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Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-ready-to-hold-assembly-polls-in-jammu-kashmir-rajnath-singh-186991">Jammu region this year</a> with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas.

The Army is reaching out to the civilian population under operation 'Sadhbavana' (goodwill) and it had helped the force to build a strong bond with the residents of remote pockets who are facing a lot of hardships due to lack of basic facilities, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/counting-of-votes-for-52-civic-bodies-to-be-held-across-jammu-and-kashmir-today-172430">Jammu-based</a> Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI.

He said the youth-oriented programmes has touched the hearts and minds of the people as the Army is organizing free coaching classes to help them in their studies, skill development courses, pre-recruitment training and counselling camps and also engaging them in sports activities.

"We have organised over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region comprising 10 districts this year, benefiting thousands of people."

"The major thrust is on poor population living in the hilly districts especially the youth besides the ex-servicemen who are being educated about the latest schemes being announced from time to time for their welfare and address their problems," the army officer said.

He said this was in addition to the rescue missions undertaken by the force to help accidents victims and those stranded in inaccessible areas during snowfall."Hundreds of people were rescued and some of them evacuated by choppers to save their lives in the recent past".

He said the Army has organised 104 medical and veterinary aid camps this year, providing free service to the needy at their doorsteps.

Thousands of villagers, mostly nomadic shepherds who live in hilly areas, were provided with solar lanterns, which brought smiles on their faces, the officer said.

He said the Army has organised dozens of tuition classes for both boys and girls to help them in their studies besides 123 lecture classes and 78 awareness drives were held for the benefit of the youth who were also engaged in sports activities like cricket, football, volleyball and chess competitions.

Last week, Lt Col Anand said Army started tuition classes for children of rural areas in mountainous Ramban district with a twin objective to help poor students and generate employment for the educated youth.

The three-month long tuition classes were started at different locations including Lower Gund, Cheril, Halemaidan, Batu, Karalchihal, Ukhral and Rajgarh areas, he said.

"The aim of these classes is to impart quality education to children from rural areas who cannot afford private coaching. These classes are being conducted during winter vacations to ensure maximum attendance," he said.

He said more than 250 students would be accruing the benefits of quality coaching through this project which also generated employment for educated youths who have been hired as teachers for these coaching classes.

The PRO said the Army gifted gymnasiums and other sports items and also constructed toilets at various educational institutions.

Experts were engaged to deliver lectures on various important issues like women empowerment, health and hygiene, ill effects of drugs, water conservation, road safety, global warming, first aid and the need to maintain communal harmony, he said.

He said various short-term courses in nursing, stitching and awareness drives on career opportunities for girls in armed forces were regularly held for the women.

Over two dozen motivational drives were also undertaken to attract youth to take Army as a profession while 37 communal harmony meetings were conducted to bring together various communities and maintain peace in the region, he added.

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region this year with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas.

Taking time out from its busy schedule of safeguarding borders and continuous anti-insurgency operations, the Army has conducted over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region this year with the focus on youth and the poor population living in far-flung areas. The Army is reaching out to the civilian population under operation 'Sadhbavana' (goodwill) and it had helped the force to build a strong bond with the residents of remote pockets who are facing a lot of hardships due to lack of basic facilities, Jammu-based Army PRO Lt Col Devender Anand told PTI. He said the youth-oriented programmes has touched the hearts and minds of the people as the Army is organizing free coaching classes to help them in their studies, skill development courses, pre-recruitment training and counselling camps and also engaging them in sports activities. "We have organised over 900 civic action programmes across Jammu region comprising 10 districts this year, benefiting thousands of people." "The major thrust is on poor population living in the hilly districts especially the youth besides the ex-servicemen who are being educated about the latest schemes being announced from time to time for their welfare and address their problems," the army officer said. He said this was in addition to the rescue missions undertaken by the force to help accidents victims and those stranded in inaccessible areas during snowfall."Hundreds of people were rescued and some of them evacuated by choppers to save their lives in the recent past". He said the Army has organised 104 medical and veterinary aid camps this year, providing free service to the needy at their doorsteps. Thousands of villagers, mostly nomadic shepherds who live in hilly areas, were provided with solar lanterns, which brought smiles on their faces, the officer said. He said the Army has organised dozens of tuition classes for both boys and girls to help them in their studies besides 123 lecture classes and 78 awareness drives were held for the benefit of the youth who were also engaged in sports activities like cricket, football, volleyball and chess competitions. Last week, Lt Col Anand said Army started tuition classes for children of rural areas in mountainous Ramban district with a twin objective to help poor students and generate employment for the educated youth. The three-month long tuition classes were started at different locations including Lower Gund, Cheril, Halemaidan, Batu, Karalchihal, Ukhral and Rajgarh areas, he said. "The aim of these classes is to impart quality education to children from rural areas who cannot afford private coaching. These classes are being conducted during winter vacations to ensure maximum attendance," he said. He said more than 250 students would be accruing the benefits of quality coaching through this project which also generated employment for educated youths who have been hired as teachers for these coaching classes. The PRO said the Army gifted gymnasiums and other sports items and also constructed toilets at various educational institutions. Experts were engaged to deliver lectures on various important issues like women empowerment, health and hygiene, ill effects of drugs, water conservation, road safety, global warming, first aid and the need to maintain communal harmony, he said. He said various short-term courses in nursing, stitching and awareness drives on career opportunities for girls in armed forces were regularly held for the women. Over two dozen motivational drives were also undertaken to attract youth to take Army as a profession while 37 communal harmony meetings were conducted to bring together various communities and maintain peace in the region, he added.

Over 900 civic action programmes conducted to benefit local population in Jammu: Army

At a time when modernisation of the Army's armoured corp is moving at a "snail's pace", Pakistan has drawn up an ambitious plan to procure close to 600 battle tanks including T-90 tanks from Russia, primarily to bolster its combat prowess along the border with India, military and intelligence sources said Sunday.

Most of the tanks Pakistan was procuring will be able to hit targets at a range of 3 to 4 km and they are set to deploy some of the tanks along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, the sources told PTI.

Apart from battle tanks, Pakistan Army is also procuring 245 150mm SP Mike-10 guns from Italy out of which it has already received 120 guns.

The sources said Pakistan was eyeing to buy from Russia a batch of T-90 battle tanks- the mainstays of the armoured regiments of the Indian Army, and that the move reflects Islamabad's intent to forge a deeper defence engagement with Moscow which has been India's largest and most trusted defence supplier post Independence.

Pakistan has been holding joint military drills with Russia in the last couple of years besides going for defence purchases from it, triggering some concerns in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The sources said as part of the mega plan to significantly revamp its armoured fleet by 2025, Pakistan has decided to procure at least 360 battle tanks globally besides producing 220 tanks indigenously with help from China.

Pakistan Army's move to enhance its armoured corps comes at a time when the Line of Actual Control in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed growing hostilities in the last year. The Indian Army has been strongly retaliating to every unprovoked firing by Pakistani side.

But, when the Indian Army is focused on counter-terror operations, the Pakistan Army was fast reducing its gap with Indian forces in fighting a conventional war, the intelligence sources said.

Military sources said modernisation of the Indian Army's armoured regiments were moving at a "snail's pace" due to procedural delays and the issue is being examined at a very high level of the government.

The Indian Army had drawn up a mega plan to modernise its infantry and armoured corps. However, almost all the procurement projects including the Rs 60,000 crore Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) programme are stuck due to a variety of reasons.&nbsp;

At present, India's armoured regiments, comprising mainly T-90, T-72 and Arjuna tanks, have much more superiority over Pakistan, but sources said Islamabad was seriously planning to bridge the gap at the earliest.

As against around 67 armoured regiments of Indian Army, the number of similar regiments in Pakistan Army is around 51, the sources said.

At present, over 70 per cent of the tanks in Pakistan's armoury has the capability to operate during the night which, they said, was a matter of concern.

Besides eyeing to procure T-90 tanks, Pakistan Army is also in the process of inducting Chinese VT-4 tanks as well as Oplod-P tanks from Ukrain, the sources said. Trials for both Oplod and VT-4 tanks have already been conducted by the Pakistan Army.

At present, Pakistan is learnt to have around 17 units of Chinese origin T-59 and T69 tanks, which comprise 30 per cent of its total tank strength, the sources said.&nbsp;

It also has 12 regiments of Al-Zarar tanks, which makes 20 per cent of the tank fleet while Ukrain origin T-80-UD and T-85-UD, as well as upgraded version of T-59 tanks, comprise the rest 50 per cent tank fleet, they said.

"The Pakistan Army is carrying out modernisation of its armoured regiments in a calibrated and time-bound manner which is not the case in India," said an expert, who wished not to be named.

He said it was a matter of concern the way Pakistan was modernising its tank fleet.

The Indian Army has also raised an independent tank brigade which is stationed in Ladakh but it is not enough, the expert said.

At a time when modernisation of the Army's armoured corp is moving at a "snail's pace", Pakistan has drawn up an ambitious plan to procure close to 600 battle tanks including T-90 tanks from Russia, primarily to bolster its combat prowess along the border with India, military and intelligence sources said Sunday.

At a time when modernisation of the Army's armoured corp is moving at a "snail's pace", Pakistan has drawn up an ambitious plan to procure close to 600 battle tanks including T-90 tanks from Russia, primarily to bolster its combat prowess along the border with India, military and intelligence sources said Sunday. Most of the tanks Pakistan was procuring will be able to hit targets at a range of 3 to 4 km and they are set to deploy some of the tanks along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, the sources told PTI. Apart from battle tanks, Pakistan Army is also procuring 245 150mm SP Mike-10 guns from Italy out of which it has already received 120 guns. The sources said Pakistan was eyeing to buy from Russia a batch of T-90 battle tanks- the mainstays of the armoured regiments of the Indian Army, and that the move reflects Islamabad's intent to forge a deeper defence engagement with Moscow which has been India's largest and most trusted defence supplier post Independence. Pakistan has been holding joint military drills with Russia in the last couple of years besides going for defence purchases from it, triggering some concerns in New Delhi. The sources said as part of the mega plan to significantly revamp its armoured fleet by 2025, Pakistan has decided to procure at least 360 battle tanks globally besides producing 220 tanks indigenously with help from China. Pakistan Army's move to enhance its armoured corps comes at a time when the Line of Actual Control in Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed growing hostilities in the last year. The Indian Army has been strongly retaliating to every unprovoked firing by Pakistani side. But, when the Indian Army is focused on counter-terror operations, the Pakistan Army was fast reducing its gap with Indian forces in fighting a conventional war, the intelligence sources said. Military sources said modernisation of the Indian Army's armoured regiments were moving at a "snail's pace" due to procedural delays and the issue is being examined at a very high level of the government. The Indian Army had drawn up a mega plan to modernise its infantry and armoured corps. However, almost all the procurement projects including the Rs 60,000 crore Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) programme are stuck due to a variety of reasons. At present, India's armoured regiments, comprising mainly T-90, T-72 and Arjuna tanks, have much more superiority over Pakistan, but sources said Islamabad was seriously planning to bridge the gap at the earliest. As against around 67 armoured regiments of Indian Army, the number of similar regiments in Pakistan Army is around 51, the sources said. At present, over 70 per cent of the tanks in Pakistan's armoury has the capability to operate during the night which, they said, was a matter of concern. Besides eyeing to procure T-90 tanks, Pakistan Army is also in the process of inducting Chinese VT-4 tanks as well as Oplod-P tanks from Ukrain, the sources said. Trials for both Oplod and VT-4 tanks have already been conducted by the Pakistan Army. At present, Pakistan is learnt to have around 17 units of Chinese origin T-59 and T69 tanks, which comprise 30 per cent of its total tank strength, the sources said. It also has 12 regiments of Al-Zarar tanks, which makes 20 per cent of the tank fleet while Ukrain origin T-80-UD and T-85-UD, as well as upgraded version of T-59 tanks, comprise the rest 50 per cent tank fleet, they said. "The Pakistan Army is carrying out modernisation of its armoured regiments in a calibrated and time-bound manner which is not the case in India," said an expert, who wished not to be named. He said it was a matter of concern the way Pakistan was modernising its tank fleet. The Indian Army has also raised an independent tank brigade which is stationed in Ladakh but it is not enough, the expert said.

Pakistan procuring 600 tanks to strengthen capability along border with India: Intelligence Sources

The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajya-sabha-to-discuss-triple-talaq-bill-on-dec-31-bjp-congress-issue-whips-187344">triple talaq bill</a> as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it.

"The law should had been made according to the Quran. There should have been some scope for agreement. Talaq (divorce) happens when all options exhaust.''

