed Banerjee, also Trinamool Congress supremo, for asking for evidence of the success of the air strike.

"Had a Pakistani politician asked such a question, we would have understood it. But it is shameful and condemnable that a politician from India, and that too a chief minister, has been raising such questions," Ghosh said.

Vijayvergiya also claimed that the return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman from the custody of Pakistan is a diplomatic victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"It is a diplomatic victory of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/iafs-balakot-operation-against-jem-is-proof-of-narendra-modi-governments-decisiveness-199973">Narendra Modiji</a> that for last two days Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been wishing to talk to our prime minister. But our PM said first Pakistan has to release our pilot and stop exporting terrorism. This is our diplomatic victory," Vijayvergiya said.

Pakistan held Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman Wednesday after fighter jets of both the nations engaged in an air battle following an unsuccessful attempt to target Indian military installations in retaliatory strikes. The pilot is scheduled to return via Attari border Friday.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced in a joint session of Pakistani Parliament that the pilot would be released on Friday as a gesture of peace.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot in Pakistan.

BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvergiya Friday slammed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for "doubting" the success of the strike by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at training camps of terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed at Balakot in Pakistan. BJP's state president Dilip Ghosh also criticised her saying it is "condemnable" that an Indian politician, and not a Pakistani one, is demanding evidence of success of the air strike. "It is a matter of shame that just for the sake of politics, a chief minister is doubting our armed forces, when the entire country stands by the armed forces. We condemn such statements," Vijayvergiya told reporters on the sidelines of a party meeting here. Banerjee Thursday said the nation has a right to know what actually happened at Balakot in Pakistan following the IAF's air strike there, as several foreign media had reported that not much damage was done by the air strike. She had said, "We have the right to know, people of this country want to know how many were killed. Where was the bomb actually dropped? Was it dropped on the target?" Government officials had said on Tuesday that in a pre-dawn strike, the IAF bombed and destroyed Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp at Balakot in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, killing over 350 terrorists, trainers and senior commanders. Jaish-e-Mohammed had claimed responsibility of the Pulwama terror attack that left over 40 CRPF jawans dead on February 14. It was up to the political leadership to decide when and how to release evidence of the Balakot strike's success, Air Vice Marshal R G K Kapoor, assistant chief of Air Staff, said Thursday on the scepticism in some quarters about whether IAF fighters had hit the intended targets. State BJP president Dilip Ghosh too slammed Banerjee, also Trinamool Congress supremo, for asking for evidence of the success of the air strike. "Had a Pakistani politician asked such a question, we would have understood it. But it is shameful and condemnable that a politician from India, and that too a chief minister, has been raising such questions," Ghosh said. Vijayvergiya also claimed that the return of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman from the custody of Pakistan is a diplomatic victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "It is a diplomatic victory of Narendra Modiji that for last two days Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been wishing to talk to our prime minister. But our PM said first Pakistan has to release our pilot and stop exporting terrorism. This is our diplomatic victory," Vijayvergiya said. Pakistan held Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman Wednesday after fighter jets of both the nations engaged in an air battle following an unsuccessful attempt to target Indian military installations in retaliatory strikes. The pilot is scheduled to return via Attari border Friday. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced in a joint session of Pakistani Parliament that the pilot would be released on Friday as a gesture of peace.

BJP leader Vijayvergiya slams Mamata for 'doubting' success of air strike in Balakot

People throng Indo-Pak border to welcome captured IAF pilot

For the Varthamans, flying the MiG-21 fighter aircraft is a sort of family tradition.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-iaf-pilot-captain-abhinandans-homecoming-from-pakistan-200416">Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman </a>downed a Pakistani F-16 plane before his MiG-21 Bison was hit during a dogfight.

His father Air Marshal (retd) Simhakutty Varthaman also flew the MiG-21s and was an IAF test pilot, who retired five years ago, a family friend said in Mumbai on Friday.

Abhinandan's grandfather was also in the IAF, he said.

In an interview to PTI, Wing Commander (retd) Prakash Navale, who was a course-mate of Abhinandan's father at the National Defence Academy (NDA) during 1969-72, said the first time he saw the young pilot, held captive by Pakistan, was when he was a three-year-old toddler.

"Myself and his father were then posted at the fighter training wing at Hakimpet, Hyderabad," said Navale, 66, who retired from the IAF in 1994 and now lives in Navi Mumbai.

