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The Supreme Court will hear on February 26 the two petitions seeking review of its December 14 verdict that had dismissed pleas challenging the deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets.

The review petition has been filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie as also activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan.

The hearing of the pleas will be conducted in chambers and not in open court.

The trio said the top court had relied upon "patently incorrect" claims made by the government in an unsigned note given in a sealed cover in the court.

Sinha, Shourie and Bhushan have claimed that the judgement was based on "errors apparent on the face of the record" and non-consideration of subsequent information which has come to light would cause a grave miscarriage of justice.

Besides seeking review of the judgement, they have also sought hearing of the plea in an open court.

The top court will also hear the petition filed by AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh through advocate Dheeraj Singh seeking review of the December 14 verdict.

On December 14, 2018, the apex court had dismissed various pleas challenging the deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale jets saying there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision making process" warranting setting aside of the contract.

It had rejected the pleas seeking lodging of an FIR and the court-monitored probe alleging irregularities in the Rs 58,000 crore deal, in which both the countries have entered into an inter-governmental agreement (IGA).

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had dealt with "three broad areas of concern" raised in the petitions -- the decision making process, pricing and the choice of Indian offset partners (IOP) -- and said there was no reason for intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets.

It had said the Indian Air Force (IAF) needs advanced fighter jets as the country cannot afford to be "unprepared" or "underprepared" in a situation where adversaries have acquired fourth and fifth-generation fighter aircraft, "of which, we have none".&nbsp;

The apex court had said Thursday that it would consider hearing pleas seeking review of its December 14 verdict. It had considered the submission of Bhushan that his review plea and a separate application, seeking perjury prosecution of some government officials for "misleading" the court be listed urgently.

"We believe there are four petitions in the matter. One by Union of India... Some petitions (having defects) are lying with the registry," the bench said. 
"The combination (of the judges) of bench will have to be changed. It is very difficult. We will do something for it," the bench had said.

The December verdict was delivered by the bench comprising the CJI and Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph. The two Justices are currently part of different bench combinations.

Bhushan had said the review petition filed by Sanjay Singh was defective and the defect has to be cured and so far as other pleas were concerned, they can be listed for the hearing.

A day after the December verdict, the Centre had moved the apex court seeking correction in the judgement where a reference has been made about the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report and Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC), saying "misinterpretation" of its note has "resulted in a controversy in the public domain".

Sinha, Shourie and Bhushan has also filed a separate plea seeking initiation of perjury proceedings against central government officials for allegedly giving "false or misleading" information in a sealed cover in the case.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court will hear on February 26 the two petitions seeking review of its December 14 verdict that had dismissed pleas challenging the deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets.

The Supreme Court will hear on February 26 the two petitions seeking review of its December 14 verdict that had dismissed pleas challenging the deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets. The review petition has been filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie as also activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan. The hearing of the pleas will be conducted in chambers and not in open court. The trio said the top court had relied upon "patently incorrect" claims made by the government in an unsigned note given in a sealed cover in the court. Sinha, Shourie and Bhushan have claimed that the judgement was based on "errors apparent on the face of the record" and non-consideration of subsequent information which has come to light would cause a grave miscarriage of justice. Besides seeking review of the judgement, they have also sought hearing of the plea in an open court. The top court will also hear the petition filed by AAP's Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh through advocate Dheeraj Singh seeking review of the December 14 verdict. On December 14, 2018, the apex court had dismissed various pleas challenging the deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale jets saying there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision making process" warranting setting aside of the contract. It had rejected the pleas seeking lodging of an FIR and the court-monitored probe alleging irregularities in the Rs 58,000 crore deal, in which both the countries have entered into an inter-governmental agreement (IGA). A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi had dealt with "three broad areas of concern" raised in the petitions -- the decision making process, pricing and the choice of Indian offset partners (IOP) -- and said there was no reason for intervention by the court on the "sensitive issue" of purchase of 36 jets. It had said the Indian Air Force (IAF) needs advanced fighter jets as the country cannot afford to be "unprepared" or "underprepared" in a situation where adversaries have acquired fourth and fifth-generation fighter aircraft, "of which, we have none". The apex court had said Thursday that it would consider hearing pleas seeking review of its December 14 verdict. It had considered the submission of Bhushan that his review plea and a separate application, seeking perjury prosecution of some government officials for "misleading" the court be listed urgently. "We believe there are four petitions in the matter. One by Union of India... Some petitions (having defects) are lying with the registry," the bench said. "The combination (of the judges) of bench will have to be changed. It is very difficult. We will do something for it," the bench had said. The December verdict was delivered by the bench comprising the CJI and Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph. The two Justices are currently part of different bench combinations. Bhushan had said the review petition filed by Sanjay Singh was defective and the defect has to be cured and so far as other pleas were concerned, they can be listed for the hearing. A day after the December verdict, the Centre had moved the apex court seeking correction in the judgement where a reference has been made about the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report and Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC), saying "misinterpretation" of its note has "resulted in a controversy in the public domain". Sinha, Shourie and Bhushan has also filed a separate plea seeking initiation of perjury proceedings against central government officials for allegedly giving "false or misleading" information in a sealed cover in the case.

Supreme Court to hear on February 26 pleas seeking review of Rafale verdict

The White House has formally received the proposed changes in the existing regulations to end the work authorisation for certain categories of H1B foreign work visas.

The move that would impact over 90,000 spouses of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-to-encourage-talented-highly-skilled-people-to-pursue-career-in-us-trump-tweets-good-news-for-h1-b-holders-189645">H1B visa holders</a>, an overwhelming number of whom are <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indians-maximum-among-h1b-visa-applicants-denial-by-us-at-all-time-high-finds-american-think-tank-156077">Indians</a>, was sent by the Department of Homeland Security to the White House Office of management for Budget on Wednesday, officials said.

It's now for the White House to take a final call on it, before a formal regulation in this regard could be issued and the Department of Homeland Security can inform a federal court, where a lawsuit on this issue is pending.

Now White House would carry out its review of the proposed regulation, take inputs from various agencies, before taking a final call. The entire process could take from a few weeks to several months.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) which manages the programme said the proposed regulation was not final until the review and comment process was complete. As per the existing process, once White House gives its nod, the regulation would be published in federal register with a 30-day comment period.

It is only after that the new changes can come into effect. The Trump administration is moving ahead with its proposed regulation, despite strong resistance from a group of US lawmakers including Senator Kamala Harris, and Silicon Valley companies who argue that this is not only anti-women, but also prevents talented spouses of H1B visa holders from working in the United States.

Meanwhile, the US Court of Appeals, District of Columbia has extended the time for various stakeholders, including the Department of Homeland Security to submit its responses on the lawsuit against it filed by the organisation Save Jobs USA.

In September, Save Jobs USA which had filed the lawsuit urged the court to remove the abeyance and move forward with the case.

The case is before a three-member bench including Indian American Sree Srinivasan. The move comes after the Department of Homeland Security sought a stay on all existing deadlines because of the more than one-month-long partial shutdown of the federal government.

Save Jobs USA has expressed its disappointment over the slow progress on this issue.

The White House has formally received the proposed changes in the existing regulations to end the work authorisation for certain categories of H1B foreign work visas.

The White House has formally received the proposed changes in the existing regulations to end the work authorisation for certain categories of H1B foreign work visas. The move that would impact over 90,000 spouses of H1B visa holders, an overwhelming number of whom are Indians, was sent by the Department of Homeland Security to the White House Office of management for Budget on Wednesday, officials said. It's now for the White House to take a final call on it, before a formal regulation in this regard could be issued and the Department of Homeland Security can inform a federal court, where a lawsuit on this issue is pending. Now White House would carry out its review of the proposed regulation, take inputs from various agencies, before taking a final call. The entire process could take from a few weeks to several months. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) which manages the programme said the proposed regulation was not final until the review and comment process was complete. As per the existing process, once White House gives its nod, the regulation would be published in federal register with a 30-day comment period. It is only after that the new changes can come into effect. The Trump administration is moving ahead with its proposed regulation, despite strong resistance from a group of US lawmakers including Senator Kamala Harris, and Silicon Valley companies who argue that this is not only anti-women, but also prevents talented spouses of H1B visa holders from working in the United States. Meanwhile, the US Court of Appeals, District of Columbia has extended the time for various stakeholders, including the Department of Homeland Security to submit its responses on the lawsuit against it filed by the organisation Save Jobs USA. In September, Save Jobs USA which had filed the lawsuit urged the court to remove the abeyance and move forward with the case. The case is before a three-member bench including Indian American Sree Srinivasan. The move comes after the Department of Homeland Security sought a stay on all existing deadlines because of the more than one-month-long partial shutdown of the federal government. Save Jobs USA has expressed its disappointment over the slow progress on this issue.

White House receives proposed regulation to end work authorisation for spouses of H1B visa holders

In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Thursday announced that if the AAP wins all seven seats, his party will ensure that Delhi gets full statehood status within two years.

Addressing a public rally, Kejriwal said he will provide pucca house to every citizen of the national capital if Delhi attains full statehood.