"If the proposed legislation becomes a means of punishment instead of relief for the people, then we will launch an agitation," chairperson of AIMWPLB Shaista Ambar told PTI Sunday.

She claimed the proposed legislation will ruin families.

Lok Sabha Thursday passed the bill which criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq, with the government rejecting the contention that it was aimed at targeting a particular community.

The opposition, which had been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'joint select committee', staged a walkout when its demand was rejected by the government.

The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was passed by the Lower House with 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing the legislation. The bill will now go to Rajya Sabha for approval.

The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the triple talaq bill as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it.

The All India Muslim Women Personal Law Board (AIMWPLB) Sunday termed the triple talaq bill as one which will "ruin" families if it is made into a law, and said it will launch an agitation against it. "The law should had been made according to the Quran. There should have been some scope for agreement. Talaq (divorce) happens when all options exhaust.'' "If the proposed legislation becomes a means of punishment instead of relief for the people, then we will launch an agitation," chairperson of AIMWPLB Shaista Ambar told PTI Sunday. She claimed the proposed legislation will ruin families. Lok Sabha Thursday passed the bill which criminalises the practice of instant triple talaq, with the government rejecting the contention that it was aimed at targeting a particular community. The opposition, which had been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'joint select committee', staged a walkout when its demand was rejected by the government. The Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 was passed by the Lower House with 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing the legislation. The bill will now go to Rajya Sabha for approval.

Triple talaq bill will ruin families, will launch agitation against it: AIMWPLB

The contentious <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-wont-let-triple-talaq-bill-pass-in-rajya-sabha-k-c-venugopal-187198">triple talaq bill</a> seeking to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among Muslims is set to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha Monday, even as the Congress has said it will not allow its passage in the present form.

The ruling BJP has issued a whip in the Upper House asking its members to be present. Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will table the bill in the Upper House.&nbsp;

The bill was cleared by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-passes-triple-talaq-bill-congress-aiadmk-stage-walkout-186851">Lok Sabha</a> -- 245 voting in favour and 11&nbsp;opposing it -- on Thursday amid a walkout by the Opposition.

Prasad had on Friday claimed the bill will find support in the Rajya Sabha, where the BJP-led NDA lacks numbers.&nbsp;

The bill is listed in the Rajya Sabha's legislative agenda for Monday.

All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K C Venugopal told reporters in Kochi Saturday the party would join hands with others to prevent the bill from getting passed in the House.

He said 10 opposition parties had openly come out against the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018 when it was introduced in the Lok Sabha.

Even the parties which support the government on various issues, including the AIADMK, have opposed the bill, said Venugopal, who is also a Congress floor strategist.

The opposition has questioned the stringent provisions like criminalisation of a civil wrong in the triple talaq bill.

The Opposition has been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'Joint Select Committee' of Parliament for further scrutiny.

On Thursday, the government rejected the Opposition's contention the bill it was aimed at targeting a particular community.

Piloting the bill, Prasad had said there should be no politics on the bill, stressing it was not against any particular community.

Describing the passage of the triple talaq bill in the Lok Sabha as a historic step towards ensuring equality and dignity of Muslim women, BJP chief Amit Shah had demanded an apology from the Congress for "decades of injustice".&nbsp;

The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September.

Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband.

The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in the Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha.

The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House.

But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had cleared some amendments, including introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable.

However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments.

An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses.

The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament.

Introducing the bill, the Law Minister had said despite the Supreme Court striking down the practice of talaq-e-biddat (instant triple talaq), terming it unconstitutional, divorces in this form were taking place.

Citing details of instant triple talaq cases, the government had last week informed Lok Sabha that till now 430 incidents of triple talaq have come to the notice of the government through the media.

Of these, 229 were reported before the Supreme Court judgment, while another 201 came to the notice after it.

These cases were reported between the period of January 2017 and September 13, 2018.

The contentious triple talaq bill seeking to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among Muslims is set to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha Monday, even as the Congress has said it will not allow its passage in the present form.

The contentious triple talaq bill seeking to criminalise the practice of instant divorce among Muslims is set to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha Monday, even as the Congress has said it will not allow its passage in the present form. The ruling BJP has issued a whip in the Upper House asking its members to be present. Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad will table the bill in the Upper House. The bill was cleared by the Lok Sabha -- 245 voting in favour and 11 opposing it -- on Thursday amid a walkout by the Opposition. Prasad had on Friday claimed the bill will find support in the Rajya Sabha, where the BJP-led NDA lacks numbers. The bill is listed in the Rajya Sabha's legislative agenda for Monday. All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary K C Venugopal told reporters in Kochi Saturday the party would join hands with others to prevent the bill from getting passed in the House. He said 10 opposition parties had openly come out against the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2018 when it was introduced in the Lok Sabha. Even the parties which support the government on various issues, including the AIADMK, have opposed the bill, said Venugopal, who is also a Congress floor strategist. The opposition has questioned the stringent provisions like criminalisation of a civil wrong in the triple talaq bill. The Opposition has been demanding that the bill be referred to a 'Joint Select Committee' of Parliament for further scrutiny. On Thursday, the government rejected the Opposition's contention the bill it was aimed at targeting a particular community. Piloting the bill, Prasad had said there should be no politics on the bill, stressing it was not against any particular community. Describing the passage of the triple talaq bill in the Lok Sabha as a historic step towards ensuring equality and dignity of Muslim women, BJP chief Amit Shah had demanded an apology from the Congress for "decades of injustice". The fresh Bill to make the practice of triple talaq among Muslims a penal offence was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 17 to replace an ordinance issued in September. Under the proposed law, giving instant triple talaq will be illegal and void, and will attract a jail term of three years for the husband. The fresh bill will supersede an earlier bill passed in the Lok Sabha and pending in the Rajya Sabha. The earlier bill was approved by the Lower House. But amid opposition by some parties in the upper house, the government had cleared some amendments, including introduction of a provision of bail, to make it more acceptable. However, as the bill continued to face resistance in the Rajya Sabha, the government issued an ordinance in September, incorporating the amendments. An ordinance has a life of six months. But from the day a session begins, it has to be replaced by a bill which should be passed by Parliament within 42 days (six weeks), else it lapses. The government is at liberty to re-promulgate the ordinance if the bill fails to get through Parliament. Introducing the bill, the Law Minister had said despite the Supreme Court striking down the practice of talaq-e-biddat (instant triple talaq), terming it unconstitutional, divorces in this form were taking place. Citing details of instant triple talaq cases, the government had last week informed Lok Sabha that till now 430 incidents of triple talaq have come to the notice of the government through the media. Of these, 229 were reported before the Supreme Court judgment, while another 201 came to the notice after it. These cases were reported between the period of January 2017 and September 13, 2018.

Rajya Sabha to discuss Triple Talaq Bill on December 31; BJP, Congress issue whips

Delhi's air quality slipped into the 'severe' category on Sunday due to unfavourable meteorological conditions slowing down dispersion of pollutants, authorities said.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed the overall air quality index (AQI) of Delhi at 412, which falls in the 'severe category', while the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) recorded an AQI of 388, which comes under the 'very poor' category.

The SAFAR also pointed out that a consistent day-night trend is observed for the past one week.

"During night, combination of calm wind and colder conditions is elevating the pollution level, where in many locations, 24-hour rolling average (AQI) is touching 'severe' levels for a few hours, whereas during the day, wind speed is picking up slightly and temperature is increasing to keep the level in the 'very poor' range," it said.

The air quality slipped into the 'severe' category on Sunday morning for this fourth time in 10 days.

Delhi's air quality has oscillated between the 'very poor' and the 'severe' categories during this period.

According to the CPCB data, 27 areas recorded 'severe' pollution, while eight areas witnessed 'very poor' air quality.

In the NCR, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon and Noida recorded 'severe' air quality, while Faridabad recorded 'very poor' quality air.

The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 339 and the PM10 level at 506 in Delhi, the CPCB said.

The national capital recorded its second-highest pollution level of the year on Sunday with an AQI of 450. The air quality remained 'severe' Monday and Tuesday. There was a slight drop in the pollution level and the air quality had moved to the 'very poor' category Wednesday.

On Thursday, the air quality had again worsened and turned 'severe'. 
According to the SAFAR, the air quality over Delhi has deteriorated slightly and touched the upper side of the 'very poor' category.

"Air quality over Delhi is very poor, which may improve slightly as winds are relatively high during the day but predicted to deteriorate by tomorrow as wind speed is unlikely to remain the same and other meteorological conditions are already not favourable. Cold wave conditions are likely to persist at least for the next two days," the SAFAR said.

"The air quality index will continue to fluctuate between 360-380 for the next three days, which comes under the 'very poor' category," it added.

Delhi's air quality slipped into the 'severe' category on Sunday due to unfavourable meteorological conditions slowing down dispersion of pollutants, authorities said.

Delhi's air quality slipped into the 'severe' category on Sunday due to unfavourable meteorological conditions slowing down dispersion of pollutants, authorities said. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed the overall air quality index (AQI) of Delhi at 412, which falls in the 'severe category', while the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) recorded an AQI of 388, which comes under the 'very poor' category. The SAFAR also pointed out that a consistent day-night trend is observed for the past one week. "During night, combination of calm wind and colder conditions is elevating the pollution level, where in many locations, 24-hour rolling average (AQI) is touching 'severe' levels for a few hours, whereas during the day, wind speed is picking up slightly and temperature is increasing to keep the level in the 'very poor' range," it said. The air quality slipped into the 'severe' category on Sunday morning for this fourth time in 10 days. Delhi's air quality has oscillated between the 'very poor' and the 'severe' categories during this period. According to the CPCB data, 27 areas recorded 'severe' pollution, while eight areas witnessed 'very poor' air quality. In the NCR, Ghaziabad, Gurgaon and Noida recorded 'severe' air quality, while Faridabad recorded 'very poor' quality air. The overall PM2.5 level (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) was recorded at 339 and the PM10 level at 506 in Delhi, the CPCB said. The national capital recorded its second-highest pollution level of the year on Sunday with an AQI of 450. The air quality remained 'severe' Monday and Tuesday. There was a slight drop in the pollution level and the air quality had moved to the 'very poor' category Wednesday. On Thursday, the air quality had again worsened and turned 'severe'. According to the SAFAR, the air quality over Delhi has deteriorated slightly and touched the upper side of the 'very poor' category. "Air quality over Delhi is very poor, which may improve slightly as winds are relatively high during the day but predicted to deteriorate by tomorrow as wind speed is unlikely to remain the same and other meteorological conditions are already not favourable. Cold wave conditions are likely to persist at least for the next two days," the SAFAR said. "The air quality index will continue to fluctuate between 360-380 for the next three days, which comes under the 'very poor' category," it added.

Delhi's air quality turns 'severe' due to unfavourable meteorological conditions: Authorities

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-mp-goof-up-in-lok-sabha-cites-miners-trapped-in-mizoram-instead-of-meghalaya-186977">Parliamen</a>t which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday.

A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which is examining the bill, will be held on Monday to finalise the proposed legislation before being submitted to the Lok Sabha.

The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant Indian nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12, even if they don't possess any proper document.

This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014.

"The bill is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha either on January 7 or 8. There is very little time for debate before it is passed in the Lower House and then in the Rajya Sabha," a source privy to the deliberations told PTI.

However, in Monday's meeting the BJP may have its way in incorporating some "contentious" provisions in the proposed legislation.

JPC chairman Rajendra Agrawal said the committee will try to finalise the bill through consensus after examining every clause.

"However, if we cannot reach a consensus, we will go for voting, which is a standard procedure for Parliament," he told PTI.

The BJP has 14 MPs, including Agrawal, in the 30-member panel. The Congress has four members while the Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal have two MPs each. The Shiv Sena, JD(U), TRS, TDP, CPI(M), AIADMK, SP, BSP have one member each in the panel.

The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI(M) and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on basis of religion.

"If there is voting, the BJP is likely to have its way in incorporating some contentious clauses. Monday's meeting is very crucial," sources said.

In the last meeting of the JPC, held on November 27, opposition members moved clause-by-clause amendments and one Congress MP sought removal of Bangladesh from the purview of the proposed legislation.

Interestingly, an NDA member suggested that Assam, where the bill received strong opposition, should be excluded from the ambit of the legislation.

Various members from opposition parties have been asserting that&nbsp; 
citizenship is a constitutional provision and it cannot be based on religion, as India is a secular nation.

Rather than resolving the situation in Assam, this bill is making the condition more volatile in the already tense state, an opposition member in the panel had said.

Echoing similar sentiments, a Congress member said if all the proposed amendments come into force, then the Centre has to nullify the Assam Accord under which anyone entering the state illegally after March 1971, should be declared foreigner and deported.

