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A bipartisan group of eminent lawmakers led by Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi on Wednesday sought details of the sting operation carried out by the US Department of Homeland Security resulting in the detention of at least 129 students from India.

In multiple raids last month, federal authorities arrested 130 students, including 129 Indians, enrolled as students in an alleged fraudulent university in Metro Detroit area and working across the country.&nbsp;

In a letter, the lawmakers urge the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ensure students detained following the recent ICE sting in Michigan were treated properly and are afforded all rights provided to them under law, including access to an attorney and release on bond for those eligible.

Written by Congressmen Thomas Souzzi, Rob Woodall and Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence, in addition to Krishnamoorthi, the letter also asks DHS and ICE to share full details and regular updates regarding the Indian students with the Embassy and Consulates of India, and to facilitate consular access for the detainees.

The lawmakers expressed "concerns surrounding the recent undercover operation" conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, in which HSI special agents operated a fake university -- University of Farmington -- designed to target recruiters and foreign students believed to be engaged in immigration fraud.

According to ICE, the investigation began in 2015, and HSI agents have been operating the fake school since 2017. As per the indictment unsealed last week, eight individuals served as recruiters for the school, enrolling hundreds of foreign nationals as students at the university.&nbsp;

These eight recruiters have been indicted for conspiracy to commit visa fraud and harboring aliens for profit by the US Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan.

"The Indian-American community and Indian Consulate have expressed concerns regarding the treatment of these detained foreign nationals," the lawmakers said.

"We urge DHS and ICE to ensure the detained students are treated properly and afforded all rights provided to them under the law, including access to an attorney and release on bond, if they are eligible," the letter said.&nbsp;

"We further urge DHS and ICE to share full details and regular updates regarding the Indian students with the Embassy and Consulates of India, and to facilitate consular access for the detainees,? the lawmakers said in the letter.

Noting that India is an important strategic partner and friend to the US, the lawmakers said in 2017, Indian students comprised 17.3 per cent of all international students in the country, numbering over 186,000.&nbsp;

As such, these students are a vital pillar of the people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, and they come to the US on grounds of merit, they asserted.

"In the spirit of continuing cooperation on educational exchange programs, which benefit both countries economically and culturally, we ask that you ensure the students involved in this case are treated fairly, humanely, and in accordance with due process,? the Congressmen said.&nbsp;

A bipartisan group of eminent lawmakers led by Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi on Wednesday sought details of the sting operation carried out by the US Department of Homeland Security resulting in the detention of at least 129 students from India.

A bipartisan group of eminent lawmakers led by Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi on Wednesday sought details of the sting operation carried out by the US Department of Homeland Security resulting in the detention of at least 129 students from India. In multiple raids last month, federal authorities arrested 130 students, including 129 Indians, enrolled as students in an alleged fraudulent university in Metro Detroit area and working across the country. In a letter, the lawmakers urge the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ensure students detained following the recent ICE sting in Michigan were treated properly and are afforded all rights provided to them under law, including access to an attorney and release on bond for those eligible. Written by Congressmen Thomas Souzzi, Rob Woodall and Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence, in addition to Krishnamoorthi, the letter also asks DHS and ICE to share full details and regular updates regarding the Indian students with the Embassy and Consulates of India, and to facilitate consular access for the detainees. The lawmakers expressed "concerns surrounding the recent undercover operation" conducted by Homeland Security Investigations, in which HSI special agents operated a fake university -- University of Farmington -- designed to target recruiters and foreign students believed to be engaged in immigration fraud. According to ICE, the investigation began in 2015, and HSI agents have been operating the fake school since 2017. As per the indictment unsealed last week, eight individuals served as recruiters for the school, enrolling hundreds of foreign nationals as students at the university. These eight recruiters have been indicted for conspiracy to commit visa fraud and harboring aliens for profit by the US Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan. "The Indian-American community and Indian Consulate have expressed concerns regarding the treatment of these detained foreign nationals," the lawmakers said. "We urge DHS and ICE to ensure the detained students are treated properly and afforded all rights provided to them under the law, including access to an attorney and release on bond, if they are eligible," the letter said. "We further urge DHS and ICE to share full details and regular updates regarding the Indian students with the Embassy and Consulates of India, and to facilitate consular access for the detainees,? the lawmakers said in the letter. Noting that India is an important strategic partner and friend to the US, the lawmakers said in 2017, Indian students comprised 17.3 per cent of all international students in the country, numbering over 186,000. As such, these students are a vital pillar of the people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, and they come to the US on grounds of merit, they asserted. "In the spirit of continuing cooperation on educational exchange programs, which benefit both countries economically and culturally, we ask that you ensure the students involved in this case are treated fairly, humanely, and in accordance with due process,? the Congressmen said.

US lawmakers seek full details of sting operation of fake university 

The US State Department has approved sale of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-to-buy-israels-iron-dome-missile-defence-system-195689">two Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures</a> (LAIRCM) Self Protection Suites (SPS) for Boeing aircraft to be used in India at an estimated cost of $190 million.&nbsp;

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has been asked by the State Department to issue the required certificate notifying the US Congress about the sale. Once the US Senate approves the deal, the deal will enter into the negotiation stage and then the sale will be concluded. The prime contractor will be Boeing Company, Oklahoma City, US.

The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said, "The government of India has requested to buy two Self-Protection Suites (SPS) consisting of AN/AAQ 24(V)N Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM), ALQ-211(V)8 Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suite (AIDEWS), and AN/ALE-47 Counter-Measures Dispensing System (CMDS) to protect two (2) Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft."

While approving the deal, Pentagon's DSCA said that the "proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship" and to "improve the security of a major defensive partner which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia region."

The department added,"the proposed sale will improve<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/chinas-missile-defense-system-for-pakistan-aimed-at-indias-brahmos-missile-37014"> India's capability to deter regional threats</a>" with the SPS facilitating "a more robust capability into areas of increased missile threats."

The sale will include - 12 Guardian Laser Transmitter Assemblies (6 installed and 6 spares), 8 LAIRCM System Processor Replacements (2 installed and 6 spares, 23 Missile Warning Sensors (12 installed and 11 spares) and five Counter-Measures Dispensing System (2 installed and 3 spares).

The department also assured that the sale will not "alter the basic military balance in the region".

The&nbsp;US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. Washington has already recognised India as a "major defence partner", a status that which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India.

Pentagon's Missile defence review (MDR) 2019 had mentioned that the United States has been discussing "potential missile defence cooperation" with India.

In 2018, US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases defence procurement from US. Last year both New Delhi and Washington signed COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement).

The COMCASA deal happened despite fears that the US might slow defence engagement with New Delhi after the India-Russia S400 air defence system deal in October last year.

The US State Department has approved sale of two Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) Self Protection Suites (SPS) for Boeing aircraft to be used in India at an estimated cost of $190 million.

The US State Department has approved sale of two Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) Self Protection Suites (SPS) for Boeing aircraft to be used in India at an estimated cost of $190 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has been asked by the State Department to issue the required certificate notifying the US Congress about the sale. Once the US Senate approves the deal, the deal will enter into the negotiation stage and then the sale will be concluded. The prime contractor will be Boeing Company, Oklahoma City, US. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said, "The government of India has requested to buy two Self-Protection Suites (SPS) consisting of AN/AAQ 24(V)N Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM), ALQ-211(V)8 Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suite (AIDEWS), and AN/ALE-47 Counter-Measures Dispensing System (CMDS) to protect two (2) Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft." While approving the deal, Pentagon's DSCA said that the "proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship" and to "improve the security of a major defensive partner which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia region." The department added,"the proposed sale will improve India's capability to deter regional threats" with the SPS facilitating "a more robust capability into areas of increased missile threats." The sale will include - 12 Guardian Laser Transmitter Assemblies (6 installed and 6 spares), 8 LAIRCM System Processor Replacements (2 installed and 6 spares, 23 Missile Warning Sensors (12 installed and 11 spares) and five Counter-Measures Dispensing System (2 installed and 3 spares). The department also assured that the sale will not "alter the basic military balance in the region". The US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. Washington has already recognised India as a "major defence partner", a status that which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India. Pentagon's Missile defence review (MDR) 2019 had mentioned that the United States has been discussing "potential missile defence cooperation" with India. In 2018, US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases defence procurement from US. Last year both New Delhi and Washington signed COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement). The COMCASA deal happened despite fears that the US might slow defence engagement with New Delhi after the India-Russia S400 air defence system deal in October last year.