"Initially, I also passed out (from Air Force Academy) as a fighter pilot but later switched to helicopters. Myself and Air Marshal (retd) Varthaman were flying instructors for some time," he said.

Like Navale, Air Marshal Varthaman is also a Sainik School alumnus. While Navale studied at Sainik School Satara, Air Mashal Varthaman is from Sainik School Amaravathinagar in Tamil Nadu.

Navale said Air Marshal Varthaman was staying at Tambaram when he was doing the flying instructor's course there. "The Varthamans are very simple people and we have enjoyed many a hearty meal at their house," he said.

"Air Marshal Varthaman is a through gentleman. His wife Shobha, a doctor, is a great lady. When my wife Aruna was pregnant, she used to visit us regularly and administer injections to her. We were blessed with our daughter Pooja due to Shobha's medical care," Navale said.

Abhinandan's sister Aditi lives in France and has married a French national, he said.

In 1982, Navale, then Flight Lieutenant, was awarded the 'Shaurya Chakra' for saving the life of then Odisha chief minister J B Patnaik from mob fury in Gopalpur.

The award citation read: In this action, Flight Lieutenant Prakash Navale displayed determination, courage and presence of mind. Had he not flown out the VIP at that critical time, the situation could have taken a grave turn and could have resulted in serious consequences to the VIP and further break-down in the law and order situation.&nbsp;

For the Varthamans, flying the MiG-21 fighter aircraft is a sort of family tradition. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman downed a Pakistani F-16 plane before his MiG-21 Bison was hit during a dogfight.

For the Varthamans, flying the MiG-21 fighter aircraft is a sort of family tradition. Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman downed a Pakistani F-16 plane before his MiG-21 Bison was hit during a dogfight. His father Air Marshal (retd) Simhakutty Varthaman also flew the MiG-21s and was an IAF test pilot, who retired five years ago, a family friend said in Mumbai on Friday. Abhinandan's grandfather was also in the IAF, he said. In an interview to PTI, Wing Commander (retd) Prakash Navale, who was a course-mate of Abhinandan's father at the National Defence Academy (NDA) during 1969-72, said the first time he saw the young pilot, held captive by Pakistan, was when he was a three-year-old toddler. "Myself and his father were then posted at the fighter training wing at Hakimpet, Hyderabad," said Navale, 66, who retired from the IAF in 1994 and now lives in Navi Mumbai. "Initially, I also passed out (from Air Force Academy) as a fighter pilot but later switched to helicopters. Myself and Air Marshal (retd) Varthaman were flying instructors for some time," he said. Like Navale, Air Marshal Varthaman is also a Sainik School alumnus. While Navale studied at Sainik School Satara, Air Mashal Varthaman is from Sainik School Amaravathinagar in Tamil Nadu. Navale said Air Marshal Varthaman was staying at Tambaram when he was doing the flying instructor's course there. "The Varthamans are very simple people and we have enjoyed many a hearty meal at their house," he said. "Air Marshal Varthaman is a through gentleman. His wife Shobha, a doctor, is a great lady. When my wife Aruna was pregnant, she used to visit us regularly and administer injections to her. We were blessed with our daughter Pooja due to Shobha's medical care," Navale said. Abhinandan's sister Aditi lives in France and has married a French national, he said. In 1982, Navale, then Flight Lieutenant, was awarded the 'Shaurya Chakra' for saving the life of then Odisha chief minister J B Patnaik from mob fury in Gopalpur. The award citation read: In this action, Flight Lieutenant Prakash Navale displayed determination, courage and presence of mind. Had he not flown out the VIP at that critical time, the situation could have taken a grave turn and could have resulted in serious consequences to the VIP and further break-down in the law and order situation.

Varthamans, a MiG-21 family: Son flies it, dad flew it

As Indian authorities wait for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-destroying-lives-destabilising-regions-and-putting-world-at-great-peril-sushma-swaraj-at-oic-200465">captured Indian pilot to return home</a>, it was announced that the Beating the Retreat ceremony won't be taking place at the Wagah border today.

Shiv Dular Singh Dhillon, Deputy Commissioner, &nbsp;Amritsar, said: "The Beating the Retreat ceremony (at Attari-Wagah Border) will not be held today. Senior team of the Indian Air Force will receive the Indian pilot."