He also appealed to people to not vote for the prime minister in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, but for the issue of full statehood.

Earlier this week, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had announced a door-to-door campaign to tell people how the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) had done "injustice" to them on the issue.

"If the Aam Aadmi Party wins all seven seats in Delhi, we will ensure full statehood to Delhi within two years," Kejriwal told people.

The ruling AAP has planned to corner the opposition on the issue in the Budget session of the Delhi Assembly which starts from Friday.

In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Thursday announced that if the AAP wins all seven seats, his party will ensure that Delhi gets full statehood status within two years.

In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal Thursday announced that if the AAP wins all seven seats, his party will ensure that Delhi gets full statehood status within two years. Addressing a public rally, Kejriwal said he will provide pucca house to every citizen of the national capital if Delhi attains full statehood. He also appealed to people to not vote for the prime minister in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, but for the issue of full statehood. Earlier this week, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had announced a door-to-door campaign to tell people how the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) had done "injustice" to them on the issue. "If the Aam Aadmi Party wins all seven seats in Delhi, we will ensure full statehood to Delhi within two years," Kejriwal told people. The ruling AAP has planned to corner the opposition on the issue in the Budget session of the Delhi Assembly which starts from Friday.

Will get Delhi full statehood within 2 years if AAP wins all seven Lok Sabha seats: Kejriwal

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/members-of-council-condemn-heinous-and-cowardly-suicide-bombing-unsc-on-pulwama-terror-attack-198830">Members of Council condemn heinous and cowardly suicide bombing: UNSC on Pulwama terror attack</a>

In a major development and victory for India's diplomatic campaign against Pakistan, the United Nation Security Council (UNSC) has not only condemned the Pulwama terror attack but also mentioned Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM), the group responsible for the attack. The motion for the press statement was moved by the United States.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-cant-unilaterally-end-indus-water-treaty-islamabad-on-new-delhis-move-to-stop-sharing-water-flow-to-pakistan-198841">India can't unilaterally end Indus Water Treaty: Islamabad on New Delhi's move to stop sharing water flow to Pakistan</a>

Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-sees-enormous-potential-in-saudi-economy-as-crown-prince-visits-198839">China sees 'enormous potential' in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-sees-enormous-potential-in-saudi-economy-as-crown-prince-visits-198839">Saudi</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-sees-enormous-potential-in-saudi-economy-as-crown-prince-visits-198839"> economy as crown prince visits</a>

China sees "enormous potential" in Saudi Arabia's economy and wants more high-tech cooperation, the Chinese government's top diplomat said, as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman began a&nbsp;two-day trip to Beijing.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-nsc-meeting-pakistan-bans-hafiz-saeed-led-jud-charity-wing-falah-e-insaniat-foundation-198808">After NSC meeting, Pakistan bans Hafiz Saeed-led JuD &amp; charity wing Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation</a>

Pakistan on Thursday banned the 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind&nbsp;Hafiz Saeed-led Jamat-ud<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-chairs-nsc-meeting-again-asks-for-actionable-proof-on-pulwama-attack-sources-to-wion-198779">-Dawa</a>&nbsp;and its charity wing Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation, amid intense global pressure to rein in the militant groups following the Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-starts-shutting-borders-to-block-humanitarian-aid-198833">Venezuela's Maduro starts shutting borders to block humanitarian aid</a>

Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro threatened to close the border with Colombia on Thursday as opposition leader Juan Guaido and some 80 lawmakers ran a gauntlet of roadblocks trying to get to the frontier to receive&nbsp;humanitarian aid.

Members of Council condemn heinous and cowardly suicide bombing: UNSC on Pulwama terror attack In a major development and victory for India's diplomatic campaign against Pakistan, the United Nation Security Council (UNSC) has not only condemned the Pulwama terror attack but also mentioned Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM), the group responsible for the attack.

Members of Council condemn heinous and cowardly suicide bombing: UNSC on Pulwama terror attack In a major development and victory for India's diplomatic campaign against Pakistan, the United Nation Security Council (UNSC) has not only condemned the Pulwama terror attack but also mentioned Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM), the group responsible for the attack. The motion for the press statement was moved by the United States. India can't unilaterally end Indus Water Treaty: Islamabad on New Delhi's move to stop sharing water flow to Pakistan Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one. China sees 'enormous potential' in Saudi economy as crown prince visits China sees "enormous potential" in Saudi Arabia's economy and wants more high-tech cooperation, the Chinese government's top diplomat said, as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman began a two-day trip to Beijing. After NSC meeting, Pakistan bans Hafiz Saeed-led JuD & charity wing Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation Pakistan on Thursday banned the 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamat-ud-Dawa and its charity wing Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation, amid intense global pressure to rein in the militant groups following the Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers. Venezuela's Maduro starts shutting borders to block humanitarian aid Venezuela President Nicolas Maduro threatened to close the border with Colombia on Thursday as opposition leader Juan Guaido and some 80 lawmakers ran a gauntlet of roadblocks trying to get to the frontier to receive humanitarian aid.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Describing Congress as the only party which had taken serious steps in the past towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, AICC general secretary Harish Rawat said Friday that the party will try its best to fulfill the demand if it comes to power at the Centre after the Lok Sabha polls.

"My statement on Ayodhya is already in public domain. I have been saying that if elected to power at the Centre, the congress will try its best to build a Ram temple there. My stand on the issue should also be considered as the party's view," Rawat said at a press conference here.

He said even senior BJP leader Subramanian Swamy had acknowledged the fact during an interaction with him that it was the Congress which had made serious efforts towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya twice while in power.

Accusing the BJP of doing politics over the issue, he said the Centre should play the role of facilitator on the construction of a temple.

Targeting the BJP over the Pulwama terror attack, Rawat said the saffron party was giving the tag of being a nationalist only to Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was wrong.

"Why is only Prime Minister Modi being reckoned as a nationalist. I have strong objection to it. Every citizen of India is a nationalist. I am also a nationalist and so are you," he said, adding that the entire nation stands together over the martyrdom of the soldiers.

Reacting to the budget for Uttarakhand tabled by the state government, the former chief minister expressed disappointment over it saying there was nothing new in it except that some old proposals moved by his government had been incorporated into it under new names.

He said the scheme of reviving NGOs which was introduced during his tenure has been incorporated into the budget under the name of Deendayal Upadhyay.

"I want to ask how many NGOs the BJP government has revived during its tenure? which was the main objective of the scheme," he said. 
"Growth rate is racing up like the bullet train but agricultural growth rate is at its lowest which is a matter of concern," he said.&nbsp;

Describing Congress as the only party which had taken serious steps in the past towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, AICC general secretary Harish Rawat said Friday that the party will try its best to fulfill the demand if it comes to power at the Centre after the Lok Sabha polls.

Describing Congress as the only party which had taken serious steps in the past towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, AICC general secretary Harish Rawat said Friday that the party will try its best to fulfill the demand if it comes to power at the Centre after the Lok Sabha polls. "My statement on Ayodhya is already in public domain. I have been saying that if elected to power at the Centre, the congress will try its best to build a Ram temple there. My stand on the issue should also be considered as the party's view," Rawat said at a press conference here. He said even senior BJP leader Subramanian Swamy had acknowledged the fact during an interaction with him that it was the Congress which had made serious efforts towards construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya twice while in power. Accusing the BJP of doing politics over the issue, he said the Centre should play the role of facilitator on the construction of a temple. Targeting the BJP over the Pulwama terror attack, Rawat said the saffron party was giving the tag of being a nationalist only to Prime Minister Narendra Modi which was wrong. "Why is only Prime Minister Modi being reckoned as a nationalist. I have strong objection to it. Every citizen of India is a nationalist. I am also a nationalist and so are you," he said, adding that the entire nation stands together over the martyrdom of the soldiers. Reacting to the budget for Uttarakhand tabled by the state government, the former chief minister expressed disappointment over it saying there was nothing new in it except that some old proposals moved by his government had been incorporated into it under new names. He said the scheme of reviving NGOs which was introduced during his tenure has been incorporated into the budget under the name of Deendayal Upadhyay. "I want to ask how many NGOs the BJP government has revived during its tenure? which was the main objective of the scheme," he said. "Growth rate is racing up like the bullet train but agricultural growth rate is at its lowest which is a matter of concern," he said.

Cong will try to build Ram temple if elected to power: Harish Rawat

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore township of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday morning, police said.

Acting on specific input, the security personnel launched a cordon and search operation in the Warpora area of Sopore, they said.

A senior official said the search operation turned into an encounter after the militants fired at the search party of the security men, who then returned fire.

The exchange of fire was on and further details were awaited, he added.

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore township of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday morning, police said. Acting on specific input, the security personnel launched a cordon and search operation in the Warpora area of Sopore, they said.

An encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Sopore township of Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday morning, police said. Acting on specific input, the security personnel launched a cordon and search operation in the Warpora area of Sopore, they said. A senior official said the search operation turned into an encounter after the militants fired at the search party of the security men, who then returned fire. The exchange of fire was on and further details were awaited, he added.