US State Department approves aircraft defence deal to 'improve India's capability to deter regional threats'

'Our 55-month old government is dedicated to the country': PM Modi in Lok Sabha

In a positive development, India and Pakistan both cleared each other's pending diplomatic and official visas on Thursday. Both the countries also agreed on visas of air advisors which had become a thorny issue. The issue of visas for air advisors was agreed after intervention at the High Commissioner level.&nbsp;

Senior officials while confirming the development to WION said, "Fruit of intense diplomacy through High Commission. Diplomats should continue labouring to promote understanding, even when relations are strained"

Visa exchange is a routine issue but given the nature of India, Pakistan ties and current developments such as Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi calling separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq which led to the summoning of Pakistan High Commissioner by India, the development shows a working relationship, at least, at a diplomatic level between the two countries.

This is also significant given the fact that tension between the two countries was high after Pakistani Foreign Minster participated in a number of anti-India events including "Kashmir solidarity day" in London.&nbsp;

The month of January saw Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria meeting Pakistan Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood called on Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale.

Both countries are now working on India Pakistan officials meet to decide on the modalities for the Kartarpur corridor. The first of such meet will take place on March 13 in India.

The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992 among other protocols.&nbsp;

The code of conduct calls for "smooth and unhindered" functioning of diplomatic and consular officials in conformity with "recognised norms of international law and practice."

In a positive development, India and Pakistan both cleared each other's pending diplomatic and official visas on Thursday. Both the countries also agreed on visas of air advisors which had become a thorny issue.

In a positive development, India and Pakistan both cleared each other's pending diplomatic and official visas on Thursday. Both the countries also agreed on visas of air advisors which had become a thorny issue. The issue of visas for air advisors was agreed after intervention at the High Commissioner level. Senior officials while confirming the development to WION said, "Fruit of intense diplomacy through High Commission. Diplomats should continue labouring to promote understanding, even when relations are strained" Visa exchange is a routine issue but given the nature of India, Pakistan ties and current developments such as Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi calling separatist leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq which led to the summoning of Pakistan High Commissioner by India, the development shows a working relationship, at least, at a diplomatic level between the two countries. This is also significant given the fact that tension between the two countries was high after Pakistani Foreign Minster participated in a number of anti-India events including "Kashmir solidarity day" in London. The month of January saw Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria meeting Pakistan Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and Pakistani High Commissioner Sohail Mahmood called on Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. Both countries are now working on India Pakistan officials meet to decide on the modalities for the Kartarpur corridor. The first of such meet will take place on March 13 in India. The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992 among other protocols. The code of conduct calls for "smooth and unhindered" functioning of diplomatic and consular officials in conformity with "recognised norms of international law and practice."

India, Pakistan approve long pending diplomatic visas

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<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-nominates-us-treasury-official-david-malpass-for-world-bank-president-195676">Trump nominates US treasury official David Malpass for World Bank president</a>

US President Donald Trump has nominated a senior Treasury official David Malpass as the next president of the World Bank

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-announce-next-week-that-we-have-100-of-islamic-state-just-remnants-remain-trump-195677">Will announce next week that we have 100% of Islamic State, just remnants remain: Trump</a>

The United States promised on Wednesday to stay focused on permanently destroying the Islamic State group but asked concerned allies to contribute more

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2018-was-fourth-warmest-year-since-1880-nasa-195681">2018 was </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2018-was-fourth-warmest-year-since-1880-nasa-195681">fourth</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/2018-was-fourth-warmest-year-since-1880-nasa-195681"> warmest year since 1880: NASA</a>

The past five years were the warmest ever on record, a NASA official said on Wednesday in New York

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vajpayees-portrait-to-be-installed-in-central-hall-of-parliament-on-february-12-195682">Vajpayee's portrait to be installed in Central Hall of Parliament on February 12</a>

A life-size portrait of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be installed in the Central Hall of Parliament on February 12, reports said

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/malcom-rescues-draw-for-barcelona-in-cup-semi-against-real-madrid-195680">Malcom</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/malcom-rescues-draw-for-barcelona-in-cup-semi-against-real-madrid-195680"> rescues draw for Barcelona in cup semi against Real Madrid&nbsp;</a>

Winger Malcom's second half strike secured Barcelona a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid to leave the Copa del Rey semi-final evenly poised on Wednesday after the first leg.

Trump nominates US treasury official David Malpass for World Bank president US President Donald Trump has nominated a senior Treasury official David Malpass as the next president of the World Bank Will announce next week that we have 100% of Islamic State, just remnants remain: Trump The United States promised on Wednesday to stay focused on permanently destroying the Islamic State group but asked concerned allies to contribute more 2018 was fourth warmest year since 1880: NASA The past five years were the warmest ever on record, a NASA official said on Wednesday in New York Vajpayee's portrait to be installed in Central Hall of Parliament on February 12 A life-size portrait of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be installed in the Central Hall of Parliament on February 12, reports said Malcom rescues draw for Barcelona in cup semi against Real Madrid Winger Malcom's second half strike secured Barcelona a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid to leave the Copa del Rey semi-final evenly poised on Wednesday after the first leg.

News Brief: Big stories of the day

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An Asian elephant believed to be the oldest ever in captivity has died aged 88 in the southern Indian state of Kerala, officials said Thursday.

Awarded the title of "Gaja Muthassi" (elephant granny), Dakshayani took part in temple rituals and processions for decades, but breathed her last on Tuesday after becoming reluctant to eat, her veterinary surgeon said.

"At 3 pm, a sudden shiver passed through her large frame beginning from the head region. After a few minutes, she bent her forelimbs and lay down. And that was it," T&nbsp;Rajeev told AFP.

The Travancore Devaswom Board, which owned Dakshayani, gave her age as 88.

The oldest elephant in captivity recognised by Guinness World Records was aged 86 — Lin Wang, another Asian elephant which died in 2003 in a Taiwan zoo. Captive elephants have a life expectancy of 40-plus years.

Pineapples and carrots had been introduced to Dakshayani's diet in recent years to improve her metabolism after she began to have difficulty moving around, probably due to reduced eyesight.

"For the past three years she did not take part in any temple programme or public function," Rajeev said.

"And a couple of months back, we had even moved her to a better tethering place at an elephant farm in Thiruvananthapuram."

Wildlife conservationists such as PS Easa have criticised the practice of keeping elephants in captivity, regardless of their conditions.

He said Thursday all such animals should be released to their natural habitat, adding that bestowing titles on elephants did nothing for their well-being.

"All they want, or for that matter, any animal would want, is to be in their natural habitat and have enough space to move around and sufficient food to eat," he said.&nbsp;

Wildlife experts say some 15,000 Asian elephants -- or nearly one in three -- live in captivity globally, often in dire conditions.&nbsp;

India has 2,454 elephants in captivity, a survey released last month said.&nbsp;

Former Travancore Board president Prayar Gopalakrishnan, under whose tenure Dakshayani was awarded the "Gaja Muthassi" honour, defended the decision to keep her in captivity.

"Due to various practical constraints, we could not let her loose, but instead ensured that she had more than enough space to move around," he told AFP.

An Asian elephant believed to be the oldest ever in captivity has died aged 88 in the southern Indian state of Kerala, officials said Thursday. Awarded the title of "Gaja Muthassi" (elephant granny), Dakshayani took part in temple rituals and processions for decades, but breathed her last on Tuesday after becoming reluctant to eat, her veterinary surgeon said.