Pakistan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-asks-world-community-to-take-action-against-jem-and-its-leadership-200408">PM Imran Khan had announced</a> in a joint session in the National Assembly that his government would be freeing the Indian pilot who was captured after Pakistan shot down a MiG-21 which was involved in a dogfight as Pakistani jets entered Indian airspace on Tuesday.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tXfiA8BxJqA" width="560"></iframe>

India had earlier said it won't be involved in any bargain to get the pilot back even as Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told the Pakistani media that the government would be willing to handover the Indian pilot if India promised to "de-escalate" the situation.

India had sent Mirage 2000 jets in the early hours on Monday to destroy terror bases in the Balakot area of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;

The next day Pakistani jets, along with an F-16 fighter entered Indian air space from the Rajouri area in Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K) to target Indian installations leading India to send MiG-21s to intercept it, in the impending firefight&nbsp;the Indian MiG-21 was shot down and the plane fell inside&nbsp;Pakistani territory.

The Indian Air Force later said one of the MiG-21 Bison had shot down a&nbsp;Pakistani F-16 even as Pakistani authorities denied it.&nbsp;

Air Force Air Vice Marshal RGK Kapoor in a joint defence press conference on Thursday&nbsp;showed evidence of&nbsp;AMRAAM air-to-air missile which was fired from a Pakistani F-16 fighter.

As Indian authorities wait for captured Indian pilot to return home, it was announced that the Beating the Retreat ceremony won't be taking place at the Wagah border today.

As Indian authorities wait for captured Indian pilot to return home, it was announced that the Beating the Retreat ceremony won't be taking place at the Wagah border today. Shiv Dular Singh Dhillon, Deputy Commissioner, Amritsar, said: "The Beating the Retreat ceremony (at Attari-Wagah Border) will not be held today. Senior team of the Indian Air Force will receive the Indian pilot." Pakistan PM Imran Khan had announced in a joint session in the National Assembly that his government would be freeing the Indian pilot who was captured after Pakistan shot down a MiG-21 which was involved in a dogfight as Pakistani jets entered Indian airspace on Tuesday. India had earlier said it won't be involved in any bargain to get the pilot back even as Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi told the Pakistani media that the government would be willing to handover the Indian pilot if India promised to "de-escalate" the situation. India had sent Mirage 2000 jets in the early hours on Monday to destroy terror bases in the Balakot area of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The next day Pakistani jets, along with an F-16 fighter entered Indian air space from the Rajouri area in Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) to target Indian installations leading India to send MiG-21s to intercept it, in the impending firefight the Indian MiG-21 was shot down and the plane fell inside Pakistani territory. The Indian Air Force later said one of the MiG-21 Bison had shot down a Pakistani F-16 even as Pakistani authorities denied it. Air Force Air Vice Marshal RGK Kapoor in a joint defence press conference on Thursday showed evidence of AMRAAM air-to-air missile which was fired from a Pakistani F-16 fighter.

Beating the Retreat ceremony cancelled at Wagah border

Highlighting India's diversity and coexistence while calling on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terrorism, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Friday raised the issue as the main focus at the 46th session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Minister meet.

Carrying the "greetings" of 1.3 billion Indians including 185 million Muslim brothers and sisters, EAM said, "Our Muslim brothers and sisters are a microcosm of the diversity of India. They speak Tamil and Telugu, Malayalam and Marathi, Bangla and Bhojpuri or any of the numerous languages of India."

"They practice their respective beliefs and live in harmony with each other and with their non-Muslim brethren. It is this appreciation of diversity and co-existence, that has ensured that very few Muslims in India have fallen prey to the poisonous propaganda of radical and extremist ideologies, " she added.

Without naming Pakistan, EAM Sushma slammed the issue of terror emanating from the country. "If we want to save the humanity then we must tell the states who provide shelter and funding to the terrorists, to dismantle the infrastructure of the terrorist camps and stop providing funding and shelter to the terror organisations, based in their country, " she added.

