Shreyas Iyer blames dew for West Indies' record run chase in 2nd T20I in Ranchi

100,000 strikes in 3 years: How October 7 redefined Israel's war 

Happy Birthday Rekha: Watch these 7 evergreen Bollywood hits on Netflix, Prime Video and more

'I am not going to be watching it': JD Vance on livestream of Nidal Hasan's firing squad execution

UK navy hit by espionage scandal: Sailor accused of spying for Russia | Gravitas

Katie Zacharia likely to succeed Karoline Leavitt as Trump's White House press secretary

Delhi on high alert for CJP protest: Delhi police to use body cams to 'prove whether we did anything’; Pink Force, RAF, 35,000 personnel deployed

‘Never-ending flow of cheap labour’: JD Vance hits back at Indian-origin Congresswoman over US green card curbs for major tech companies

Panama president declares ‘major disaster’ after powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake; over 80 aftershocks recorded

‘250? Cool.’: Shai Hope takes swipe at Shubman Gill’s Instagram caption after Ranchi T20I masterclass

'Jantar Mantar not the story of India': BJP's Sambit Patra claims 'anarchists' tried to hold Delhi captive

BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad slams CJP protests, calls it 'shadow boxing for AAP'

'I ended 8 wars': Trump slams Nobel Peace prize decision, claims award was his due

Dhurandhar: The Revenge album submitted for Grammy consideration; But what does it mean?

J&K Government orders major police reshuffle, transfers 100 officers across UT

New York protests erupt as Trump administration defends ICE shooting

Delhi protest: Metro curbs, train cancellations, traffic diversions as protesters seek CEC Gyanesh Kumar’s resignation

'Spent Rs 2,000 cr to elect Trump': Elon Musk bought US President's loyalty by writing the biggest political cheque in human history

Powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, tsunami warning issued

Adéla gives KATSEYE’s Lara Raj and Megan Skendiel a shout-out at Fonda Theatre in LA

'Modi is a dictator': Abhijeet Dipke claims govt 'scared' of youth, slams stringent measures ahead of CJP Jantar Mantar protest

New Friday OTT releases (October 9, 2026): Reporting Live, Animals, Take Charge of My Heart- 6 new titles coming on Netflix, JioHotstar and more

Two-thirds of competitive GOP candidates split with trump ahead of November midterms

'Ouch!!! That must hurt': Kangana Ranaut hails Kamal Haasan's sharp reply to Elon Musk over Starlink row

‘Right to protest must be protected, but...’: Delhi Police reveals why it denied CJP permission for October 10 Jantar Mantar protest

Trump announces Russian diesel deal as Zelensky criticises move

Pakistan denies reports of PAF jets being used in attacks against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen

All 22 Indian seafarers safe in attack on Panama-flagged tanker off UAE coast

Ryan Reynolds’ private messages reveal his blunt views on Justin Baldoni from Blake Lively’s legal case

Rakul Preet Singh birthday special: 7 times the Ramayana actress served glamorous looks

Kamal Haasan slams Elon Musk over Starlink delay row: 'Indian people, will decide our own future - not Western'

Food shortages, suicide attempts and more: USS Abraham Lincoln returns to US after 321 day deployment — What happened aboard the US carrier?

 Thai queen becomes first reigning monarch to fly jet solothailand #queen #wion 

SC questions closure of 57 Delhi Metro stations, asks Centre to resume services in regulated manner

Rahul Gandhi calls Modi, Shah ‘cowards’ amid CJP protest crackdown in Delhi

Flydubai co-pilot developed extremist views while studying in Australia: UAE prosecutors

Why was CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke detained? What Delhi Police said

Trump honours Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella with top technology honour amid immigration scrutiny

DMK president MK Stalin launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday and said that he proposes the name of Rahul Gandhi for PM candidate from the soil of Tamil Nadu to defeat “fascist-Nazist Narendra Modi Government”.