An Asian elephant believed to be the oldest ever in captivity has died aged 88 in the southern Indian state of Kerala, officials said Thursday. Awarded the title of "Gaja Muthassi" (elephant granny), Dakshayani took part in temple rituals and processions for decades, but breathed her last on Tuesday after becoming reluctant to eat, her veterinary surgeon said. "At 3 pm, a sudden shiver passed through her large frame beginning from the head region. After a few minutes, she bent her forelimbs and lay down. And that was it," T Rajeev told AFP. The Travancore Devaswom Board, which owned Dakshayani, gave her age as 88. The oldest elephant in captivity recognised by Guinness World Records was aged 86 — Lin Wang, another Asian elephant which died in 2003 in a Taiwan zoo. Captive elephants have a life expectancy of 40-plus years. Pineapples and carrots had been introduced to Dakshayani's diet in recent years to improve her metabolism after she began to have difficulty moving around, probably due to reduced eyesight. "For the past three years she did not take part in any temple programme or public function," Rajeev said. "And a couple of months back, we had even moved her to a better tethering place at an elephant farm in Thiruvananthapuram." Wildlife conservationists such as PS Easa have criticised the practice of keeping elephants in captivity, regardless of their conditions. He said Thursday all such animals should be released to their natural habitat, adding that bestowing titles on elephants did nothing for their well-being. "All they want, or for that matter, any animal would want, is to be in their natural habitat and have enough space to move around and sufficient food to eat," he said. Wildlife experts say some 15,000 Asian elephants -- or nearly one in three -- live in captivity globally, often in dire conditions. India has 2,454 elephants in captivity, a survey released last month said. Former Travancore Board president Prayar Gopalakrishnan, under whose tenure Dakshayani was awarded the "Gaja Muthassi" honour, defended the decision to keep her in captivity. "Due to various practical constraints, we could not let her loose, but instead ensured that she had more than enough space to move around," he told AFP.

India's 'granny' elephant dies aged 88

Cochin University of Science and Technology which had earlier denied permission to its students for conducting 'Saraswati Puja' in the college premises has finally allowed the students for undertaking the puja in a "peaceful manner".

News agency ANI reported, "Vice Chancellor of CUSAT has allowed the students to conduct ‘Saraswati Puja’ in Cochin University College of Engineering, Kuttanad campus in "peaceful manner without affecting classes and on the date of 'Visarjan', no procession shall enter the campus."

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Vice Chancellor of CUSAT has allowed the students to conduct ‘Saraswati Pooja’ in Cochin University College of Engineering, Kuttanad campus in "peaceful manner without affecting classes and on the date of 'Visarjan', no procession shall enter the campus." <a href="https://t.co/oqoyT4372c">https://t.co/oqoyT4372c</a>
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The Vice-chancellor had earlier declined the request by North Indian students to conduct ‘Saraswati Puja’ in Cochin University College of Engineering, Kuttanad campus.

Citing the campus as "secular", the Joint Registrar, Cochin University of Science and Technology had said they can not permit functions of any particular religion in the university.

Meanwhile, the students had alleged that the restriction had come into place only this year and a similar puja was conducted in the campus in 2018.

(With inputs from ANI) 
&nbsp;

Cochin University of Science and Technology which had earlier denied permission to its students for conducting 'Saraswati Puja' in the college premises has finally allowed the students for undertaking the puja in a "peaceful manner".

Cochin University of Science and Technology which had earlier denied permission to its students for conducting 'Saraswati Puja' in the college premises has finally allowed the students for undertaking the puja in a "peaceful manner". News agency ANI reported, "Vice Chancellor of CUSAT has allowed the students to conduct ‘Saraswati Puja’ in Cochin University College of Engineering, Kuttanad campus in "peaceful manner without affecting classes and on the date of 'Visarjan', no procession shall enter the campus." Vice Chancellor of CUSAT has allowed the students to conduct ‘Saraswati Pooja’ in Cochin University College of Engineering, Kuttanad campus in "peaceful manner without affecting classes and on the date of 'Visarjan', no procession shall enter the campus." https://t.co/oqoyT4372c — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × The Vice-chancellor had earlier declined the request by North Indian students to conduct ‘Saraswati Puja’ in Cochin University College of Engineering, Kuttanad campus. Citing the campus as "secular", the Joint Registrar, Cochin University of Science and Technology had said they can not permit functions of any particular religion in the university. Meanwhile, the students had alleged that the restriction had come into place only this year and a similar puja was conducted in the campus in 2018. (With inputs from ANI)

Cochin University finally allows students to perform 'Saraswati Puja'

Four members of the US congress have written to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Ronald Vitiello uring the the departments to treat <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-gets-consular-access-to-117-detained-students-in-us-after-calling-for-their-dignified-treatment-195438">the 129 Indian students detained in the US</a> "properly" and to afford "all rights provided" to them under the law, including "access to an attorney and release on bond, if they are eligible".&nbsp;

The four members of congress are Thomas R Suozzi, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Brenda Lawrence and Rob Woodall.&nbsp;

The 129 students were detained by US immigration authorities for allegedly exploiting the US student visa system.&nbsp;

The Department of Homeland Security had set up a fake university in Michigan to nab eight recruiters involved in the visa fraud when the 129 Indian students were nabbed too.&nbsp;

The letter, a copy of which WION has, also urged DHS and ICE "to share full details and regular updates regarding the Indian students with the embassy and consulates of India" and "facilitate consular access for the detainees".

Emphasising that "India is an important strategic partner and friend to the United states", the letter said "these students are a vital pillar of the people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, and they come to the US on grounds of merit" and "in the spirit of continuing cooperation on educational exchange programs which benefit both countries economically and culturally" and that they should be treated "fairly, humanely and in accordance with due process".&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs had issued a demarche to the US embassy in New Delhi over the detention of the 129 Indian students and has been urging the US side to give "humane and dignified treatment" to the students including custom-sensitive "dietary and living arrangements" for the duration of their detention. A 24/7 helpline has also been established at the Indian mission in Washington DC for the assistance of the students.&nbsp;

The US authorities meanwhile plan to deport the Indian students and have placed them under "removal proceedings".&nbsp;

Indian students comprised 17.3% — a total of 186,000 — of all international students in the US in 2017.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Four members of the US congress have written to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Ronald Vitiello uring the the departments to treat the 129 Indian students detained in the US "properly" and to afford "all rights provided" to them under the law, including "access to an attorney and release on bond, if they are eligible".

Four members of the US congress have written to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Acting Director Ronald Vitiello uring the the departments to treat the 129 Indian students detained in the US "properly" and to afford "all rights provided" to them under the law, including "access to an attorney and release on bond, if they are eligible". The four members of congress are Thomas R Suozzi, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Brenda Lawrence and Rob Woodall. The 129 students were detained by US immigration authorities for allegedly exploiting the US student visa system. The Department of Homeland Security had set up a fake university in Michigan to nab eight recruiters involved in the visa fraud when the 129 Indian students were nabbed too. The letter, a copy of which WION has, also urged DHS and ICE "to share full details and regular updates regarding the Indian students with the embassy and consulates of India" and "facilitate consular access for the detainees". Emphasising that "India is an important strategic partner and friend to the United states", the letter said "these students are a vital pillar of the people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, and they come to the US on grounds of merit" and "in the spirit of continuing cooperation on educational exchange programs which benefit both countries economically and culturally" and that they should be treated "fairly, humanely and in accordance with due process". The Ministry of External Affairs had issued a demarche to the US embassy in New Delhi over the detention of the 129 Indian students and has been urging the US side to give "humane and dignified treatment" to the students including custom-sensitive "dietary and living arrangements" for the duration of their detention. A 24/7 helpline has also been established at the Indian mission in Washington DC for the assistance of the students. The US authorities meanwhile plan to deport the Indian students and have placed them under "removal proceedings". Indian students comprised 17.3% — a total of 186,000 — of all international students in the US in 2017.

Detained Indian students: US Congress members call for their humane treatment

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses Lok Sabha

A life-size portrait of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be installed in the Central Hall of Parliament on February 12, reports said.