She further quoted Quran, the founder Guru of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev and Rig Veda and highlighted that every religion in the world stands for peace, compassion and brotherhood. She said, "Terrorism and extremism" bear different names but in each case is driven by "distortion of religion" adding, "fight against terrorism is not a confrontation against any religion"

She also underscored the long historical ties India has with the members of OIC. From ties with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia which are "important pillars" of India's Act East Policy to countries in the neighbourhood--Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Maldives, from Iran with which India has "Civilisational and cultural links" to Iraq with which India has shared "Triumphs and trials" and countries in further to west like Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria with which India "shared desire for a more inclusive world" External Affair Minister Sushma Swaraj talked about the ties will all OIC countries.

She thanked Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh and "others friends" for their strong support for "hearing India’s voice in this forum."

India is the guest of honour at the grouping's meeting, which is a first. The Indian presence is seen as a big diplomatic victory. India has been engaging with several Arab capitals with a number of high-level visits from West Asia to India and vice versa in the last four years.

PAKISTAN BOYCOTTS OIC OVER INDIAN PRESENCE

Meanwhile, Pakistan has officially announced that it will boycott the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi over Indian presence.&nbsp;

Speaking in the Pakistani Parliament, Pak Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said," I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet. "

"Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it, " he added.

Islamabad has raised strong objections to OIC on India's presence.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Qureshi had written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to India or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi.

It is important to highlight, way back in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan.

This time Pakistan's plea was not taken into consideration, which many will say shows Islamabad's growing isolation.

Highlighting India's diversity and coexistence while calling on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terrorism, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Friday raised the issue as the main focus at the 46th session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Minister meet.

Highlighting India's diversity and coexistence while calling on the world to speak in one voice on the issue of terrorism, External Affairs Minister (EAM) Sushma Swaraj on Friday raised the issue as the main focus at the 46th session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Minister meet. Carrying the "greetings" of 1.3 billion Indians including 185 million Muslim brothers and sisters, EAM said, "Our Muslim brothers and sisters are a microcosm of the diversity of India. They speak Tamil and Telugu, Malayalam and Marathi, Bangla and Bhojpuri or any of the numerous languages of India." "They practice their respective beliefs and live in harmony with each other and with their non-Muslim brethren. It is this appreciation of diversity and co-existence, that has ensured that very few Muslims in India have fallen prey to the poisonous propaganda of radical and extremist ideologies, " she added. Without naming Pakistan, EAM Sushma slammed the issue of terror emanating from the country. "If we want to save the humanity then we must tell the states who provide shelter and funding to the terrorists, to dismantle the infrastructure of the terrorist camps and stop providing funding and shelter to the terror organisations, based in their country, " she added. She further quoted Quran, the founder Guru of Sikhism Guru Nanak Dev and Rig Veda and highlighted that every religion in the world stands for peace, compassion and brotherhood. She said, "Terrorism and extremism" bear different names but in each case is driven by "distortion of religion" adding, "fight against terrorism is not a confrontation against any religion" She also underscored the long historical ties India has with the members of OIC. From ties with Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia which are "important pillars" of India's Act East Policy to countries in the neighbourhood--Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Maldives, from Iran with which India has "Civilisational and cultural links" to Iraq with which India has shared "Triumphs and trials" and countries in further to west like Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria with which India "shared desire for a more inclusive world" External Affair Minister Sushma Swaraj talked about the ties will all OIC countries. She thanked Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh and "others friends" for their strong support for "hearing India’s voice in this forum." India is the guest of honour at the grouping's meeting, which is a first. The Indian presence is seen as a big diplomatic victory. India has been engaging with several Arab capitals with a number of high-level visits from West Asia to India and vice versa in the last four years. PAKISTAN BOYCOTTS OIC OVER INDIAN PRESENCE Meanwhile, Pakistan has officially announced that it will boycott the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Foreign Ministers meet in Abu Dhabi over Indian presence. Speaking in the Pakistani Parliament, Pak Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said," I have decided, that I will not go to the foreign ministers meet. " "Our lower level officials will be present to defend Pakistan’s resolution, in sure if someone tries to give India an observer status we can oppose it, " he added. Islamabad has raised strong objections to OIC on India's presence. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Qureshi had written to OIC Secretary-General Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking him that UAE should rescind invite to India or Islamabad will reconsider its decision to attend the meet in Abu Dhabi. It is important to highlight, way back in 1969 the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan. This time Pakistan's plea was not taken into consideration, which many will say shows Islamabad's growing isolation.