''We'll install a new Prime Minister in Delhi. I propose the candidature of Rahul Gandhi from Tamil Nadu. He has got the ability to defeat the “fascist-Nazist Narendra Modi Government”,'' said Stalin.

Stalin was addressing a public rally in Chennai after UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi unveiled&nbsp;the statue of late DMK President M Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu.

“Modi is a ‘sadist’ Prime Minister who implemented schemes that are opposed by Tamil Nadu. I am using this word because of the severity of the devastation they have caused,” he said.

He said Modi has taken the country 15 years back in his five years rule. If we give him another five years, he will take us back to 50 years.&nbsp;

''In the 5 years of PM Modi's rule, the country has gone 15 years back. If we give another chance to him, surely the country will go 50 years back. PM Modi is behaving like a king, that's why we've all come together to safeguard democracy and the country,'' Stalin said.&nbsp;

Earlier Stalin presented mementoes to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu.

DMK president MK Stalin launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday and said that he proposes the name of Rahul Gandhi for PM candidate from the soil of Tamil Nadu to defeat “fascist-Nazist Narendra Modi Government”.

DMK president MK Stalin launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday and said that he proposes the name of Rahul Gandhi for PM candidate from the soil of Tamil Nadu to defeat “fascist-Nazist Narendra Modi Government”. ''We'll install a new Prime Minister in Delhi. I propose the candidature of Rahul Gandhi from Tamil Nadu. He has got the ability to defeat the “fascist-Nazist Narendra Modi Government”,'' said Stalin. Stalin was addressing a public rally in Chennai after UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi unveiled the statue of late DMK President M Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu. “Modi is a ‘sadist’ Prime Minister who implemented schemes that are opposed by Tamil Nadu. I am using this word because of the severity of the devastation they have caused,” he said. He said Modi has taken the country 15 years back in his five years rule. If we give him another five years, he will take us back to 50 years. ''In the 5 years of PM Modi's rule, the country has gone 15 years back. If we give another chance to him, surely the country will go 50 years back. PM Modi is behaving like a king, that's why we've all come together to safeguard democracy and the country,'' Stalin said. Earlier Stalin presented mementoes to UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu.

Stalin proposes Rahul Gandhi as PM candidate

Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi Sunday hit out at the BJP for being determined to destroy constitutional values, and sought "steadfast and strong ties" between her party and the DMK to trounce the saffron party in the next year's Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Gandhi, who unveiled a statue of late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi at the Dravidian party's headquarters here, heaped praise on the late leader.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Sonia Gandhi in Chennai: It's my desire that mutual support of our parties to each other remain strong as when Karunanidhi ji was guiding us,as we wage together a battle with political forces that are determined to destroy our constitutional values&amp;the idea of India as we know it <a href="https://t.co/js5Vi5gaIE">pic.twitter.com/js5Vi5gaIE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074306662989590528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Karunanidhi was a Democrat to the core and a believer in parliamentary institutions," she said, adding her party will always remember his support to former prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1971 and 1980 towards Indira's bank nationalisation and the abolition of privy purses initiatives.&nbsp;

''It is my earnest desire that the mutual support of our parties to each other must remain strong and steadfast as when Karunanidhi ji was guiding us...And as we wage together a battle with the political forces that are determined to destroy our constitutional values, our institutions and the idea of India as you know it,'' she said in an apparent reference to the BJP.&nbsp;

Gandhi said the message of unity among the Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) should go to the people.

"Let the message go to the people of Tamil Nadu and the country that we are united and determined to protect and preserve our country's constitution and its values that has built and sustained India over the last 70 years," she asserted.&nbsp;

Recalling her association with Karunanidhi, the Congress leader said the late patriarch was a great support and strength for the UPA from 2004 to 2014.&nbsp;

''I personally remember that we looked up to his knowledge and experience to guide our coalition government," she said.&nbsp;

Gandhi lauded Karunanidhi for his service to the people, his literary passion, love for Tamil language and his powerful oratory.&nbsp;

Speaking on the occasion Rahul Gandhi said the BJP government believes "only one idea should run India".&nbsp;

Training his guns on the Narendra Modi government, Gandhi accused it of targeting institutions of the country, besides the culture of India.&nbsp;

"We are not going to allow the destruction of the idea of India. We are not going to allow the destruction of institutions, the Supreme Court, Reserve Bank of India, Election Commission of India," he said.&nbsp;

Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi Sunday hit out at the BJP for being determined to destroy constitutional values, and sought "steadfast and strong ties" between her party and the DMK to trounce the saffron party in the next year's Lok Sabha elections.

Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi Sunday hit out at the BJP for being determined to destroy constitutional values, and sought "steadfast and strong ties" between her party and the DMK to trounce the saffron party in the next year's Lok Sabha elections. Gandhi, who unveiled a statue of late DMK patriarch M Karunanidhi at the Dravidian party's headquarters here, heaped praise on the late leader. Sonia Gandhi in Chennai: It's my desire that mutual support of our parties to each other remain strong as when Karunanidhi ji was guiding us,as we wage together a battle with political forces that are determined to destroy our constitutional values&the idea of India as we know it pic.twitter.com/js5Vi5gaIE — ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2018 × "Karunanidhi was a Democrat to the core and a believer in parliamentary institutions," she said, adding her party will always remember his support to former prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1971 and 1980 towards Indira's bank nationalisation and the abolition of privy purses initiatives. ''It is my earnest desire that the mutual support of our parties to each other must remain strong and steadfast as when Karunanidhi ji was guiding us...And as we wage together a battle with the political forces that are determined to destroy our constitutional values, our institutions and the idea of India as you know it,'' she said in an apparent reference to the BJP. Gandhi said the message of unity among the Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) should go to the people. "Let the message go to the people of Tamil Nadu and the country that we are united and determined to protect and preserve our country's constitution and its values that has built and sustained India over the last 70 years," she asserted. Recalling her association with Karunanidhi, the Congress leader said the late patriarch was a great support and strength for the UPA from 2004 to 2014. ''I personally remember that we looked up to his knowledge and experience to guide our coalition government," she said. Gandhi lauded Karunanidhi for his service to the people, his literary passion, love for Tamil language and his powerful oratory. Speaking on the occasion Rahul Gandhi said the BJP government believes "only one idea should run India". Training his guns on the Narendra Modi government, Gandhi accused it of targeting institutions of the country, besides the culture of India. "We are not going to allow the destruction of the idea of India. We are not going to allow the destruction of institutions, the Supreme Court, Reserve Bank of India, Election Commission of India," he said.

Sonia bats for strong Cong-DMK ties to take on BJP in Lok Sabha elections

The Bangladesh government on Sunday felicitated Indian soldiers who were killed in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

The government felicitated the families of 12 Indian soldiers --&nbsp;seven martyrs from the Indian Army, one from the Navy, two from the Air Force and two from the BSF. This is the second time that the Bangladesh government is honouring Indian soldiers.

The Bangladesh government sent a delegation to the Vijay Diwas programme in Kolkata on Sunday. The delegation was led by Member of Parliament, Madam Quazi Rosy and Bangladesh Liberation War Affairs Minister, Mozzamal Haque.

“This is for the first time when a Prime Minister has taken such a step to honour soldiers in their very country. Only Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina can do this. We are indebted towards India for liberating us. We can never forget what they did for us. No other nation can lay down their lives on the line of duty for some other nation,” said Haque. &nbsp;

“This was the second time that the honours were being presented to the families of martyrs of Indian forces who fought the Liberation War. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took the first initiative during her visit to Delhi in April 2017 when she met the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” added Haque.

The&nbsp;event took place in a joint ceremony at Fort William, Kolkata and was hosted by the Indian Army and the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission.

&nbsp;A 72-member delegation from Bangladesh, including 30 Mukti Joddhas and six serving officers of their armed forces, participated in the ceremony. Former Army commanders and the commanding officers of units that participated in the war also attended the programme in Kolkata.

