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A selection committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet Wednesday night to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/alok-verma-resumes-office-after-77-day-forced-leave-189139">decide on the fate of CBI Director Alok Verma</a>, reinstated by a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-sets-aside-government-order-reinstates-alok-verma-as-cbi-chief-188935">Supreme Court order</a> after he was sent on forced leave by the government, officials said Wednesday.

The meeting is scheduled to be held at the prime minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg, they said.

The apex court had Tuesday reinstated Verma as the CBI director. It quashed the government's unprecedented "overnight" order over two months ago, stripping him of his powers and sending him on leave after he and his deputy Rakesh Asthana traded corruption charges sparking a bitter feud.

The court, while reinstating Verma, however, made it clear that he will desist from taking any major policy decision till a high-powered committee considers the issue of "divestment of power and authority".&nbsp;

Verma's two-year tenure as CBI director ends on January 31.

Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge are among the members of the panel, the officials said.

Meanwhile, Verma had on Wednesday joined the office following the order.&nbsp;

The Modi government had in October, 2018 sent Verma and Asthana on forced leave.&nbsp;

Alok Verma's two-year tenure as CBI director ends on January 31.

A selection committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet Wednesday night to decide on the fate of CBI Director Alok Verma, reinstated by a Supreme Court order after he was sent on forced leave by the government, officials said Wednesday. The meeting is scheduled to be held at the prime minister's residence at Lok Kalyan Marg, they said. The apex court had Tuesday reinstated Verma as the CBI director. It quashed the government's unprecedented "overnight" order over two months ago, stripping him of his powers and sending him on leave after he and his deputy Rakesh Asthana traded corruption charges sparking a bitter feud. The court, while reinstating Verma, however, made it clear that he will desist from taking any major policy decision till a high-powered committee considers the issue of "divestment of power and authority". Verma's two-year tenure as CBI director ends on January 31. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi and senior Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge are among the members of the panel, the officials said. Meanwhile, Verma had on Wednesday joined the office following the order. The Modi government had in October, 2018 sent Verma and Asthana on forced leave.

CBI Director Alok Verma case: PM-led panel scheduled Jan 9 night to meet and decide

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/obc-outfit-to-challenge-maratha-reservation-in-court-180304">The Bombay High Court </a>Wednesday sought to know if the Maharashtra government had conducted any study or survey before issuing a notification in 1967 inducting several castes in the OBC category for reservation.

A division bench of Chief Justice N H Patil and Justice N M Jamdar was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by activist B A Sarate challenging the inclusion of several castes in the Other Backward Class (OBC) group.

Sarate's counsel V M Thorat told the HC that out of the 96 castes included in the OBC category, nearly 40 per cent were not even eligible for reservation.

"Inclusion of these castes is unconstitutional. There is a procedure laid down while deciding which caste should be included in a particular category for reservation. The government is not following this procedure," Thorat said.

The bench then sought to know if the government had carried out any study or survey before issuing the Government Resolution (GR) in 1967 inducting a particular caste in the OBC category.

The petitioner has challenged the GR enlisting 180 castes and sub-castes for inclusion in the OBC category, and also another GR, dated March 1994, which increased the OBC quota percentage from 14 per cent to 32 per cent.

The petition claimed that various castes or communities were included in the OBC category without any survey, quantifiable data, investigation to determine the social, educational and economic backwardness.

"There has to be a comprehensive commission to carry out study and collect data. This is what the petition also seeks," Chief Justice Patil said.

The bench then directed that the petition be placed for hearing before an appropriate bench next week.

B A Sarate's counsel V M Thorat told the HC that out of the 96 castes included in the OBC category, nearly 40 per cent were not even eligible for reservation.

The Bombay High Court Wednesday sought to know if the Maharashtra government had conducted any study or survey before issuing a notification in 1967 inducting several castes in the OBC category for reservation. A division bench of Chief Justice N H Patil and Justice N M Jamdar was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by activist B A Sarate challenging the inclusion of several castes in the Other Backward Class (OBC) group. Sarate's counsel V M Thorat told the HC that out of the 96 castes included in the OBC category, nearly 40 per cent were not even eligible for reservation. "Inclusion of these castes is unconstitutional. There is a procedure laid down while deciding which caste should be included in a particular category for reservation. The government is not following this procedure," Thorat said. The bench then sought to know if the government had carried out any study or survey before issuing the Government Resolution (GR) in 1967 inducting a particular caste in the OBC category. The petitioner has challenged the GR enlisting 180 castes and sub-castes for inclusion in the OBC category, and also another GR, dated March 1994, which increased the OBC quota percentage from 14 per cent to 32 per cent. The petition claimed that various castes or communities were included in the OBC category without any survey, quantifiable data, investigation to determine the social, educational and economic backwardness. "There has to be a comprehensive commission to carry out study and collect data. This is what the petition also seeks," Chief Justice Patil said. The bench then directed that the petition be placed for hearing before an appropriate bench next week.

Inclusion of castes in OBC group: Bombay HC seeks Maharashtra response on PIL

Quoting a book, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday said the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/crop-insurance-scheme-designed-to-profit-insurance-firms-chidambaram-177381">Centre's crop insurance scheme </a>was "as big a scam" as the Rafale fighter jet deal.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's frequent foreign tours, he said mere speeches and announcements will not help the public and demanded that the BJP-led government<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/crop-insurance-scheme-likely-to-get-rs-13000cr-in-fy19-budget-29093"> solve farmers' problems </a>before looking at alliance talks for the forthcoming elections.

Modi had launched the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna in 2015 with the main objective to provide insurance cover and financial support to farmers in the event of failure of any of the notified crops as a result of natural calamities, pests, and diseases.

Addressing a rally in Beed district of Maharashtra during his tour of the drought-hit Marathwada region, Thackeray asked how many people received benefits of the government's crop insurance scheme after paying instalments to insurance firms.

"People have got cheques of Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 50, Rs 100. I don't do 'Mann ki Baat' (referring to Modi's monthly radio programme) but believe in speaking 'Jann ki Baat'. Allegations are being made that there is a scam of thousands of crores in the crop insurance scheme," he said.

"Who should we question? There is someone called Sainath, who is an expert on the subject, who has written a book. He has said the crop insurance scam is as big a scam as Rafale," Thackeray said.

While the Opposition Congress has been alleging corruption in the Rafale jet deal, the government has denied it.

Claiming that there was a "bubble" of announcements, Thackeray asked the government to "solve the problems of farmers before considering any alliance talks".

The Sena has been regularly hitting out at the BJP despite being part of the government in Maharashtra and at the Centre. Its leaders have often said they would contest the next polls on their own.

Thackeray's party and the BJP had contested the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in an alliance but split up at the time of Assembly polls. The Sena joined the state government later.

"Everyday you (Modi) go to different countries and say my country is changing. How many days left (in power) for you now?" Thackeray asked.

"You go to different countries everyday and think our country is changing. Today Russia, tomorrow Japan and day after China. Then say our country is changing. The country may be changing for you but not for people, their conditions, their sorrows are not changing," he said.

The Sena chief said he would not mind if he does not get a single vote after speaking truth, but he was averse to winning elections by speaking lies.

He said the Centre had neither been able to resolve issues or farmers nor constructed the Ram temple.

"If the issue was to be decided by court, why did you make this promise in your poll manifesto?" Thackeray asked.

Hitting out at the Centre's drought assessment team which visited the state last month to take stock of the situation, he said it was "useless" and a mere ploy to show "carrots" to people.

"It needs to be understood who is truly yours and who is not. Mere speeches and announcements do not fill the vessels of people. The central team to assess drought came and went. Did you get anything? It is strange they need a mechanism to see drought even after the area is drought-hit," he said.

Assuring his support to farmers amid the ongoing drought situation, he appealed them to support his party.

The state received inadequate rainfall last monsoon and the government had earlier declared drought in 151 out of the 353 talukas in the state.

Earlier in the day, the Sena leader handed over 100 cattle fodder-laden trucks and other essential supplies to farmers and undertook a tour of the drought-hit region.

Beed, which was earlier a stronghold of the NCP, is now dominated by the BJP while Sena has no presence in the district.

Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's frequent foreign tours, Uddhav Thackeray said mere speeches and announcements will not help the public.

Quoting a book, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday said the Centre's crop insurance scheme was "as big a scam" as the Rafale fighter jet deal. Taking a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's frequent foreign tours, he said mere speeches and announcements will not help the public and demanded that the BJP-led government solve farmers' problems before looking at alliance talks for the forthcoming elections. Modi had launched the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojna in 2015 with the main objective to provide insurance cover and financial support to farmers in the event of failure of any of the notified crops as a result of natural calamities, pests, and diseases. Addressing a rally in Beed district of Maharashtra during his tour of the drought-hit Marathwada region, Thackeray asked how many people received benefits of the government's crop insurance scheme after paying instalments to insurance firms. "People have got cheques of Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 50, Rs 100. I don't do 'Mann ki Baat' (referring to Modi's monthly radio programme) but believe in speaking 'Jann ki Baat'. Allegations are being made that there is a scam of thousands of crores in the crop insurance scheme," he said. "Who should we question? There is someone called Sainath, who is an expert on the subject, who has written a book. He has said the crop insurance scam is as big a scam as Rafale," Thackeray said. While the Opposition Congress has been alleging corruption in the Rafale jet deal, the government has denied it. Claiming that there was a "bubble" of announcements, Thackeray asked the government to "solve the problems of farmers before considering any alliance talks". The Sena has been regularly hitting out at the BJP despite being part of the government in Maharashtra and at the Centre. Its leaders have often said they would contest the next polls on their own. Thackeray's party and the BJP had contested the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in an alliance but split up at the time of Assembly polls. The Sena joined the state government later. "Everyday you (Modi) go to different countries and say my country is changing. How many days left (in power) for you now?" Thackeray asked. "You go to different countries everyday and think our country is changing. Today Russia, tomorrow Japan and day after China. Then say our country is changing. The country may be changing for you but not for people, their conditions, their sorrows are not changing," he said. The Sena chief said he would not mind if he does not get a single vote after speaking truth, but he was averse to winning elections by speaking lies. He said the Centre had neither been able to resolve issues or farmers nor constructed the Ram temple. "If the issue was to be decided by court, why did you make this promise in your poll manifesto?" Thackeray asked. Hitting out at the Centre's drought assessment team which visited the state last month to take stock of the situation, he said it was "useless" and a mere ploy to show "carrots" to people. "It needs to be understood who is truly yours and who is not. Mere speeches and announcements do not fill the vessels of people. The central team to assess drought came and went. Did you get anything? It is strange they need a mechanism to see drought even after the area is drought-hit," he said. Assuring his support to farmers amid the ongoing drought situation, he appealed them to support his party. The state received inadequate rainfall last monsoon and the government had earlier declared drought in 151 out of the 353 talukas in the state. Earlier in the day, the Sena leader handed over 100 cattle fodder-laden trucks and other essential supplies to farmers and undertook a tour of the drought-hit region. Beed, which was earlier a stronghold of the NCP, is now dominated by the BJP while Sena has no presence in the district.

Crop insurance as 'big' a scam as Rafale: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability."

On Pakistan's engagement with Afghanistan, Rawat said, "Pakistan has always treated Afghanistan as its backyard and they have been always concerned about it. And as a military leader, why not? They have to be concerned about the backyard. They will always want a military situation in Afghanistan which is more favourable to them. Even if it implies speaking to the devil. They will know it."