At OIC, Sushma Swaraj highlights India's diversity, slams Pakistan for its support to terror

While speaking in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari at the inauguration of several projects, Prime Minister Modi on Friday hailed the contribution of the southern state.

Referring to the IAF Pilot held in captive in Pakistan he said every Indian was proud that the brave Wing Commander was from Tamil Nadu. He further added that the country's first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is also from Tamil Nadu.

"Every Indian is proud that the brave Wing Commander is from Tamil Nadu. I am proud that India’s first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is from Tamil Nadu, " he said.

PM Modi's who was in Kanyakumari to inaugurate the foundation stone for the extension of a railway line from Rameswaram-Dhanushkodi and a new bridge replacing old Pamban bridge said, "The foundation stone of a railway line between Rameshwaram - Dhanushkodi has also been laid today. This line got damaged after the disaster of 1964 but for over fifty years, no attention was paid to this line".

"I have flagged off the fastest train Tejas between Madurai - Chennai and the train is a great example of 'Make in India,' having been manufactured in the Integral Coach factory of Chennai itself," he said.

Referring to the huge mandate of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections which led to the massive victory of his party, PM Modi said,"&nbsp;The great Tiruvalluvar said 'When the rare chance comes, seize it to do the rare deed.'&nbsp;In 2014, it was after thirty years that a Party got a full majority in the Parliament. The people’s message was clear- they wanted a government that takes bold and tough decisions".

The PM also said that the government was "most sensitive" to the safety and well-being of fishermen. "Due to sustained diplomatic efforts, since May 2014, hundreds of fishermen have been released by Sri Lankan authorities".

Talking about terrorism he said the country has been facing the menace of terrorism for years now however it will no longer be "helpless" in the wake of terror now.

"There is a big difference now- India will no longer be helpless in the wake of terror. From 2004 to 2014 there were several terror attacks. The nation expected perpetrators to be punished but nothing happened".

"26/11 happened, India expected action against terrorists but nothing happened. Uri happened and you saw what our brave men did. Pulwama happened and you saw what our brave men did. I salute all those who are serving the nation. Their vigilance keeps our nation secure," he said.

"There was a time when the news reports would read- Air Force wanted to do surgical strike after 26/11 but UPA blocked it. Today, we are in an era where the news reads- Armed forces have full freedom to do what they want".

The prime minister assured that the Influence of terrorists and terrorism has been curtailed and it is going to be curtailed even more.

"This is a New India. This is an India that will return the damage done by terrorists with interest".

While speaking in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari at the inauguration of several projects, Prime Minister Modi on Friday hailed the contribution of the southern state. Referring to the IAF Pilot held in captive in Pakistan he said every Indian was proud that the brave Wing Commander was from Tamil Nadu.

While speaking in Tamil Nadu's Kanyakumari at the inauguration of several projects, Prime Minister Modi on Friday hailed the contribution of the southern state. Referring to the IAF Pilot held in captive in Pakistan he said every Indian was proud that the brave Wing Commander was from Tamil Nadu. He further added that the country's first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is also from Tamil Nadu. "Every Indian is proud that the brave Wing Commander is from Tamil Nadu. I am proud that India’s first woman Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is from Tamil Nadu, " he said. PM Modi's who was in Kanyakumari to inaugurate the foundation stone for the extension of a railway line from Rameswaram-Dhanushkodi and a new bridge replacing old Pamban bridge said, "The foundation stone of a railway line between Rameshwaram - Dhanushkodi has also been laid today. This line got damaged after the disaster of 1964 but for over fifty years, no attention was paid to this line". "I have flagged off the fastest train Tejas between Madurai - Chennai and the train is a great example of 'Make in India,' having been manufactured in the Integral Coach factory of Chennai itself," he said. Referring to the huge mandate of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections which led to the massive victory of his party, PM Modi said," The great Tiruvalluvar said 'When the rare chance comes, seize it to do the rare deed.' In 2014, it was after thirty years that a Party got a full majority in the Parliament. The people’s message was clear- they wanted a government that takes bold and tough decisions". The PM also said that the government was "most sensitive" to the safety and well-being of fishermen. "Due to sustained diplomatic efforts, since May 2014, hundreds of fishermen have been released by Sri Lankan authorities". Talking about terrorism he said the country has been facing the menace of terrorism for years now however it will no longer be "helpless" in the wake of terror now. "There is a big difference now- India will no longer be helpless in the wake of terror. From 2004 to 2014 there were several terror attacks. The nation expected perpetrators to be punished but nothing happened". "26/11 happened, India expected action against terrorists but nothing happened. Uri happened and you saw what our brave men did. Pulwama happened and you saw what our brave men did. I salute all those who are serving the nation. Their vigilance keeps our nation secure," he said. "There was a time when the news reports would read- Air Force wanted to do surgical strike after 26/11 but UPA blocked it. Today, we are in an era where the news reads- Armed forces have full freedom to do what they want". The prime minister assured that the Influence of terrorists and terrorism has been curtailed and it is going to be curtailed even more. "This is a New India. This is an India that will return the damage done by terrorists with interest".