J&K: Encounter breaks out between security forces and militants in Baramulla

Iran is to launch a three-day annual navy drill from Friday in a vast area of the Gulf and the Indian Ocean including a sensitive global shipping route, state TV reported on Thursday.

"The drill will be held in the waters of Strait of Hormuz, Makran coast, Oman Sea and the north of the Indian Ocean, covering 2 million square kilometres and going on for three days," said Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi, Iran's navy commander.

The exercise aims to evaluate the navy's equipment, practice launching weapons and "enable the troops to gain readiness for a real battle," he added.

The strait at the mouth of the Gulf is crucial to global energy supplies, with about a third of the world's seaborne oil passing through it every day.

The show of military might comes at a time of heightened tensions with Iran's main regional rival Saudi Arabia and with Washington, which last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic.

The Strait of Hormuz is an international transit route where American forces routinely pass and which has seen tense encounters between them and Iranian forces in the past.

Dubbed as "Velayat 97," the drill will showcase Iran's submarines, warships, helicopters and drones, according to the admiral.

The exercise will also include missile launches from the vessels, Khanzadi added. 
&nbsp;

Iran is to launch a three-day annual navy drill from Friday in a vast area of the Gulf and the Indian Ocean including a sensitive global shipping route, state TV reported on Thursday.

Iran is to launch a three-day annual navy drill from Friday in a vast area of the Gulf and the Indian Ocean including a sensitive global shipping route, state TV reported on Thursday. "The drill will be held in the waters of Strait of Hormuz, Makran coast, Oman Sea and the north of the Indian Ocean, covering 2 million square kilometres and going on for three days," said Rear Admiral Hossein Khanzadi, Iran's navy commander. The exercise aims to evaluate the navy's equipment, practice launching weapons and "enable the troops to gain readiness for a real battle," he added. The strait at the mouth of the Gulf is crucial to global energy supplies, with about a third of the world's seaborne oil passing through it every day. The show of military might comes at a time of heightened tensions with Iran's main regional rival Saudi Arabia and with Washington, which last year withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran and reimposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic. The Strait of Hormuz is an international transit route where American forces routinely pass and which has seen tense encounters between them and Iranian forces in the past. Dubbed as "Velayat 97," the drill will showcase Iran's submarines, warships, helicopters and drones, according to the admiral. The exercise will also include missile launches from the vessels, Khanzadi added.

Iran announces 3-day navy drill from Gulf to Indian Ocean

A leading farmers' organisation on Thursday announced suspension of its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-march-to-mumbai-will-continue-as-talks-inconclusive-198688">ongoing protest march</a> from Nashik to Mumbai over agrarian concerns after talks with the Maharashtra government.

The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), backed by the CPI(M), announced suspension of the 180-km march from Nashik to Mumbai after a three-and-a-half hour meeting of its representatives with state ministers Girish Mahajan and Jaykumar Rawal.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/farmers-protest-in-last-2-years-255#farmers-protest-tamil-nadu-49354">farmers</a> had embarked on the march on Thursday morning, but it was called off later.

"The meeting (held Thursday) yielded positive results. We will suspend the march today," AIKS president Ashok Dhawale told PTI after the meeting between the two sides at Ambebahula village in Nashik.

This is the second time in the last one year that farmers were on the roads to protest against the "betrayal" of peasants by the BJP governments at the Centre and in the state.

Earlier, they had planned to launch the march on Wednesday but it was deferred by a day allegedly after the state police stopped scores of farmers approaching Nashik from districts like Thane, Palghar and Ahmednagar.

In a late night meeting on Wednesday, the AIKS had asked the government to give its assurances in writing, a demand Mahajan agreed to. Mahajan had held parleys on behalf of the Devendra Fadnavis dispensation.&nbsp;

The AIKS, however, had decided to proceed with its march from Nashik till the government kept its word.

Accordingly, the third round of meeting was held Thursday.

AIKS representatives had held the first meeting with the government on February 17 ahead of the launch of the long march.

According to AIKS president Dhawale, around 50,000 farmers from Nashik, Thane, Palghar, Ahmednagar and other districts of Maharashtra had taken part in the march.

Dhawale said the farmers will again launch the protest in case the government failed to keep promises made in writing.The meeting was also attended by CPI(M) MLA J P Gavit.

Dhawale said the government has given in writing that the ministers and AIKS representatives will take stock of the implementation of assurances every two months.

"Such meetings did not happen over the past year. Now, they have given it in writing that these meetings will be held to review progress of implementation," Dhawale added.

Besides accepting the demands raised by the farmers, the AIKS said the government has assured that water flowing in Maharashtra's rivers like Nar, Par, Damanganga and Pinjal will be transferred to the Godavari basin through lift irrigation and used in drought-hit areas of the state.

"The meeting went for three-and-a-half hour. The concerns raised by the AIKS representatives were conveyed to the chief minister.

"The meeting was positive. I am sure the AIKS representatives are satisfied," Mahajan said.

Following the suspension of the agitation, farmers left for their respective native villages, the AIKS said.&nbsp;

A leading farmers' organisation on Thursday announced suspension of its ongoing protest march from Nashik to Mumbai over agrarian concerns after talks with the Maharashtra government.

A leading farmers' organisation on Thursday announced suspension of its ongoing protest march from Nashik to Mumbai over agrarian concerns after talks with the Maharashtra government. The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS), backed by the CPI(M), announced suspension of the 180-km march from Nashik to Mumbai after a three-and-a-half hour meeting of its representatives with state ministers Girish Mahajan and Jaykumar Rawal. The farmers had embarked on the march on Thursday morning, but it was called off later. "The meeting (held Thursday) yielded positive results. We will suspend the march today," AIKS president Ashok Dhawale told PTI after the meeting between the two sides at Ambebahula village in Nashik. This is the second time in the last one year that farmers were on the roads to protest against the "betrayal" of peasants by the BJP governments at the Centre and in the state. Earlier, they had planned to launch the march on Wednesday but it was deferred by a day allegedly after the state police stopped scores of farmers approaching Nashik from districts like Thane, Palghar and Ahmednagar. In a late night meeting on Wednesday, the AIKS had asked the government to give its assurances in writing, a demand Mahajan agreed to. Mahajan had held parleys on behalf of the Devendra Fadnavis dispensation. The AIKS, however, had decided to proceed with its march from Nashik till the government kept its word. Accordingly, the third round of meeting was held Thursday. AIKS representatives had held the first meeting with the government on February 17 ahead of the launch of the long march. According to AIKS president Dhawale, around 50,000 farmers from Nashik, Thane, Palghar, Ahmednagar and other districts of Maharashtra had taken part in the march. Dhawale said the farmers will again launch the protest in case the government failed to keep promises made in writing.The meeting was also attended by CPI(M) MLA J P Gavit. Dhawale said the government has given in writing that the ministers and AIKS representatives will take stock of the implementation of assurances every two months. "Such meetings did not happen over the past year. Now, they have given it in writing that these meetings will be held to review progress of implementation," Dhawale added. Besides accepting the demands raised by the farmers, the AIKS said the government has assured that water flowing in Maharashtra's rivers like Nar, Par, Damanganga and Pinjal will be transferred to the Godavari basin through lift irrigation and used in drought-hit areas of the state. "The meeting went for three-and-a-half hour. The concerns raised by the AIKS representatives were conveyed to the chief minister. "The meeting was positive. I am sure the AIKS representatives are satisfied," Mahajan said. Following the suspension of the agitation, farmers left for their respective native villages, the AIKS said.

Farmers' march to Mumbai suspended after talks with Maharashtra government

Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda, who was the commanding officer during the 2016 surgical strike, has denied reports of having joined the Indian National Congress.

“I have not joined the Congress party”, Hooda told ANI when asked whether he had joined Congress party, which has asked him to prepare a report on national security.

Hooda was the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command during the terror attack on Uri Army camp and the subsequent surgical strike in September 2016.

The&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;has on Thursday roped in Hooda to prepare a "vision document" for the country's security, more than two months after the former Army Commander said the surgical strike was "overhyped and politicised".

"The&nbsp;Congress&nbsp;President (Rahul Gandhi) is setting up a Task Force on National Security to prepare a&nbsp;vision&nbsp;paper for the country,"' the Opposition party said in a statement here.

It added that&nbsp;Hooda&nbsp;will lead the Task Force and prepare the paper in consultation with a select group of experts.

Hooda, who had overseen the surgical strike of September 2016 on terror camps across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, retired from service in November 2016.

In December, he had triggered a controversy by saying that the&nbsp;surgical strike was “overhyped and&nbsp;politicised.”&nbsp;

“The military operation was important and we had to do it. Now how much should it have been politicised, whether it is right or wrong is something that should be asked to politicians,” he had said.

“I do think that there was too much hype over it,”&nbsp;Hooda&nbsp;had said.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had later dismissed&nbsp;Hooda’s remarks as an “individual person’s perception.”&nbsp;

Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda, who was the commanding officer during the 2016 surgical strike, has denied reports of having joined the Indian National Congress. “I have not joined the Congress party”, Hooda told ANI when asked whether he had joined Congress party, which has asked him to prepare a report on national security.