Explaining, Rawat said, "But then when you talk to terrorists or any organisation of that kind, you have to talk without precondition. There cannot be precondition attached to it. When you start attaching preconditions, then it gives the notion that one or the other side is talking from the position of victory. Any negotiation you go in for must be from that point of view."

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-becoming-new-form-of-warfare-says-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189157">Terrorism becoming </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-becoming-new-form-of-warfare-says-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189157">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-becoming-new-form-of-warfare-says-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189157"> form of warfare, says Army chief Bipin Rawat</a>

Rawat's comments came even as the US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, is in India, his first visit to New Delhi after taking over the post.&nbsp;

Announcing his India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China visit, the US State Department had said, "During his last trip in December, Special Representative Khalilzad reiterated that the only solution to the conflict is for all parties to sit together and reach an agreement on the political future of Afghanistan with mutual respect and acceptance."

India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the government of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"No engagement with the Taliban" remains the official policy of New Delhi when it comes to dealing with the group.

India had however participated last year in the Moscow talks on Afghanistan, in which the Taliban also took part. India participated at a non-official level, sending two former diplomats — Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan, and TCA Raghavan.&nbsp;

Iran recently said India could use its offices to talk to the Taliban.&nbsp;

Top Iranian government sources told WION, "We have our channels with Taliban. If (India) wishes to use those channels, you are welcome."&nbsp;

Iran does however consider the Taliban a threat.&nbsp;

"A Taliban-dominated Afghanistan is security threat to Iran, India but an existential threat to Pakistan," the Iranian government sources said. "We discussed this with late Pakistan PM Bhutto. We told them this will be your menace."

Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Wednesday. During their 40-minute talk, the Iranian side briefed India about Tehran's talks with the Taliban.

Iran had a brief dialogue with the Taliban in Moscow and their first round of talks took place in Tehran last week. Iran, the US, Russia, and Pakistan all are holding talks with the Taliban at some level and have acknowledged it.&nbsp;

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest.

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability." On Pakistan's engagement with Afghanistan, Rawat said, "Pakistan has always treated Afghanistan as its backyard and they have been always concerned about it. And as a military leader, why not? They have to be concerned about the backyard. They will always want a military situation in Afghanistan which is more favourable to them. Even if it implies speaking to the devil. They will know it." Explaining, Rawat said, "But then when you talk to terrorists or any organisation of that kind, you have to talk without precondition. There cannot be precondition attached to it. When you start attaching preconditions, then it gives the notion that one or the other side is talking from the position of victory. Any negotiation you go in for must be from that point of view." Also read: Terrorism becoming new form of warfare, says Army chief Bipin Rawat Rawat's comments came even as the US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, is in India, his first visit to New Delhi after taking over the post. Announcing his India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China visit, the US State Department had said, "During his last trip in December, Special Representative Khalilzad reiterated that the only solution to the conflict is for all parties to sit together and reach an agreement on the political future of Afghanistan with mutual respect and acceptance." India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the government of Afghanistan. "No engagement with the Taliban" remains the official policy of New Delhi when it comes to dealing with the group. India had however participated last year in the Moscow talks on Afghanistan, in which the Taliban also took part. India participated at a non-official level, sending two former diplomats — Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan, and TCA Raghavan. Iran recently said India could use its offices to talk to the Taliban. Top Iranian government sources told WION, "We have our channels with Taliban. If (India) wishes to use those channels, you are welcome." Iran does however consider the Taliban a threat. "A Taliban-dominated Afghanistan is security threat to Iran, India but an existential threat to Pakistan," the Iranian government sources said. "We discussed this with late Pakistan PM Bhutto. We told them this will be your menace." Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Wednesday. During their 40-minute talk, the Iranian side briefed India about Tehran's talks with the Taliban. Iran had a brief dialogue with the Taliban in Moscow and their first round of talks took place in Tehran last week. Iran, the US, Russia, and Pakistan all are holding talks with the Taliban at some level and have acknowledged it.

There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat

A car was vandalised in Uttar Pradesh’s Noida on the intervening night on Tuesday and Wednesday. The incident happened in Sector 19, stone’s throw away from Sector 18, the upmarket commercial hub of Noida.

The car with registration number - HR 26 BH 0562 -&nbsp; belongs to a journalist. The thieves may have tried to tow away the vehicle but failed as the gear lock was in place.&nbsp;

The unknown miscreants struggled to break the front windshield of the car and later smashed the driver seat's window, opened the bonnet and stole its battery.

The journalist said&nbsp;that the thieves&nbsp;may have used&nbsp;some sort of a device&nbsp;to disable the&nbsp;alarm system installed in&nbsp;the&nbsp;car.&nbsp;

A complaint has been filed against unknown persons at the Noida Police Station, Sector 20.&nbsp; An FIR is yet to be registered in this regard.&nbsp;

This isn’t the first time that such an incident has been reported. Vandalising cars and stealing of the same has been going on for quite some time in the area and police have failed to control the menace.

Last year, in November, an SUV belonging to a Supreme Court lawyer was allegedly stolen by four men who purportedly hacked the wireless network of the car.

A car was vandalised in Uttar Pradesh’s Noida on the intervening night on Tuesday and Wednesday. The incident happened in Sector 19, stone’s throw away from Sector 18, the upmarket commercial hub of Noida.

A car was vandalised in Uttar Pradesh’s Noida on the intervening night on Tuesday and Wednesday. The incident happened in Sector 19, stone’s throw away from Sector 18, the upmarket commercial hub of Noida. The car with registration number - HR 26 BH 0562 - belongs to a journalist. The thieves may have tried to tow away the vehicle but failed as the gear lock was in place. The unknown miscreants struggled to break the front windshield of the car and later smashed the driver seat's window, opened the bonnet and stole its battery. The journalist said that the thieves may have used some sort of a device to disable the alarm system installed in the car. A complaint has been filed against unknown persons at the Noida Police Station, Sector 20. An FIR is yet to be registered in this regard. This isn’t the first time that such an incident has been reported. Vandalising cars and stealing of the same has been going on for quite some time in the area and police have failed to control the menace. Last year, in November, an SUV belonging to a Supreme Court lawyer was allegedly stolen by four men who purportedly hacked the wireless network of the car.

Thieves try to steal journalist's car from Noida's Sector 19, vandalise it when they cannot

The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rs-5-crore-budget-for-fy18-19-to-propagate-hindi-globally-vk-singh-183513"> budget session of Parliament</a> is likely to be held from January 31 to February 13, and an interim budget is expected to be presented on February 1, government sources said Wednesday.&nbsp;

They said the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs deliberated on the dates for the budget session at a meeting.&nbsp;

It is expected to be the last session of the current Lok Sabha as general elections are due in April-May.&nbsp;

It is expected to be the last session of the current Lok Sabha as general elections are due in April-May.

The budget session of Parliament is likely to be held from January 31 to February 13, and an interim budget is expected to be presented on February 1, government sources said Wednesday. They said the Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs deliberated on the dates for the budget session at a meeting. It is expected to be the last session of the current Lok Sabha as general elections are due in April-May.

Budget session likely from January 31 to February 13: Government sources

A nun, who published poems, bought a car and took part in a protest against former bishop of Jalandhar diocese in connection with a rape case, has been issued notice by her congregation based in Aluva near here, for leading a life "against principles of religious life".

In its notice, Franciscan Clarist Congregation accused Sister Lucy Kalapura belonging to its St Mary's province, Mananthavady, of leading a life, which was against the "principles of religious life" and the rule of the congregation.

The nun has been asked to offer an explanation to Superior General sister Ann Joseph at Generalate of the Congregation at 11 am Wednesday.

Asked whether Sister Lucy could reach the congregation at 11 am, a Nun who attended the phone of the congregation office said she would have faced problems to commute from Wayanad as the vehicles were off the road on account of the nationwide strike called by trade unions.

The congregation termed as "grave violations" a Nun taking licence, buying a car, taking a loan for it and publishing a book spending money without permission and knowledge of her superiors.

The provincial superior had denied permission to Sister Lucy to publish her collection of poems.

She, however, published her book "Snehamazhayil" without seeking permission from her superiors.

The congregation also called as "grave scandal" the Nun participating in discussions in TV news channels and writing articles for non-Christian newspapers "making false accusations against Catholic leadership and belittling it."

The sister had invited the wrath of the Church leadership by participating in a street protest here by five nuns belonging to the Catholic religious order Missionaries of Jesus demanding the arrest of Bishop Franco Mulakkal, who was accused of raping a nun.

The nun could not be reached for her comments.

The nun has been asked to offer an explanation to Superior General sister Ann Joseph at Generalate of the Congregation at 11 am Wednesday.

A nun, who published poems, bought a car and took part in a protest against former bishop of Jalandhar diocese in connection with a rape case, has been issued notice by her congregation based in Aluva near here, for leading a life "against principles of religious life". In its notice, Franciscan Clarist Congregation accused Sister Lucy Kalapura belonging to its St Mary's province, Mananthavady, of leading a life, which was against the "principles of religious life" and the rule of the congregation. The nun has been asked to offer an explanation to Superior General sister Ann Joseph at Generalate of the Congregation at 11 am Wednesday. Asked whether Sister Lucy could reach the congregation at 11 am, a Nun who attended the phone of the congregation office said she would have faced problems to commute from Wayanad as the vehicles were off the road on account of the nationwide strike called by trade unions. The congregation termed as "grave violations" a Nun taking licence, buying a car, taking a loan for it and publishing a book spending money without permission and knowledge of her superiors. The provincial superior had denied permission to Sister Lucy to publish her collection of poems. She, however, published her book "Snehamazhayil" without seeking permission from her superiors. The congregation also called as "grave scandal" the Nun participating in discussions in TV news channels and writing articles for non-Christian newspapers "making false accusations against Catholic leadership and belittling it." The sister had invited the wrath of the Church leadership by participating in a street protest here by five nuns belonging to the Catholic religious order Missionaries of Jesus demanding the arrest of Bishop Franco Mulakkal, who was accused of raping a nun. The nun could not be reached for her comments.

Kerala nun gets notice for leading life against religious principles

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday indicated that alleged middleman Christian Michel, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-vvip-chopper-case-christian-michel-received-money-from-other-defence-deals-as-well-enforcement-directorate-tells-court-188422">arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case</a>, was lobbying for French manufacturer Rafale's rivals in the multi-role aircraft deal.

The onus is on the Congress to come clean on what is driving its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-nirmala-sitharaman-hits-back-at-congress-president-says-rahul-gandhi-misleading-nation-188560">allegations on the (Rafale) deal</a>, Modi said at a rally here.

Citing media reports, Modi said Michel was lobbying for "some other contender" as well.

Congress should answer which leader of their party, now shouting about this (Rafale deal), has a connection with Michel, he said.

Modi said the 'chowkidar' (watchdog), who has embarked on a campaign to root-out corruption cannot be bought or scared and will continue with his work relentlessly.

The 'chowkidar' can pick a wrongdoer even in darkness, he said.&nbsp;

The onus is on the Congress to come clean on what is driving its allegations on the (Rafale) deal, Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday indicated that alleged middleman Christian Michel, arrested in the AgustaWestland VVIP chopper case, was lobbying for French manufacturer Rafale's rivals in the multi-role aircraft deal. The onus is on the Congress to come clean on what is driving its allegations on the (Rafale) deal, Modi said at a rally here. Citing media reports, Modi said Michel was lobbying for "some other contender" as well. Congress should answer which leader of their party, now shouting about this (Rafale deal), has a connection with Michel, he said. Modi said the 'chowkidar' (watchdog), who has embarked on a campaign to root-out corruption cannot be bought or scared and will continue with his work relentlessly. The 'chowkidar' can pick a wrongdoer even in darkness, he said.