President Ram Nath Kovind will unveil the portrait in the presence of Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi among others, the report added.

Renowned artist Krishn Kanhai of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh has prepared the portrait of Vajpayee, who served as Prime Minister three times between 1996 and 2004.

The decision in this regard was taken unanimously on December 18, last year at a meeting of the parliament`s portrait committee chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan.

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, Deputy Speaker and AIADMK leader M. Thambi Durai, BJD`s Bhratruhari Mahtab, TMC`s Sudip Bondopadhyay, TRS` Jithendra Reddy, Shiv Sena`s Ananth Geete and BJP`s Satyanarayan Jatia had attended the meeting.

A life-size portrait of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be installed in the Central Hall of Parliament on February 12, reports said. President Ram Nath Kovind will unveil the portrait in the presence of Vice President M.

A life-size portrait of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be installed in the Central Hall of Parliament on February 12, reports said. President Ram Nath Kovind will unveil the portrait in the presence of Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi among others, the report added. Renowned artist Krishn Kanhai of Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh has prepared the portrait of Vajpayee, who served as Prime Minister three times between 1996 and 2004. The decision in this regard was taken unanimously on December 18, last year at a meeting of the parliament`s portrait committee chaired by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, Deputy Speaker and AIADMK leader M. Thambi Durai, BJD`s Bhratruhari Mahtab, TMC`s Sudip Bondopadhyay, TRS` Jithendra Reddy, Shiv Sena`s Ananth Geete and BJP`s Satyanarayan Jatia had attended the meeting.

Vajpayee's portrait to be installed in Central Hall of Parliament on February 12

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-hating-modi-the-opposition-has-begun-to-hate-the-nation-pm-modi-195852">In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation: PM</a>

While addressing the Motion of Thanks speech in Parliament on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the developments done by his government during the last four years.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/may-back-in-brussels-for-latest-brexit-showdown-195815">Theresa May returns to Brussels trying desperately to avoid no-deal Brexit</a>

Britain's&nbsp;Prime Minister Theresa May&nbsp;returned to Brussels on Thursday for a showdown with EU leaders as she bids to avoid a calamitous no-deal Brexit in 50 days' time.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-played-with-order-of-supreme-court-god-help-you-chief-justice-of-india-to-cbi-195801">'You have played with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-played-with-order-of-supreme-court-god-help-you-chief-justice-of-india-to-cbi-195801">order</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/you-have-played-with-order-of-supreme-court-god-help-you-chief-justice-of-india-to-cbi-195801"> of Supreme Court... God help you': Chief Justice of India to CBI</a>

The Supreme Court slammed the Central Bureau of Investigation Thursday, telling it that "you have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-may-take-back-kolkata-police-chiefs-medals-mha-sources-195827">Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief's medals: Home ministry sources&nbsp;</a>

The Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar's medals, the news agency ANI quoted sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs as saying on Thursday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rbi-cuts-repo-rate-by-25-basis-points-to-625-per-cent-195725">RBI cuts key interest rates; projects GDP growth at 7.4%, limit of collateral-free agriculture loans increased</a>

The Reserve Bank of India(RBI) today cut the&nbsp;repo rate by 25 basis points&nbsp;to 6.25 per cent. Repo rate is the interest at which the banks borrow from the central bank whenever it experiences a funds shortfall.&nbsp;

In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation: PM While addressing the Motion of Thanks speech in Parliament on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the developments done by his government during the last four years.

In hating Modi, the Opposition has begun to hate the nation: PM While addressing the Motion of Thanks speech in Parliament on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the developments done by his government during the last four years. Theresa May returns to Brussels trying desperately to avoid no-deal Brexit Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May returned to Brussels on Thursday for a showdown with EU leaders as she bids to avoid a calamitous no-deal Brexit in 50 days' time. 'You have played with order of Supreme Court... God help you': Chief Justice of India to CBI The Supreme Court slammed the Central Bureau of Investigation Thursday, telling it that "you have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you." Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief's medals: Home ministry sources The Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar's medals, the news agency ANI quoted sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs as saying on Thursday. RBI cuts key interest rates; projects GDP growth at 7.4%, limit of collateral-free agriculture loans increased The Reserve Bank of India(RBI) today cut the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25 per cent. Repo rate is the interest at which the banks borrow from the central bank whenever it experiences a funds shortfall.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Breaking News: 129 Indian students detained in US

RBI cuts repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25%

Breaking News: Pro-Mamata officers face action

Keeping the heat on Congress party in relation to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/vadra-appears-before-ed-for-another-day-of-questioning-in-money-laundering-probe-195774">Robert Vadra's questioning</a> by Enforcement Directorate (ED), the BJP on Thursday listed nine emails that the party alleged were exchanged between Vadra and Sumit Chadha, a relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, regarding properties in London.&nbsp;

Alleging that the Gandhi family owns five properties in London, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said these emails were exchanged between March 8, 2010 and April 17, 2010.

"The first email has been sent by Sumit Chadha, who is relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. He has sent it to Robert Vadra only... What tiles should be used in kitchen? How would the bathroom look? All of it is in this email," Patra said.&nbsp;

The email also discussed issues related to painting at one property in London, Patra added.

Vadra, the husband of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, has denied allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed the charges a political witch hunt against him. He has said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

After the first day of his questioning by ED, his lawyer had said Wednesday night that Vadra had replied to every question put to him.

"All charges against him are wrong. We will cooperate with the agency 100 per cent. He will come whenever he is called," lawyer Suman Jyoti Khaitan had told reporters.&nbsp;

As Vadra's questioning continued for second day Thursday, Patra also talked about another email allegedly sent by Vadra on April 15, 2010, saying Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's husband wrote in that email, "Hi, was not aware that nothing has reached you. Will look into it at the morning and let Manoj sort it out. Will be in London soon too. You take care."

Patra claimed, "Vadra is explaining that he didn't know that the money has not reached Chadha so he would ask Manoj to immediately sort this out".

"Who is this Manoj? Yesterday, we saw in news that Vadra has accepted that Manoj is his employee and Manoj used to write emails for him. This establishes a complete trail between Mr B, Deltabhandari, Manoj and Robert Vadra," he claimed.

Patra alleged some mails were marked to an email ID deltabhandari@hotmail.Com, and said Congress president Rahul Gandhi needs to answer who were Mr M, Mr B and Deltabhandari.

The BJP spokesperson also listed five properties on London that he alleged were owned by the Gandhi family as per media reports.

"The address of five properties have come before us through media... One is on Wellington Road at St John's Wood in London. This property's cost is around Rs 37 crore. Second property has flat numbers 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28 and it is on Saratoga Road in London. It looks like there is a property of Gandhi family on each road of London," he alleged.

"You want a house at every place in London so that you can enjoy. You will come here to do photo-ops among the poor of this country. In this new India, every person, big or small, the law will work for everyone the same way," he said.

"Gandhi family will also have to bow down in front of law. The law won't bow to them... The accused have to come before the law and we are seeing that they are coming every day before ED now," he said.

"Rahul Gandhi has said today that if we come to power, we will pick each such RSS person (from the institution) and throw him out. You will throw each RSS or BJP person out, because you need place to keep Rohingyas or Bangladeshis... This is your motive," Patra alleged.

Keeping the heat on Congress party in relation to Robert Vadra's questioning by Enforcement Directorate (ED), the BJP on Thursday listed nine emails that the party alleged were exchanged between Vadra and Sumit Chadha, a relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, regarding properties in London.