Agrawal said they were bound to submit the report in this session as in all practical purposes, Winter session is the last session of the current Lok Sabha.

A large section of people and organisations in the northeast have opposed the bill saying it will nullify the provisions of the Assam Accord of 1985, which fixed March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date for deportation of illegal immigrants irrespective of religion.

Even the governments of Meghalaya and Mizoram have strongly opposed the bill and adopted resolutions against it.

The committee has already taken six extensions from the Lok Sabha Speaker. Last time it had sought time for the presentation of the report was on the "first day of the last week of the Winter Session, 2018".

During the course of its examination and study visits, the committee met a cross-section of people in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Meghalaya and heard views of organisations, individuals, experts and others over the issue.

The committee also heard the views of the chief secretaries and police chiefs of Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and West Bengal.&nbsp;

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of Parliament which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday.

The controversial Citizenship Amendment Bill may not able to get through during the Winter session of Parliament which comes to an end on January 8, sources said Sunday. A meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), which is examining the bill, will be held on Monday to finalise the proposed legislation before being submitted to the Lok Sabha. The bill seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, to grant Indian nationality to people belonging to minority communities -- Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians -- in Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan after six years of residence in India instead of 12, even if they don't possess any proper document. This was an election promise of the BJP in 2014. "The bill is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha either on January 7 or 8. There is very little time for debate before it is passed in the Lower House and then in the Rajya Sabha," a source privy to the deliberations told PTI. However, in Monday's meeting the BJP may have its way in incorporating some "contentious" provisions in the proposed legislation. JPC chairman Rajendra Agrawal said the committee will try to finalise the bill through consensus after examining every clause. "However, if we cannot reach a consensus, we will go for voting, which is a standard procedure for Parliament," he told PTI. The BJP has 14 MPs, including Agrawal, in the 30-member panel. The Congress has four members while the Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal have two MPs each. The Shiv Sena, JD(U), TRS, TDP, CPI(M), AIADMK, SP, BSP have one member each in the panel. The Congress, Trinamool Congress, CPI(M) and a few other parties have been steadfastly opposing the bill claiming that citizenship can't be given on basis of religion. "If there is voting, the BJP is likely to have its way in incorporating some contentious clauses. Monday's meeting is very crucial," sources said. In the last meeting of the JPC, held on November 27, opposition members moved clause-by-clause amendments and one Congress MP sought removal of Bangladesh from the purview of the proposed legislation. Interestingly, an NDA member suggested that Assam, where the bill received strong opposition, should be excluded from the ambit of the legislation. Various members from opposition parties have been asserting that citizenship is a constitutional provision and it cannot be based on religion, as India is a secular nation. Rather than resolving the situation in Assam, this bill is making the condition more volatile in the already tense state, an opposition member in the panel had said. Echoing similar sentiments, a Congress member said if all the proposed amendments come into force, then the Centre has to nullify the Assam Accord under which anyone entering the state illegally after March 1971, should be declared foreigner and deported. Agrawal said they were bound to submit the report in this session as in all practical purposes, Winter session is the last session of the current Lok Sabha. A large section of people and organisations in the northeast have opposed the bill saying it will nullify the provisions of the Assam Accord of 1985, which fixed March 24, 1971, as the cut-off date for deportation of illegal immigrants irrespective of religion. Even the governments of Meghalaya and Mizoram have strongly opposed the bill and adopted resolutions against it. The committee has already taken six extensions from the Lok Sabha Speaker. Last time it had sought time for the presentation of the report was on the "first day of the last week of the Winter Session, 2018". During the course of its examination and study visits, the committee met a cross-section of people in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Assam and Meghalaya and heard views of organisations, individuals, experts and others over the issue. The committee also heard the views of the chief secretaries and police chiefs of Assam, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra and West Bengal.

Citizenship amendment bill may not get through in Winter session

A stockpile of 15,000 tonnes of uranium is required for achieving supply security of fuel for nuclear plants in the country, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), which manages atomic energy installations, has told a parliamentary panel.

The panel report, which was tabled before the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-nitish-holds-jdu-meeting-in-patna-187291">Lok Sabha</a> in the ongoing Parliament session, also recommended that necessary steps should be taken to ensure new uranium mines are opened as soon as possible to reduce the dependence on the imported uranium.

Currently, a major portion of domestic production of uranium comes from the Jaduguda mines of Jharkhand, which are "old" and the ore is found at "great depths." Moreover, the high extraction cost makes it "unviable" as compared to imported uranium, the panel noted.

Besides the Jaduguda mines, the uranium is extracted from the Tummalapalle mines in Andhra Pradesh. Apart from Jaduguda, uranium reserves are available in Meghalaya, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

India has 22 nuclear power reactors and domestic uranium is used in nuclear plants which are not under the international nuclear energy watchdog, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

India currently imports uranium from Kazakhstan, Canada and Russia.

"The committee notes that the DAE aims at a stockpile of 15,000 tonnes of uranium for achieving a level of comfort in so far as achieving supply security of nuclear fuel for nuclear plants is concerned," the panel said in its report.

The government also plans to build a Strategic Uranium Reserve to ensure that there is no shortage of uranium for its power reactors.&nbsp;

For the 10 Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), there will be a requirement of about 1250 metric tonnes of natural uranium dioxide fuel, the report said.

The panel also noted that although nuclear plants are heavily capital intensive, the cost per unit power generation is low. It stated that the tariff for the two Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) of Tarapur Nuclear Power Plant with a capacity of 160 MW each is as low as 90 paise per unit whereas it is Rs 2.70 per unit for the new plants.

A stockpile of 15,000 tonnes of uranium is required for achieving supply security of fuel for nuclear plants in the country, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), which manages atomic energy installations, has told a parliamentary panel.

A stockpile of 15,000 tonnes of uranium is required for achieving supply security of fuel for nuclear plants in the country, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), which manages atomic energy installations, has told a parliamentary panel. The panel report, which was tabled before the Lok Sabha in the ongoing Parliament session, also recommended that necessary steps should be taken to ensure new uranium mines are opened as soon as possible to reduce the dependence on the imported uranium. Currently, a major portion of domestic production of uranium comes from the Jaduguda mines of Jharkhand, which are "old" and the ore is found at "great depths." Moreover, the high extraction cost makes it "unviable" as compared to imported uranium, the panel noted. Besides the Jaduguda mines, the uranium is extracted from the Tummalapalle mines in Andhra Pradesh. Apart from Jaduguda, uranium reserves are available in Meghalaya, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. India has 22 nuclear power reactors and domestic uranium is used in nuclear plants which are not under the international nuclear energy watchdog, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). India currently imports uranium from Kazakhstan, Canada and Russia. "The committee notes that the DAE aims at a stockpile of 15,000 tonnes of uranium for achieving a level of comfort in so far as achieving supply security of nuclear fuel for nuclear plants is concerned," the panel said in its report. The government also plans to build a Strategic Uranium Reserve to ensure that there is no shortage of uranium for its power reactors. For the 10 Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), there will be a requirement of about 1250 metric tonnes of natural uranium dioxide fuel, the report said. The panel also noted that although nuclear plants are heavily capital intensive, the cost per unit power generation is low. It stated that the tariff for the two Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) of Tarapur Nuclear Power Plant with a capacity of 160 MW each is as low as 90 paise per unit whereas it is Rs 2.70 per unit for the new plants.

15,000 tonnes of uranium needed to achieve supply security of fuel for nuclear plants

Noted Bengali filmmaker Mrinal Sen passed away on Sunday in Kolkata at the age of 95.

Born on May 14, 1923, in a town in Faridpur now in Bangladesh, Sen&nbsp;was often considered to be one of the greatest ambassadors of Bengali parallel cinema globally.

He earned several National and International awards for his work.

Sen studied physics in his college. As a student, he also&nbsp;participated&nbsp;in the cultural wing of the Communist Party of India.&nbsp;

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Dadasaheb Phalke awardee film maker Mrinal Sen passed away at the age of 95 at his residence today.
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Expressing condolences at his death, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Bannerjee&nbsp;tweeted today, "Saddened at the passing away of Mrinal Sen. A great loss to the film industry. My condolences to his family".

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&nbsp;

Noted Bengali filmmaker Mrinal Sen passed away on Sunday in Kolkata at the age of 95. Born on May 14, 1923, in a town in Faridpur now in Bangladesh, Sen was often considered to be one of the greatest ambassadors of Bengali parallel cinema globally.

Noted Bengali filmmaker Mrinal Sen passed away on Sunday in Kolkata at the age of 95. Born on May 14, 1923, in a town in Faridpur now in Bangladesh, Sen was often considered to be one of the greatest ambassadors of Bengali parallel cinema globally. He earned several National and International awards for his work. Sen studied physics in his college. As a student, he also participated in the cultural wing of the Communist Party of India. Dadasaheb Phalke awardee film maker Mrinal Sen passed away at the age of 95 at his residence today. — ANI (@ANI) December 30, 2018 × Expressing condolences at his death, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Bannerjee tweeted today, "Saddened at the passing away of Mrinal Sen. A great loss to the film industry. My condolences to his family". Saddened at the passing away of Mrinal Sen. A great loss to the film industry. My condolences to his family — Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) December 30, 2018 ×

Bengali filmmaker Mrinal Sen passes away at 95

Nineteen people have been arrested in connection with the killing of a policeman in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district, a senior police official said on Sunday.

Director General of Police (DGP) O P Singh, in a tweet, clarified that the deceased policeman, Suresh Pratap Singh Vats, was a head constable.

Vats (48) was killed Saturday when protesters hurled stones at vehicles returning from the venue of a public meeting addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was hit on the head by a stone when he went to end a traffic jam caused by the protests.

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The death of Head Const. Suresh Pratap Singh Vats in Gajipur in stone pelting is extremely tragic. 
So far 19 accused in 3 cases have been arrested,which include 11 in the case of murder.Strict action will b taken against those involved in violence under stringent sections of law
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"The death of head constable Suresh Pratap Singh Vats in Ghazipur in stone pelting is extremely tragic. So far 19 accused in 3 cases have been arrested, which include 11 in the case of murder. Strict action will be taken against those involved in violence under stringent sections of law (sic)," the DGP said in a tweet.

According to Superintendent of Police (Ghazipur) Yashveer Singh, the protesters were workers from the Rashtriya Nishad Party who were prevented by the administration and the police from going to the rally venue.

"When the prime minister had left Ghazipur, the party workers blocked traffic at various places and started pelting stones on the vehicles returning from the programme venue," he told&nbsp;on Saturday.

The SP said the police are trying to identify other protesters by scanning video footage of the incident.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a compensation of Rs 40 lakh for the wife of Vats and Rs 10 lakh for his parents, the state has government said.

Adityanath also directed the district magistrate and the superintendent of police to take strict action against unruly elements and arrest them immediately.

The death comes less than a month after the killing of Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh in Bulandshahr district. He was shot dead during a mob violence over alleged cow slaughter. The man who allegedly shot the Bulandshahr inspector was arrested last week.

Modi had addressed a public meeting after laying the foundation stone for a medical college and releasing a postal stamp on Maharaj Suheldev. He had left for Varanasi when the violence in Ghazipur took place.&nbsp;

Nineteen people have been arrested in connection with the killing of a policeman in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district, a senior police official said on Sunday. Director General of Police (DGP) O P Singh, in a tweet, clarified that the deceased policeman, Suresh Pratap Singh Vats, was a head constable.

Nineteen people have been arrested in connection with the killing of a policeman in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district, a senior police official said on Sunday. Director General of Police (DGP) O P Singh, in a tweet, clarified that the deceased policeman, Suresh Pratap Singh Vats, was a head constable. Vats (48) was killed Saturday when protesters hurled stones at vehicles returning from the venue of a public meeting addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was hit on the head by a stone when he went to end a traffic jam caused by the protests. The death of Head Const. Suresh Pratap Singh Vats in Gajipur in stone pelting is extremely tragic. So far 19 accused in 3 cases have been arrested,which include 11 in the case of murder.Strict action will b taken against those involved in violence under stringent sections of law — DGP UP (@dgpup) December 30, 2018 × "The death of head constable Suresh Pratap Singh Vats in Ghazipur in stone pelting is extremely tragic. So far 19 accused in 3 cases have been arrested, which include 11 in the case of murder. Strict action will be taken against those involved in violence under stringent sections of law (sic)," the DGP said in a tweet. According to Superintendent of Police (Ghazipur) Yashveer Singh, the protesters were workers from the Rashtriya Nishad Party who were prevented by the administration and the police from going to the rally venue. "When the prime minister had left Ghazipur, the party workers blocked traffic at various places and started pelting stones on the vehicles returning from the programme venue," he told on Saturday. The SP said the police are trying to identify other protesters by scanning video footage of the incident. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a compensation of Rs 40 lakh for the wife of Vats and Rs 10 lakh for his parents, the state has government said. Adityanath also directed the district magistrate and the superintendent of police to take strict action against unruly elements and arrest them immediately. The death comes less than a month after the killing of Inspector Subodh Kumar Singh in Bulandshahr district. He was shot dead during a mob violence over alleged cow slaughter. The man who allegedly shot the Bulandshahr inspector was arrested last week. Modi had addressed a public meeting after laying the foundation stone for a medical college and releasing a postal stamp on Maharaj Suheldev. He had left for Varanasi when the violence in Ghazipur took place.