Michel was lobbying for Rafale rival; Congress should clarify: PM Modi

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday made it clear that his BJD will not be a part of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance).

Patnaik said as part of his party's policy, the BJD will continue to maintain equal distance from both the BJP and the Congress.

"We will continue with our policy of equidistance from the BJP and the Congress," he said.

"I want to clarify that as far as the Mahagathbandhan is concerned, the Biju Janata Dal is not a part of it," Patnaik told reporters on the sidelines of a meeting here.&nbsp;

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday made it clear that his BJD will not be a part of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). Patnaik said as part of his party's policy, the BJD will continue to maintain equal distance from both the BJP and the Congress.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Wednesday made it clear that his BJD will not be a part of the Mahagathbandhan (grand alliance). Patnaik said as part of his party's policy, the BJD will continue to maintain equal distance from both the BJP and the Congress. "We will continue with our policy of equidistance from the BJP and the Congress," he said. "I want to clarify that as far as the Mahagathbandhan is concerned, the Biju Janata Dal is not a part of it," Patnaik told reporters on the sidelines of a meeting here.

BJD not to be part of Mahagathbandhan: Naveen Patnaik

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility".

Speaking at the 4th Raisina dialogue, Swaraj said, "our commitment to upholding territorial integrity and sovereignty remains unwavering. Our consistent message is that unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, when approached in the right spirit and, in an atmosphere free from violence and hostility."

The comments come even as India and China have bilaterally engaged with each other last year to improve the relationship that suffered in 2017 due to the Doklam crisis when Chinese forces tried to enter Bhutanese territory.&nbsp;

The Doklam crisis led to a two-month-long standoff between India and China. But India Pakistan relationship remains without engagement due to Pakistan's continued support to cross border terror.&nbsp;

On terror, Sushma Swaraj said, "today, no country, big or small, is immune from this existential threat, particularly, terrorism actively supported and sponsored by states. In this digital age, the challenge is even greater, with a greater vulnerability to radicalization."

"Ensuring zero-tolerance towards terrorism, and those who use it as an instrument of convenience is the need of the hour," she said.

India has been vocal about cross bother terror and has been calling for a common definition of terrorism. India in 1996 had proposed a draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN but it remains a draft due to lack of consensus.&nbsp;

She also talked about India building "sustainable development partnerships" stretching from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Islands to the Caribbean, and from the continent of Africa to the Americas.

These initiatives, she explained, are "refer to these as partnerships, and not assistance."

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility".

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility". Speaking at the 4th Raisina dialogue, Swaraj said, "our commitment to upholding territorial integrity and sovereignty remains unwavering. Our consistent message is that unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, when approached in the right spirit and, in an atmosphere free from violence and hostility." The comments come even as India and China have bilaterally engaged with each other last year to improve the relationship that suffered in 2017 due to the Doklam crisis when Chinese forces tried to enter Bhutanese territory. The Doklam crisis led to a two-month-long standoff between India and China. But India Pakistan relationship remains without engagement due to Pakistan's continued support to cross border terror. On terror, Sushma Swaraj said, "today, no country, big or small, is immune from this existential threat, particularly, terrorism actively supported and sponsored by states. In this digital age, the challenge is even greater, with a greater vulnerability to radicalization." "Ensuring zero-tolerance towards terrorism, and those who use it as an instrument of convenience is the need of the hour," she said. India has been vocal about cross bother terror and has been calling for a common definition of terrorism. India in 1996 had proposed a draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN but it remains a draft due to lack of consensus. She also talked about India building "sustainable development partnerships" stretching from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Islands to the Caribbean, and from the continent of Africa to the Americas. These initiatives, she explained, are "refer to these as partnerships, and not assistance."

Unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, says Sushma Swaraj

A prequel to English author AA&nbsp;Milne’s classic creation of children Winnie the Pooh is in development, as per The Hollywood Reporter. The project is taking inspiration from the 'Paddington' movies. Earlier, only Disney had the screen rights to Pooh Bear stories, but that ended after the character entered public domain last year. Notably, indie horror filmmaker Rhys Frake-Wakefield took the opportunity to write and direct an R-Rated slasher movie, 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' . The prequel treatment, we presume, will be geared towards children.

Mike de Seve will direct and co-write the film with John Reynolds.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oh-bother-winnie-the-pooh-blood-and-honey-first-trailer-is-here-to-destroy-your-childhood-watch-511933">Oh, bother! 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' first trailer is here to destroy your childhood. Watch</a>

Reynolds said in a statement, “We’re telling the surprising origin story of the ‘silly young bear’ and his friends, when they were still kids, in a way designed to connect with 21st-century kids."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W3E74j_xFtg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

de Seve said, “I think this unsinkable young cub is totally relatable for today’s kids, with his hell-bent craving for honey and his ludicrous schemes to get it. The whole gang is hilarious, and are even more hilarious as kids, we’re finding out.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the fans of Winnie the Pooh and supporting characters like Piglet and Tigger continue to observe 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' with a horrified fascination. It is a sick retelling of the short stories by Milne set in Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh and his friends had many adventurous together with their human friend Christopher Robin.&nbsp;

Christopher Robin, Pooh and others did have all those adventures in Robin's childhood in the film, but then the boy grew up and went to college. Pooh, Piglet, and others, meanwhile, went more and more hungry and became feral. Now, they have become so crazy that they terrorise a group of girls residing in a rural cabin.&nbsp;

 
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A prequel to English author AA Milne’s classic creation of children Winnie the Pooh is in development, as per The Hollywood Reporter. The project is taking inspiration from the 'Paddington' movies.

A prequel to English author AA Milne’s classic creation of children Winnie the Pooh is in development, as per The Hollywood Reporter. The project is taking inspiration from the 'Paddington' movies. Earlier, only Disney had the screen rights to Pooh Bear stories, but that ended after the character entered public domain last year. Notably, indie horror filmmaker Rhys Frake-Wakefield took the opportunity to write and direct an R-Rated slasher movie, 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' . The prequel treatment, we presume, will be geared towards children. Mike de Seve will direct and co-write the film with John Reynolds. Also Read: Oh, bother! 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' first trailer is here to destroy your childhood. Watch Reynolds said in a statement, “We’re telling the surprising origin story of the ‘silly young bear’ and his friends, when they were still kids, in a way designed to connect with 21st-century kids." de Seve said, “I think this unsinkable young cub is totally relatable for today’s kids, with his hell-bent craving for honey and his ludicrous schemes to get it. The whole gang is hilarious, and are even more hilarious as kids, we’re finding out.” Meanwhile, the fans of Winnie the Pooh and supporting characters like Piglet and Tigger continue to observe 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' with a horrified fascination. It is a sick retelling of the short stories by Milne set in Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh and his friends had many adventurous together with their human friend Christopher Robin. Christopher Robin, Pooh and others did have all those adventures in Robin's childhood in the film, but then the boy grew up and went to college. Pooh, Piglet, and others, meanwhile, went more and more hungry and became feral. Now, they have become so crazy that they terrorise a group of girls residing in a rural cabin.

Putin, Modi share great chemistry, says Russian deputy foreign minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha. &nbsp;&nbsp;

''I hope the bill providing 10 per cent quota for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha by members respecting the public opinion,'' Modi said. &nbsp;

The Prime Minister was addressing a public rally in Solapur.&nbsp;

Passage of the bill that provides 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education a "strong answer" by Parliament to those spreading lies on the move.&nbsp;

Modi also addressed the concerns of the people of the northeast on Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and assured the people of northeast and Assam that their rights will not be compromised.&nbsp;

''Yesterday, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in Lok Sabha. I want to assure people from northeast &amp; Assam that their rights will not be compromised with this decision,'' Modis said.

The Prime Minister also launched road and underground sewerage system projects developed at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore here in Solapur.

He also laid the foundation stone for Rs 1811 crore housing project of 30,000 units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

Modi also commissioned the four-laned 98.717 km Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH-211 (New NH-52). The Rs 972.50-crore toll road project will improve connectivity between Solapur and the Marathwada region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hoped that the bill providing 10 per cent reservation for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha. ''I hope the bill providing 10 per cent quota for the General category poor in jobs and education is passed in Rajya Sabha by members respecting the public opinion,'' Modi said. The Prime Minister was addressing a public rally in Solapur. Passage of the bill that provides 10 per cent quota for the general category poor in jobs and education a "strong answer" by Parliament to those spreading lies on the move. Modi also addressed the concerns of the people of the northeast on Citizenship (Amendment) Bill and assured the people of northeast and Assam that their rights will not be compromised. ''Yesterday, the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill was passed in Lok Sabha. I want to assure people from northeast & Assam that their rights will not be compromised with this decision,'' Modis said. The Prime Minister also launched road and underground sewerage system projects developed at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore here in Solapur. He also laid the foundation stone for Rs 1811 crore housing project of 30,000 units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Modi also commissioned the four-laned 98.717 km Solapur- Tuljapur-Osmanabad section on NH-211 (New NH-52). The Rs 972.50-crore toll road project will improve connectivity between Solapur and the Marathwada region.

Hope bill providing 10 per cent quota for poor is passed in Rajya Sabha: PM Modi

Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-norway-to-ink-pact-tuesday-to-facilitate-dialogue-to-boost-bilateral-trade-188804">who is on a three-day visit</a> to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues".&nbsp;

Today is the main day of engagement for the Norway prime minister and she will be calling on President Kovind, Vice-President Naidu and will meet with PM Modi at Hyderabad House.&nbsp;

Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue at 6pm today. Speaking to the media after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, she said, "I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and an impressive reception. Good tradition. I hope the meetings today will have even better way for cooperating in very big and important issues."

She added,"We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to talks."

She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat. In the visitor's book, she wrote,"I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the globe."

She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in the new year. On the first day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian business summit and opened the "green" compound at the Norwegian embassy.&nbsp;

PM Modi has met&nbsp;Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi with a football. The football had SDG - sustainable development - goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).&nbsp;

Last year, PM Modi met the Norway prime minister during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17th last year.

Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg who is on a three-day visit to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues".

Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg who is on a three-day visit to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues". Today is the main day of engagement for the Norway prime minister and she will be calling on President Kovind, Vice-President Naidu and will meet with PM Modi at Hyderabad House. Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue at 6pm today. Speaking to the media after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, she said, "I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and an impressive reception. Good tradition. I hope the meetings today will have even better way for cooperating in very big and important issues." She added,"We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to talks." She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat. In the visitor's book, she wrote,"I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the globe." She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in the new year. On the first day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian business summit and opened the "green" compound at the Norwegian embassy. PM Modi has met Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi with a football. The football had SDG - sustainable development - goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Last year, PM Modi met the Norway prime minister during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17th last year.

Want friendship and partnership with India: Norway PM Erna Solberg

Foreign ministers of six countries will be in Delhi this week. Australian, Japanese, Nepalese, Mongolian, Spanish and Iranian foreign ministers will be in the national capital on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue.&nbsp;

Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono was the first one to arrive in Delhi on Monday. Kono took part in the 10th round of Strategic Dialogue and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The focus during the Strategic Dialogue was on Indo Pacific. The Ministry of External Affairs, in its release, said "India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership has acquired a broader significance in the current global context" and "has become a factor of prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific region."