Keeping the heat on Congress party in relation to Robert Vadra's questioning by Enforcement Directorate (ED), the BJP on Thursday listed nine emails that the party alleged were exchanged between Vadra and Sumit Chadha, a relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari, regarding properties in London. Alleging that the Gandhi family owns five properties in London, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said these emails were exchanged between March 8, 2010 and April 17, 2010. "The first email has been sent by Sumit Chadha, who is relative of arms dealer Sanjay Bhandari. He has sent it to Robert Vadra only... What tiles should be used in kitchen? How would the bathroom look? All of it is in this email," Patra said. The email also discussed issues related to painting at one property in London, Patra added. Vadra, the husband of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, has denied allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed the charges a political witch hunt against him. He has said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends. After the first day of his questioning by ED, his lawyer had said Wednesday night that Vadra had replied to every question put to him. "All charges against him are wrong. We will cooperate with the agency 100 per cent. He will come whenever he is called," lawyer Suman Jyoti Khaitan had told reporters. As Vadra's questioning continued for second day Thursday, Patra also talked about another email allegedly sent by Vadra on April 15, 2010, saying Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's husband wrote in that email, "Hi, was not aware that nothing has reached you. Will look into it at the morning and let Manoj sort it out. Will be in London soon too. You take care." Patra claimed, "Vadra is explaining that he didn't know that the money has not reached Chadha so he would ask Manoj to immediately sort this out". "Who is this Manoj? Yesterday, we saw in news that Vadra has accepted that Manoj is his employee and Manoj used to write emails for him. This establishes a complete trail between Mr B, Deltabhandari, Manoj and Robert Vadra," he claimed. Patra alleged some mails were marked to an email ID deltabhandari@hotmail.Com, and said Congress president Rahul Gandhi needs to answer who were Mr M, Mr B and Deltabhandari. The BJP spokesperson also listed five properties on London that he alleged were owned by the Gandhi family as per media reports. "The address of five properties have come before us through media... One is on Wellington Road at St John's Wood in London. This property's cost is around Rs 37 crore. Second property has flat numbers 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28 and it is on Saratoga Road in London. It looks like there is a property of Gandhi family on each road of London," he alleged. "You want a house at every place in London so that you can enjoy. You will come here to do photo-ops among the poor of this country. In this new India, every person, big or small, the law will work for everyone the same way," he said. "Gandhi family will also have to bow down in front of law. The law won't bow to them... The accused have to come before the law and we are seeing that they are coming every day before ED now," he said. "Rahul Gandhi has said today that if we come to power, we will pick each such RSS person (from the institution) and throw him out. You will throw each RSS or BJP person out, because you need place to keep Rohingyas or Bangladeshis... This is your motive," Patra alleged.

Robert Vadra questioning: BJP lists nine emails regarding London properties

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-tells-bengal-government-to-initiate-disciplinary-proceedings-against-kolkata-police-chief-195345">The Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar's medals</a>, the news agency ANI quoted sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs as saying on Thursday.&nbsp;

The current political crisis between the Centre and West Bengal started Sunday after the CBI turned up unannounced at Kumar's home, accusing him of slow-walking the investigations into the Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes.&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the CBI's turning up unannounced was a "destruction of the federal structure".

She then announced her "Save the Constitution" dharna.&nbsp;

Kumar had sat in on the dharna with Mamata, which is what the Centre is taking objection to.

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MHA Sources: Centre has taken a dim view of serving officers of uniformed forces taking part in dharna. MHA has asked the WB government to take action against the officers who had participated in dharna in Kolkata on 4th February as per All India Services (Conduct) Rules. <a href="https://t.co/t9oUaiwOH0">pic.twitter.com/t9oUaiwOH0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1093463910428987392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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MHA sources: In addition, a number of measures are also being initiated against defaulting officers such as withdrawing medals. Centre may also remove names of delinquent officers from the empanelled list &amp; bar them for a certain period from serving in the central government. <a href="https://t.co/ao65ga92T0">https://t.co/ao65ga92T0</a>
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The Centre says Kumar sitting in on the dharna was against the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, which govern the conduct of all central government officers.&nbsp;

The MHA sources said Thursday that similar action may be taken against four other officers who sat in on Mamata's dharna.&nbsp;

The sources added that "Centre may also remove names of delinquent officers from the empanelled list and bar them for a certain period from serving in the central government."&nbsp; &nbsp;

The MHA is the controlling authority of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers. It had already on February 5 asked the West Bengal government to take disciplinary action against Kumar. &nbsp;

The Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar's medals, the news agency ANI quoted sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs as saying on Thursday. The current political crisis between the Centre and West Bengal started Sunday after the CBI turned up unannounced at Kumar's home, accusing him of slow-walking the investigations into the Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes.

The Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief Rajeev Kumar's medals, the news agency ANI quoted sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs as saying on Thursday. The current political crisis between the Centre and West Bengal started Sunday after the CBI turned up unannounced at Kumar's home, accusing him of slow-walking the investigations into the Saradha and Rose Valley ponzi schemes. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said the CBI's turning up unannounced was a "destruction of the federal structure". She then announced her "Save the Constitution" dharna. Kumar had sat in on the dharna with Mamata, which is what the Centre is taking objection to. MHA Sources: Centre has taken a dim view of serving officers of uniformed forces taking part in dharna. MHA has asked the WB government to take action against the officers who had participated in dharna in Kolkata on 4th February as per All India Services (Conduct) Rules. pic.twitter.com/t9oUaiwOH0 — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × MHA sources: In addition, a number of measures are also being initiated against defaulting officers such as withdrawing medals. Centre may also remove names of delinquent officers from the empanelled list & bar them for a certain period from serving in the central government. https://t.co/ao65ga92T0 — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × The Centre says Kumar sitting in on the dharna was against the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, which govern the conduct of all central government officers. The MHA sources said Thursday that similar action may be taken against four other officers who sat in on Mamata's dharna. The sources added that "Centre may also remove names of delinquent officers from the empanelled list and bar them for a certain period from serving in the central government." The MHA is the controlling authority of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers. It had already on February 5 asked the West Bengal government to take disciplinary action against Kumar.

Centre may take back Kolkata Police chief's medals: Home ministry sources 

As the year's winter is about to get over in North India, there is a worrying spike in the number&nbsp;of swine flu infections spreading in the country. More than 61 per cent of overall cases found in India has been reported from the northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Punjab. Over 226 swine flu deaths have already been reported but many doctors suggest that the figures could be much higher.&nbsp;

Dr&nbsp;Vikram Jeet Singh is a senior consultant in internal medicine at a private hospital in Delhi. He has already diagnosed more than 80 swine flu cases so far and says that the infection, without proper prevention, could become an epidemic.

"Considering a city like Delhi, which has much higher density than most cities, is more prone to H1N1 virus spreading among people. I have already admitted more than 37 patients this year in my hospital. The official number of cases don't indicate the real number of swine flu infections and deaths. There are thousands of small private hospitals and every hospital and doctor do not report swine flu cases to municipal corporation of Delhi (MCD)."

Viruses are multiplying in the bitter cold of north India. Swine flu cases have spiralled in the states of Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana. According to data from the national centre for disease control, Rajasthan is the worst affected state with 2,263 cases and 85 deaths this year. Heavily populated Delhi has registered 1,011 cases. Swine flu cases have come to light in Gujarat, Haryana and other states as well. But, these are official reports which have been reported by different hospitals, there are many cases which have gone unreported.

WION spoke to doctors from over four government hospitals and several private hospitals who claim that the real figures may be much more higher than the numbers reported in New Delhi.

An official&nbsp;from one of the biggest hospitals in New Delhi, Ram Manohar Lohiya&nbsp;said, "We do report the cases of H1N1 virus, but many patients who come to the hospital show symptoms&nbsp;similar to the seasonal flu. This&nbsp;makes it more complicated to differentiate the swine flu patients from them. There are many who leave without treatment who are diagnosed with infection."

In all, India has recorded almost 6700 swine cases and 226 deaths this year, the numbers may, in fact, be higher. Doctors say the elderly, newborns, children and adults under 25 are at higher risk.
<img alt="Swine flu" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3f7df2f-81ad-4e56-9b9c-3df842faa352" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/swine%20flu.JPG" />
A contagious disease, swine flu gets transmitted usually when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Those infected thus are treated in complete isolation.&nbsp;

There is fear among the people because the infection can become an epidemic. Swine flu made headlines first in 2009 when it affected people in many countries. The symptoms include a headache, fever, runny nose, cough and muscle pain. A majority of the cases have been reported from densely populated areas, where the probability of infection is higher.