Proud that Wing Commander is from Tamil Nadu: PM Modi in Kanyakumari

Three days of India-Pakistan power play

External Affairs Minister raised the issue of terrorism at the&nbsp;Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)&nbsp;gathering on Friday amid Indo-Pak tensions following the Pulwama terror attack.

"Terrorism is destroying lives, destabilising regions and putting the world at great peril. Terror reach is growing and the toll it is taking is increasing," Swaraj said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"Terrorism in each case is driven by distortion of religion. Fight against terror is not a confrontation against any religion. Just as Islam means peace, none of the 99 names of Allah mean violence. Similarly every religion stands for peace," she added while addressing the IOC as a guest of honour.

The Pakistan's chair was empty as Swaraj delivered her address at the inauguration of the two-day meeting.

It is for the first time that India has been invited to a meeting of the OIC, an influential grouping of 57 Islamic countries, as the guest of honour.&nbsp;

India's engagement with the OIC comes in the midst of escalating tension between India and Pakistan. The ties strained further after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. Pakistan carried out a retaliatory aerial raid on Wednesday.

Pakistan, a member of the OIC, tried to get Swaraj 'disinvited' from the Abu Dhabi meet following India's air strike on the terror camp in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said he will not attend the meeting over the grouping's failure to rescind invitation to Swaraj.&nbsp;

The OIC had disinvited India from its conference in 1969 in Morocco at Pakistan's behest. The OIC has usually been supportive of Pakistan and often sided with Islamabad on the Kashmir issue.

(With PTI inputs)

External Affairs Minister raised the issue of terrorism at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) gathering on Friday amid Indo-Pak tensions following the Pulwama terror attack.

External Affairs Minister raised the issue of terrorism at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) gathering on Friday amid Indo-Pak tensions following the Pulwama terror attack. "Terrorism is destroying lives, destabilising regions and putting the world at great peril. Terror reach is growing and the toll it is taking is increasing," Swaraj said. "Terrorism in each case is driven by distortion of religion. Fight against terror is not a confrontation against any religion. Just as Islam means peace, none of the 99 names of Allah mean violence. Similarly every religion stands for peace," she added while addressing the IOC as a guest of honour. The Pakistan's chair was empty as Swaraj delivered her address at the inauguration of the two-day meeting. It is for the first time that India has been invited to a meeting of the OIC, an influential grouping of 57 Islamic countries, as the guest of honour. India's engagement with the OIC comes in the midst of escalating tension between India and Pakistan. The ties strained further after Indian fighter jets bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. Pakistan carried out a retaliatory aerial raid on Wednesday. Pakistan, a member of the OIC, tried to get Swaraj 'disinvited' from the Abu Dhabi meet following India's air strike on the terror camp in Pakistan. Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said he will not attend the meeting over the grouping's failure to rescind invitation to Swaraj. The OIC had disinvited India from its conference in 1969 in Morocco at Pakistan's behest. The OIC has usually been supportive of Pakistan and often sided with Islamabad on the Kashmir issue. (With PTI inputs)

Terrorism destroying lives, destabilising regions and putting world at great peril: Sushma Swaraj at OIC

Hours after Pakistan announced its decision to release Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, India conveyed to Islamabad that it wants him to be sent back via aerial route and not through the Wagah land border, official sources said.

However, late in the night, Pakistan communicated to India that he will be returned through the Attari-Wagah border.

The Indian defence establishment was also mulling over sending a special aircraft to Pakistan to bring back Wing Commander Varthaman who was captured by Pakistan during aerial combat on Wednesday.