19 arrested in connection with killing of policeman in Ghazipur 

In his last "Mann Ki Baat" radio programme of the year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the special connection between India and South Africa quoting the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

"Bapu had a special connection with South Africa... it was in South Africa Mohan became Mahatma. It was in South Africa, Gandhi started his first satyagraha, stood against racism, He founded Phoenix and Tolstoy farms from where demands for peace and justice reverberated around the world," Modi said.

''Mahatma Gandhi's first experiment with truth was here (South Africa). It was here that he showed his exceptional determination for justice and developed a philosophy of satyagraha and methods of struggle here," Modi added.

India is celebrating the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and several events are being planned in the country as well as abroad. South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest for Republic Day programme in 2019.&nbsp;

"This year we are celebrating 150 birth anniversary of Bapu. Its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019," Modi said during Mann Ki Baat.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially handed over the invite to South African President in a bilateral on the sidelines of G20 in Argentina on December 1.

PM Modi also spoke about Nelson Mandela who ''was an icon in the fight against apartheid" and said Mandela drew inspiration from Mahatma.&nbsp;

2018 is being observed as the birth centenary year of Nelson Mandela.&nbsp;

Drawing parallels between "Madiba and Bapu", PM said, "Bapu and Mandela are a source of inspiration for the world. Their rectitude encourages us to build a loving and sympathetic society."

PM Modi had paid an official visit to South Africa from 7-9 July 2016 and visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg and Durban.&nbsp;

In his last "Mann Ki Baat" radio programme of the year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the special connection between India and South Africa quoting the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi.

In his last "Mann Ki Baat" radio programme of the year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the special connection between India and South Africa quoting the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi. "Bapu had a special connection with South Africa... it was in South Africa Mohan became Mahatma. It was in South Africa, Gandhi started his first satyagraha, stood against racism, He founded Phoenix and Tolstoy farms from where demands for peace and justice reverberated around the world," Modi said. ''Mahatma Gandhi's first experiment with truth was here (South Africa). It was here that he showed his exceptional determination for justice and developed a philosophy of satyagraha and methods of struggle here," Modi added. India is celebrating the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and several events are being planned in the country as well as abroad. South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest for Republic Day programme in 2019. "This year we are celebrating 150 birth anniversary of Bapu. Its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019," Modi said during Mann Ki Baat. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially handed over the invite to South African President in a bilateral on the sidelines of G20 in Argentina on December 1. PM Modi also spoke about Nelson Mandela who ''was an icon in the fight against apartheid" and said Mandela drew inspiration from Mahatma. 2018 is being observed as the birth centenary year of Nelson Mandela. Drawing parallels between "Madiba and Bapu", PM said, "Bapu and Mandela are a source of inspiration for the world. Their rectitude encourages us to build a loving and sympathetic society." PM Modi had paid an official visit to South Africa from 7-9 July 2016 and visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg and Durban.

Bapu had a special connection with South Africa: PM Modi in last Mann Ki Baat of 2018 

The Haryana government has given the permission for further investigation in the alleged land deal corruption case against Robert Vadra and former chief minister BS Hooda, Gurugram Police Commissioner said on Friday.

"We have got the approval (from state government) to probe and the investigation is underway, "Police commissioner KK Rao said.

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KK Rao, Gurugram Police Commissioner on the land deal case against Robert Vadra and former Haryana CM BS Hooda: We have got the approval(from state Govt) to probe and the investigation is underway (28.12.18) <a href="https://t.co/SE2rem1Utu">pic.twitter.com/SE2rem1Utu</a>
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Responding to the government's nod for the investigation in the case, former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda said, "This is on the basis of a private complaint lodged on behest of the government, there is nothing in it. Attempt to defame and play politics".

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BS Hooda, Former Haryana CM on Haryana Govt gives nod to investigate him and Robert Vadra in a land deal case: This is on the basis of a private complaint lodged on behest of Govt, there is nothing in it. Attempt to defame and play politics. <a href="https://t.co/rDYvyl1D6R">pic.twitter.com/rDYvyl1D6R</a>
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A case had been registered in the Gurugram police station on September 1 against Robert Vadra, the son-in-law of Sonia Gandhi and former chief minister BS Hooda in an alleged land scam.

The case was registered under sections of 420 (cheating), 120 (hatching conspiracy) and 467, 468, 471(forgery) under the Indian Penal Code on the complaint of Surender Sharma, a resident of Tauru in Haryana.

The complainant claimed that a company belonging to Mr Vadra's Skylight Hospitality had cheated people and the government.

The BJP set up a one-man commission to investigate into the matter after it came to power in the state on May 14, 2015.

The commission probed the alleged irregularities in the grant of licence by the Haryana Department of Town and Country Planning to some companies, including those of Robert Vadra in Sector 83 of Gurugram for developing commercial colonies.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Haryana government has given the permission for further investigation in the alleged land deal corruption case against Robert Vadra and former chief minister BS Hooda, Gurugram Police Commissioner said on Friday.

The Haryana government has given the permission for further investigation in the alleged land deal corruption case against Robert Vadra and former chief minister BS Hooda, Gurugram Police Commissioner said on Friday. "We have got the approval (from state government) to probe and the investigation is underway, "Police commissioner KK Rao said. KK Rao, Gurugram Police Commissioner on the land deal case against Robert Vadra and former Haryana CM BS Hooda: We have got the approval(from state Govt) to probe and the investigation is underway (28.12.18) pic.twitter.com/SE2rem1Utu — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × Responding to the government's nod for the investigation in the case, former CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda said, "This is on the basis of a private complaint lodged on behest of the government, there is nothing in it. Attempt to defame and play politics". BS Hooda, Former Haryana CM on Haryana Govt gives nod to investigate him and Robert Vadra in a land deal case: This is on the basis of a private complaint lodged on behest of Govt, there is nothing in it. Attempt to defame and play politics. pic.twitter.com/rDYvyl1D6R — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × A case had been registered in the Gurugram police station on September 1 against Robert Vadra, the son-in-law of Sonia Gandhi and former chief minister BS Hooda in an alleged land scam. The case was registered under sections of 420 (cheating), 120 (hatching conspiracy) and 467, 468, 471(forgery) under the Indian Penal Code on the complaint of Surender Sharma, a resident of Tauru in Haryana. The complainant claimed that a company belonging to Mr Vadra's Skylight Hospitality had cheated people and the government. The BJP set up a one-man commission to investigate into the matter after it came to power in the state on May 14, 2015. The commission probed the alleged irregularities in the grant of licence by the Haryana Department of Town and Country Planning to some companies, including those of Robert Vadra in Sector 83 of Gurugram for developing commercial colonies.

Haryana govt permits probe in land deal case involving Robert Vadra, Bhupinder Hooda

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to take requisite steps to increase the number of the Council Ministers in the state.

Baghel, who took over Chhattisgarh Chief Minister on December 17, has requested the Prime Minister to make amendments in the Article 164 (1A) of the Constitution keeping in view the geographical area of Chhattisgarh and the number of Council of Ministers in the state for the rapid development of the region.&nbsp;

Article 164 (1A) provides for limiting the number of ministers in the state cabinets.

He requested Prime Minister to increase the per cent of Council Ministers by five per cent from the present 15 per cent. The total number of ministers including the Chief Minister has to be within 15 per cent of the total number of members of the Legislative Assembly of the state.

"According to this provision (Article 164 (1A)), the number of ministers in Chhattisgarh cannot be more than 13. The area of Chhattisgarh state is more than 1.35 lakh square kilometres and it is 4.4 per cent of the total land area of the country. Simultaneously, the area of Chhattisgarh is more than Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar and West Bengal. In Chhattisgarh, the Scheduled Tribes population is 32 per cent, Scheduled Castes 12 per cent and the Other Backward Classes population is around 45 per cent. Keeping in view the geographical area in the new state, it is necessary to increase the number of members of the Council of Ministers for smooth governance," the Chief Minister stated in his letter.

This development has come to light just days after the Baghel Cabinet was expanded with the induction of nine ministers.&nbsp;

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to take requisite steps to increase the number of the Council Ministers in the state.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Saturday wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to take requisite steps to increase the number of the Council Ministers in the state. Baghel, who took over Chhattisgarh Chief Minister on December 17, has requested the Prime Minister to make amendments in the Article 164 (1A) of the Constitution keeping in view the geographical area of Chhattisgarh and the number of Council of Ministers in the state for the rapid development of the region. Article 164 (1A) provides for limiting the number of ministers in the state cabinets. He requested Prime Minister to increase the per cent of Council Ministers by five per cent from the present 15 per cent. The total number of ministers including the Chief Minister has to be within 15 per cent of the total number of members of the Legislative Assembly of the state. "According to this provision (Article 164 (1A)), the number of ministers in Chhattisgarh cannot be more than 13. The area of Chhattisgarh state is more than 1.35 lakh square kilometres and it is 4.4 per cent of the total land area of the country. Simultaneously, the area of Chhattisgarh is more than Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Bihar and West Bengal. In Chhattisgarh, the Scheduled Tribes population is 32 per cent, Scheduled Castes 12 per cent and the Other Backward Classes population is around 45 per cent. Keeping in view the geographical area in the new state, it is necessary to increase the number of members of the Council of Ministers for smooth governance," the Chief Minister stated in his letter. This development has come to light just days after the Baghel Cabinet was expanded with the induction of nine ministers.

Chhattisgarh CM urges PM Modi to expand number of ministers in state cabinet

There was a slight respite from the intense cold conditions at most places in Kashmir Valley even as Leh and Kargil in Ladakh region of the state experienced the coldest night of the season, the MET office said on Saturday.

The night temperature rose slightly across the valley, except in Kokernag, providing some relief to residents. However, the mercury went down in Ladakh region of the state, an official of the MET Office here said.

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, which had experienced the coldest December night in nearly three decades on the previous night at minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, saw the mercury rise half-a-degree to settle at a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius last night.

However, the official said the night temperature in the city was still over five degrees below normal for this time of the season.

He said Qazigund- the gateway town to the valley - in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6.2 degrees Celsius, up from minus 6.7 degrees Celsius the previous night.

Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6 degrees Celsius last night, the official said.

The night temperature in Pahalgam, which serves as one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir, settled at a low of minus 8.3 degrees Celsius last night up from minus 9.5 degrees Celsius on the previous night.

The official said the ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 7 degrees Celsius, an increase of over two degrees from minus 9.3 degrees Celsius the previous night.

Kokernag town in south Kashmir was the only place in the valley where the night temperature dropped last night. The town registered a low of minus 5.8 degrees Celsius as against minus 5.5 degrees Celsius on the previous night.

The night temperature in Leh town in Ladakh region of the state dropped over two degrees from the previous night's minus 15.1 degrees Celsius to settle at a low of minus 17.5 degrees Celsius last night, the official said.

He said last night was the coldest night of the season so far there and Leh was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir.

The nearby Kargil recorded a low of minus 16.7 degrees Celsius, the official said, adding last night was the coldest night of the season so far there.

Kashmir is currently under the grip of 'Chillai-Kalan' the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably.

'Chillai-Kalan' ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir. The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha' (baby cold).

However, the winter this season has been dry so far, although there was a spell of early snowfall in the valley in first and second week of November.

The intense cold wave has resulted in freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous Dal Lake here, and residential water supply pipes in most areas of the city and other towns of the valley.

The prolonged dry spell has resulted in an increase in common ailments like cough, cold and other respiratory problems, especially among children and elderly.

The weatherman has predicted light rain or snowfall at isolated places in the valley and Ladakh region on Sunday and at scattered places across the state next week.

There was a slight respite from the intense cold conditions at most places in Kashmir Valley even as Leh and Kargil in Ladakh region of the state experienced the coldest night of the season, the MET office said on Saturday.