The fear of swine flu became worse as the number of people getting infected with the disease is expected to grow this winter. The H1N1 viruses are expected to be the most prevalent strain this flu season. Only time will tell if the fear is justified.

As the year's winter is about to get over in North India, there is a worrying spike in the number of swine flu infections spreading in the country. More than 61 per cent of overall cases found in India has been reported from the northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Punjab.

As the year's winter is about to get over in North India, there is a worrying spike in the number of swine flu infections spreading in the country. More than 61 per cent of overall cases found in India has been reported from the northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana and Punjab. Over 226 swine flu deaths have already been reported but many doctors suggest that the figures could be much higher. Dr Vikram Jeet Singh is a senior consultant in internal medicine at a private hospital in Delhi. He has already diagnosed more than 80 swine flu cases so far and says that the infection, without proper prevention, could become an epidemic. "Considering a city like Delhi, which has much higher density than most cities, is more prone to H1N1 virus spreading among people. I have already admitted more than 37 patients this year in my hospital. The official number of cases don't indicate the real number of swine flu infections and deaths. There are thousands of small private hospitals and every hospital and doctor do not report swine flu cases to municipal corporation of Delhi (MCD)." Viruses are multiplying in the bitter cold of north India. Swine flu cases have spiralled in the states of Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana. According to data from the national centre for disease control, Rajasthan is the worst affected state with 2,263 cases and 85 deaths this year. Heavily populated Delhi has registered 1,011 cases. Swine flu cases have come to light in Gujarat, Haryana and other states as well. But, these are official reports which have been reported by different hospitals, there are many cases which have gone unreported. WION spoke to doctors from over four government hospitals and several private hospitals who claim that the real figures may be much more higher than the numbers reported in New Delhi. An official from one of the biggest hospitals in New Delhi, Ram Manohar Lohiya said, "We do report the cases of H1N1 virus, but many patients who come to the hospital show symptoms similar to the seasonal flu. This makes it more complicated to differentiate the swine flu patients from them. There are many who leave without treatment who are diagnosed with infection." In all, India has recorded almost 6700 swine cases and 226 deaths this year, the numbers may, in fact, be higher. Doctors say the elderly, newborns, children and adults under 25 are at higher risk. A contagious disease, swine flu gets transmitted usually when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Those infected thus are treated in complete isolation. There is fear among the people because the infection can become an epidemic. Swine flu made headlines first in 2009 when it affected people in many countries. The symptoms include a headache, fever, runny nose, cough and muscle pain. A majority of the cases have been reported from densely populated areas, where the probability of infection is higher. The fear of swine flu became worse as the number of people getting infected with the disease is expected to grow this winter. The H1N1 viruses are expected to be the most prevalent strain this flu season. Only time will tell if the fear is justified.

Most swine flu cases remain unreported in India: Doctors

The US has agreed to sell two state-of-the-art missile defence systems to Air India One for an estimated cost of US $190 million, a move that will enhance the security of planes flying the prime minister and the president.

According to the Pentagon, the sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Trump administrations approved the purchase of the two systems known as Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCAM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS) for an estimated cost of US $190 million, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a notification to the Congress on Wednesday.

The US decision came after the Indian Government recently made a request for LAIRCAM SPS, given the high-level threat to the prime minister and the president.&nbsp;

The defence systems, which would bring security of Air India One at par with that of Air Force One, would be installed in two Boeing 777 Head-of- State aircraft, the Pentagon said.

The Indian Government plans to buy two Bowing 777 from the national carrier Air India for this specific purpose and unlike in the past would not be used for commercial purposes.&nbsp;

The purpose of the LAIRCM programme is to protect large aircraft from man-portable missiles. Once installed, the LAIRCAM system increases crew-warning time, decreases false alarm rates and automatically counters advanced intermediate range missile systems, according to the Federation of American Scientists.

The missile warning subsystem will use multiple sensors to provide full spatial coverage.&nbsp;

The counter-measures subsystem will use lasers mounted in pointer-tracker turret assemblies. It also automatically counters advanced intermediate range missile systems with no action required by the crew.&nbsp;

The pilot will simply be informed that a threat missile was detected and jammed.&nbsp;

Observing that it will improve India's capability to deter regional threats, the Congressional notification said SPS will facilitate a more robust capability into areas of increased missile threats.&nbsp;

"India will have no problem absorbing and using this system, it said.&nbsp;

According to the notification, India had requested to buy two SPS consisting of AN/AAQ 24(V)N Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM), ALQ-211(V)8 Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suite (AIDEWS) and AN/ALE-47 Counter-Measures Dispensing System (CMDS) to protect two (2) Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft.&nbsp;

"This potential sale would include twelve Guardian Laser Transmitter Assemblies AN/AAQ-24 (V)N (6 installed and 6 spares), eight (8) LAIRCM System Processor Replacements (LSPR) AN/AAQ-24 (V)N (2 installed and 6 spares); twenty-three (23) Missile Warning Sensors (MWS) for AN/AAQ-24 (V)N (12 installed and 11 spares), five (5) AN/ALE-47 Counter-Measures Dispensing System (CMDS) (2 installed and 3 spares)," the notification said.

Also included in this sale are Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suites (AIDEWS), LAIRCM CIURs, SCAs, HCCs, and UDM cards, initial spares, consumables, repair and return support and support equipment.&nbsp;

The department also assured that the sale will not "alter the basic military balance in the region".

The US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. It has already recognised India as a "major defence partner", a status that which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India.

In 2018, the US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases defence procurement from US.

Last year both New Delhi and Washington signed COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement).

The US has agreed to sell two state-of-the-art missile defence systems to Air India One for an estimated cost of US $190 million, a move that will enhance the security of planes flying the prime minister and the president.

The US has agreed to sell two state-of-the-art missile defence systems to Air India One for an estimated cost of US $190 million, a move that will enhance the security of planes flying the prime minister and the president. According to the Pentagon, the sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship. The Trump administrations approved the purchase of the two systems known as Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCAM) and Self-Protection Suites (SPS) for an estimated cost of US $190 million, the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a notification to the Congress on Wednesday. The US decision came after the Indian Government recently made a request for LAIRCAM SPS, given the high-level threat to the prime minister and the president. The defence systems, which would bring security of Air India One at par with that of Air Force One, would be installed in two Boeing 777 Head-of- State aircraft, the Pentagon said. The Indian Government plans to buy two Bowing 777 from the national carrier Air India for this specific purpose and unlike in the past would not be used for commercial purposes. The purpose of the LAIRCM programme is to protect large aircraft from man-portable missiles. Once installed, the LAIRCAM system increases crew-warning time, decreases false alarm rates and automatically counters advanced intermediate range missile systems, according to the Federation of American Scientists. The missile warning subsystem will use multiple sensors to provide full spatial coverage. The counter-measures subsystem will use lasers mounted in pointer-tracker turret assemblies. It also automatically counters advanced intermediate range missile systems with no action required by the crew. The pilot will simply be informed that a threat missile was detected and jammed. Observing that it will improve India's capability to deter regional threats, the Congressional notification said SPS will facilitate a more robust capability into areas of increased missile threats. "India will have no problem absorbing and using this system, it said. According to the notification, India had requested to buy two SPS consisting of AN/AAQ 24(V)N Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM), ALQ-211(V)8 Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suite (AIDEWS) and AN/ALE-47 Counter-Measures Dispensing System (CMDS) to protect two (2) Boeing-777 Head-of-State aircraft. "This potential sale would include twelve Guardian Laser Transmitter Assemblies AN/AAQ-24 (V)N (6 installed and 6 spares), eight (8) LAIRCM System Processor Replacements (LSPR) AN/AAQ-24 (V)N (2 installed and 6 spares); twenty-three (23) Missile Warning Sensors (MWS) for AN/AAQ-24 (V)N (12 installed and 11 spares), five (5) AN/ALE-47 Counter-Measures Dispensing System (CMDS) (2 installed and 3 spares)," the notification said. Also included in this sale are Advanced Integrated Defensive Electronic Warfare Suites (AIDEWS), LAIRCM CIURs, SCAs, HCCs, and UDM cards, initial spares, consumables, repair and return support and support equipment. The department also assured that the sale will not "alter the basic military balance in the region". The US is the second-largest arms supplier to India. It has already recognised India as a "major defence partner", a status that which commits the US to facilitate technology sharing with India. In 2018, the US granted India Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 (STA-1) status. India is the only South Asian country to get STA1 status and third Asian country after Japan and South Korea. The status eases defence procurement from US. Last year both New Delhi and Washington signed COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement).