Lt Gen (retd) D S Hooda, who was the commanding officer during the 2016 surgical strike, has denied reports of having joined the Indian National Congress. “I have not joined the Congress party”, Hooda told ANI when asked whether he had joined Congress party, which has asked him to prepare a report on national security. Hooda was the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command during the terror attack on Uri Army camp and the subsequent surgical strike in September 2016. The Congress has on Thursday roped in Hooda to prepare a "vision document" for the country's security, more than two months after the former Army Commander said the surgical strike was "overhyped and politicised". "The Congress President (Rahul Gandhi) is setting up a Task Force on National Security to prepare a vision paper for the country,"' the Opposition party said in a statement here. It added that Hooda will lead the Task Force and prepare the paper in consultation with a select group of experts. Hooda, who had overseen the surgical strike of September 2016 on terror camps across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, retired from service in November 2016. In December, he had triggered a controversy by saying that the surgical strike was “overhyped and politicised.” “The military operation was important and we had to do it. Now how much should it have been politicised, whether it is right or wrong is something that should be asked to politicians,” he had said. “I do think that there was too much hype over it,” Hooda had said. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat had later dismissed Hooda’s remarks as an “individual person’s perception.”

Have not joined Congress: Lt Gen DS Hooda clarifies

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday, PTI reported quoting police.

Acting on a tip-off about the presence of militants there, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Warpora area of Sopore in north Kashmir. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The militants fired at the search party which led to a gunfight, the report added.&nbsp;

Two militants have been killed, a police official said adding, the operation was going on. The identity of the militants is yet to be ascertained.&nbsp;

Police also recovered arms and ammunition from the encounter site, police said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday, PTI reported quoting police. Acting on a tip-off about the presence of militants there, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Warpora area of Sopore in north Kashmir.

Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district on Friday, PTI reported quoting police. Acting on a tip-off about the presence of militants there, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Warpora area of Sopore in north Kashmir. The militants fired at the search party which led to a gunfight, the report added. Two militants have been killed, a police official said adding, the operation was going on. The identity of the militants is yet to be ascertained. Police also recovered arms and ammunition from the encounter site, police said.

J&K: Two terrorists killed in Baramulla encounter, arms and ammunition recovered

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-statement-mentioned-jem-in-general-terms-it-does-not-represent-judgment-on-pulwama-attack-china-198964">UNSC statement mentioned JeM in general terms, it does not represent </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-statement-mentioned-jem-in-general-terms-it-does-not-represent-judgment-on-pulwama-attack-china-198964">judgement</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/unsc-statement-mentioned-jem-in-general-terms-it-does-not-represent-judgment-on-pulwama-attack-china-198964"> on Pulwama attack: China</a>

China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-comes-hard-on-pakistan-says-islamabad-has-not-demonstrated-proper-understanding-of-terror-financing-198944">Pakistan hasn't demonstrated </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-comes-hard-on-pakistan-says-islamabad-has-not-demonstrated-proper-understanding-of-terror-financing-198944">proper</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-comes-hard-on-pakistan-says-islamabad-has-not-demonstrated-proper-understanding-of-terror-financing-198944"> understanding of terror financing: FATF</a>

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has come hard on Pakistan saying it has not demonstrated a proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by "Da’esh, AQ, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, HQN, and persons affiliated with the Taliban. "

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/would-hate-to-give-two-points-to-pakistan-in-world-cup-sachin-tendulkar-198983">'Time to beat them once again': Tendulkar backs Gavaskar on Indo-Pak World Cup clash</a>

Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar Friday said he would "hate" to see India concede two points to Pakistan by not playing them in the upcoming World Cup as such a move would only help the arch-rivals in the mega-event.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-against-forcefully-sending-aid-to-venezuela-198958">China against forcefully sending aid to Venezuela: Foreign ministry</a>

China said Friday it was against forcefully sending "so-called humanitarian assistance" to Venezuela, warning it could spark conflict in the crisis-torn country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-underway-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-sopore-198965">J&amp;K: One terrorist killed in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-underway-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-sopore-198965">ongoing</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-encounter-underway-between-security-forces-and-terrorists-in-sopore-198965"> encounter between security forces and terrorists</a>

One terrorist was shot dead in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in Warpora area of Sopore in Baramulla district on Friday morning.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

UNSC statement mentioned JeM in general terms, it does not represent judgement on Pulwama attack: China China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement".

UNSC statement mentioned JeM in general terms, it does not represent judgement on Pulwama attack: China China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council on Friday sought to downplay the scathing statement issued by the powerful organ of the world body naming Jaish-e-Muhammad(JeM) in the Pulwama terror attack, saying the mention of the Pakistan-based outfit was only in "general terms" and "does not represent a judgement". Pakistan hasn't demonstrated proper understanding of terror financing: FATF The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has come hard on Pakistan saying it has not demonstrated a proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by "Da’esh, AQ, JuD, FiF, LeT, JeM, HQN, and persons affiliated with the Taliban. " 'Time to beat them once again': Tendulkar backs Gavaskar on Indo-Pak World Cup clash Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar Friday said he would "hate" to see India concede two points to Pakistan by not playing them in the upcoming World Cup as such a move would only help the arch-rivals in the mega-event. China against forcefully sending aid to Venezuela: Foreign ministry China said Friday it was against forcefully sending "so-called humanitarian assistance" to Venezuela, warning it could spark conflict in the crisis-torn country. J&K: One terrorist killed in ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists One terrorist was shot dead in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in Warpora area of Sopore in Baramulla district on Friday morning.

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to&nbsp;escalate <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-chairs-nsc-meeting-again-asks-for-actionable-proof-on-pulwama-attack-sources-to-wion-198779">over the Pulwama terrorist attack</a>, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

"Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Sri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji, Our Govt. has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from Eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567044574916608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567046848221186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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All the above Projects are declared as the National projects.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567049423568896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has blamed Pakistan for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-fires-at-posts-civilian-areas-along-loc-in-jk-for-third-day-indian-troops-retaliate-198774">Pulwama terrorist attack</a> which occurred last week even as the&nbsp;Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it.

A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this."

For this India is constructing&nbsp;Shahpurkandi Dam at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river.&nbsp;Implementation of this project would help to minimise some of the water of the River Ravi which at present is going waste through the MadhopurHeadworks downstream to Pakistan.&nbsp;

On completion of the project, an additional Irrigation Potential of 5000 ha in Punjab State and 32173 ha in J&amp;K State would be created.

The&nbsp;Ujh project will store India's share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.

India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus&nbsp;over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue.

In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides.&nbsp;

The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir.

Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent.

After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan.&nbsp;

The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state dispute.

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to escalate over the Pulwama terrorist attack, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

As India and Pakistan tensions continue to escalate over the Pulwama terrorist attack, Union minister Nitin Gadkari said today that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan. "Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said. Under the leadership of Hon'ble PM Sri @narendramodi ji, Our Govt. has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from Eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × All the above Projects are declared as the National projects. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama terrorist attack which occurred last week even as the Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it. A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this." For this India is constructing Shahpurkandi Dam at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Implementation of this project would help to minimise some of the water of the River Ravi which at present is going waste through the MadhopurHeadworks downstream to Pakistan. On completion of the project, an additional Irrigation Potential of 5000 ha in Punjab State and 32173 ha in J&K State would be created. The Ujh project will store India's share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue. In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides. The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan. Of the total 168 million acre-feet, India's share of water from the three allotted rivers is 33 million acre-feet, which constitutes nearly 20 per cent. After the Uri attack in Kashmir in September 2016, the government had sought to use the Indus Waters Treaty to put pressure on Pakistan. The measures included effectively using India's share of waters that flow into Pakistan. This also included fast-tracking irrigation and hydropower projects by resolving the inter-state dispute.

Government has decided to stop share of water which flowed to Pak, will divert water from eastern rivers and supply in J&K & Punjab: Gadkari

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections.

Announcing the deal in the presence of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, AIADMK coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said it has also been decided that the PMK will be allocated a Rajya Sabha seat.

Under the deal, The PMK will be supporting the AIADMK in the bypolls expected to 21 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, he said.

A formal agreement in this regard was signed between the leadership of&nbsp; 
the two parties in a city hotel.

PMK founder leader S Ramadoss described the coalition as "an alliance for people's welfare, a mega-coalition and a victorious alliance."

"To retrieve the rights of Tamil Nadu people, we have made a 10-point charter of demands," Ramadoss said.

The demands include declaring the Cauvery delta districts as a protected farm region, a caste-wise census be held in Tamil Nadu and seven Rajiv case convicts be set free.

"This coalition will be successful in all the 40 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," he said.

The rationale for aligning with the AIADMK will be explained by his son and former Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani Ramadoss later, he said.&nbsp;

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections.