There was a slight respite from the intense cold conditions at most places in Kashmir Valley even as Leh and Kargil in Ladakh region of the state experienced the coldest night of the season, the MET office said on Saturday. The night temperature rose slightly across the valley, except in Kokernag, providing some relief to residents. However, the mercury went down in Ladakh region of the state, an official of the MET Office here said. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, which had experienced the coldest December night in nearly three decades on the previous night at minus 7.7 degrees Celsius, saw the mercury rise half-a-degree to settle at a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius last night. However, the official said the night temperature in the city was still over five degrees below normal for this time of the season. He said Qazigund- the gateway town to the valley - in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6.2 degrees Celsius, up from minus 6.7 degrees Celsius the previous night. Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6 degrees Celsius last night, the official said. The night temperature in Pahalgam, which serves as one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir, settled at a low of minus 8.3 degrees Celsius last night up from minus 9.5 degrees Celsius on the previous night. The official said the ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 7 degrees Celsius, an increase of over two degrees from minus 9.3 degrees Celsius the previous night. Kokernag town in south Kashmir was the only place in the valley where the night temperature dropped last night. The town registered a low of minus 5.8 degrees Celsius as against minus 5.5 degrees Celsius on the previous night. The night temperature in Leh town in Ladakh region of the state dropped over two degrees from the previous night's minus 15.1 degrees Celsius to settle at a low of minus 17.5 degrees Celsius last night, the official said. He said last night was the coldest night of the season so far there and Leh was the coldest recorded place in Jammu and Kashmir. The nearby Kargil recorded a low of minus 16.7 degrees Celsius, the official said, adding last night was the coldest night of the season so far there. Kashmir is currently under the grip of 'Chillai-Kalan' the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably. 'Chillai-Kalan' ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir. The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha' (baby cold). However, the winter this season has been dry so far, although there was a spell of early snowfall in the valley in first and second week of November. The intense cold wave has resulted in freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous Dal Lake here, and residential water supply pipes in most areas of the city and other towns of the valley. The prolonged dry spell has resulted in an increase in common ailments like cough, cold and other respiratory problems, especially among children and elderly. The weatherman has predicted light rain or snowfall at isolated places in the valley and Ladakh region on Sunday and at scattered places across the state next week.

J&K: Leh, Kargil experience coldest night of season

A volcanic lava type inflammable liquid has been reportedly profiting out of the ground in Tripura's Jalifa village and has triggered panic among the local residents of the area.

It has gradually become a matter of concern for the Tripura state government, in North East India, which is highly vulnerable to earthquakes as it lies in seismic zone V.

This is the third such incident reported this year the state which is very close to Chittagong in Bangladesh.

Earlier in mid-April, at two spots, namely Baishnavpur and Ghagrabasti of Sunroom, lava-like liquid erupted along with fire and gas.

In the recent incident that happened only a few days back, the local villagers of Jalifa were scared to find lava erupting from the lower portion of the electric pole on the roadside and reported the matter to the fire extinguishing team and local police.

A team of firefighters rushed to the spot and tried to spray water and foam, but failed to stop the ongoing eruption that had already burned the spot.

Meanwhile, scientists from the Department of Science, Technology and Environment of the Government of Tripura also visited the spot.

After examining the spot and analysing the samples collected from the spot they concluded that the fire, smoke and other materials running out of the ground is due to a fault line that passes through that area beside the displacement of the underground tectonic plates in that region and which is creating huge subsurface heat causing the incident.

However, Avisek Chaudhuri, from the Tripura Space Application Centre, who is the leading scientist team viewed that there is very little chance of eruption of lava or an active volcano.&nbsp;

But the Science, Technology and Environment Minister of Tripura Sudip Roy Barman has expressed concern as the state has a history of recorded massive earthquakes earlier.

Barman said that the government is taking the matter.&nbsp;

A volcanic lava type inflammable liquid has been reportedly profiting out of the ground in Tripura's Jalifa village and has triggered panic among the local residents of the area.

A volcanic lava type inflammable liquid has been reportedly profiting out of the ground in Tripura's Jalifa village and has triggered panic among the local residents of the area. It has gradually become a matter of concern for the Tripura state government, in North East India, which is highly vulnerable to earthquakes as it lies in seismic zone V. This is the third such incident reported this year the state which is very close to Chittagong in Bangladesh. Earlier in mid-April, at two spots, namely Baishnavpur and Ghagrabasti of Sunroom, lava-like liquid erupted along with fire and gas. In the recent incident that happened only a few days back, the local villagers of Jalifa were scared to find lava erupting from the lower portion of the electric pole on the roadside and reported the matter to the fire extinguishing team and local police. A team of firefighters rushed to the spot and tried to spray water and foam, but failed to stop the ongoing eruption that had already burned the spot. Meanwhile, scientists from the Department of Science, Technology and Environment of the Government of Tripura also visited the spot. After examining the spot and analysing the samples collected from the spot they concluded that the fire, smoke and other materials running out of the ground is due to a fault line that passes through that area beside the displacement of the underground tectonic plates in that region and which is creating huge subsurface heat causing the incident. However, Avisek Chaudhuri, from the Tripura Space Application Centre, who is the leading scientist team viewed that there is very little chance of eruption of lava or an active volcano. But the Science, Technology and Environment Minister of Tripura Sudip Roy Barman has expressed concern as the state has a history of recorded massive earthquakes earlier. Barman said that the government is taking the matter.

Lava-type eruption causes panic in Tripura village

Four&nbsp;terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning.

The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police&nbsp;launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

The search operation was initiated on specific&nbsp;inputs received about the presence of militants in Hanjan area of Pulwama.

The police have also recovered arms and ammunition from the deceased terrorists.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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A gun&nbsp;battle also broke out&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Wagoora area of Nowgam on the outskirts of Srinagar city in the early hours&nbsp;of Saturday morning.

Considering the security of civilians, the area had&nbsp;been cordoned off.

(With inputs from ANI)

Four terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning. The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

Four terrorists were killed in the encounter that broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Saturday morning. The encounter started in Rajpora area of Pulwama after the police launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists. The search operation was initiated on specific inputs received about the presence of militants in Hanjan area of Pulwama. The police have also recovered arms and ammunition from the deceased terrorists. #UPDATE Four terrorists have been killed.Arms and ammunition recovered https://t.co/23BX6oZUie — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × A gun battle also broke out in the Wagoora area of Nowgam on the outskirts of Srinagar city in the early hours of Saturday morning. Considering the security of civilians, the area had been cordoned off. (With inputs from ANI)

Four terrorists killed in encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama

No <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/what-evolutionary-theory-can-teach-us-about-the-appearance-of-aliens-23464">alien activity</a> was suspected after PMO office ordered an immediate inquiry on the basis of a mail that alien-like elements were found near the house of the man who raised the issue.

At the PMO's direction, Sinhagad road police station started an inquiry and visited the place where the person who mailed the PMO was residing.&nbsp;

After a thorough investigation, it was found that the person is recovering from a brain tumour operation.&nbsp;

After he felt that he saw some alien-like elements next to his house, he wrote an email to PMO office mentioning that aliens were collecting information and sending it to their home planet and they were planning an attack on Earth from their planet.&nbsp;

Notably, the applicant is well qualified and holds a Masters degree in Chemistry.

Senior Police Inspector of Sinhagad Road Police Station Pune, Sardar Patil said: "We have received an application around 15 days back and the person is from Pune who registered a complaint stating that near Sinhagad road there is a forest where he noticed some suspicious activities. In his complaint, he mentioned that some aliens are there who are sending our country`s information to their planet for which they have set up radar and floodlight system."

"According to the claims made by the person, whenever he used to look outside from his window, aliens clicked his pictures and even tried to contact him. But when we reached there, nothing suspicious was found there. His wife told nothing is there. She informed us that her husband had a brain tumour operation recently and he is still recovering," Patil added.

No alien activity was suspected after PMO office ordered an immediate inquiry on the basis of a mail that alien-like elements were found near the house of the man who raised the issue.

No alien activity was suspected after PMO office ordered an immediate inquiry on the basis of a mail that alien-like elements were found near the house of the man who raised the issue. At the PMO's direction, Sinhagad road police station started an inquiry and visited the place where the person who mailed the PMO was residing. After a thorough investigation, it was found that the person is recovering from a brain tumour operation. After he felt that he saw some alien-like elements next to his house, he wrote an email to PMO office mentioning that aliens were collecting information and sending it to their home planet and they were planning an attack on Earth from their planet. Notably, the applicant is well qualified and holds a Masters degree in Chemistry. Senior Police Inspector of Sinhagad Road Police Station Pune, Sardar Patil said: "We have received an application around 15 days back and the person is from Pune who registered a complaint stating that near Sinhagad road there is a forest where he noticed some suspicious activities. In his complaint, he mentioned that some aliens are there who are sending our country`s information to their planet for which they have set up radar and floodlight system." "According to the claims made by the person, whenever he used to look outside from his window, aliens clicked his pictures and even tried to contact him. But when we reached there, nothing suspicious was found there. His wife told nothing is there. She informed us that her husband had a brain tumour operation recently and he is still recovering," Patil added.

Pune: PMO inquiry finds no alien-like activity

As operation to rescue <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-indian-navy-divers-arrive-at-site-join-operations-187204">15 trapped miners</a> continue at the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district, a survivor of the December 13 accident said Saturday there is no way the trapped miners will come out alive.

Sahib Ali, hailing from Assam's Chirang district, is one of the five men who narrowly escaped the flooding coal mine a fortnight ago.

He said four others who made it alive had fled to their homes in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya.

"There were 22 of us who went in that day. I had worked for two weeks. Many are diggers who went to the farthest part of the mine. Some are cart pullers like me and we all work in a synchronised manner in small holes that barely fit a big man," Ali told PTI over phone Saturday.

He said four of those who escaped were the men who were tasked with loading coal into the metal box.

Recounting the December 13 nightmare, Ali said," all men started work early at about 5 am. By about 7 am, the entire mine was full of water."

"I was about 5 to 6 feet inside the mine pulling a cart full of coal. For some unknown reasons, I could feel a breeze inside the mine which was unusual. What followed was big sound of water gushing in. I barely made it to the opening of the pit," Ali said.

"There is no way the trapped men will be alive. How long can a person hold his breath underwater?" he added.

Going by Ali's story, at least 17 people are still trapped inside the illegal coal pit as only five narrowly escaped the flooding mine out of the 22 men who went in.

"My only hope is to see that their bodies pulled out and last rites be carried out as per traditions," a sobbing Ali said.

On December 13, he spent the entire day at the flooded mine and slept in a nearby active coal mine in the night, he said.

The ill-fated mine is roughly 370 feet and as of December 29, the rescue officials have calculated that about 170 feet is full of water, an NDRF official said.

In Lumthari village where Ali and his fellow miners went to work, coal is found roughly between 200-500 feet underneath the ground.

Asked on what prompted him to go and work in the dangerous coal mines of Meghalaya, Ali said the mines promised a big amount of money at the end of the week.

"I earn between Rs 800-1500 on a full day of work at the mine. I had in mind that I will work for sometime only and return home," he said.

Family members of at least 7 trapped miners, hailing from West Garo Hills district of the state, have already given up hope to rescue their kins alive and requested the government to retrieve the bodies for the last rites.

Shohor Ali who hails from Magurmari village in West Garo Hills district and whose son, brother and son-in-law were among the victims at Lumthari village, told PTI, "We have lost all hope to see them alive. I just wanted the authorities to help retrieve the dead bodies for their last rites."

The three were allegedly lured to the coal mines at Lumthari as it involves bigger wages and on an average each miner gets paid Rs 2000 per day, he said.

Kins of four other victims also did not sound optimistic of seeing their dear ones alive.

Shohar Ali was among the first people who came to know of the accident when he received a call within minutes when the mine was flooded.

One of the 5 persons who narrowly escaped the flooded mine called him up to inform of the accident.

Ali, in turn, called up his MLA (Rajabala constituency) Azad Aman to find out about the accident and who later called up the SP of the district to verify.

It took the police several hours before finally locating the place where the accident took place, the MLA said.

In all, 7 persons from Rajabala in West Garo Hills district, 3 from Lumthari village itself, and the other 5 from Assam have been confirmed to have been trapped inside the ill-fated mine.

The state government had announced a Rs 1 lakh interim relief on December 22 to the family members of each of the 15 miners trapped and feared dead, 10 days after the accident took place.

As operation to rescue 15 trapped miners continue at the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district, a survivor of the December 13 accident said Saturday there is no way the trapped miners will come out alive.