US approves sale of two missile defence systems for Air India One 

The Supreme Court slammed the Central Bureau of Investigation Thursday, telling it that "you have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you."&nbsp;

"Never play with SC's order," Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi added.&nbsp;

The court added that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-director-nageswara-rao-transfers-20-officers-191880">then interim</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-director-nageswara-rao-transfers-20-officers-191880"> CBI director M Nageswara Rao was prima facie guilty of contempt of court</a> and ordered him and another official to appear before it on February 12.&nbsp;

The court's fury had been invoked after it was informed by the CBI counsel that Rao and the other official, the agency's director of prosecution, had transferred CBI officer AK Sharma — who had been investigating the Muzaffarpur shelter home rape case — without taking the court's consent.&nbsp;

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“We are going to take it very very seriously. You have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you. Never play with SCs order,”Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi says after CBI counsel informed that 2 officials including M Nageswara Rao were involved in transferring Sharma. <a href="https://t.co/LSTnGwoJiY">https://t.co/LSTnGwoJiY</a>
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“We are going to take it very very seriously," CJI Gogoi added on Thursday.&nbsp;

Rao had been appointed interim CBI director after the government sent former director Alok Verma and his second-in-command Rakesh Asthana on leave.&nbsp;

Verma and Asthana had accused each other of corruption.&nbsp;

Rao was the first inspector general-level officer, ever, to be appointed CBI chief.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court slammed the Central Bureau of Investigation Thursday, telling it that "you have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you." "Never play with SC's order," Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi added.

The Supreme Court slammed the Central Bureau of Investigation Thursday, telling it that "you have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you." "Never play with SC's order," Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi added. The court added that then interim CBI director M Nageswara Rao was prima facie guilty of contempt of court and ordered him and another official to appear before it on February 12. The court's fury had been invoked after it was informed by the CBI counsel that Rao and the other official, the agency's director of prosecution, had transferred CBI officer AK Sharma — who had been investigating the Muzaffarpur shelter home rape case — without taking the court's consent. “We are going to take it very very seriously. You have played with order of Supreme Court of India. God help you. Never play with SCs order,”Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi says after CBI counsel informed that 2 officials including M Nageswara Rao were involved in transferring Sharma. https://t.co/LSTnGwoJiY — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × “We are going to take it very very seriously," CJI Gogoi added on Thursday. Rao had been appointed interim CBI director after the government sent former director Alok Verma and his second-in-command Rakesh Asthana on leave. Verma and Asthana had accused each other of corruption. Rao was the first inspector general-level officer, ever, to be appointed CBI chief.

'You have played with order of Supreme Court... God help you': Chief Justice of India to CBI

The 2019-20 Uttar Pradesh <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/budget-2019-the-moment-belonged-to-narendra-modi-government-and-middle-class-taxpayers-194946">Budget </a>stressed on development and beautification of religious places, including those in Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura and Allahabad.&nbsp;

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assam-budget-proposes-1-tola-gold-for-brides-rice-at-re-1-a-kg-195589">budget </a>was presented in the state assembly by Finance Minister Rajesh Agarwal.

The Yogi Adityanath government in the budget has proposed Rs 207 crore for expansion and beautification of the road from the Ganga bank to the Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, and Rs 101 crore for the integrated development of major tourist places in Ayodhya.

In his budget speech, the Agarwal said the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Special Area Development Board has been set up to ensure implementation of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir Expansion Scheme in Varanasi.

While Rs. 8.38 crore has been proposed to get an auditorium constructed between Mathura and Vridavan, a provision of Rs 5 crore has been made for construction of boundary walls around public Ramleela grounds.

Provision of Rs 1 crore has been made to strengthen the Vrindavan Shodh Sansthan and Rs 125 crore for infrastructure facilities in Uttar Pradesh's Brij Tirtha.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

In the budget, a provision of Rs 70 crore for implementation of Tourism Policy- 2018 and Rs 50 crore for Pro-Poor Tourism has been made.

Besides, a budgetary provision of Rs 16 crore has been made to set up the Vaidik Vigyan Kendra at the Kashi Hindu Vishwavidyalaya in Varanasi, according to budget documents.

It is proposed to strengthen Lahartara Talab, Kabir Sthal and Seergovardhanpur, the birthplace of Guru Ravidas in Varanasi.

It is also proposed to develop Rishi Bhardwaj Ashram and Shringverpur Dham in Allahabad and Rs 27 crore has been proposed for the integrated development of major tourist places in Garh Mukteshwar.&nbsp;

Moreover, the government has proposed in the budget to ensure development of Vindhyachal and Naimisharanya; and Sarnath, Shravasti, Kushinagar, Kapilvastu, Kaushambi and Sankisa under the Buddhist Circuit. Development Shakumbhari Devi and Shukratal; Tulsi Peeth in Rajapur, Chitrakoot; Maharaja Suheldeo site and Chittaura Lake in Bahraich; and Bijli Pasi Qila in Lucknow are also in focus in the budget.

For minority welfare, a provision of Rs 942 crore under the Scholarship Scheme for students belonging to minority communities has been made and Rs 459 crore proposed for modernisation of Arabi-Farsi Madarsas.

The budget proposes Rs 100 crore for development of cremation grounds in rural areas of the state.&nbsp;

The 2019-20 Uttar Pradesh Budget stressed on development and beautification of religious places, including those in Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura and Allahabad. The budget was presented in the state assembly by Finance Minister Rajesh Agarwal.

The 2019-20 Uttar Pradesh Budget stressed on development and beautification of religious places, including those in Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura and Allahabad. The budget was presented in the state assembly by Finance Minister Rajesh Agarwal. The Yogi Adityanath government in the budget has proposed Rs 207 crore for expansion and beautification of the road from the Ganga bank to the Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, and Rs 101 crore for the integrated development of major tourist places in Ayodhya. In his budget speech, the Agarwal said the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Special Area Development Board has been set up to ensure implementation of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir Expansion Scheme in Varanasi. While Rs. 8.38 crore has been proposed to get an auditorium constructed between Mathura and Vridavan, a provision of Rs 5 crore has been made for construction of boundary walls around public Ramleela grounds. Provision of Rs 1 crore has been made to strengthen the Vrindavan Shodh Sansthan and Rs 125 crore for infrastructure facilities in Uttar Pradesh's Brij Tirtha. In the budget, a provision of Rs 70 crore for implementation of Tourism Policy- 2018 and Rs 50 crore for Pro-Poor Tourism has been made. Besides, a budgetary provision of Rs 16 crore has been made to set up the Vaidik Vigyan Kendra at the Kashi Hindu Vishwavidyalaya in Varanasi, according to budget documents. It is proposed to strengthen Lahartara Talab, Kabir Sthal and Seergovardhanpur, the birthplace of Guru Ravidas in Varanasi. It is also proposed to develop Rishi Bhardwaj Ashram and Shringverpur Dham in Allahabad and Rs 27 crore has been proposed for the integrated development of major tourist places in Garh Mukteshwar. Moreover, the government has proposed in the budget to ensure development of Vindhyachal and Naimisharanya; and Sarnath, Shravasti, Kushinagar, Kapilvastu, Kaushambi and Sankisa under the Buddhist Circuit. Development Shakumbhari Devi and Shukratal; Tulsi Peeth in Rajapur, Chitrakoot; Maharaja Suheldeo site and Chittaura Lake in Bahraich; and Bijli Pasi Qila in Lucknow are also in focus in the budget. For minority welfare, a provision of Rs 942 crore under the Scholarship Scheme for students belonging to minority communities has been made and Rs 459 crore proposed for modernisation of Arabi-Farsi Madarsas. The budget proposes Rs 100 crore for development of cremation grounds in rural areas of the state.