Australian foreign minister Marise Payne also arrived on Monday. Payne will address the Raisina Dialogue on how Australia and India can work together along with regional partners to deliver a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. This will be Payne’s first visit to India as country's foreign minister and follows President Ram Nath Kovind's visit to the country in November 2018.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Deep rooted ties blossoming into a special strategic and global partnership. 
 
Japanese Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/konotaromp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@konotaromp</a> is warmly welcomed by EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> ahead of the 10th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaJapan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaJapan</a> Strategic Dialogue. EAM had visited Japan in March 2018 for the last edition. <a href="https://t.co/tIJ30uWDEA">pic.twitter.com/tIJ30uWDEA</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1082277986202779649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Australia’s High Commissioner to India Harinder Sidhu said, "Minister Payne is visiting at a time when our relationship has grown to become a significant partnership. Our shared interests range widely across political, security, cultural and economic fields."

Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif is also in the city and held talks with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. This comes in the background of India taking over the operations of part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran during the Chabahar Trilateral Agreement meeting held on December 24, 2018. The Iranian foreign minister will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Giving details of the visit, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said, "He will meet with Indian officials and participate in a joint trade conference of the two countries. Among other programs of the Iranian foreign minister during this important visit is to attend the annual international conference of the Raisina Dialogue."

Mongolian foreign minister Damdin Tsogtbaatar and Nepalese counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will also be in Delhi. India has been increasing its engagement with land-lock Mongolia in recent years. India has had close ties with Nepal with PM Modi visiting the country twice last year.

Foreign affairs ministers from as many as 10 countries visited India between November 24 to December 24, 2018.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Foreign ministers of six countries will be in Delhi this week. Australian, Japanese, Nepalese, Mongolian, Spanish and Iranian foreign ministers will be in the national capital on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue.

Foreign ministers of six countries will be in Delhi this week. Australian, Japanese, Nepalese, Mongolian, Spanish and Iranian foreign ministers will be in the national capital on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue. Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono was the first one to arrive in Delhi on Monday. Kono took part in the 10th round of Strategic Dialogue and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The focus during the Strategic Dialogue was on Indo Pacific. The Ministry of External Affairs, in its release, said "India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership has acquired a broader significance in the current global context" and "has become a factor of prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific region." Australian foreign minister Marise Payne also arrived on Monday. Payne will address the Raisina Dialogue on how Australia and India can work together along with regional partners to deliver a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. This will be Payne’s first visit to India as country's foreign minister and follows President Ram Nath Kovind's visit to the country in November 2018. Deep rooted ties blossoming into a special strategic and global partnership. Japanese Foreign Minister @konotaromp is warmly welcomed by EAM @SushmaSwaraj ahead of the 10th #IndiaJapan Strategic Dialogue. EAM had visited Japan in March 2018 for the last edition. pic.twitter.com/tIJ30uWDEA — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 7, 2019 × Australia’s High Commissioner to India Harinder Sidhu said, "Minister Payne is visiting at a time when our relationship has grown to become a significant partnership. Our shared interests range widely across political, security, cultural and economic fields." Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif is also in the city and held talks with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. This comes in the background of India taking over the operations of part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran during the Chabahar Trilateral Agreement meeting held on December 24, 2018. The Iranian foreign minister will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday. Giving details of the visit, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said, "He will meet with Indian officials and participate in a joint trade conference of the two countries. Among other programs of the Iranian foreign minister during this important visit is to attend the annual international conference of the Raisina Dialogue." Mongolian foreign minister Damdin Tsogtbaatar and Nepalese counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will also be in Delhi. India has been increasing its engagement with land-lock Mongolia in recent years. India has had close ties with Nepal with PM Modi visiting the country twice last year. Foreign affairs ministers from as many as 10 countries visited India between November 24 to December 24, 2018.

Foreign ministers of 6 countries in Delhi this week

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-over-2-lakh-litre-water-pumped-out-in-efforts-to-rescue-trapped-miners-188885">Rescuers are burning the midnight oil </a>by continuously pumping out water from an illegal flooded coal mine in Ksan near Lytein River in East Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya, where 15 miners are trapped for nearly a month now.

The Odisha Fire Service started draining out the water from 11 am today from two old shafts while five more pumps have been set up near the temporary pit.

Coal India Limited also began pumping out the water from the pit around 9 am today and six more pumps have reached at the venue so far. These additional pumps could be pressed into service to expedite the rescue operation.

The Indian Navy divers went down the main shaft to pull out an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that got stuck inside on Monday. They said that the water level in the shaft remained the same.

Meanwhile, the Kirloskar Brother Ltd are ready to install more pumps in the next few hours and will use it for dewatering the main shaft.15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village since December 13 last year, when the water from the nearby Lytein River flooded the mine.

Since then, rescuers are struggling hard to pump out water from the inundated mine. So far, attempts by rescuers to reach them have yielded no result.&nbsp;

The Odisha Fire Service started draining out the water from 11 am today from two old shafts while five more pumps have been set up near the temporary pit.

Rescuers are burning the midnight oil by continuously pumping out water from an illegal flooded coal mine in Ksan near Lytein River in East Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya, where 15 miners are trapped for nearly a month now. The Odisha Fire Service started draining out the water from 11 am today from two old shafts while five more pumps have been set up near the temporary pit. Coal India Limited also began pumping out the water from the pit around 9 am today and six more pumps have reached at the venue so far. These additional pumps could be pressed into service to expedite the rescue operation. The Indian Navy divers went down the main shaft to pull out an underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that got stuck inside on Monday. They said that the water level in the shaft remained the same. Meanwhile, the Kirloskar Brother Ltd are ready to install more pumps in the next few hours and will use it for dewatering the main shaft.15 miners have been trapped in a 370-feet deep illegal mine in Lumthari village since December 13 last year, when the water from the nearby Lytein River flooded the mine. Since then, rescuers are struggling hard to pump out water from the inundated mine. So far, attempts by rescuers to reach them have yielded no result.

Meghalaya mine rescue: 15 miners trapped for close to one month now

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian PM Erna Solberg on Tuesday held bilateral talks which focused on ocean economy, with Oslo appreciating New Delhi's role in global affairs being "the largest democracy." Both also exchanged one document on "India Norway Ocean Dialogue".

Calling India an "ocean country" Norway PM agreed to "intensify" cooperation with India on the "issues of the sea" while PM Modi said, "For India's development ocean economy is an important sector. 15% of Indian population stay in coastal districts and their lives are dependent on the ocean. We discussed it and will increase cooperation in it"

Norway PM's comments are important given the fact that India now sees its neighbourhood in respect to countries around the Indian ocean &amp; not just countries bordering it on the landmass. Also, comes at a time when New Delhi is growing its focus on Indo Pacific concept.

PM invited Norwegian companies to invest in India especially in ports. He said, "Under Sagarmala projects, Norway companies can take part in shipbuilding and ports development in India"

Norway's PM lauding India's role said, "As the world's largest democracy, India plays an important role both regionally and globally. We had an open and constructive dialogue on how we can work together to protect and develop rules-based international order governance"

She added, "Its important that both big countries like India and smaller countries like Norway join forces to work for the benefit and talk about the benefits of multilateralism in a time &nbsp;of increased protectionism."

Calling for reform of United Nations, Norway PM said, "Multilateralism is not just about trade and economy but also making international organisations function. For example through the reform of the UN. UN needs to reform.. they need to be representative as it looks today and not the way the world was seen in the 1940s."

The focus was also on sustainable development with Norway PM saying SDGs (Sustainable development Goals) arent achievable if India is not involved. She Invited PM Modi to visit Norway.

Recently, Norway government launched a new strategy for India to engage with New Delhi.

Earlier during the day after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg talked about "friendship and partnership" with India especially on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues". She said, "I would like to thank Prime minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and impressive reception. Good tradition. We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say Thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to the talks."

She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. At the visitors' book, she wrote," I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the global."

She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in 2019. On the 1st day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian Business Summit &amp; opened of the new "green" compound of Norwegian Embassy.&nbsp;

PM Modi has met the Solberg twice. In 2017during her meet with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg Germany, she giftedPM Modi a football. The football had SDG-- sustainable development goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Last year PM Modi met Norway PM during the maiden India Nordic summit in Stockholm on 17 April 2018.

Message for China?

The Norway PM was the chief guest at the inaugural session of Raisina Dialogue in which PM Modi also was present.&nbsp;

Speaking at the session, Solberg lauded India for respecting laws of the sea and said, "when large countries respect rule small countries like us take note. The principle that might is right can't be used in governance".&nbsp;

She said UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) provide a "legal framework" and rules-based order has served her country. The message won't be missed by China who has been embroiled in south china sea dispute with countries in south-east Asia.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian PM Erna Solberg on Tuesday held bilateral talks which focused on ocean economy, with Oslo appreciating New Delhi's role in global affairs being "the largest democracy.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Norwegian PM Erna Solberg on Tuesday held bilateral talks which focused on ocean economy, with Oslo appreciating New Delhi's role in global affairs being "the largest democracy." Both also exchanged one document on "India Norway Ocean Dialogue". Calling India an "ocean country" Norway PM agreed to "intensify" cooperation with India on the "issues of the sea" while PM Modi said, "For India's development ocean economy is an important sector. 15% of Indian population stay in coastal districts and their lives are dependent on the ocean. We discussed it and will increase cooperation in it" Norway PM's comments are important given the fact that India now sees its neighbourhood in respect to countries around the Indian ocean & not just countries bordering it on the landmass. Also, comes at a time when New Delhi is growing its focus on Indo Pacific concept. PM invited Norwegian companies to invest in India especially in ports. He said, "Under Sagarmala projects, Norway companies can take part in shipbuilding and ports development in India" Norway's PM lauding India's role said, "As the world's largest democracy, India plays an important role both regionally and globally. We had an open and constructive dialogue on how we can work together to protect and develop rules-based international order governance" She added, "Its important that both big countries like India and smaller countries like Norway join forces to work for the benefit and talk about the benefits of multilateralism in a time of increased protectionism." Calling for reform of United Nations, Norway PM said, "Multilateralism is not just about trade and economy but also making international organisations function. For example through the reform of the UN. UN needs to reform.. they need to be representative as it looks today and not the way the world was seen in the 1940s." The focus was also on sustainable development with Norway PM saying SDGs (Sustainable development Goals) arent achievable if India is not involved. She Invited PM Modi to visit Norway. Recently, Norway government launched a new strategy for India to engage with New Delhi. Earlier during the day after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg talked about "friendship and partnership" with India especially on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues". She said, "I would like to thank Prime minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and impressive reception. Good tradition. We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say Thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to the talks." She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. At the visitors' book, she wrote," I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the global." She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in 2019. On the 1st day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian Business Summit & opened of the new "green" compound of Norwegian Embassy. PM Modi has met the Solberg twice. In 2017during her meet with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg Germany, she giftedPM Modi a football. The football had SDG-- sustainable development goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Last year PM Modi met Norway PM during the maiden India Nordic summit in Stockholm on 17 April 2018. Message for China? The Norway PM was the chief guest at the inaugural session of Raisina Dialogue in which PM Modi also was present. Speaking at the session, Solberg lauded India for respecting laws of the sea and said, "when large countries respect rule small countries like us take note. The principle that might is right can't be used in governance". She said UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) provide a "legal framework" and rules-based order has served her country. The message won't be missed by China who has been embroiled in south china sea dispute with countries in south-east Asia.