As operation to rescue 15 trapped miners continue at the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district, a survivor of the December 13 accident said Saturday there is no way the trapped miners will come out alive. Sahib Ali, hailing from Assam's Chirang district, is one of the five men who narrowly escaped the flooding coal mine a fortnight ago. He said four others who made it alive had fled to their homes in West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. "There were 22 of us who went in that day. I had worked for two weeks. Many are diggers who went to the farthest part of the mine. Some are cart pullers like me and we all work in a synchronised manner in small holes that barely fit a big man," Ali told PTI over phone Saturday. He said four of those who escaped were the men who were tasked with loading coal into the metal box. Recounting the December 13 nightmare, Ali said," all men started work early at about 5 am. By about 7 am, the entire mine was full of water." "I was about 5 to 6 feet inside the mine pulling a cart full of coal. For some unknown reasons, I could feel a breeze inside the mine which was unusual. What followed was big sound of water gushing in. I barely made it to the opening of the pit," Ali said. "There is no way the trapped men will be alive. How long can a person hold his breath underwater?" he added. Going by Ali's story, at least 17 people are still trapped inside the illegal coal pit as only five narrowly escaped the flooding mine out of the 22 men who went in. "My only hope is to see that their bodies pulled out and last rites be carried out as per traditions," a sobbing Ali said. On December 13, he spent the entire day at the flooded mine and slept in a nearby active coal mine in the night, he said. The ill-fated mine is roughly 370 feet and as of December 29, the rescue officials have calculated that about 170 feet is full of water, an NDRF official said. In Lumthari village where Ali and his fellow miners went to work, coal is found roughly between 200-500 feet underneath the ground. Asked on what prompted him to go and work in the dangerous coal mines of Meghalaya, Ali said the mines promised a big amount of money at the end of the week. "I earn between Rs 800-1500 on a full day of work at the mine. I had in mind that I will work for sometime only and return home," he said. Family members of at least 7 trapped miners, hailing from West Garo Hills district of the state, have already given up hope to rescue their kins alive and requested the government to retrieve the bodies for the last rites. Shohor Ali who hails from Magurmari village in West Garo Hills district and whose son, brother and son-in-law were among the victims at Lumthari village, told PTI, "We have lost all hope to see them alive. I just wanted the authorities to help retrieve the dead bodies for their last rites." The three were allegedly lured to the coal mines at Lumthari as it involves bigger wages and on an average each miner gets paid Rs 2000 per day, he said. Kins of four other victims also did not sound optimistic of seeing their dear ones alive. Shohar Ali was among the first people who came to know of the accident when he received a call within minutes when the mine was flooded. One of the 5 persons who narrowly escaped the flooded mine called him up to inform of the accident. Ali, in turn, called up his MLA (Rajabala constituency) Azad Aman to find out about the accident and who later called up the SP of the district to verify. It took the police several hours before finally locating the place where the accident took place, the MLA said. In all, 7 persons from Rajabala in West Garo Hills district, 3 from Lumthari village itself, and the other 5 from Assam have been confirmed to have been trapped inside the ill-fated mine. The state government had announced a Rs 1 lakh interim relief on December 22 to the family members of each of the 15 miners trapped and feared dead, 10 days after the accident took place.

Meghalaya: Trapped miners won't come out alive, says survivor who escaped on Dec 13

The rescue team in Meghalaya's Khelerihaat has recovered three helmets in an effort to pull out 15 miners trapped in a rat-hole mine since December 13, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

NDRF Assistant Commandant SK Singh told ANI, "three helmets have been recovered." No update on the miners has been received so far.&nbsp;

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East Jaintia Hills in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalaya</a>: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway in Khelerihaat for the 18th day. SK Singh, Asst Commandant NDRF, says "three helmets have been recovered" (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/Z1jDbOpP31">pic.twitter.com/Z1jDbOpP31</a>
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The development comes shortly after the Indian Air Force on Friday provided two aircraft to the Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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East Jaintia Hills in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Meghalaya?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Meghalaya</a>: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway for the 18th day. Three helmets have been recovered <a href="https://t.co/ew4pElcNtg">pic.twitter.com/ew4pElcNtg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1078878419063054343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Indian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-forces-super-hercules-plane-joins-rescue-ops-in-meghalaya-high-power-pumps-airlifted-186965">Air Force joined the rescue operation</a> and airlifted 10 pumps from Bhubaneswar. Its personnel have landed in Guwahati, 270 kilometres away from the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine, they said.&nbsp;Indian Navy divers are also expected to join the rescue operations on today.&nbsp;

A 20-member team of the Odisha Fire Services also left for Shillong with equipment, including high-powered pumps, high-tech equipment and gadgets on Friday.

The Navy spokesman said in a tweet that a 15-member diving team from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh will reach the site in the remote Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district Saturday morning.

"The team is carrying specialised diving equipment including a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater," he said.

Pump manufacturing company Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and Coal India were jointly moving <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/18-high-powered-pumps-being-moved-to-meghalaya-mining-site-187047">18 high-powered pumps</a> to drain water out of the 37-foot-deep mine. A team of surveyers from the two companies also conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the situation.

15 miners have been trapped in a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. The illegal mine is reported to have been flooded, exhibiting bleak chances of miners' survival.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The rescue team in Meghalaya's Khelerihaat has recovered three helmets in an effort to pull out 15 miners trapped in a rat-hole mine since December 13, news agency ANI reported.

The rescue team in Meghalaya's Khelerihaat has recovered three helmets in an effort to pull out 15 miners trapped in a rat-hole mine since December 13, news agency ANI reported. NDRF Assistant Commandant SK Singh told ANI, "three helmets have been recovered." No update on the miners has been received so far. East Jaintia Hills in #Meghalaya: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway in Khelerihaat for the 18th day. SK Singh, Asst Commandant NDRF, says "three helmets have been recovered" (file pic) pic.twitter.com/Z1jDbOpP31 — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × The development comes shortly after the Indian Air Force on Friday provided two aircraft to the Meghalaya government for airlifting specialist personnel of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from Odisha for helping in the rescue operations, news agency PTI reported. East Jaintia Hills in #Meghalaya: Operations to rescue 13 trapped miners underway for the 18th day. Three helmets have been recovered pic.twitter.com/ew4pElcNtg — ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2018 × The Indian Air Force joined the rescue operation and airlifted 10 pumps from Bhubaneswar. Its personnel have landed in Guwahati, 270 kilometres away from the 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine, they said. Indian Navy divers are also expected to join the rescue operations on today. A 20-member team of the Odisha Fire Services also left for Shillong with equipment, including high-powered pumps, high-tech equipment and gadgets on Friday. The Navy spokesman said in a tweet that a 15-member diving team from Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh will reach the site in the remote Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district Saturday morning. "The team is carrying specialised diving equipment including a re-compression chamber and remotely operated vehicles capable of searching underwater," he said. Pump manufacturing company Kirloskar Brothers Ltd and Coal India were jointly moving 18 high-powered pumps to drain water out of the 37-foot-deep mine. A team of surveyers from the two companies also conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. 15 miners have been trapped in a 370-foot-deep illegal coal mine in the Ksan area of Lumthari village in Meghalaya since December 13. The illegal mine is reported to have been flooded, exhibiting bleak chances of miners' survival. (With inputs from agencies)

Meghalaya miners rescue: 'Three helmets have been recovered,' says NDRF

BJP MLA Devendra Singh Lodhi on Friday stirred a controversy stating that Inspector Subodh Kumar, the cop who was allegedly killed in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr violence, shot himself in haste after he became hopeless.

Speaking to ANI, Devendra Singh said,&nbsp;"While trying to save himself, the cop became hopeless and fired at himself in haste. He was not targeted by anyone; it was a mob that got aggressive as the police were not filing an FIR."

On December 3, inspector Subodh Singh Kumar and a local were killed in the violence, which erupted after the carcasses of 25 cattle were found in the forests close to a police post.

The locals had alleged that the carcasses found were of the cows, which were slaughtered illegally.

According to sources, the post-mortem examination conducted on Singh had confirmed gunshot injury on his head. The post-mortem report also revealed that Subodh had six marks of injuries inflicted by stones and also a bullet was stuck inside his skull.

On Thursday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bulandshahr-cop-killing-up-police-arrests-man-who-allegedly-fired-at-inspector-kumar-186934">police arrested Prashant Natt</a>, a man who allegedly shot inspector Singh. As per police, Natt has confessed to having shot at Singh.&nbsp;

"He has accepted during interrogation that he was the one who fired at Subodh Kumar. Further investigation is underway," the SP noted.&nbsp;

Another accused Yogesh Raj, the convener of the district unit of Bajrang Dal, claims innocence and is absconding. So far, the police have been able to arrest four people.

Another key accused, an army man called Jitu Fauji, was detained by Uttar Pradesh Police earlier this month and was sent to 14-day judicial custody by a local court.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

BJP MLA Devendra Singh Lodhi on Friday stirred a controversy stating that Inspector Subodh Kumar, the cop who was allegedly killed in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr violence, shot himself in haste after he became hopeless.

BJP MLA Devendra Singh Lodhi on Friday stirred a controversy stating that Inspector Subodh Kumar, the cop who was allegedly killed in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr violence, shot himself in haste after he became hopeless. Speaking to ANI, Devendra Singh said, "While trying to save himself, the cop became hopeless and fired at himself in haste. He was not targeted by anyone; it was a mob that got aggressive as the police were not filing an FIR." On December 3, inspector Subodh Singh Kumar and a local were killed in the violence, which erupted after the carcasses of 25 cattle were found in the forests close to a police post. The locals had alleged that the carcasses found were of the cows, which were slaughtered illegally. According to sources, the post-mortem examination conducted on Singh had confirmed gunshot injury on his head. The post-mortem report also revealed that Subodh had six marks of injuries inflicted by stones and also a bullet was stuck inside his skull. On Thursday police arrested Prashant Natt, a man who allegedly shot inspector Singh. As per police, Natt has confessed to having shot at Singh. "He has accepted during interrogation that he was the one who fired at Subodh Kumar. Further investigation is underway," the SP noted. Another accused Yogesh Raj, the convener of the district unit of Bajrang Dal, claims innocence and is absconding. So far, the police have been able to arrest four people. Another key accused, an army man called Jitu Fauji, was detained by Uttar Pradesh Police earlier this month and was sent to 14-day judicial custody by a local court. (With inputs from agencies)

Bulandshahr violence: BJP MLA claims cop Subodh Kumar shot himself

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi Friday said the state government has collected around Rs 15,466 crore in taxes from 2017 to November 2018, which is 38 per cent higher compared from last fiscal year for the same period.

Speaking at Aranya Bhawan during an inauguration of training programme meant for newly recruited officers of Bihar Finance Service, Sushil said: "The revenue collection for the financial year 2018-19 is Rs 27,000 crore and so far, we have achieved a target of Rs 15,466 crore till November, which is an increase of 38 per cent as compared to last fiscal year for the same period," he said.

Stressing that the strength of tax-payers has seen a remarkable growth of 3.87 lakh against 1.69 lakh registered during VAT regime, Sushil stated that out of 3.87 lakh, 2.18 lakh are new tax-payers.

"In order to provide relief to small taxpayers, the GST council may soon enhance the limit of Rs 20 lakh turnover to Rs 75 lakh under composition scheme. We are also planning to bring composition scheme for service providers who have the turnover of Rs 50 lakh and reduce tax on goods in the construction sector from existing 12 and 18 per cent to 5 per cent," he added.

Talking about the taxes levied on auto and cement sectors, he asserted that the GST Council is considering a plan to reduce the 28 per cent tax rate on cement and auto parts as the average monthly collection of GST has witnessed an increase in tax collections, which was earlier set at Rs 89,700 crore (2017-18) and now kept at Rs 97,100 crore for 2018-19.

Praising Prime Minister Modi for implementing GST in the country, Sushil said that it is the biggest indirect tax reforms after independence.

Before the implementation of GST, around 17 different types of taxes were levied which have been now included in the GST.

GST has put an end to the check-posts system across the country and it has turned the concept of "one nation, one tax, one market" into reality.

He further said that several parts of the world saw a surge in prices after the introduction of GST, however, India is the only country, which witnessed fall in prices of various products after the implementation of GST.&nbsp;

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi Friday said the state government has collected around Rs 15,466 crore in taxes from 2017 to November 2018, which is 38 per cent higher compared from last fiscal year for the same period.