UP budget focus on development, beautification of Ayodhya, Varanasi, religious sites

A major fire broke out at&nbsp;Metro Hospital in Noida's sector-12 on Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;

Fire tenders were rushed to the spot.&nbsp;There have been no reports of any casualties.

Dr Purushottam Lal working in the hospital said the fire started in the second floor of the hospital.

"We are ascertaining the cause of the fire; all patients have been rescued and no casualty or injury has occurred in the incident," he added.

About 30-35 patients were rescued and shifted to local hospitals, said Vaibhav Krishna, senior superintendent of police, Gautam Buddha Nagar.&nbsp; 
Four fire tenders were rushed to the spot and the situation is "now under control", Krishna told PTI.

Thick smoke could be seen billowing out of the hospital with people standing on ledges in balconies as rescuers tried to reach them by breaking window panes.

Staffers tried to help patients out of the building in Noida, on the outskirts of the national capital.

A major fire broke out at Metro Hospital in Noida's sector-12 on Thursday afternoon. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot. There have been no reports of any casualties.

A major fire broke out at Metro Hospital in Noida's sector-12 on Thursday afternoon. Fire tenders were rushed to the spot. There have been no reports of any casualties. Dr Purushottam Lal working in the hospital said the fire started in the second floor of the hospital. "We are ascertaining the cause of the fire; all patients have been rescued and no casualty or injury has occurred in the incident," he added. About 30-35 patients were rescued and shifted to local hospitals, said Vaibhav Krishna, senior superintendent of police, Gautam Buddha Nagar. Four fire tenders were rushed to the spot and the situation is "now under control", Krishna told PTI. Thick smoke could be seen billowing out of the hospital with people standing on ledges in balconies as rescuers tried to reach them by breaking window panes. Staffers tried to help patients out of the building in Noida, on the outskirts of the national capital.

Watch: Fire breaks out at Metro hospital in Noida; several trapped inside

Robert Vadra, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate for the second day on Thursday in connection with a probe into allegations that he laundered money to purchase illegal foreign assets.

Vadra, who was grilled for five-and-a-half hours for the first time in the case on Wednesday, arrived at the ED office in Jamnagar House in central Delhi at about 11:25 am, about an hour after his team of lawyers.&nbsp;

Officials said Vadra was required to rejoin the probe on Thursday as he needed to answer more questions on allegedly acquiring immovable assets in the United Kingdom.

His statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) as was done Wednesday, they added.

He was asked about a dozen questions by a team of three ED officials, including the investigating officer of the case.

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His appearance before the ED on Wednesday acquired political overtones with his wife Priyanka Gandhi, appointed Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, accompanying him to the investigating agency's office. She took charge of her new post at the Congress' national headquarters on Akbar Road after that.

"He is my husband, he is my family...I support my family," Priyanka Gandhi said in a show of support to Vadra, who returned from London on Wednesday.&nbsp;

This is the first time that Vadra is appearing before any probe agency in connection with alleged dubious financial dealings.

On February 2, he was directed by a Delhi court to appear before the central probe agency and cooperate in the probe after he knocked at its door seeking anticipatory bail in the money laundering case.

Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends.

His lawyer said Wednesday night that Vadra had replied to every question put to him.

"All charges against him are wrong. We will cooperate with the agency 100 per cent. He will come whenever he is called," lawyer Suman Jyoti Khaitan told reporters.&nbsp;

The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him.

The agency also told the court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties.

In December last year, the ED conducted raids in the case and grilled his close aide Manoj Arora, an employee of Skylight Hospitality LLP, a firm linked to Vadra, as well as others.&nbsp;

The agency told the court that it filed a PMLA case against Arora after his role cropped up during the probe of another case by the Income Tax Department under the 2015 anti-black money legislation against absconding defence dealer Sanjay Bhandari.

It alleged that the London-based property was bought by Bhandari for 1.9 million GBP and sold in 2010 for the same amount despite incurring additional expenses of approximately 65,900 GBP on its renovation.&nbsp;

The BJP seized on the questioning of Vadra on Wednesday to attack the Congress and alleged he got kickbacks from a petroleum and defence deals took place during the UPA regime.

Vadra is also supposed to be present before the ED on February 12 in Jaipur in another money laundering case related to a land scam in Bikaner. The Rajasthan High Court had directed him to cooperate with the agency in the case.&nbsp;

Robert Vadra, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate for the second day on Thursday in connection with a probe into allegations that he laundered money to purchase illegal foreign assets.

Robert Vadra, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's brother-in-law, appeared before the Enforcement Directorate for the second day on Thursday in connection with a probe into allegations that he laundered money to purchase illegal foreign assets. Vadra, who was grilled for five-and-a-half hours for the first time in the case on Wednesday, arrived at the ED office in Jamnagar House in central Delhi at about 11:25 am, about an hour after his team of lawyers. Officials said Vadra was required to rejoin the probe on Thursday as he needed to answer more questions on allegedly acquiring immovable assets in the United Kingdom. His statement will be recorded under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) as was done Wednesday, they added. He was asked about a dozen questions by a team of three ED officials, including the investigating officer of the case. Delhi: Robert Vadra leaves Enforcement Directorate office after questioning in money laundering case. pic.twitter.com/a1RajLC4lD — ANI (@ANI) February 7, 2019 × His appearance before the ED on Wednesday acquired political overtones with his wife Priyanka Gandhi, appointed Congress general secretary in-charge of eastern Uttar Pradesh, accompanying him to the investigating agency's office. She took charge of her new post at the Congress' national headquarters on Akbar Road after that. "He is my husband, he is my family...I support my family," Priyanka Gandhi said in a show of support to Vadra, who returned from London on Wednesday. This is the first time that Vadra is appearing before any probe agency in connection with alleged dubious financial dealings. On February 2, he was directed by a Delhi court to appear before the central probe agency and cooperate in the probe after he knocked at its door seeking anticipatory bail in the money laundering case. Vadra has denied the allegations of possessing illegal foreign assets and termed them a political witch hunt against him. He said he was being "hounded and harassed" to subserve political ends. His lawyer said Wednesday night that Vadra had replied to every question put to him. "All charges against him are wrong. We will cooperate with the agency 100 per cent. He will come whenever he is called," lawyer Suman Jyoti Khaitan told reporters. The ED case against Vadra relates to allegations of money laundering in the purchase of a London-based property located at 12, Bryanston Square worth 1.9 million GBP (British pounds), which is allegedly owned by him. The agency also told the court that it has received information about various new properties in London which belong to Vadra. These include two houses, one worth 5 million GBP and the other 4 million GBP, six other flats and more properties. In December last year, the ED conducted raids in the case and grilled his close aide Manoj Arora, an employee of Skylight Hospitality LLP, a firm linked to Vadra, as well as others. The agency told the court that it filed a PMLA case against Arora after his role cropped up during the probe of another case by the Income Tax Department under the 2015 anti-black money legislation against absconding defence dealer Sanjay Bhandari. It alleged that the London-based property was bought by Bhandari for 1.9 million GBP and sold in 2010 for the same amount despite incurring additional expenses of approximately 65,900 GBP on its renovation. The BJP seized on the questioning of Vadra on Wednesday to attack the Congress and alleged he got kickbacks from a petroleum and defence deals took place during the UPA regime. Vadra is also supposed to be present before the ED on February 12 in Jaipur in another money laundering case related to a land scam in Bikaner. The Rajasthan High Court had directed him to cooperate with the agency in the case.

Vadra appears before ED for another day of questioning in money laundering probe

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