Norway PM calls India an 'Ocean country' as both nations agree to intensify engagement on Ocean Economy

It was a cold, foggy morning in the national capital on Tuesday with the minimum temperature settling at 7 degrees Celsius, normal for the season.

A senior Railways officer said 14 trains have been delayed by an average of two hours due to fog. Ranchi-Delhi and Jaynagar-Anand Vihar Garib Rath, Farakka Express, Poorva Express, Sealdah-Rajdhani were among those delayed.

A cover of moderate fog enveloped the city with visibility reduced to 200 metres at Palam and 400 metres at Safdarjung, at 5.30am, said a Met department official.

Mainly clear skies are forecast for the day. The maximum temperature will hover around 20 degrees Celsius, said the official.

Relative humidity was 100 per cent at 8.30am.

On Monday, the minimum temperature in the national capital had settled at 7.1 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature recorded was 20.1 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

A cover of moderate fog enveloped the city with visibility reduced to 200 metres at Palam and 400 metres at Safdarjung, at 5.30am, said a Met department official.

It was a cold, foggy morning in the national capital on Tuesday with the minimum temperature settling at 7 degrees Celsius, normal for the season. A senior Railways officer said 14 trains have been delayed by an average of two hours due to fog. Ranchi-Delhi and Jaynagar-Anand Vihar Garib Rath, Farakka Express, Poorva Express, Sealdah-Rajdhani were among those delayed. A cover of moderate fog enveloped the city with visibility reduced to 200 metres at Palam and 400 metres at Safdarjung, at 5.30am, said a Met department official. Mainly clear skies are forecast for the day. The maximum temperature will hover around 20 degrees Celsius, said the official. Relative humidity was 100 per cent at 8.30am. On Monday, the minimum temperature in the national capital had settled at 7.1 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature recorded was 20.1 degrees Celsius.

Cold, foggy morning in Delhi; 14 trains delayed

The government's bill providing for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cabinet-approves-10-quota-for-economically-weak-among-upper-castes-188798">a 10% quota for the poor among the general category</a> has been passed by the Lok Sabha.&nbsp;

The bill was passed by a vote of 323 ayes versus only 3 nays.&nbsp;

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Lok Sabha passes Constitution (124 Amendment) Bill, 2019 with 323 'ayes'. The bill will provide reservation for economically weaker section of the society in higher educational institutions <a href="https://t.co/mzsHxQoUva">pic.twitter.com/mzsHxQoUva</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1082677656599040000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The 10% quota can be availed by people in the general category — that is everybody other than the scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and the other backward&nbsp;classes — whose incomes are lower than Rs 8 lakh an annum and who own less than five acres of land.&nbsp;The quota is for government jobs and educational institutions.&nbsp;

The 10% quota however will take the current reservations offered by the central government above the 50% cap ordered by the Supreme Court.&nbsp;

In the Lok Sabha debate on the bill on Tuesday, Finance Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/every-political-party-supported-quota-for-the-poor-in-general-category-jaitley-189059">Arun Jaitley said the 10% quota would not fall foul of the Supreme Court order</a>&nbsp;since the court's 50% cap on quotas was for caste-based reservations, while the government's quota was for the poor.&nbsp;

After the bill&nbsp;was passed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Twitter that the passage of the "Constitution (One Hundred And Twenty-Fourth Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha is a landmark moment in our nation’s history."&nbsp;&nbsp;

He added that his government was "resolutely committed to the principle of sabka saath, sabka vikas.&nbsp;

"It is our endeavour to ensure that every poor person, irrespective of caste or creed gets to lead a life of dignity, and gets access to all possible opportunities."

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We are resolutely committed to the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.’ 
 
It is our endeavour to ensure that every poor person, irrespective of caste or creed gets to lead a life of dignity, and gets access to all possible opportunities.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1082689487409479680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan on LS passes Constitution (124 Amendment) Bill, 2019: I felt good as my children used to ask me 'what about us, what about economically weak, will only caste matter?'. Many questions were answered today. It'll be very beneficial in the long run. <a href="https://t.co/saBTJXxoLC">pic.twitter.com/saBTJXxoLC</a>
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Rajnath Singh: It's a historic bill. Those people who couldn't get the benefits of reservation till now will be benefited. It had been a demand of people since a long time. This bill has been brought in interest of the nation. I'm assured that it'll be passed in Rajya Sabha also <a href="https://t.co/S61LobNHHP">pic.twitter.com/S61LobNHHP</a>
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The bill still has to be passed&nbsp;by the Rajya Sabha.

And it remains to be seen whether it will be challenged in the courts.&nbsp;

The government's bill providing for a 10% quota for the poor among the general category has been passed by the Lok Sabha. The bill was passed by a vote of 323 ayes versus only 3 nays.

The government's bill providing for a 10% quota for the poor among the general category has been passed by the Lok Sabha. The bill was passed by a vote of 323 ayes versus only 3 nays. Lok Sabha passes Constitution (124 Amendment) Bill, 2019 with 323 'ayes'. The bill will provide reservation for economically weaker section of the society in higher educational institutions pic.twitter.com/mzsHxQoUva — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2019 × The 10% quota can be availed by people in the general category — that is everybody other than the scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and the other backward classes — whose incomes are lower than Rs 8 lakh an annum and who own less than five acres of land. The quota is for government jobs and educational institutions. The 10% quota however will take the current reservations offered by the central government above the 50% cap ordered by the Supreme Court. In the Lok Sabha debate on the bill on Tuesday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the 10% quota would not fall foul of the Supreme Court order since the court's 50% cap on quotas was for caste-based reservations, while the government's quota was for the poor. After the bill was passed, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Twitter that the passage of the "Constitution (One Hundred And Twenty-Fourth Amendment) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha is a landmark moment in our nation’s history." He added that his government was "resolutely committed to the principle of sabka saath, sabka vikas. "It is our endeavour to ensure that every poor person, irrespective of caste or creed gets to lead a life of dignity, and gets access to all possible opportunities." We are resolutely committed to the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.’ It is our endeavour to ensure that every poor person, irrespective of caste or creed gets to lead a life of dignity, and gets access to all possible opportunities. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 8, 2019 × Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan on LS passes Constitution (124 Amendment) Bill, 2019: I felt good as my children used to ask me 'what about us, what about economically weak, will only caste matter?'. Many questions were answered today. It'll be very beneficial in the long run. pic.twitter.com/saBTJXxoLC — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2019 × Rajnath Singh: It's a historic bill. Those people who couldn't get the benefits of reservation till now will be benefited. It had been a demand of people since a long time. This bill has been brought in interest of the nation. I'm assured that it'll be passed in Rajya Sabha also pic.twitter.com/S61LobNHHP — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2019 × The bill still has to be passed by the Rajya Sabha. And it remains to be seen whether it will be challenged in the courts.

10% quota for poor in general category: Lok Sabha passes bill

Scores of trade unions across the nation are on a two-day nationwide strike commencing Tuesday to protest against Central government's alleged anti-worker policies and unilateral labour reforms.

One of the major demands put forth by the protesters is to include enactment of the Social Security Act and setting of a minimum wage of Rs 24,000 for unorganised transport workers.

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West Bengal: Clash between TMC and CPM workers in Asansol during 48-hour nationwide strike called by Central Trade Unions demanding minimum wages, social security schemes &amp; against privatisation of public and government sector. <a href="https://t.co/5oM6TWxnx7">pic.twitter.com/5oM6TWxnx7</a>
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The trade union strike affected normalcy across the country. In Bhubaneswar, protesters picketed and burnt tyres at a railway station as mark of their protest.

The impact of protest was intense in Kolkata, where agitators took to streets, disrupting office-time traffic.

The police soon swept into action and detained a couple of CPI-M workers for allegedly fanning violence in the region in the view of the trade union strike.

The protests are not only affecting normalcy in the metropolitan&nbsp;cities but other states too saw a similar sight.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: 48-hour nationwide strike called by Central Trade Unions demanding minimum wages, social security schemes &amp; against privatisation of public and government sector; Visuals from Kochi (pic1&amp;2) and Trivandrum (pic 3) <a href="https://t.co/cuKkicTzJW">pic.twitter.com/cuKkicTzJW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1082491657520640002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In Bengaluru, commuters were facing trouble going to offices as autorikshaws, cabs and buses are keeping off roads in view of the all-India strike.

In Karnataka also, people residing in Hubli, were seen walking with flags and festoons through the streets displaying their various demands and needs.

On a closer look, this two-day nationwide strike is not confined to the transport sector as thousands of people working in banking sector and other public sector companies and port and dock workers are also participating in the strike to highlight the growing price rise, economic crisis and unemployment across the country.

Moreover, farmers residing across the country under the aegis of the Left peasant wings have also threatened to observe gramin hartal, road roko against the failure of the Central government for not doing enough to address rural distress.

The strike has been called by a consortium of 10 central trade unions and has received support from organisations like the AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, TUCC, AICCTU, along with employees in the banking and insurance sector.

Farm unions like All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) and Bhumi AdhikarAndolan are also part of the strike.

 
&nbsp;

Scores of trade unions across the nation are on a two-day nationwide strike commencing Tuesday to protest against Central government's alleged anti-worker policies and unilateral labour reforms.

Scores of trade unions across the nation are on a two-day nationwide strike commencing Tuesday to protest against Central government's alleged anti-worker policies and unilateral labour reforms. One of the major demands put forth by the protesters is to include enactment of the Social Security Act and setting of a minimum wage of Rs 24,000 for unorganised transport workers. West Bengal: Clash between TMC and CPM workers in Asansol during 48-hour nationwide strike called by Central Trade Unions demanding minimum wages, social security schemes & against privatisation of public and government sector. pic.twitter.com/5oM6TWxnx7 — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2019 × The trade union strike affected normalcy across the country. In Bhubaneswar, protesters picketed and burnt tyres at a railway station as mark of their protest. The impact of protest was intense in Kolkata, where agitators took to streets, disrupting office-time traffic. The police soon swept into action and detained a couple of CPI-M workers for allegedly fanning violence in the region in the view of the trade union strike. The protests are not only affecting normalcy in the metropolitan cities but other states too saw a similar sight. #Kerala: 48-hour nationwide strike called by Central Trade Unions demanding minimum wages, social security schemes & against privatisation of public and government sector; Visuals from Kochi (pic1&2) and Trivandrum (pic 3) pic.twitter.com/cuKkicTzJW — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2019 × In Bengaluru, commuters were facing trouble going to offices as autorikshaws, cabs and buses are keeping off roads in view of the all-India strike. In Karnataka also, people residing in Hubli, were seen walking with flags and festoons through the streets displaying their various demands and needs. On a closer look, this two-day nationwide strike is not confined to the transport sector as thousands of people working in banking sector and other public sector companies and port and dock workers are also participating in the strike to highlight the growing price rise, economic crisis and unemployment across the country. Moreover, farmers residing across the country under the aegis of the Left peasant wings have also threatened to observe gramin hartal, road roko against the failure of the Central government for not doing enough to address rural distress. The strike has been called by a consortium of 10 central trade unions and has received support from organisations like the AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, TUCC, AICCTU, along with employees in the banking and insurance sector. Farm unions like All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) and Bhumi AdhikarAndolan are also part of the strike.

Two-day trade union strike kicks in, affects normalcy across country

Over 33,000 employees of Mumbai's civic transport undertaking BEST went on an indefinite strike since midnight over their demands, including higher wages, paralysing bus services and causing inconvenience to nearly 25-lakh daily commuters.

Responding to a call given by their union leaders, the agitating staff did not take out any bus from all 27 depots on Tuesday, even as the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) administration and an industrial court declared the strike as "illegal".