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi Friday said the state government has collected around Rs 15,466 crore in taxes from 2017 to November 2018, which is 38 per cent higher compared from last fiscal year for the same period. Speaking at Aranya Bhawan during an inauguration of training programme meant for newly recruited officers of Bihar Finance Service, Sushil said: "The revenue collection for the financial year 2018-19 is Rs 27,000 crore and so far, we have achieved a target of Rs 15,466 crore till November, which is an increase of 38 per cent as compared to last fiscal year for the same period," he said. Stressing that the strength of tax-payers has seen a remarkable growth of 3.87 lakh against 1.69 lakh registered during VAT regime, Sushil stated that out of 3.87 lakh, 2.18 lakh are new tax-payers. "In order to provide relief to small taxpayers, the GST council may soon enhance the limit of Rs 20 lakh turnover to Rs 75 lakh under composition scheme. We are also planning to bring composition scheme for service providers who have the turnover of Rs 50 lakh and reduce tax on goods in the construction sector from existing 12 and 18 per cent to 5 per cent," he added. Talking about the taxes levied on auto and cement sectors, he asserted that the GST Council is considering a plan to reduce the 28 per cent tax rate on cement and auto parts as the average monthly collection of GST has witnessed an increase in tax collections, which was earlier set at Rs 89,700 crore (2017-18) and now kept at Rs 97,100 crore for 2018-19. Praising Prime Minister Modi for implementing GST in the country, Sushil said that it is the biggest indirect tax reforms after independence. Before the implementation of GST, around 17 different types of taxes were levied which have been now included in the GST. GST has put an end to the check-posts system across the country and it has turned the concept of "one nation, one tax, one market" into reality. He further said that several parts of the world saw a surge in prices after the introduction of GST, however, India is the only country, which witnessed fall in prices of various products after the implementation of GST.

Bihar government collected 38% more tax than last year: Sushil Kumar Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/honduras-guatemala-and-el-salvador-are-doing-nothing-for-us-says-trump-vowing-to-end-all-aid-187084">'Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are doing nothing for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/honduras-guatemala-and-el-salvador-are-doing-nothing-for-us-says-trump-vowing-to-end-all-aid-187084">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/honduras-guatemala-and-el-salvador-are-doing-nothing-for-us-says-trump-vowing-to-end-all-aid-187084">,' says Trump vowing to end all aid</a>

President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States will eliminate all economic assistance to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in retaliation for the caravans of Central American migrants arriving at the southern border.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-bomb-blast-kills-3-vietnamese-tourists-guide-near-giza-pyramids-187090">Egypt: Bomb blast kills 3 Vietnamese tourists, guide near Giza pyramids</a>

Three Vietnamese holidaymakers and an Egyptian tour guide were killed Friday when a roadside bomb blast hit their bus as it travelled close to the Giza pyramids outside Cairo, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-gun-battle-underway-between-security-forces-terrorists-187085">J&amp;K: Gun battle underway between security forces, terrorists in Pulwama's Rajpora</a>

A gun battle is underway between security forces and terrorists in Rajpora area of Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir. The police have launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/security-beefed-up-in-bangladesh-before-polls-on-sunday-187092">Security beefed up in Bangladesh ahead of polls on Sunday</a>

As Bangladesh prepares to go for polling on December 30 to elect a new Parliament in the country, armed forces have been deployed in 389 'upazilas' or administrative region till January 2.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-3rd-test-day-4-187077">INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 4: Australia at 64-3 after 22 overs, need 335 runs to win</a>

Chasing 399 for an improbable win, Australia were reduced to 44 for two at lunch. This was after India declared their second innings at 106 for eight with Pat Cummins taking career-best figures of 6-27.&nbsp;

'Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are doing nothing for US,' says Trump vowing to end all aid President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States will eliminate all economic assistance to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in retaliation for the caravans of Central American migrants arriving at the southern border.

'Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are doing nothing for US,' says Trump vowing to end all aid President Donald Trump said Friday that the United States will eliminate all economic assistance to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador in retaliation for the caravans of Central American migrants arriving at the southern border. Egypt: Bomb blast kills 3 Vietnamese tourists, guide near Giza pyramids Three Vietnamese holidaymakers and an Egyptian tour guide were killed Friday when a roadside bomb blast hit their bus as it travelled close to the Giza pyramids outside Cairo, officials said. J&K: Gun battle underway between security forces, terrorists in Pulwama's Rajpora A gun battle is underway between security forces and terrorists in Rajpora area of Pulwama district in Jammu and Kashmir. The police have launched a search operation in the region to track the terrorists. Security beefed up in Bangladesh ahead of polls on Sunday As Bangladesh prepares to go for polling on December 30 to elect a new Parliament in the country, armed forces have been deployed in 389 'upazilas' or administrative region till January 2. INDvsAUS, 3rd Test, Day 4: Australia at 64-3 after 22 overs, need 335 runs to win Chasing 399 for an improbable win, Australia were reduced to 44 for two at lunch. This was after India declared their second innings at 106 for eight with Pat Cummins taking career-best figures of 6-27.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A man was arrested for allegedly killing an Indian-origin police officer in California's Newman County when he was planning to flee to his native Mexico, police said.

The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Gustavo Perez Arriaga and living illegally, was arrested from a home in the Kern County, about 200 miles south from the place of the shooting, Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson was quoted as saying in the CNN.&nbsp;

Corporal Ronil Singh, 33, pulled over the suspect just before 1 am on Wednesday and a few moments later he called out "shot fired" over the radio.

Other officers who reached the spot found Singh shot and took him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Singh was a native of Fiji and joined the force in July 2011.

Newman Police Chief Randy Richardson said at a Friday news conference that this has never happened in the history of the 12-member department.

Arriaga came to the US illegally and was believed to have been fleeing to Mexico, he said, adding the suspect was arrested twice previously for driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs and has known gang affiliation.

Arriaga's brother, Adrian Virgen, 25, and coworker, Erik Razo Quiroz, 32,&nbsp;were arrested Thursday for a felony. Virgen was arrested in Hanford and Quiroz in Modesto, Christianson said.

He said they were trying to protect Arriaga, who was trying to go to Mexico.Christianson said Virgen and Quiroz were also in the US illegally.Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood said two men and a woman were also arrested from the home where Arriaga was found.

The three have been identified as Bernabe Madrigal Castaneda, 59; Erasmo Villegas, 36; and Maria Luisa Moreno, 57, he was quoted in as saying in the report.

Youngblood said he could not confirm whether the three were in the country illegally.At the news conference, Christianson had strong words about immigration and border security.

"We can't ignore the fact that this could have been preventable," he said, adding that California Senate Bill 54 -- which became law last year — prohibited his department "from sharing any information with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (USICE) about this criminal gang member."

The bill bars law enforcement agencies from detaining a person due to a hold request, responding to federal immigration enforcement's requests for notification or providing information about a person's release date unless that's already available publicly.

It also requires notification to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement of scheduled releases of people who have been convicted of violent felonies.

"This is a criminal illegal alien with prior criminal activity that should have been reported to USICE," Christianson said.&nbsp;

"Law enforcement was prohibited because of sanctuary laws and that led to the encounter with Officer Singh. I am suggesting that the outcome could have been different if law enforcement wasn't restricted, prohibited or had their hands tied because of political interference."

A man was arrested for allegedly killing an Indian-origin police officer in California's Newman County when he was planning to flee to his native Mexico, police said.

A man was arrested for allegedly killing an Indian-origin police officer in California's Newman County when he was planning to flee to his native Mexico, police said. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Gustavo Perez Arriaga and living illegally, was arrested from a home in the Kern County, about 200 miles south from the place of the shooting, Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson was quoted as saying in the CNN. Corporal Ronil Singh, 33, pulled over the suspect just before 1 am on Wednesday and a few moments later he called out "shot fired" over the radio. Other officers who reached the spot found Singh shot and took him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Singh was a native of Fiji and joined the force in July 2011. Newman Police Chief Randy Richardson said at a Friday news conference that this has never happened in the history of the 12-member department. Arriaga came to the US illegally and was believed to have been fleeing to Mexico, he said, adding the suspect was arrested twice previously for driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs and has known gang affiliation. Arriaga's brother, Adrian Virgen, 25, and coworker, Erik Razo Quiroz, 32, were arrested Thursday for a felony. Virgen was arrested in Hanford and Quiroz in Modesto, Christianson said. He said they were trying to protect Arriaga, who was trying to go to Mexico.Christianson said Virgen and Quiroz were also in the US illegally.Kern County Sheriff Donny Youngblood said two men and a woman were also arrested from the home where Arriaga was found. The three have been identified as Bernabe Madrigal Castaneda, 59; Erasmo Villegas, 36; and Maria Luisa Moreno, 57, he was quoted in as saying in the report. Youngblood said he could not confirm whether the three were in the country illegally.At the news conference, Christianson had strong words about immigration and border security. "We can't ignore the fact that this could have been preventable," he said, adding that California Senate Bill 54 -- which became law last year — prohibited his department "from sharing any information with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (USICE) about this criminal gang member." The bill bars law enforcement agencies from detaining a person due to a hold request, responding to federal immigration enforcement's requests for notification or providing information about a person's release date unless that's already available publicly. It also requires notification to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement of scheduled releases of people who have been convicted of violent felonies. "This is a criminal illegal alien with prior criminal activity that should have been reported to USICE," Christianson said. "Law enforcement was prohibited because of sanctuary laws and that led to the encounter with Officer Singh. I am suggesting that the outcome could have been different if law enforcement wasn't restricted, prohibited or had their hands tied because of political interference."

Man arrested for allegedly killing Indian-origin police officer Ronil Singh in California

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-wont-let-triple-talaq-bill-pass-in-rajya-sabha-k-c-venugopal-187198">Opposition Congress</a> in Meghalaya has urged the state government to take steps for legalising coal mining, alleging "rampant" unlawful mining activities in the region.

The demand comes following the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-indian-navy-divers-arrive-at-site-join-operations-187204">coal mine disaster in Meghalaya</a> in which 15 people are still trapped in a flooded illegal rat-hole mine at Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district since December 13.

"Why the state government is not taking up the matter of regularising coal mining in the state with the Centre? Legalising mining and strong regulations to surround the activity is the only way out," senior Congress leader Ampareen Lyngdoh said.

Lyngdoh had on Friday led a six-member opposition team to the accident site and made recommendations to the state government for rescue efforts.

"Fresh coal dumps are seen on both sides of the road from Khliehriat till Lumthari. This is evident of the rampant illegal mining that is still going on in the state," she alleged.

"It seems lawlessness is becoming supreme here. There were not enough forces to implement the ban either," the Congress leader said.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 imposed a blanket ban on mining and transportation of coal in the state for its adverse environmental effect and the absence of safety measures for the miners.

The Shillong East MLA said Meghalaya government has failed to call an all-party meeting to discuss on the need to resolve the ongoing ban.

"The government should call us, as we need to fight for legalising (coal mining) since we cannot stop it," she added. PTI

The Opposition Congress in Meghalaya has urged the state government to take steps for legalising coal mining, alleging "rampant" unlawful mining activities in the region.

The Opposition Congress in Meghalaya has urged the state government to take steps for legalising coal mining, alleging "rampant" unlawful mining activities in the region. The demand comes following the coal mine disaster in Meghalaya in which 15 people are still trapped in a flooded illegal rat-hole mine at Lumthari village in East Jaintia Hills district since December 13. "Why the state government is not taking up the matter of regularising coal mining in the state with the Centre? Legalising mining and strong regulations to surround the activity is the only way out," senior Congress leader Ampareen Lyngdoh said. Lyngdoh had on Friday led a six-member opposition team to the accident site and made recommendations to the state government for rescue efforts. "Fresh coal dumps are seen on both sides of the road from Khliehriat till Lumthari. This is evident of the rampant illegal mining that is still going on in the state," she alleged. "It seems lawlessness is becoming supreme here. There were not enough forces to implement the ban either," the Congress leader said. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014 imposed a blanket ban on mining and transportation of coal in the state for its adverse environmental effect and the absence of safety measures for the miners. The Shillong East MLA said Meghalaya government has failed to call an all-party meeting to discuss on the need to resolve the ongoing ban. "The government should call us, as we need to fight for legalising (coal mining) since we cannot stop it," she added. PTI

Congress demands legalising coal mining in Meghalaya

WION has accessed the initial draft on Kartarpur agreement which Pakistan will be proposing&nbsp;to India. According to the draft, Pakistan will be issuing a permit which will allow entry to 500 pilgrims per day. It will be visa-free travel but pilgrims will have to carry their passport and security clearance from India.&nbsp;

The government of India will have to share the details of pilgrims and their security clearance certificate with the Pakistan government&nbsp;three days prior to their entry through the Kartarpur corridor.&nbsp;

It is also proposed that the pilgrims must constitute a group of 15 people for the visit. The corridor will be open from 8 am to 5 pm. Both the sides will be creating a database of visiting pilgrims along with their travel history.

The Indian side is yet to receive the draft which says that, "Pakistan reserves the right to refuse entry, reduce the period of stay or terminate the stay in its territory of any pilgrim despite the grant of permit" if it considers "the pilgrim is found undesirable for security or other purposes."