The ruling AIADMK Tuesday announced a poll alliance with the Pattali Makkal Katchi and allotted seven Lok Sabha seats to it for the forthcoming Parliamentary elections. Announcing the deal in the presence of Chief Minister K Palaniswami, AIADMK coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said it has also been decided that the PMK will be allocated a Rajya Sabha seat. Under the deal, The PMK will be supporting the AIADMK in the bypolls expected to 21 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu, he said. A formal agreement in this regard was signed between the leadership of the two parties in a city hotel. PMK founder leader S Ramadoss described the coalition as "an alliance for people's welfare, a mega-coalition and a victorious alliance." "To retrieve the rights of Tamil Nadu people, we have made a 10-point charter of demands," Ramadoss said. The demands include declaring the Cauvery delta districts as a protected farm region, a caste-wise census be held in Tamil Nadu and seven Rajiv case convicts be set free. "This coalition will be successful in all the 40 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry," he said. The rationale for aligning with the AIADMK will be explained by his son and former Union Health Minister Dr Anbumani Ramadoss later, he said.

AIADMK announces poll alliance deal with PMK ahead of Lok Sabha elections

In the wake of attack on Kashmiri students after the Pulwama incident, the University Grants Commission (UGC) on Friday wrote to vice-chancellors of varsities across the country to ensure safety of Kashmiri students on the campus and to maintain peace and harmony.

The UGC was directed by the Human Resource Development Ministry to issue an advisory to all the universities to ensure that the security of Kashmiri students is not compromised.

"In the context of reports being received through various media regarding the safety of students from Kashmir studying in various higher educational institutions, all universities and colleges affiliated to them are advised to ensure the safety and protection of the students on the campus. They may keep a watch on the situation and seek support of law and order machinery in case of any untoward incident," the UGC letter said.

The letter also requested the vice-chancellors "to look into the matter personally for the safely of the students and maintaining peace and harmony in universities/colleges".

The letter comes two days after Kashmiri students studying in a college in Yavatmal in Maharashtra were attacked and threatened allegedly by members of Yuva Sena, the youth wing of the Shiv Sena.&nbsp;

Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus.&nbsp;

In the wake of attack on Kashmiri students after the Pulwama incident, the University Grants Commission (UGC) on Friday wrote to vice-chancellors of varsities across the country to ensure safety of Kashmiri students on the campus and to maintain peace and harmony.

In the wake of attack on Kashmiri students after the Pulwama incident, the University Grants Commission (UGC) on Friday wrote to vice-chancellors of varsities across the country to ensure safety of Kashmiri students on the campus and to maintain peace and harmony. The UGC was directed by the Human Resource Development Ministry to issue an advisory to all the universities to ensure that the security of Kashmiri students is not compromised. "In the context of reports being received through various media regarding the safety of students from Kashmir studying in various higher educational institutions, all universities and colleges affiliated to them are advised to ensure the safety and protection of the students on the campus. They may keep a watch on the situation and seek support of law and order machinery in case of any untoward incident," the UGC letter said. The letter also requested the vice-chancellors "to look into the matter personally for the safely of the students and maintaining peace and harmony in universities/colleges". The letter comes two days after Kashmiri students studying in a college in Yavatmal in Maharashtra were attacked and threatened allegedly by members of Yuva Sena, the youth wing of the Shiv Sena. Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14 when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus.

UGC writes to varsities across country to ensure safety of Kashmiri students

A plea by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Supreme Court Friday sought transfer of seven Pakistani terrorists from Jammu jail to Tihar in the national capital, alleging they were 'indoctrinating' local prisoners.

The seven terrorists are: Waqas Manzoor alias Qazir, Mohd Abdullah alias Abu Tallah and Zaffar Iqbal of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT); Zubair Talha Zarror alias Talha (LeT) from Multan in Pakistan and arrested in 2013; Mohd Ali Hussain (LeT) arrested in 2014; Hafeez Ahmed Baloch of terrorist group Al-Badr arrested in 2006 and Zia Mustafa accused of killing of 24 Kashmiri pandits at Nadimarg area of Shopian district in South Kashmir in 2003.

A bench of Justices L N Rao and M R Shah sought a response from Centre and the Delhi government on the plea and issue notice.

The bench tagged the pleas along with the earlier petition filed by the state government for shifting of one Pakistani terrorist Zahid Farooq, who was affiliated to LeT, and said it will hear all the petitions together.

The state's standing counsel Shoeb Alam said terrorists belonging to various organisations need to be shifted out of Jammu jail as they were involved in the indoctrination of local prisoners and pose a security threat to the people and security personnel.

The bench asked Alam as how many terrorists needs to be moved out to which he replied that pleas for shifting of seven Pakistani terrorists is listed today.&nbsp;

If not Tihar, they can also be shifted to other high-security prisons in Haryana and Punjab, he said.

To this, the bench said it will hear the matter and asked Alam to ensure that a copy of the notice is served to the seven terrorists also.

A day after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel were martyred, the Jammu and Kashmir government had moved the apex court to shift Farooq, out of Jammu jail.

Farooq was arrested by security forces while trying to cross the border security fence on May 19, 2016.

The state government had said intelligence inputs received indicated that militants belonging to terror outfits like Jaish-e-Muhammad and LeT are indoctrinating the minds of other inmates lodged in the prison.

It was reliably learnt that the prisoner and other individuals have considerable local support and it cannot be ruled out that they may be receiving information, resources as well as other help to carry out terrorist-related activities, the state government added.

The state also sought shifting of the trial to Delhi saying it apprehends that transporting the militant to court and back to prison poses a threat to escorting policemen and common public.

A plea by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Supreme Court Friday sought transfer of seven Pakistani terrorists from Jammu jail to Tihar in the national capital, alleging they were 'indoctrinating' local prisoners.

A plea by the Jammu and Kashmir government in the Supreme Court Friday sought transfer of seven Pakistani terrorists from Jammu jail to Tihar in the national capital, alleging they were 'indoctrinating' local prisoners. The seven terrorists are: Waqas Manzoor alias Qazir, Mohd Abdullah alias Abu Tallah and Zaffar Iqbal of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT); Zubair Talha Zarror alias Talha (LeT) from Multan in Pakistan and arrested in 2013; Mohd Ali Hussain (LeT) arrested in 2014; Hafeez Ahmed Baloch of terrorist group Al-Badr arrested in 2006 and Zia Mustafa accused of killing of 24 Kashmiri pandits at Nadimarg area of Shopian district in South Kashmir in 2003. A bench of Justices L N Rao and M R Shah sought a response from Centre and the Delhi government on the plea and issue notice. The bench tagged the pleas along with the earlier petition filed by the state government for shifting of one Pakistani terrorist Zahid Farooq, who was affiliated to LeT, and said it will hear all the petitions together. The state's standing counsel Shoeb Alam said terrorists belonging to various organisations need to be shifted out of Jammu jail as they were involved in the indoctrination of local prisoners and pose a security threat to the people and security personnel. The bench asked Alam as how many terrorists needs to be moved out to which he replied that pleas for shifting of seven Pakistani terrorists is listed today. If not Tihar, they can also be shifted to other high-security prisons in Haryana and Punjab, he said. To this, the bench said it will hear the matter and asked Alam to ensure that a copy of the notice is served to the seven terrorists also. A day after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel were martyred, the Jammu and Kashmir government had moved the apex court to shift Farooq, out of Jammu jail. Farooq was arrested by security forces while trying to cross the border security fence on May 19, 2016. The state government had said intelligence inputs received indicated that militants belonging to terror outfits like Jaish-e-Muhammad and LeT are indoctrinating the minds of other inmates lodged in the prison. It was reliably learnt that the prisoner and other individuals have considerable local support and it cannot be ruled out that they may be receiving information, resources as well as other help to carry out terrorist-related activities, the state government added. The state also sought shifting of the trial to Delhi saying it apprehends that transporting the militant to court and back to prison poses a threat to escorting policemen and common public.

J&K govt moves SC for transfer of 7 Pakistani terrorists out of Jammu jail

Accusing the BJP of creating confusion and not fulfilling his party's demands, Uttar Pradesh minister and Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief Om Prakash Rajbhar Friday said the option for his outfit to join the SP-BSP alliance in the state for the upcoming general elections is open.

Rajbhar said he is in talks with TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackrey, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, SP president Akhilesh Yadav and BSP chief Mayawati, and a decision on retaining or severing ties with the saffron party would be taken after February 24.

Rajbhar had last week written to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to give up the charge of the backward class welfare department, expressing disappointment that his recommendations on appointment of state backward castes panel members have been "ignored".

However, on February 17, the SBSP chief said his offer to give up the charge of the department was not accepted by the chief minister, who had assured him that the matter would be looked into.

"BJP is creating confusion. I am not satisfied with the talks with him. Discussions are going on for a number of days... They are promising but not fulfilling our demands," alleged Rajbhar, who had recently met BJP national president Amit Shah.&nbsp;

Asked about the possibilities of him parting ways with the BJP, he said, "The option of tying up with the SP-BSP alliance or with any other party is open. We can go anywhere."