The BEST has a fleet of over 3,200-red-colour buses which criss-cross the metropolis and also operate services in the neighbouring Thane district and Navi Mumbai. It is the second-biggest mode of transport in Mumbai after local trains, which ferry over 80-lakh passengers every day.

The employees are demanding higher salaries, merging budget of the loss-making BEST with that of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), deliberations on new wage agreement, resuming appointments on compassionate grounds and bonus equivalent to that of the civic body employees.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a>: BEST (Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport) have begun an indefinite strike from Monday midnight, over the demands of implementation of the merger of the BEST budget with principal budget of the BMC, employee service residences and recruitment among others.. <a href="https://t.co/DgPprAHGkM">pic.twitter.com/DgPprAHGkM</a>
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With its employees having gone on strike, the cash-strapped BEST is likely to face a loss of Rs 3 crore per day, a source said.

Shashank Rao, leader of the BEST Workers' Union, which has called the strike, alleged that the transport body's administration showed a lackadaisical approach in resolving the stalemate and that the employees had no option but to go on strike.

An industrial court had on Monday declared the strike as illegal and restrained the labour unions and BEST staffers from going ahead with their protest. But, Rao said they had not received the copy of the court order till they went on strike.

Meanwhile, some commuters opposed the strike, saying it was always the passengers who bore the brunt of the feud between the BEST administration and its employees.

"Why torture innocent passengers? What wrong have we done to BEST employees and their management?" asked Anita Nayak, a Ghatkopar resident who commutes by bus everyday to go for work in suburban Mulund.

The Amchi Mumbai-Amchi Best (AMAB), an independent forum of public transport enthusiasts, took a neutral stand and said the matter should be resolved as soon as possible.

"No doubt commuters are going to face hardships, but it is also true that the BEST workers have also been not paid enough. No harm if BEST is merged with the BMC," a member of the forum said.

Meanwhile, the BEST management has issued internal circulars, warning employees of stringent action if they participated in the strike. It has also threatened to invoke the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act (MESMA) against them.&nbsp;

Over 33,000 employees of Mumbai's civic transport undertaking BEST went on an indefinite strike since midnight over their demands, including higher wages, paralysing bus services and causing inconvenience to nearly 25-lakh daily commuters.

Over 33,000 employees of Mumbai's civic transport undertaking BEST went on an indefinite strike since midnight over their demands, including higher wages, paralysing bus services and causing inconvenience to nearly 25-lakh daily commuters. Responding to a call given by their union leaders, the agitating staff did not take out any bus from all 27 depots on Tuesday, even as the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) administration and an industrial court declared the strike as "illegal". The BEST has a fleet of over 3,200-red-colour buses which criss-cross the metropolis and also operate services in the neighbouring Thane district and Navi Mumbai. It is the second-biggest mode of transport in Mumbai after local trains, which ferry over 80-lakh passengers every day. The employees are demanding higher salaries, merging budget of the loss-making BEST with that of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), deliberations on new wage agreement, resuming appointments on compassionate grounds and bonus equivalent to that of the civic body employees. #Mumbai: BEST (Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport) have begun an indefinite strike from Monday midnight, over the demands of implementation of the merger of the BEST budget with principal budget of the BMC, employee service residences and recruitment among others.. pic.twitter.com/DgPprAHGkM — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2019 × With its employees having gone on strike, the cash-strapped BEST is likely to face a loss of Rs 3 crore per day, a source said. Shashank Rao, leader of the BEST Workers' Union, which has called the strike, alleged that the transport body's administration showed a lackadaisical approach in resolving the stalemate and that the employees had no option but to go on strike. An industrial court had on Monday declared the strike as illegal and restrained the labour unions and BEST staffers from going ahead with their protest. But, Rao said they had not received the copy of the court order till they went on strike. Meanwhile, some commuters opposed the strike, saying it was always the passengers who bore the brunt of the feud between the BEST administration and its employees. "Why torture innocent passengers? What wrong have we done to BEST employees and their management?" asked Anita Nayak, a Ghatkopar resident who commutes by bus everyday to go for work in suburban Mulund. The Amchi Mumbai-Amchi Best (AMAB), an independent forum of public transport enthusiasts, took a neutral stand and said the matter should be resolved as soon as possible. "No doubt commuters are going to face hardships, but it is also true that the BEST workers have also been not paid enough. No harm if BEST is merged with the BMC," a member of the forum said. Meanwhile, the BEST management has issued internal circulars, warning employees of stringent action if they participated in the strike. It has also threatened to invoke the Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act (MESMA) against them.

Mumbai: Buses go off roads as BEST staffers go on strike

From Sittwe in the east in Myanmar to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-afghanistan-and-iran-meet-for-chabahar-agreement-186253">Chabahar in the west in Iran</a>, New Delhi is taking over operations of key ports that will give a fillip to its influence in the region.&nbsp;

In a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, minister of state for shipping, road transport and chemical &amp; fertilizer Mansukh L Mandaviya informed that the "infrastructure at Sittwe Port in Myanmar, constructed with India’s assistance, is ready for operation."&nbsp;

The construction of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/eus-envoy-welcomes-indias-move-to-develop-chabahar-expresses-worry-on-data-localisation-178611">Sittwe Port is part of the Kaladan</a> multi-modal transit transport project and its objective is to create a multi-modal sea, river and road transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar through Sittwe port as well as to north-eastern part of India via Myanmar.&nbsp;

The approved construction cost of Sittwe Port and Inland Water Terminals at Sittwe and Paletwa is Rs. 517.29 crore.&nbsp;

India and Myanmar signed a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 22nd October, 2018 for operationalisation of the port at Sittwe and Inland Water Transport (IWT) Terminals at Sittwe and Paletwa. Once fully operational, the project would encourage investment and trade and also open up alternate routes for connectivity to India’s north-east region.&nbsp;

India is keen to engage with ASEAN and has invited all ten heads of states for its Republic day this year. Under its Act East policy, India will also be building a road from north-east to connect with other ASEAN countries.&nbsp;

The development comes even as India took over the operations of a part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran during the Chabahar Trilateral Agreement meeting that was held on December 24th, 2018.&nbsp;

The heads of Indian, Iranian and Afghanistan delegation jointly inaugurated the office of the Indian SPV - India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ) at Chabahar. The physical take-over of the terminal area, cargo handling equipment and Office building was completed by December, 29th last year.

Commercial operations began at IPGCFZ with the arrival of a vessel. A Cyprus registered bulk carrier had arrived at Chabahar with 72458 MT of corn cargo. The vessel MV MACHERAS berthed at the terminal a few days back on December 30th.&nbsp;

According to the ministry of shipping, "this step marks the beginning of a long journey. India has written history with its engagement in Chabahar and is now leading the regional cooperation and joint efforts to support landlocked Afghanistan."

Interestingly, this is the first time India will be operating a port outside its territories. India started interacting with Iran on Chabahar Port around 2003 but a major push was received in the second half of 2014, resulting in the signing of an &nbsp;MOU between the two countries for the development of Chabahar Port in May 2015.&nbsp;

This MOU translated into a formal 10-year contract for equipping and operating the Chabahar Port, which was executed on May 23rd, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tehran.

The US has already provided a wavier to India on the port from the Iranian sanctions.

The state department had told WION last year that,"after extensive consideration, the secretary has provided an exception from the imposition of certain sanctions under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act of 2012 (IFCA) with respect to the development of Chabahar Port and the construction of an associated railway and for the shipment of non-sanctionable goods through the Port for Afghanistan’s use, as well as Afghanistan’s continued imports of Iranian petroleum products.‎"

From Sittwe in the east in Myanmar to Chabahar in the west in Iran, New Delhi is taking over operations of key ports that will give a fillip to its influence in the region.

From Sittwe in the east in Myanmar to Chabahar in the west in Iran, New Delhi is taking over operations of key ports that will give a fillip to its influence in the region. In a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, minister of state for shipping, road transport and chemical & fertilizer Mansukh L Mandaviya informed that the "infrastructure at Sittwe Port in Myanmar, constructed with India’s assistance, is ready for operation." The construction of Sittwe Port is part of the Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project and its objective is to create a multi-modal sea, river and road transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar through Sittwe port as well as to north-eastern part of India via Myanmar. The approved construction cost of Sittwe Port and Inland Water Terminals at Sittwe and Paletwa is Rs. 517.29 crore. India and Myanmar signed a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 22nd October, 2018 for operationalisation of the port at Sittwe and Inland Water Transport (IWT) Terminals at Sittwe and Paletwa. Once fully operational, the project would encourage investment and trade and also open up alternate routes for connectivity to India’s north-east region. India is keen to engage with ASEAN and has invited all ten heads of states for its Republic day this year. Under its Act East policy, India will also be building a road from north-east to connect with other ASEAN countries. The development comes even as India took over the operations of a part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran during the Chabahar Trilateral Agreement meeting that was held on December 24th, 2018. The heads of Indian, Iranian and Afghanistan delegation jointly inaugurated the office of the Indian SPV - India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ) at Chabahar. The physical take-over of the terminal area, cargo handling equipment and Office building was completed by December, 29th last year. Commercial operations began at IPGCFZ with the arrival of a vessel. A Cyprus registered bulk carrier had arrived at Chabahar with 72458 MT of corn cargo. The vessel MV MACHERAS berthed at the terminal a few days back on December 30th. According to the ministry of shipping, "this step marks the beginning of a long journey. India has written history with its engagement in Chabahar and is now leading the regional cooperation and joint efforts to support landlocked Afghanistan." Interestingly, this is the first time India will be operating a port outside its territories. India started interacting with Iran on Chabahar Port around 2003 but a major push was received in the second half of 2014, resulting in the signing of an MOU between the two countries for the development of Chabahar Port in May 2015. This MOU translated into a formal 10-year contract for equipping and operating the Chabahar Port, which was executed on May 23rd, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Tehran. The US has already provided a wavier to India on the port from the Iranian sanctions. The state department had told WION last year that,"after extensive consideration, the secretary has provided an exception from the imposition of certain sanctions under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act of 2012 (IFCA) with respect to the development of Chabahar Port and the construction of an associated railway and for the shipment of non-sanctionable goods through the Port for Afghanistan’s use, as well as Afghanistan’s continued imports of Iranian petroleum products.‎"

Sittwe Port in Myanmar constructed with India’s assistance ready for operation: Government to Rajya Sabha

An 11-hour Northeast bandh, called by a number of students' organisation and political parties on Tuesday, to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill began amid tight security at 5am.

In Assam, the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) has called for a state-wide bandh after a gap of 10 years and it is being supported by the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-hurt-by-agp-pullout-opposition-parties-welcome-decision-188912">withdrew support to the BJP-led government in Assam</a> on Monday, the opposition Congress, the AIUDF, and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS).

Tyres were burnt on roads at various places in Assam to prevent movement of vehicles. Vehicles were damaged in Guwahati, Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts, police said.

Railway tracks were blocked briefly in Guwahati and Dibrugarh district but movement of trains, including that of the Delhi-bound Rajdhani Express, resumed after the GRP removed protestors from the tracks, railway sources said.

Train and flight schedules remained unaffected.

Shops, markets, financial institutions kept their shutters down, educational institutions, private offices remained closed and private vehicles, including long-distance buses, kept off roads in the Brahmaputra valley, police and official sources said.

Attendance in government offices was thin as the employees had difficulty in reaching their workplace in the absence of adequate public transport, the sources said. 
A skeleton service of the government-run Assam State Transport Corporation buses were pressed into service.