Varthaman will now return home through the Wagah border which is around 25 km from Lahore in Pakistan.

The IAF pilot's MiG 21 was shot and he bailed out after bringing down one Pakistani F-16 fighter during a dogfight to repel a Pakistani attack on Wednesday morning.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced that Varthaman will be released on Friday as "peace gesture".

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday.

It came 12 days after 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on February 14.

Following the bombing of the JeM training camp, the Pakistan Air Force carried out retaliatory aerial combat, unsuccessfully targeting several Indian military installations.

Hours after Pakistan announced its decision to release Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, India conveyed to Islamabad that it wants him to be sent back via aerial route and not through the Wagah land border, official sources said.

Hours after Pakistan announced its decision to release Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, India conveyed to Islamabad that it wants him to be sent back via aerial route and not through the Wagah land border, official sources said. However, late in the night, Pakistan communicated to India that he will be returned through the Attari-Wagah border. The Indian defence establishment was also mulling over sending a special aircraft to Pakistan to bring back Wing Commander Varthaman who was captured by Pakistan during aerial combat on Wednesday. Varthaman will now return home through the Wagah border which is around 25 km from Lahore in Pakistan. The IAF pilot's MiG 21 was shot and he bailed out after bringing down one Pakistani F-16 fighter during a dogfight to repel a Pakistani attack on Wednesday morning. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan Thursday announced that Varthaman will be released on Friday as "peace gesture". Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after 40 CRPF personnel were killed when a Jaish-e-Mohammad suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on February 14. Following the bombing of the JeM training camp, the Pakistan Air Force carried out retaliatory aerial combat, unsuccessfully targeting several Indian military installations.

Pakistan ignores India's request to sent back IAF pilot by air

It may have been after midnight when the Chennai-Delhi flight came to a stop at the tarmac but there was no scramble to get bags from the overhead bin or rush towards the exit because all eyes were focused on one couple -- the parents of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-updates-iaf-pilot-captain-abhinandans-homecoming-from-pakistan-200416">IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman</a>.

Air Marshal (retd) S Varthaman and Dr Shobha Varthaman were given a standing ovation as passengers made way for them in the early hours of Friday, ensuring that the couple gets off first.

Abhinandan, who was captured by Pakistan on Wednesday, is expected to be released on Friday.&nbsp;

In photos and videos shared by passengers on social media platforms, the couple, who came to Delhi on their way to Amritsar to bring their son home, can be seen acknowledging the clapping, cheers and thank yous with nods of their heads.

The plane landed at the Delhi airport for about an hour after midnight.&nbsp;

The couple left for Amritsar soon after landing in Delhi. They are all set to receive their son most likely at the Wagah border.

Wing Commander Abhinandan was captured by Pakistan Army after his fighter jet crashed in an air duel with a Pakistani F-16. He shot down the plane before his own went down, forcing him to eject. He fell into Pakistani territory.

On Thursday Khan announced that he would be released, signalling a de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

Abhinandan's family has served the Indian Air Force for generations, since the second World War.

Air Marshal S Varthaman, a recipient of several honours, including a Param Vishisht Seva Medal, said in a message, "Abhi is alive, not injured, sound in mind, just look at the way he talked so bravely... A true soldier... We are so proud of him."&nbsp;

It may have been after midnight when the Chennai-Delhi flight came to a stop at the tarmac but there was no scramble to get bags from the overhead bin or rush towards the exit because all eyes were focused on one couple -- the parents of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman.

It may have been after midnight when the Chennai-Delhi flight came to a stop at the tarmac but there was no scramble to get bags from the overhead bin or rush towards the exit because all eyes were focused on one couple -- the parents of IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman. Air Marshal (retd) S Varthaman and Dr Shobha Varthaman were given a standing ovation as passengers made way for them in the early hours of Friday, ensuring that the couple gets off first. Abhinandan, who was captured by Pakistan on Wednesday, is expected to be released on Friday. In photos and videos shared by passengers on social media platforms, the couple, who came to Delhi on their way to Amritsar to bring their son home, can be seen acknowledging the clapping, cheers and thank yous with nods of their heads. The plane landed at the Delhi airport for about an hour after midnight. The couple left for Amritsar soon after landing in Delhi. They are all set to receive their son most likely at the Wagah border. Wing Commander Abhinandan was captured by Pakistan Army after his fighter jet crashed in an air duel with a Pakistani F-16. He shot down the plane before his own went down, forcing him to eject. He fell into Pakistani territory. On Thursday Khan announced that he would be released, signalling a de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan. Abhinandan's family has served the Indian Air Force for generations, since the second World War. Air Marshal S Varthaman, a recipient of several honours, including a Param Vishisht Seva Medal, said in a message, "Abhi is alive, not injured, sound in mind, just look at the way he talked so bravely... A true soldier... We are so proud of him."