"I am in talks with West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackrey, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, SP president Akhilesh Yadav and BSP chief Mayawati. I will decide on leaving or remaining with the BJP on February 24." the SBSP chief told reporters here.

On February 10, the party had threatened to part ways with the saffron party if the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government does not implement a social justice panel's recommendation to classify various OBC and Dalit sub-castes into three broad categories and provide quota within quota to them.

"It is implemented in Bihar and nine other states. Then why can it not be put into effect in Uttar Pradesh," Rajbhar posed.

The committee, constituted in May last year, had in its recommendations to the state government, favoured classification of various OBC and Dalit sub-castes into three broad categories, backward, very backward and most backward, and provide quota within quota to them.

Backward classes account for about 44 per cent of the electorate in the state and play a crucial role in making or marring political prospects of any party. The panel's recommendation to is likely to spice up the political scene in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Accusing the BJP of creating confusion and not fulfilling his party's demands, Uttar Pradesh minister and Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief Om Prakash Rajbhar Friday said the option for his outfit to join the SP-BSP alliance in the state for the upcoming general elections is open.

Accusing the BJP of creating confusion and not fulfilling his party's demands, Uttar Pradesh minister and Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief Om Prakash Rajbhar Friday said the option for his outfit to join the SP-BSP alliance in the state for the upcoming general elections is open. Rajbhar said he is in talks with TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackrey, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, SP president Akhilesh Yadav and BSP chief Mayawati, and a decision on retaining or severing ties with the saffron party would be taken after February 24. Rajbhar had last week written to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to give up the charge of the backward class welfare department, expressing disappointment that his recommendations on appointment of state backward castes panel members have been "ignored". However, on February 17, the SBSP chief said his offer to give up the charge of the department was not accepted by the chief minister, who had assured him that the matter would be looked into. "BJP is creating confusion. I am not satisfied with the talks with him. Discussions are going on for a number of days... They are promising but not fulfilling our demands," alleged Rajbhar, who had recently met BJP national president Amit Shah. Asked about the possibilities of him parting ways with the BJP, he said, "The option of tying up with the SP-BSP alliance or with any other party is open. We can go anywhere." "I am in talks with West Bengal Chief Minister and TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackrey, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, SP president Akhilesh Yadav and BSP chief Mayawati. I will decide on leaving or remaining with the BJP on February 24." the SBSP chief told reporters here. On February 10, the party had threatened to part ways with the saffron party if the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government does not implement a social justice panel's recommendation to classify various OBC and Dalit sub-castes into three broad categories and provide quota within quota to them. "It is implemented in Bihar and nine other states. Then why can it not be put into effect in Uttar Pradesh," Rajbhar posed. The committee, constituted in May last year, had in its recommendations to the state government, favoured classification of various OBC and Dalit sub-castes into three broad categories, backward, very backward and most backward, and provide quota within quota to them. Backward classes account for about 44 per cent of the electorate in the state and play a crucial role in making or marring political prospects of any party. The panel's recommendation to is likely to spice up the political scene in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Option of joining SP-BSP alliance open: SBSP chief Rajbhar

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the killing of a Pakistani national, who was serving life sentence in the Jaipur Central Jail, in a brawl with other prisoners and served notices to the Rajasthan government and the state prison authorities.

The commission observed that it is "immaterial whether the victim was an Indian citizen or a foreigner, he was a human being". The Supreme Court has also held in Charles Sobhraj vs Superintendent of Central Jail, Tihar that imprisonment does not spell farewell to fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

"Once someone is kept in the custody of the state, even in a jail, being a lawful custodian, the state is duty bound to ensure his safety and security," the NHRC said in a statement issued on Thursday.

Shakrullah (50), belonging to the terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba was allegedly murdered on Wednesday. The prisoners fought over TV volume and hit him with a large stone, police officials had said.

Describing the incident as inhuman, the commission said it "condemns all such incidents and has called for stringent action against the miscreants to ensure that right to life of prisoners is not violated while they are in lawful judicial custody".

The commission has also issued notices to the Rajasthan chief secretary and the director general (prisons) of the state, seeking reports in four weeks.

"The Commission, on the basis of media reports, has also held that the authorities are expected to take immediate precautionary measures in the jails where Pakistani nationals are lodged in the wake of prevailing atmosphere," it said.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the killing of a Pakistani national, who was serving life sentence in the Jaipur Central Jail, in a brawl with other prisoners and served notices to the Rajasthan government and the state prison authorities.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has condemned the killing of a Pakistani national, who was serving life sentence in the Jaipur Central Jail, in a brawl with other prisoners and served notices to the Rajasthan government and the state prison authorities. The commission observed that it is "immaterial whether the victim was an Indian citizen or a foreigner, he was a human being". The Supreme Court has also held in Charles Sobhraj vs Superintendent of Central Jail, Tihar that imprisonment does not spell farewell to fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution. "Once someone is kept in the custody of the state, even in a jail, being a lawful custodian, the state is duty bound to ensure his safety and security," the NHRC said in a statement issued on Thursday. Shakrullah (50), belonging to the terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba was allegedly murdered on Wednesday. The prisoners fought over TV volume and hit him with a large stone, police officials had said. Describing the incident as inhuman, the commission said it "condemns all such incidents and has called for stringent action against the miscreants to ensure that right to life of prisoners is not violated while they are in lawful judicial custody". The commission has also issued notices to the Rajasthan chief secretary and the director general (prisons) of the state, seeking reports in four weeks. "The Commission, on the basis of media reports, has also held that the authorities are expected to take immediate precautionary measures in the jails where Pakistani nationals are lodged in the wake of prevailing atmosphere," it said.

NHRC condemns Pakistan prisoner's killing; issues notice to Rajasthan govt

Three persons, including a minor, were killed and another injured when landslides hit two places in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Reasi districts, officials said Friday.

A vehicle, carrying three persons in Poonch district, was hit by a landslide at Baila area on the Mandi-Fatehpur road Thursday night, they said.

One person, identified as Makho Singh, died on the spot and two others - Anjum and Deepak - were injured and admitted to a hospital by Army personnel, the officials said, adding that Anjum later succumbed and Deepak was shifted to the Government Medical College and hospital.

A four-year-old boy, who was accompanying his parents, was buried alive under a landslide in Saar village of Reasi district and his body was later recovered, they said.&nbsp;

Three persons, including a minor, were killed and another injured when landslides hit two places in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Reasi districts, officials said Friday.

Three persons, including a minor, were killed and another injured when landslides hit two places in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Reasi districts, officials said Friday. A vehicle, carrying three persons in Poonch district, was hit by a landslide at Baila area on the Mandi-Fatehpur road Thursday night, they said. One person, identified as Makho Singh, died on the spot and two others - Anjum and Deepak - were injured and admitted to a hospital by Army personnel, the officials said, adding that Anjum later succumbed and Deepak was shifted to the Government Medical College and hospital. A four-year-old boy, who was accompanying his parents, was buried alive under a landslide in Saar village of Reasi district and his body was later recovered, they said.

Three killed, one injured in landslides in J&K's Poonch, Reasi

The new is always an attraction to an old distraction and designing this as an effective marketing strategy are manufacturing giants.&nbsp;

This schematic focus has changed consumption and disposal patterns, especially in the electrical and electronics sector. But are these electronic giants, many of them multinationals, doing their bit to manage the end of use electronics?&nbsp;

Eight years after the first e-waste rules were notified in India in 2011, the producers are still shying away from fulfilling their responsibility under EPR, says the latest Toxics Link study Time to Reboot-III.&nbsp;

<img alt="E-waste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b08175-2a89-498b-ba96-cbe0045d460d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Toxic%20links%202.png" />

The report has assessed and rated 54 major Electrical and Electronics brands on the implementation of Extended Producer responsibility and did not find substantive change on the ground.&nbsp;

The report which has grouped the companies in four categories, based on their initiatives and systems, found that only seven out of 54 companies are in ‘green’ and have initiated measures for implementing efficient take back systems.&nbsp;

13 brands have been assessed as average while 29 brands have performed below average, clearly suggesting that most companies are probably making attempts to be seen as complying but not making any serious efforts to ensure that e-waste is collected and channelised in a sound way.

The most shocking part is that five brands are still in the ‘red’ category, implying that these companies have performed very poorly on their EPR compliance. &nbsp;

Most in ‘red’ is from the lighting industry.&nbsp;

<img alt="E-waste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14e73226-981f-4472-b1f2-3fe76217da98" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Toxic%20links%201_2.png" />

Satish Sinha, Associate Director, Toxics Link, who has actively worked on e-waste policies for over a decade, reminisced saying, “when we released our first publication in this series, Time to Reboot in 2014, which tested &nbsp;performances of top 50 electronic and electrical brands; we were shocked to find that 17 out of 50 were in the ‘red’ category. It has improved since then but not enough”.&nbsp;

For the study, the companies were rated based on several criteria such as take back policy, &nbsp;E-waste collection target achieved and consumer awareness.&nbsp;

<img alt="E-Waste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a88d7428-5ece-4404-af84-5ca3e8babdcc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Toxics%20Link%206.png" />

The study also looked at on ground collection system and information provided by the company representatives on the company’s take back policy.