Several students' bodies of the region have decided to observe the 'bandh' in support of the call given by the North East Students' Organisation (NESO), an umbrella organisation of students' unions, of which the AASU is a constituent.

Thirty ethnic organisations are also supporting the bandh in Assam.

The bandh evoked response in the Bengali-majority Barak valley also where Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 4, had announced that the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2016 will be passed as soon as possible in the Parliament as a penance for past injustices.

The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act 1955 to grant Indian citizenship to people from minority communities ? Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians ? from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12 even if they do not possess any proper document.

The AGP and other groups in Assam have said the provisions of the bill will nullify the 1985 Assam Accord, which provides for deportation of all illegal migrants, irrespective of religion, who had entered the state after March, 1971.

Security arrangements were intensified and patrolling by police and paramilitary forces intensified across the state in view of the bandh called by the AASU after ten years.

Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia said, "District SPs have been instructed to ensure public peace. Appropriate forces have been deployed across the state to prevent any untoward incident. Patrolling has also been intensified at all places."

Meanwhile, member organisations of the NESO in other states such as Mizo Zirlai Pawal (MZP), All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), Khasi Students Union (KSU), Garo Students Union (GSU), Naga Students' Federation (NSF), All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) and Twipra Students Federation (TSF) are also supporting the bandh.&nbsp;

An 11-hour Northeast bandh, called by a number of students' organisation and political parties on Tuesday, to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill began amid tight security at 5am.

An 11-hour Northeast bandh, called by a number of students' organisation and political parties on Tuesday, to protest against the controversial Citizenship (Amendment) Bill began amid tight security at 5am. In Assam, the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) has called for a state-wide bandh after a gap of 10 years and it is being supported by the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which withdrew support to the BJP-led government in Assam on Monday, the opposition Congress, the AIUDF, and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS). Tyres were burnt on roads at various places in Assam to prevent movement of vehicles. Vehicles were damaged in Guwahati, Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts, police said. Railway tracks were blocked briefly in Guwahati and Dibrugarh district but movement of trains, including that of the Delhi-bound Rajdhani Express, resumed after the GRP removed protestors from the tracks, railway sources said. Train and flight schedules remained unaffected. Shops, markets, financial institutions kept their shutters down, educational institutions, private offices remained closed and private vehicles, including long-distance buses, kept off roads in the Brahmaputra valley, police and official sources said. Attendance in government offices was thin as the employees had difficulty in reaching their workplace in the absence of adequate public transport, the sources said. A skeleton service of the government-run Assam State Transport Corporation buses were pressed into service. Several students' bodies of the region have decided to observe the 'bandh' in support of the call given by the North East Students' Organisation (NESO), an umbrella organisation of students' unions, of which the AASU is a constituent. Thirty ethnic organisations are also supporting the bandh in Assam. The bandh evoked response in the Bengali-majority Barak valley also where Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 4, had announced that the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2016 will be passed as soon as possible in the Parliament as a penance for past injustices. The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act 1955 to grant Indian citizenship to people from minority communities ? Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians ? from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12 even if they do not possess any proper document. The AGP and other groups in Assam have said the provisions of the bill will nullify the 1985 Assam Accord, which provides for deportation of all illegal migrants, irrespective of religion, who had entered the state after March, 1971. Security arrangements were intensified and patrolling by police and paramilitary forces intensified across the state in view of the bandh called by the AASU after ten years. Assam Director General of Police Kuladhar Saikia said, "District SPs have been instructed to ensure public peace. Appropriate forces have been deployed across the state to prevent any untoward incident. Patrolling has also been intensified at all places." Meanwhile, member organisations of the NESO in other states such as Mizo Zirlai Pawal (MZP), All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU), Khasi Students Union (KSU), Garo Students Union (GSU), Naga Students' Federation (NSF), All Manipur Students Union (AMSU) and Twipra Students Federation (TSF) are also supporting the bandh.

Northeast observes shutdown against Citizenship Amendment Bill

After the recent induction of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-calls-on-army-to-be-battle-ready-188367">lightweight battle tanks in Tibet bordering India</a>, the Chinese military has equipped its troops stationed on the Himalayan plateau with new vehicle-mounted howitzers to improve their combat capability, official media here reported on Tuesday.

China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationed in Tibet Autonomous Region has been equipped with mobile howitzers which aims to boost the troops' high-altitude combat capability to improve border security, state-run Global Times reported.

It quoted Chinese military analysts as saying that the new equipment would be the PLC-181 vehicle-mounted howitzer. The announcement was made in an article released by the WeChat account of the PLA Ground Force on Saturday, the report said.

The equipment was used in an artillery brigade in Tibet during the 2017 China-India stand-off at Doklam, it said.

Song Zhongping, a military expert and TV commentator, told Global Times that the howitzer has a 52-calibre cannon with a range of over 50 km and shoots laser-guided and satellite-guided projectiles.

It will boost the high-altitude combat capability of the PLA in Tibet, Song said.

&nbsp;The induction of the mobile howitzers followed the move by the PLA to put into service the lightweight battle tank, which was tested by its military during exercises in Tibet held at the peak of the Doklam standoff.

The Type 15 has an engine capable of 1,000 horsepower and is significantly lighter than the PLA's other main battle tanks in service, weighing about 32 to 35 tonnes. The tank meant for rugged and mountainous terrain of the Himalayan region.

The induction of the tank and the mobile howitzers highlighted the PLA's efforts to reinforce its troops with new equipment despite steady normalisation of military relations since last year.

As part of the military training in 2019, an artillery brigade in the Tibet Military Command ordered soldiers to take part in a military skills competition at a training ground on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau 3,700 meters above sea level, the report said.

Last week, President Xi Jinping, who also heads the military, ordered the armed forces to enhance their combat readiness to make sure they are always ready for battle, saying risks and challenges for China are on the rise.

China's border issue has not been completely resolved, and was challenged by pro-Tibet independence forces and terrorists, the report quoted analyst as saying.

Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies, told the daily that the military investment in Tibet has been rising, but is primarily meant for defence and not to provoke conflict with neighbouring countries.

He said the PLA troops stationed in Tibet need to improve their combat capabilities in plateau areas and strengthen their willpower in extreme weather as they are primarily responsible for the border defence against terrorists and foreign invaders, he said.

To cope with altitude sickness, the PLA built oxygen stations for the soldiers in Tibet in 2015, which were used for medical purposes, but are now also being used in regular training.

After the recent induction of lightweight battle tanks in Tibet bordering India, the Chinese military has equipped its troops stationed on the Himalayan plateau with new vehicle-mounted howitzers to improve their combat capability, official media here reported on Tuesday.

After the recent induction of lightweight battle tanks in Tibet bordering India, the Chinese military has equipped its troops stationed on the Himalayan plateau with new vehicle-mounted howitzers to improve their combat capability, official media here reported on Tuesday. China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) stationed in Tibet Autonomous Region has been equipped with mobile howitzers which aims to boost the troops' high-altitude combat capability to improve border security, state-run Global Times reported. It quoted Chinese military analysts as saying that the new equipment would be the PLC-181 vehicle-mounted howitzer. The announcement was made in an article released by the WeChat account of the PLA Ground Force on Saturday, the report said. The equipment was used in an artillery brigade in Tibet during the 2017 China-India stand-off at Doklam, it said. Song Zhongping, a military expert and TV commentator, told Global Times that the howitzer has a 52-calibre cannon with a range of over 50 km and shoots laser-guided and satellite-guided projectiles. It will boost the high-altitude combat capability of the PLA in Tibet, Song said. The induction of the mobile howitzers followed the move by the PLA to put into service the lightweight battle tank, which was tested by its military during exercises in Tibet held at the peak of the Doklam standoff. The Type 15 has an engine capable of 1,000 horsepower and is significantly lighter than the PLA's other main battle tanks in service, weighing about 32 to 35 tonnes. The tank meant for rugged and mountainous terrain of the Himalayan region. The induction of the tank and the mobile howitzers highlighted the PLA's efforts to reinforce its troops with new equipment despite steady normalisation of military relations since last year. As part of the military training in 2019, an artillery brigade in the Tibet Military Command ordered soldiers to take part in a military skills competition at a training ground on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau 3,700 meters above sea level, the report said. Last week, President Xi Jinping, who also heads the military, ordered the armed forces to enhance their combat readiness to make sure they are always ready for battle, saying risks and challenges for China are on the rise. China's border issue has not been completely resolved, and was challenged by pro-Tibet independence forces and terrorists, the report quoted analyst as saying. Zhao Gancheng, director of the Centre for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Shanghai Institute for International Studies, told the daily that the military investment in Tibet has been rising, but is primarily meant for defence and not to provoke conflict with neighbouring countries. He said the PLA troops stationed in Tibet need to improve their combat capabilities in plateau areas and strengthen their willpower in extreme weather as they are primarily responsible for the border defence against terrorists and foreign invaders, he said. To cope with altitude sickness, the PLA built oxygen stations for the soldiers in Tibet in 2015, which were used for medical purposes, but are now also being used in regular training.

China equips troops along India-Tibet border with mobile howitzers: Report

Soon after the Centre approved <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cabinet-approves-10-quota-for-economically-weak-among-upper-castes-188798">10 percent quota for economically weaker upper castes</a> in government jobs and education, several political leaders called the decision a politically-motivated move ahead of 2019 general elections.

Taking to Twitter, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said, "Reservation for economically backward upper castes. The bugle announcing the elections has well &amp; truly sounded."

Former cabinet minister Yashwant Singh also hit out at the Centre while calling the decision a "jumla" (hollow promise).

"The proposal to give 10% reservation to economically weaker upper castes is nothing more than a jumla. It is bristling with legal complications and there is no time for getting it passed thru both Houses of Parliament. Govt stands completely exposed," Singh, a former BJP leader said.

Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-raises-question-on-the-legal-aspect-of-10-reservation-for-poor-among-upper-castes-188864">West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee</a> said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is misleading the unemployed youth only for elections.

"My question is, in the name of elections can a government cheat people or ditch unemployed youth? They've to clarify whether it will be implemented or not and if it is constitutionally and legally valid or not," she questioned.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also trained guns at the Centre calling the move a "mere political stunt".

Congress leader and former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said that the Centre took the decision when election is around the corner.

"They took the decision very late that also when elections are around the corner. No matter what they do, what 'jumlas'&nbsp;they give, nothing is going to save this government," he added.

Meanwhile, MoS for Social Justice and Empowerment Vijay Sampla hailed the decision saying, "It's a historic step by Modi government. It's meant for economically weaker upper caste sections whose annual earning is lower than Rs&nbsp;8 lakhs and who possess less than five acres of land. It will not affect other reservation categories." &nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Soon after the Centre approved 10 percent quota for economically weaker upper castes in government jobs and education, several political leaders called the decision a politically-motivated move ahead of 2019 general elections.