IAF pilot Abhinandan Varthaman's parents get standing ovation on flight to Delhi

Delhi on Friday woke up to a cold morning with partly cloudy sky, with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering at 8 Degree Celsius and 24 Degree Celsius.

The pollution remains in the 'moderate'&nbsp;category with Air Quality Index docking at 132 in the morning.

Relative humidity at 8:30 in the morning was 97 per cent.

"Now for another 24 to 48 hours, in the absence of any significant weather system, the weather over Delhi-NCR will remain dry with the clear sky and bright sunshine. However, on March 2, another fresh Western Disturbance will approach the northern hills which will once again induce a cyclonic circulation over the northwestern plains. A trough will also extend from circulation up to South Uttar Pradesh," said Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency.

"This trough will be responsible for giving scattered rain and thundershowers over Delhi-NCR on March 2 and 3. Thereafter, the weather systems will once again weaken and move eastwards, leading to commencement of dry and cold northwesterly winds," it added.&nbsp;

Delhi on Friday woke up to a cold morning with partly cloudy sky, with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering at 8 Degree Celsius and 24 Degree Celsius. The pollution remains in the 'moderate' category with Air Quality Index docking at 132 in the morning.

Delhi on Friday woke up to a cold morning with partly cloudy sky, with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering at 8 Degree Celsius and 24 Degree Celsius. The pollution remains in the 'moderate' category with Air Quality Index docking at 132 in the morning. Relative humidity at 8:30 in the morning was 97 per cent. "Now for another 24 to 48 hours, in the absence of any significant weather system, the weather over Delhi-NCR will remain dry with the clear sky and bright sunshine. However, on March 2, another fresh Western Disturbance will approach the northern hills which will once again induce a cyclonic circulation over the northwestern plains. A trough will also extend from circulation up to South Uttar Pradesh," said Skymet, a private weather forecasting agency. "This trough will be responsible for giving scattered rain and thundershowers over Delhi-NCR on March 2 and 3. Thereafter, the weather systems will once again weaken and move eastwards, leading to commencement of dry and cold northwesterly winds," it added.

Delhi: Rains to begin from March 2

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs will be briefed on the current Indo-Pak relations by the foreign affairs ministry on Friday.

The committee headed by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor will meet in Parliament House this afternoon.&nbsp;

"The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs will receive a briefing from the MEA on the current situation with Pakistan..." Tharoor tweeted earlier.

The briefing will be on the present Indo-Pak relations in the light of the recent strain in the relationship after the Pulwama attack and an air strike by India, officials said.

The committee will also be briefed on the "new regime" in Pakistan led by Prime Minister Imran Khan and its relationship with India in light of the recent developments, they said.&nbsp;

Tensions between the two countries escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after the JeM claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers.&nbsp;

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs will be briefed on the current Indo-Pak relations by the foreign affairs ministry on Friday. The committee headed by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor will meet in Parliament House this afternoon.

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs will be briefed on the current Indo-Pak relations by the foreign affairs ministry on Friday. The committee headed by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor will meet in Parliament House this afternoon. "The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs will receive a briefing from the MEA on the current situation with Pakistan..." Tharoor tweeted earlier. The briefing will be on the present Indo-Pak relations in the light of the recent strain in the relationship after the Pulwama attack and an air strike by India, officials said. The committee will also be briefed on the "new regime" in Pakistan led by Prime Minister Imran Khan and its relationship with India in light of the recent developments, they said. Tensions between the two countries escalated after Indian fighters bombed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed's biggest training camp near Balakot deep inside Pakistan early Tuesday. It came 12 days after the JeM claimed responsibility for a suicide attack on a CRPF convoy in Kashmir, killing 40 soldiers.

MEA to brief Parliamentary panel on Indo-Pak relations today

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