Since the new rules in 2016, even though the amount of efforts has improved, but the ground realities haven’t changed much.&nbsp;

“We are really disappointed to see that the companies are still reluctant to set up effective take-back systems. Helplines with no information and so many non-functional collection centres are clear indications that companies are not making any serious effort, says Priti Mahesh, Chief Coordinator, Toxics Link who has worked closely on the entire study to demystifying the truth behind the inefficacy of systems.&nbsp;

She adds, ‘there is no easy accessibility of information/services for a consumer with regards to the take-back system and hence not surprising that most consumers are unaware and not participating”,&nbsp;

The report is indicative of the fact that though there are experiences of implementation of EPR globally, including setting up of effective systems and reaching out to consumers, the challenge continues to be lack of committed efforts from the complete sector in India.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The new is always an attraction to an old distraction and designing this as an effective marketing strategy are manufacturing giants. This schematic focus has changed consumption and disposal patterns, especially in the electrical and electronics sector.

The new is always an attraction to an old distraction and designing this as an effective marketing strategy are manufacturing giants. This schematic focus has changed consumption and disposal patterns, especially in the electrical and electronics sector. But are these electronic giants, many of them multinationals, doing their bit to manage the end of use electronics? Eight years after the first e-waste rules were notified in India in 2011, the producers are still shying away from fulfilling their responsibility under EPR, says the latest Toxics Link study Time to Reboot-III. The report has assessed and rated 54 major Electrical and Electronics brands on the implementation of Extended Producer responsibility and did not find substantive change on the ground. The report which has grouped the companies in four categories, based on their initiatives and systems, found that only seven out of 54 companies are in ‘green’ and have initiated measures for implementing efficient take back systems. 13 brands have been assessed as average while 29 brands have performed below average, clearly suggesting that most companies are probably making attempts to be seen as complying but not making any serious efforts to ensure that e-waste is collected and channelised in a sound way. The most shocking part is that five brands are still in the ‘red’ category, implying that these companies have performed very poorly on their EPR compliance. Most in ‘red’ is from the lighting industry. Satish Sinha, Associate Director, Toxics Link, who has actively worked on e-waste policies for over a decade, reminisced saying, “when we released our first publication in this series, Time to Reboot in 2014, which tested performances of top 50 electronic and electrical brands; we were shocked to find that 17 out of 50 were in the ‘red’ category. It has improved since then but not enough”. For the study, the companies were rated based on several criteria such as take back policy, E-waste collection target achieved and consumer awareness. The study also looked at on ground collection system and information provided by the company representatives on the company’s take back policy. Since the new rules in 2016, even though the amount of efforts has improved, but the ground realities haven’t changed much. “We are really disappointed to see that the companies are still reluctant to set up effective take-back systems. Helplines with no information and so many non-functional collection centres are clear indications that companies are not making any serious effort, says Priti Mahesh, Chief Coordinator, Toxics Link who has worked closely on the entire study to demystifying the truth behind the inefficacy of systems. She adds, ‘there is no easy accessibility of information/services for a consumer with regards to the take-back system and hence not surprising that most consumers are unaware and not participating”, The report is indicative of the fact that though there are experiences of implementation of EPR globally, including setting up of effective systems and reaching out to consumers, the challenge continues to be lack of committed efforts from the complete sector in India.

Disoriented take back policy by electronic giants leads to swelling e-waste: Study 

One terrorist was shot dead in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in Warpora area of Sopore in Baramulla district on Friday morning.&nbsp;

Reports say that gunfight&nbsp;is still on. While one terrorist was killed, confirmation regarding the second terrorist is awaited.&nbsp;

Drones were used to locate terrorists, reports said.

The encounter began after security forces began combing operations in the area following a tip-off regarding the presence of militants.

Earlier on Monday, security forces had gunned down the mastermind of the Pulwama terror attack along with two other terrorists of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in a fierce encounter in which a Major and four other security personnel were also killed.&nbsp;

One terrorist was shot dead in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in Warpora area of Sopore in Baramulla district on Friday morning. Reports say that gunfight is still on.

One terrorist was shot dead in the ongoing encounter between terrorists and security forces in Warpora area of Sopore in Baramulla district on Friday morning. Reports say that gunfight is still on. While one terrorist was killed, confirmation regarding the second terrorist is awaited. Drones were used to locate terrorists, reports said. The encounter began after security forces began combing operations in the area following a tip-off regarding the presence of militants. Earlier on Monday, security forces had gunned down the mastermind of the Pulwama terror attack along with two other terrorists of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) in a fierce encounter in which a Major and four other security personnel were also killed.

J&K: One terrorist killed in ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists

Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one.&nbsp;

Government sources told WION that Pak Indus Water Commissioner has reacted over the report of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-has-decided-to-stop-share-of-water-which-flowed-to-pak-will-divert-water-from-eastern-rivers-and-supply-in-jk-punjab-gadkari-198788">India cutting water supply to Pakistan from its eastern rivers</a>.&nbsp;

Pakistan maintained that according to the Indus Water Treaty, India cannot stop the water flow to Pakistan from the rivers, the amount of which belongs to Pakistan under the treaty, sources informed WION.

"On the western rivers, India cannot intervene under any circumstances. India cannot unilaterally end the Indus Water Treaty,"&nbsp;sources told WION citing Pak Indus Water Commissioner.&nbsp;

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The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&amp;K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567046848221186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to government sources, Pakistan is likely to take up the matter formally with the World Bank, seeking its intervention.&nbsp;

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday announced that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan.

"Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said.

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All the above Projects are declared as the National projects.
— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitin_gadkari/status/1098567049423568896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama terrorist attack which occurred last week even as the Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it.

A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this."

India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue.

In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides.&nbsp;

The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir.

Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one. Government sources told WION that Pak Indus Water Commissioner has reacted over the report of India cutting water supply to Pakistan from its eastern rivers.

Shortly after India decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan, the neighbouring South Asian nation reacted calling New Delhi's move a political one. Government sources told WION that Pak Indus Water Commissioner has reacted over the report of India cutting water supply to Pakistan from its eastern rivers. Pakistan maintained that according to the Indus Water Treaty, India cannot stop the water flow to Pakistan from the rivers, the amount of which belongs to Pakistan under the treaty, sources informed WION. "On the western rivers, India cannot intervene under any circumstances. India cannot unilaterally end the Indus Water Treaty," sources told WION citing Pak Indus Water Commissioner. The construction of dam has started at Shahpur- Kandi on Ravi river. Moreover, UJH project will store our share of water for use in J&K and the balance water will flow from 2nd Ravi-BEAS Link to provide water to other basin states. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × According to government sources, Pakistan is likely to take up the matter formally with the World Bank, seeking its intervention. Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday announced that the central government had decided to stop sharing water with Pakistan. "Our government has decided to stop our share of water which used to flow to Pakistan. We will divert water from eastern rivers and supply it to our people in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab," Gadkari said. All the above Projects are declared as the National projects. — Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 21, 2019 × India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama terrorist attack which occurred last week even as the Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM) took responsibility for it. A water ministry official told WION, "This is not a new decision. Mantriji is simply reiterating what he has always said. He is talking about diverting India's share of Indus water which was going to Pakistan - and he has always been saying this." India and Pakistan have been trying to arrive at a consensus over the Indus water dispute. Last month, committees from both nations had met to evolve a compromise over the contentious water issue. In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides. The three projects include the Shahpur Kandi dam project, a second Sutlej-Beas link in Punjab and the Ujh Dam project in Jammu and Kashmir. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, waters flowing in three of Indus tributaries - the Sutlej, Beas and Ravi - have been allotted to India; while the Chenab, Jhelum and Indus waters have been allotted to Pakistan.

India can't unilaterally end Indus Water Treaty: Islamabad on New Delhi's move to stop sharing water flow to Pakistan

&nbsp;The Telangana government Friday proposed to waive all agriculture term loans up to Rs 1 lakh outstanding as on December 11, 2018.

"Towards this, an amount of Rs 6,000 crore is proposed," Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, who also holds the finance portfolio, said while presenting the vote-on-account budget for 2019-20 in the legislative assembly.

He noted that his party, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), had promised the loan waiver before the December 7, 2018 assembly elections.

The budget reflected the major electoral promises made by TRS, with thrust on welfare schemes.

Under the investment support scheme 'Rythu Bandhu', the government is currently extending support of Rs 4,000 per acre per crop season amounting to Rs 8,000 per annum.

"I propose to increase this support to Rs 5,000 per acre per crop. The total support in a year will be Rs 10,000 per acre," Rao said.

To redeem another election promise, the government proposed to introduce unemployment allowance of Rs 3,016 per month to the eligible.

"The details of the scheme are being worked out," he added.

The 'Aasara' pensions, covering the aged, widows, single women, beedi workers, people suffering from filariasis, handloom workers and toddy-tappers, are proposed to be increased from Rs 1,000 per month to Rs 2,016.