Soon after the Centre approved 10 percent quota for economically weaker upper castes in government jobs and education, several political leaders called the decision a politically-motivated move ahead of 2019 general elections. Taking to Twitter, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said, "Reservation for economically backward upper castes. The bugle announcing the elections has well & truly sounded." Former cabinet minister Yashwant Singh also hit out at the Centre while calling the decision a "jumla" (hollow promise). "The proposal to give 10% reservation to economically weaker upper castes is nothing more than a jumla. It is bristling with legal complications and there is no time for getting it passed thru both Houses of Parliament. Govt stands completely exposed," Singh, a former BJP leader said. Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government is misleading the unemployed youth only for elections. "My question is, in the name of elections can a government cheat people or ditch unemployed youth? They've to clarify whether it will be implemented or not and if it is constitutionally and legally valid or not," she questioned. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also trained guns at the Centre calling the move a "mere political stunt". Congress leader and former Uttarakhand chief minister Harish Rawat said that the Centre took the decision when election is around the corner. "They took the decision very late that also when elections are around the corner. No matter what they do, what 'jumlas' they give, nothing is going to save this government," he added. Meanwhile, MoS for Social Justice and Empowerment Vijay Sampla hailed the decision saying, "It's a historic step by Modi government. It's meant for economically weaker upper caste sections whose annual earning is lower than Rs 8 lakhs and who possess less than five acres of land. It will not affect other reservation categories."

Opposition corners Centre over general category quota

The BJP Monday expressed sadness over its ally <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agp-pulls-out-of-alliance-with-bjp-in-assam-after-the-union-cabinet-approves-citizenship-amendment-bill-188833">AGP deciding to break the partnership over the Citizenship Bill</a>, saying the regional party had "fallen into the Congress trap".

While opposition Congress welcomed the AGP's decision, the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) proposed to form a united platform taking along the regional party to fight the "communal and divisive" politics of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) invited the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) to join the ongoing agitation against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill.

The Congress and the AIUDF also lashed out at senior minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for claiming that the state will "go Jinnah's way if the Citizenship Bill is not passed".

The proposed Citizenship Bill seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

BJP Spokesperson Rupam Goswami said, "We have not got any information officially. The alliance with the AGP was made by our national president (Amit Shah), so I think only he will be informed."

"We are definitely hurt seeing it on TV because we did not want them to leave the alliance. We got a hint that they have fallen into the Congress trap," Goswami told PTI.

Another alliance partner, the Bodoland Peoples' Front (BPF), did not come out with any official reaction, but its MLA and Social Welfare Minister Pramila Rani Brahma termed the AGP's decision as "correct", adding that it was her personal view.

"The party (AGP) was born for the cause of the indigenous people and cannot go against them. Responding to peoples' call, it has withdrawn the support," she said.

Former chief minister Tarun Gogoi of the Congress said the AGP should join hands with other parties to protest against the bill.

"We should forget all our differences and aim towards fighting against the bill," he said

Though the Congress leader ruled out any "political equation" with the help of the AGP.

On Sarma's Jinnah comment, Gogoi said it reflected the communal politics of the minister.

However, state Congress president Ripun Bora accused the AGP of carrying on with the alliance for the "sake of power" and noted that the damage to the state had already been done.

"The AGP left the alliance when no alternative was left. They stayed for so long only for the sake of power. The decision is too late as the damage has already been done," Bora said.

Had the AGP not partnered with the BJP, the saffron party would have not bagged so much seats in the assembly election and formed a government in the state, he added.

AIUDF spokesperson Aminul Islam said, "We now hope that we can form a united opposition front, including the Congress, the AGP, the BPF and the Left to fight the communal and divisive politics of the BJP."

The AIUDF legislator also criticised Sarma asserting that Muslims who supported Jinnah went to Pakistan during the partition and those who stayed back in India were opposed to his politics.

Meanwhile, All Assam Students Union (AASU) General Secretary Lurinjyoti Gogoi said, "The AGP became power hungry. It is unfortunate that they realised it so late. Along with AGP, now we appeal all political parties to come out and join the protest (against the Citizenship Bill)."

The Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) too said that it was time for all parties against the bill to unite and find an alternative to communal politics.

"Talking about Jinnah at this time is deliberately done to polarise the society before the polls. By doing so, he (Sarma) is trying to spread the communal agenda of the RSS," KMSS adviser Akhil Gogoi said.

The BJP Monday expressed sadness over its ally AGP deciding to break the partnership over the Citizenship Bill, saying the regional party had "fallen into the Congress trap".

The BJP Monday expressed sadness over its ally AGP deciding to break the partnership over the Citizenship Bill, saying the regional party had "fallen into the Congress trap". While opposition Congress welcomed the AGP's decision, the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) proposed to form a united platform taking along the regional party to fight the "communal and divisive" politics of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The All Assam Students' Union (AASU) and the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) invited the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) to join the ongoing agitation against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill. The Congress and the AIUDF also lashed out at senior minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for claiming that the state will "go Jinnah's way if the Citizenship Bill is not passed". The proposed Citizenship Bill seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. BJP Spokesperson Rupam Goswami said, "We have not got any information officially. The alliance with the AGP was made by our national president (Amit Shah), so I think only he will be informed." "We are definitely hurt seeing it on TV because we did not want them to leave the alliance. We got a hint that they have fallen into the Congress trap," Goswami told PTI. Another alliance partner, the Bodoland Peoples' Front (BPF), did not come out with any official reaction, but its MLA and Social Welfare Minister Pramila Rani Brahma termed the AGP's decision as "correct", adding that it was her personal view. "The party (AGP) was born for the cause of the indigenous people and cannot go against them. Responding to peoples' call, it has withdrawn the support," she said. Former chief minister Tarun Gogoi of the Congress said the AGP should join hands with other parties to protest against the bill. "We should forget all our differences and aim towards fighting against the bill," he said Though the Congress leader ruled out any "political equation" with the help of the AGP. On Sarma's Jinnah comment, Gogoi said it reflected the communal politics of the minister. However, state Congress president Ripun Bora accused the AGP of carrying on with the alliance for the "sake of power" and noted that the damage to the state had already been done. "The AGP left the alliance when no alternative was left. They stayed for so long only for the sake of power. The decision is too late as the damage has already been done," Bora said. Had the AGP not partnered with the BJP, the saffron party would have not bagged so much seats in the assembly election and formed a government in the state, he added. AIUDF spokesperson Aminul Islam said, "We now hope that we can form a united opposition front, including the Congress, the AGP, the BPF and the Left to fight the communal and divisive politics of the BJP." The AIUDF legislator also criticised Sarma asserting that Muslims who supported Jinnah went to Pakistan during the partition and those who stayed back in India were opposed to his politics. Meanwhile, All Assam Students Union (AASU) General Secretary Lurinjyoti Gogoi said, "The AGP became power hungry. It is unfortunate that they realised it so late. Along with AGP, now we appeal all political parties to come out and join the protest (against the Citizenship Bill)." The Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) too said that it was time for all parties against the bill to unite and find an alternative to communal politics. "Talking about Jinnah at this time is deliberately done to polarise the society before the polls. By doing so, he (Sarma) is trying to spread the communal agenda of the RSS," KMSS adviser Akhil Gogoi said.

BJP 'hurt' by AGP pullout, opposition parties welcome decision

Visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif met with Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday in Delhi. This was their first meeting since India took over operations of a part of Chabahar port in Iran.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media after their meeting, Gadkari said: "We had good discussions with Minister Zarif on Chabahar port. Received first ship from Brazil at Chabahar. We have started activity with help of Iranian operator. Regarding machinery order financial arrangement is ready."&nbsp;

Gadkari also annouced that India has given permission to the Iranian Bank to open in Mumbai within 3 month and both sides have "resolved lot of pending issues.&nbsp;

"Minister (Zarif) give lot proposals for future. We need steel. We ready to supply urea. We had detailed discussion. We resolved lot of pending issues. Function of Chabahar is important for us. Confident we are in position to start function of Chabahar."&nbsp;

Zarif said he hoped New Delhi and Tehran would continue to cooperate despite the "illegal US sanctions".&nbsp;

He added that "Iran and India have complimentary economies. We need Indian goods and services and India needs goods and services. In banking sector, very happy that both UCO Bank and Pasargad Bank are getting started with business. We have full range of options. We hope despite the illegal US sanctions, India and Iran can cooperate for the benefit of the people and region." &nbsp;

Asked if Iran would be keen to supply cheap gas to India to develop industry in Chabahar and nearby areas, Zarif said, "We open to discussion with India so that they can start investments in Chabahar area including petrochemicals. We always open for discussions with India in that area and we welcome proposal from India."&nbsp;

Chabahar is key to India's connectivity to its near-west regions, especially Afghanistan and central Asia. Chabahar is also crucial to the North-South International Corridor which connects Mumbai to Moscow.&nbsp;

India has already conveyed its readiness to support the development of the Chabahar-Zahedan Rail line to boost connectivity. The physical taking over of the terminal area, cargo handling equipment and office building at Shahid Beheshti Port was completed by December 29 last year and commercial operations have since begun.&nbsp;

A Cyprus-registered bulk carrier, the MV Macheras, arrived at Chabahar with a 72,458 MT cargo of corn on December 30.&nbsp;

The US has already given India a waiver from sanctions on the port. The US State Department told WION last year that "after extensive consideration, the Secretary has provided for an exception from the imposition of certain sanctions under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act of 2012 (IFCA) with respect to the development of Chabahar port and the construction of an associated railway and for the shipment of non-sanctionable goods through the port for Afghanistan’s use, as well as Afghanistan’s continued imports of Iranian petroleum products.‎"

Visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif met with Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday in Delhi. This was their first meeting since India took over operations of a part of Chabahar port in Iran.

Visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif met with Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday in Delhi. This was their first meeting since India took over operations of a part of Chabahar port in Iran. Speaking to the media after their meeting, Gadkari said: "We had good discussions with Minister Zarif on Chabahar port. Received first ship from Brazil at Chabahar. We have started activity with help of Iranian operator. Regarding machinery order financial arrangement is ready." Gadkari also annouced that India has given permission to the Iranian Bank to open in Mumbai within 3 month and both sides have "resolved lot of pending issues. "Minister (Zarif) give lot proposals for future. We need steel. We ready to supply urea. We had detailed discussion. We resolved lot of pending issues. Function of Chabahar is important for us. Confident we are in position to start function of Chabahar." Zarif said he hoped New Delhi and Tehran would continue to cooperate despite the "illegal US sanctions". He added that "Iran and India have complimentary economies. We need Indian goods and services and India needs goods and services. In banking sector, very happy that both UCO Bank and Pasargad Bank are getting started with business. We have full range of options. We hope despite the illegal US sanctions, India and Iran can cooperate for the benefit of the people and region." Asked if Iran would be keen to supply cheap gas to India to develop industry in Chabahar and nearby areas, Zarif said, "We open to discussion with India so that they can start investments in Chabahar area including petrochemicals. We always open for discussions with India in that area and we welcome proposal from India." Chabahar is key to India's connectivity to its near-west regions, especially Afghanistan and central Asia. Chabahar is also crucial to the North-South International Corridor which connects Mumbai to Moscow. India has already conveyed its readiness to support the development of the Chabahar-Zahedan Rail line to boost connectivity. The physical taking over of the terminal area, cargo handling equipment and office building at Shahid Beheshti Port was completed by December 29 last year and commercial operations have since begun. A Cyprus-registered bulk carrier, the MV Macheras, arrived at Chabahar with a 72,458 MT cargo of corn on December 30. The US has already given India a waiver from sanctions on the port. The US State Department told WION last year that "after extensive consideration, the Secretary has provided for an exception from the imposition of certain sanctions under the Iran Freedom and Counter-Proliferation Act of 2012 (IFCA) with respect to the development of Chabahar port and the construction of an associated railway and for the shipment of non-sanctionable goods through the port for Afghanistan’s use, as well as Afghanistan’s continued imports of Iranian petroleum products.‎"

After India begins operations at Iran's Chabahar port, visiting Iran FM calls for Indian investment

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