In case of a dispute, it will be "amicably settled between parties through the diplomatic channel." Any side can terminate the agreement any time by giving one month's notice. The agreement also does not affect the existing commitments on border security.&nbsp;

On November 22, the Indian cabinet passed a resolution to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in 2019 and approved the building of Kartarpur Corridor from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district till the border. On the same day, Delhi informed Islamabad about its decision through Pakistan High Commission and urged&nbsp;Pakistan to develop a corridor in their territory.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the construction of the corridor on the Indian side on November 26 2018. Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone on November 28 in Pakistan. Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri attended the groundbreaking ceremony on the Pakistan side as representatives of the government of India.

India has been doubtful of Pakistan's intentions owing to incidents like Pak foreign minister Shah Mehmood <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-googly-ensured-presence-of-indian-ministers-at-kartarpur-corridor-event-pakistan-foreign-minister-180412">Qureshi's "googly" remark</a>. Reacting to the remark, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said a few days ago, "Some people went from here and certain comments were made from that side, so I think there is hardly any need to speak further on this issue. I think their intentions on doing this thing was not with clear conscious which we felt from their certain statements."

The Transport Ministry is the nodal ministry for developing the corridor while the Home Ministry is in charge of coordinating with the concerned authorities, including the local government.

A high-level committee under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has been constituted to review, monitor and oversee the activities as approved by the Cabinet for the implementation of the decisions in the matter.

Sources have told WION that India considers "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kartarpur-corridor-high-point-of-diplomacy-for-imran-khan-government-pakistan-186836">Kartarpur corridor</a> a cultural initiative and not a diplomatic initiative" and it will not lead to the start of any dialogue process.&nbsp;

In a written statement in the Parliament, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh said, "the Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side is envisaged to be an integrated development project with the government of India, funding for smooth and easy passage of Indian pilgrims with modern amenities."

India has also proposed pilgrim’s visit to shrines in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) including <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ground-report-kashmiri-pandits-demand-opening-of-sharada-temple-182956">Sharda Peeth</a>; Islamabad has not concurred with the proposal so far.

WION has accessed the initial draft on Kartarpur agreement which Pakistan will be proposing to India. According to the draft, Pakistan will be issuing a permit which will allow entry to 500 pilgrims per day.

WION has accessed the initial draft on Kartarpur agreement which Pakistan will be proposing to India. According to the draft, Pakistan will be issuing a permit which will allow entry to 500 pilgrims per day. It will be visa-free travel but pilgrims will have to carry their passport and security clearance from India. The government of India will have to share the details of pilgrims and their security clearance certificate with the Pakistan government three days prior to their entry through the Kartarpur corridor. It is also proposed that the pilgrims must constitute a group of 15 people for the visit. The corridor will be open from 8 am to 5 pm. Both the sides will be creating a database of visiting pilgrims along with their travel history. The Indian side is yet to receive the draft which says that, "Pakistan reserves the right to refuse entry, reduce the period of stay or terminate the stay in its territory of any pilgrim despite the grant of permit" if it considers "the pilgrim is found undesirable for security or other purposes." In case of a dispute, it will be "amicably settled between parties through the diplomatic channel." Any side can terminate the agreement any time by giving one month's notice. The agreement also does not affect the existing commitments on border security. On November 22, the Indian cabinet passed a resolution to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji in 2019 and approved the building of Kartarpur Corridor from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district till the border. On the same day, Delhi informed Islamabad about its decision through Pakistan High Commission and urged Pakistan to develop a corridor in their territory. Vice President Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the construction of the corridor on the Indian side on November 26 2018. Pak Prime Minister Imran Khan laid the foundation stone on November 28 in Pakistan. Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Minister of State (IC) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri attended the groundbreaking ceremony on the Pakistan side as representatives of the government of India. India has been doubtful of Pakistan's intentions owing to incidents like Pak foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi's "googly" remark. Reacting to the remark, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had said a few days ago, "Some people went from here and certain comments were made from that side, so I think there is hardly any need to speak further on this issue. I think their intentions on doing this thing was not with clear conscious which we felt from their certain statements." The Transport Ministry is the nodal ministry for developing the corridor while the Home Ministry is in charge of coordinating with the concerned authorities, including the local government. A high-level committee under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has been constituted to review, monitor and oversee the activities as approved by the Cabinet for the implementation of the decisions in the matter. Sources have told WION that India considers "Kartarpur corridor a cultural initiative and not a diplomatic initiative" and it will not lead to the start of any dialogue process. In a written statement in the Parliament, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh said, "the Kartarpur corridor on the Indian side is envisaged to be an integrated development project with the government of India, funding for smooth and easy passage of Indian pilgrims with modern amenities." India has also proposed pilgrim’s visit to shrines in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) including Sharda Peeth; Islamabad has not concurred with the proposal so far.

Kartarpur corridor: Pakistan's initial draft proposes permit-based entry to 500 pilgrims per day

The national council of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Saturday unanimously decided to extend the terms of all of its office-bearers, including party convener <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-implement-odd-even-scheme-whenever-required-kejriwal-186468">Arvind Kejriwal</a>, by a year.

Hinting at the possibility of the AAP becoming a part of the Grand Alliance of opposition parties in the 2019 general polls, senior party leader Gopal Rai told reporters, "Besides playing our role in the Lok Sabha election, we will cooperate with others (parties) to remove the (Narendra) Modi government."

The party would contest the Lok Sabha election in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Goa and Chandigarh with all its might, he said.

Talking to reporters after a meeting of the AAP national council, party leader Pankaj Gupta said a proposal to extend the term of the current council by a year in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha election and Delhi Assembly polls was passed unanimously.

"The extension of the national council's term means that the terms of the national executive and convener Arvind Kejriwal are also extended by a year," he told PTI.

The term of the national council was to end on April 23, 2019, Gupta said.

"In the coming days, there will be the (2019) Lok Sabha election and after a few months, the Delhi Assembly polls. In view of this, we have decided that the term of the national council will be extended by a year.

"The proposal was passed unanimously," he told reporters.

Asked whether the term of Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal as the party's national convener was also extended, Rai said the terms of all the national council members were extended.

Kejriwal was elected as the national convenor of the AAP for the second time in April 2016 for a period of three years.

According to the party constitution, "No member will hold the same post as an office-bearer for more than two consecutive terms of three years each."

Briefing reporters after the national council meeting, Rai, who is the AAP's Delhi convener, said the council had decided that the party would contest the Lok Sabha polls to end the "autocracy of Narendra Modi".

In other states, the respective state committees will submit their reports to the party's Political Affairs Committee on the strength of the organisation and candidates, Rai said.

He added that the Political Affairs Committee would then take a decision on which seats to contest in these states.

The council discussed issues like the farmers' condition, women security and the Rafale fighter jets deal, which would be raised by the AAP during the campaigning for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Rai said.

The national council of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Saturday unanimously decided to extend the terms of all of its office-bearers, including party convener Arvind Kejriwal, by a year.

The national council of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Saturday unanimously decided to extend the terms of all of its office-bearers, including party convener Arvind Kejriwal, by a year. Hinting at the possibility of the AAP becoming a part of the Grand Alliance of opposition parties in the 2019 general polls, senior party leader Gopal Rai told reporters, "Besides playing our role in the Lok Sabha election, we will cooperate with others (parties) to remove the (Narendra) Modi government." The party would contest the Lok Sabha election in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Goa and Chandigarh with all its might, he said. Talking to reporters after a meeting of the AAP national council, party leader Pankaj Gupta said a proposal to extend the term of the current council by a year in view of the upcoming Lok Sabha election and Delhi Assembly polls was passed unanimously. "The extension of the national council's term means that the terms of the national executive and convener Arvind Kejriwal are also extended by a year," he told PTI. The term of the national council was to end on April 23, 2019, Gupta said. "In the coming days, there will be the (2019) Lok Sabha election and after a few months, the Delhi Assembly polls. In view of this, we have decided that the term of the national council will be extended by a year. "The proposal was passed unanimously," he told reporters. Asked whether the term of Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal as the party's national convener was also extended, Rai said the terms of all the national council members were extended. Kejriwal was elected as the national convenor of the AAP for the second time in April 2016 for a period of three years. According to the party constitution, "No member will hold the same post as an office-bearer for more than two consecutive terms of three years each." Briefing reporters after the national council meeting, Rai, who is the AAP's Delhi convener, said the council had decided that the party would contest the Lok Sabha polls to end the "autocracy of Narendra Modi". In other states, the respective state committees will submit their reports to the party's Political Affairs Committee on the strength of the organisation and candidates, Rai said. He added that the Political Affairs Committee would then take a decision on which seats to contest in these states. The council discussed issues like the farmers' condition, women security and the Rafale fighter jets deal, which would be raised by the AAP during the campaigning for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Rai said.

AAP national council's term extended by a year, Kejriwal to remain party chief

India is among the first five countries in the world, the first in Asia and the first among the biodiversity-rich mega diverse nations, to have submitted Sixth National Report (NR6) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Environment Ministry said Saturday.

The report was submitted online to the CBD Secretariat by Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan during the inaugural session of the 13th National Meeting of the State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs) organised by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).

"While globally, biodiversity is facing increasing pressure on account of habitat fragmentation and destruction, invasive alien species, pollution, climate change and oversuse of resources, India is one of the few countries where forest cover is on the rise, with its forests teeming with wildlife.

"I am also happy to note that India is on track to achieve the biodiversity targets at the national level and it is also contributing significantly towards achievement of the global biodiversity targets," he said.

The submission of national reports is a mandatory obligation on parties to international treaties, including the CBD.&nbsp;

"As a responsible nation, India has never reneged on its international commitments and has earlier submitted on time five national reports to the CBD. The NR6 provides an update of progress in achievement of 12 National Biodiversity Targets (NBT) developed under the convention process in line with the 20 global Aichi biodiversity targets," he added.

The report highlights that while India has exceeded/ overachieved two NBTs, it is on track to achieve eight NBTs and with respect to two remaining NBTs, the country is striving to meet the targets by the stipulated time of 2020.&nbsp;

According to the report, India has exceeded the terrestrial component of 17 per cent of Aichi target 11, and 20 per cent of corresponding NBT relating to areas under biodiversity management.&nbsp;

"India has been investing a huge amount on biodiversity directly or indirectly through several development schemes of the central and state governments, to the tune of Rs 70,000 crores per annum as against the estimated annual requirement of nearly Rs 1,09,000 crore.

"India has nearly two-thirds of the population of wild tigers in the world. Lion population has risen from 177 in 1968 to over 520 in 2015, and elephants from 12,000 in 1970s to 30,000 in 2015," the report said.

India is among the first five countries in the world, the first in Asia and the first among the biodiversity-rich mega diverse nations, to have submitted Sixth National Report (NR6) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Environment Ministry said Saturday.

India is among the first five countries in the world, the first in Asia and the first among the biodiversity-rich mega diverse nations, to have submitted Sixth National Report (NR6) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Environment Ministry said Saturday. The report was submitted online to the CBD Secretariat by Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan during the inaugural session of the 13th National Meeting of the State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs) organised by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA). "While globally, biodiversity is facing increasing pressure on account of habitat fragmentation and destruction, invasive alien species, pollution, climate change and oversuse of resources, India is one of the few countries where forest cover is on the rise, with its forests teeming with wildlife. "I am also happy to note that India is on track to achieve the biodiversity targets at the national level and it is also contributing significantly towards achievement of the global biodiversity targets," he said. The submission of national reports is a mandatory obligation on parties to international treaties, including the CBD. "As a responsible nation, India has never reneged on its international commitments and has earlier submitted on time five national reports to the CBD. The NR6 provides an update of progress in achievement of 12 National Biodiversity Targets (NBT) developed under the convention process in line with the 20 global Aichi biodiversity targets," he added. The report highlights that while India has exceeded/ overachieved two NBTs, it is on track to achieve eight NBTs and with respect to two remaining NBTs, the country is striving to meet the targets by the stipulated time of 2020. According to the report, India has exceeded the terrestrial component of 17 per cent of Aichi target 11, and 20 per cent of corresponding NBT relating to areas under biodiversity management. "India has been investing a huge amount on biodiversity directly or indirectly through several development schemes of the central and state governments, to the tune of Rs 70,000 crores per annum as against the estimated annual requirement of nearly Rs 1,09,000 crore. "India has nearly two-thirds of the population of wild tigers in the world. Lion population has risen from 177 in 1968 to over 520 in 2015, and elephants from 12,000 in 1970s to 30,000 in 2015," the report said.

India among first five nations to submit Sixth National Report: Environment Ministry

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