"For differently-abled persons, I propose to increase their monthly pension from Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,016," the Chief Minister said.&nbsp;

The Telangana government Friday proposed to waive all agriculture term loans up to Rs 1 lakh outstanding as on December 11, 2018. "Towards this, an amount of Rs 6,000 crore is proposed," Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, who also holds the finance portfolio, said while presenting the vote-on-account budget for 2019-20 in the legislative assembly.

The Telangana government Friday proposed to waive all agriculture term loans up to Rs 1 lakh outstanding as on December 11, 2018. "Towards this, an amount of Rs 6,000 crore is proposed," Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao, who also holds the finance portfolio, said while presenting the vote-on-account budget for 2019-20 in the legislative assembly. He noted that his party, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), had promised the loan waiver before the December 7, 2018 assembly elections. The budget reflected the major electoral promises made by TRS, with thrust on welfare schemes. Under the investment support scheme 'Rythu Bandhu', the government is currently extending support of Rs 4,000 per acre per crop season amounting to Rs 8,000 per annum. "I propose to increase this support to Rs 5,000 per acre per crop. The total support in a year will be Rs 10,000 per acre," Rao said. To redeem another election promise, the government proposed to introduce unemployment allowance of Rs 3,016 per month to the eligible. "The details of the scheme are being worked out," he added. The 'Aasara' pensions, covering the aged, widows, single women, beedi workers, people suffering from filariasis, handloom workers and toddy-tappers, are proposed to be increased from Rs 1,000 per month to Rs 2,016. "For differently-abled persons, I propose to increase their monthly pension from Rs 1,500 to Rs 3,016," the Chief Minister said.

Telangana government proposes to waive farm loans up to Rs 1 lakh

The Supreme Court Friday directed chief secretaries and DGPs of 11 states to take "prompt" and necessary action to prevent incidents of threat, assault and social boycott of Kashmiris in the aftermath of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/members-of-council-condemn-heinous-and-cowardly-suicide-bombing-unsc-on-pulwama-terror-attack-198830">Pulwama terror attack</a>.&nbsp;

A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi also directed that police officers, who were earlier appointed as nodal officers to deal with incidents of mob lynching, would be now responsible to deal with cases of alleged assault on Kashmiris.

The bench asked the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to give wide publicity to nodal officers so that they can be approached by those facing such incidents.&nbsp;

"The chief secretaries, the DGPs and the Delhi Police Commissioner are directed to take prompt and necessary action to prevent incidents of threat, assault, social boycott etc. Against Kashmiris and other minorities," the bench also comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna said.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court Friday directed chief secretaries and DGPs of 11 states to take "prompt" and necessary action to prevent incidents of threat, assault and social boycott of Kashmiris in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack.

The Supreme Court Friday directed chief secretaries and DGPs of 11 states to take "prompt" and necessary action to prevent incidents of threat, assault and social boycott of Kashmiris in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi also directed that police officers, who were earlier appointed as nodal officers to deal with incidents of mob lynching, would be now responsible to deal with cases of alleged assault on Kashmiris. The bench asked the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to give wide publicity to nodal officers so that they can be approached by those facing such incidents. "The chief secretaries, the DGPs and the Delhi Police Commissioner are directed to take prompt and necessary action to prevent incidents of threat, assault, social boycott etc. Against Kashmiris and other minorities," the bench also comprising Justice Sanjiv Khanna said.

Supreme Court directs authorities of 11 states to take action against assault on Kashmiris post Pulwama

An Indian parliamentary panel has summoned representatives of Facebook Inc, its messaging services WhatsApp and photo-sharing app Instagram to appear before it early next month and discuss how to safeguard citizens' rights on social media.

Social media in the world's largest democracy have become a hotbed for circulation of fake political news and tech firms face intense scrutiny ahead of a general election due before May, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will seek a second term.

In a circular late on Thursday, the parliamentary committee on information technology, chaired by Anurag Thakur, said it would hear the views of officials from Facebook and its units on March 6.

The subject would be "safeguarding citizens' rights on social or online news media platforms," it added.

It was not immediately clear whether the panel had asked Indian or global executives of the three firms to appear.

Facebook declined to comment, while WhatsApp and Instagram did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The panel has previously summoned social network Twitter Inc's Chief Executive Jack Dorsey to appear on Monday to discuss the same topic.

"These are issues for all Internet services globally," Twitter said on Friday, adding that Colin Crowell, its global vice president of public policy, is to meet the panel on Monday.

Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter have overhauled policies to boost transparency ahead of the general election and rein in misinformation.

Alphabet Inc's Google this week launched a programme to train journalists in areas such as online verification and fact checking before the polls. 
&nbsp;

An Indian parliamentary panel has summoned representatives of Facebook Inc, its messaging services WhatsApp and photo-sharing app Instagram to appear before it early next month and discuss how to safeguard citizens' rights on social media.

An Indian parliamentary panel has summoned representatives of Facebook Inc, its messaging services WhatsApp and photo-sharing app Instagram to appear before it early next month and discuss how to safeguard citizens' rights on social media. Social media in the world's largest democracy have become a hotbed for circulation of fake political news and tech firms face intense scrutiny ahead of a general election due before May, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will seek a second term. In a circular late on Thursday, the parliamentary committee on information technology, chaired by Anurag Thakur, said it would hear the views of officials from Facebook and its units on March 6. The subject would be "safeguarding citizens' rights on social or online news media platforms," it added. It was not immediately clear whether the panel had asked Indian or global executives of the three firms to appear. Facebook declined to comment, while WhatsApp and Instagram did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The panel has previously summoned social network Twitter Inc's Chief Executive Jack Dorsey to appear on Monday to discuss the same topic. "These are issues for all Internet services globally," Twitter said on Friday, adding that Colin Crowell, its global vice president of public policy, is to meet the panel on Monday. Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter have overhauled policies to boost transparency ahead of the general election and rein in misinformation. Alphabet Inc's Google this week launched a programme to train journalists in areas such as online verification and fact checking before the polls.

Indian lawmakers summon Facebook officials over citizens' rights protection

Five Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy Friday for allegedly fishing in the island nation's waters, a Fisheries department official said here.

The fishermen from Mandapam in Ramanathapuram district were fishing near Kathchatheevu when the Lankan Naval personnel detained them, Assistant Director of Fisheries, Rameswaram, Yuvaraj said.

They were taken to Thalaimannar along with their boat, he added.

As many as 13 fishermen from the state have been arrested in the past two days in separate incidents, for allegedly fishing in Sri Lanka's territorial waters. 
&nbsp;

Five Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy Friday for allegedly fishing in the island nation's waters, a Fisheries department official said here.

Five Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy Friday for allegedly fishing in the island nation's waters, a Fisheries department official said here. The fishermen from Mandapam in Ramanathapuram district were fishing near Kathchatheevu when the Lankan Naval personnel detained them, Assistant Director of Fisheries, Rameswaram, Yuvaraj said. They were taken to Thalaimannar along with their boat, he added. As many as 13 fishermen from the state have been arrested in the past two days in separate incidents, for allegedly fishing in Sri Lanka's territorial waters.

Five Tamil Nadu fishermen arrested by Sri Lankan Navy

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists from Uttar Pradesh on Friday.

The arrest was made after the ATS wing received inputs about two suspicious men.

Director General of Police O P Singh said that the arrests were made from Deoband in Saharanpur district and the two men were identified as Shahnawaz Ahmad Teli from Kulgam and Aquib Ahmad Malik from Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The DGP also said that both the men were involved in recruiting members for the JeM.

Out of the two arrestees, one is said to be a grenade expert, the DGP added.

"Of the two Shahnawaz is said to be a grenade expert. We will seek transit remand and investigate when they came here from Kashmir and who is funding them and what was their target. We are in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Police, " the DGP said. 
 
Asked whether the two men were involved in the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, Singh said, "It's difficult to tell whether they came here before the Pulwama attack or after that. The probe is on."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists from Uttar Pradesh on Friday. The arrest was made after the ATS wing received inputs about two suspicious men.

The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested two alleged Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists from Uttar Pradesh on Friday. The arrest was made after the ATS wing received inputs about two suspicious men. Director General of Police O P Singh said that the arrests were made from Deoband in Saharanpur district and the two men were identified as Shahnawaz Ahmad Teli from Kulgam and Aquib Ahmad Malik from Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir. The DGP also said that both the men were involved in recruiting members for the JeM. Out of the two arrestees, one is said to be a grenade expert, the DGP added. "Of the two Shahnawaz is said to be a grenade expert. We will seek transit remand and investigate when they came here from Kashmir and who is funding them and what was their target. We are in touch with Jammu and Kashmir Police, " the DGP said. Asked whether the two men were involved in the February 14 Pulwama terror attack, Singh said, "It's difficult to tell whether they came here before the Pulwama attack or after that. The probe is on." (With inputs from agencies)

Uttar Pradesh: Anti-Terrorist Squad arrests two alleged JeM terrorists from Saharanpur

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