A silver crest, a certificate, a personalized message by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two books by Bangabandhu Mujibar Rahman were presented to the families of each martyr.&nbsp;

“The Bangladeshi delegation felicitated our soldiers today. It is a great move as this will strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh. This is the second such initiative taken by the Bangladesh government. Our soldiers fought alongside to liberate Bangladesh and this day is observed as Victory Day in Bangladesh and we celebrate it as Vijay Diwas,” said Eastern Army Commander, Lt. Gen MM Naravane. &nbsp;

The Bangladesh government on Sunday felicitated Indian soldiers who were killed in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. The government felicitated the families of 12 Indian soldiers -- seven martyrs from the Indian Army, one from the Navy, two from the Air Force and two from the BSF.

The Bangladesh government on Sunday felicitated Indian soldiers who were killed in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. The government felicitated the families of 12 Indian soldiers -- seven martyrs from the Indian Army, one from the Navy, two from the Air Force and two from the BSF. This is the second time that the Bangladesh government is honouring Indian soldiers. The Bangladesh government sent a delegation to the Vijay Diwas programme in Kolkata on Sunday. The delegation was led by Member of Parliament, Madam Quazi Rosy and Bangladesh Liberation War Affairs Minister, Mozzamal Haque. “This is for the first time when a Prime Minister has taken such a step to honour soldiers in their very country. Only Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina can do this. We are indebted towards India for liberating us. We can never forget what they did for us. No other nation can lay down their lives on the line of duty for some other nation,” said Haque. “This was the second time that the honours were being presented to the families of martyrs of Indian forces who fought the Liberation War. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took the first initiative during her visit to Delhi in April 2017 when she met the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” added Haque. The event took place in a joint ceremony at Fort William, Kolkata and was hosted by the Indian Army and the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission. A 72-member delegation from Bangladesh, including 30 Mukti Joddhas and six serving officers of their armed forces, participated in the ceremony. Former Army commanders and the commanding officers of units that participated in the war also attended the programme in Kolkata. A silver crest, a certificate, a personalized message by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two books by Bangabandhu Mujibar Rahman were presented to the families of each martyr. “The Bangladeshi delegation felicitated our soldiers today. It is a great move as this will strengthen ties between India and Bangladesh. This is the second such initiative taken by the Bangladesh government. Our soldiers fought alongside to liberate Bangladesh and this day is observed as Victory Day in Bangladesh and we celebrate it as Vijay Diwas,” said Eastern Army Commander, Lt. Gen MM Naravane.

Bangladesh felicitates Indian soldiers who died in 1971 Liberation War

The Congress on Saturday alleged that the BJP-led government at the Centre had misled the Supreme Court over the Rafale deal and committed contempt of court and perjury.

The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed petitions seeking a direction to the CBI to register an FIR for alleged irregularities in the multi-billion dollar deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale jets.

It said there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision making the process" warranting setting aside of the contract.

Speaking to media persons here, Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said the basis of the court ruling was a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) which has not been seen by anyone, nor has it been shared with Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

The apex court said it was ill-equipped to conduct judicial review of issues related to pricing, and this has been the Congress' stand. Hence, the party is demanding a probe by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), he said.

"The BJP has hoodwinked the nation and cheated the people. Now it has the guts to do the same to mislead the apex court. There is a serious misrepresentation of vital, significant facts to the apex court. This amounts to contempt (of court), (breach of) privilege as well as perjury," he claimed.

'Modi' now stands for 'Misleading Of Democratic Institutions', he quipped. 
The government has now moved an application before the SC, seeking correction of reference to CAG report, the Congress leader said.

"If this is true, it means a clear admission by the government that what is reported in para 25 of the judgement is a misrepresentation of facts...The government is saving its skin. How can the SC imagine a CAG report and its vetting by the Public Accounts Committee on its own?" Singhvi asked.

He also contested a mention in the SC judgement that relations between Dassault, the manufacturer of Rafale, and Reliance dated back to 2012.

"Reliance Defence was set up on March 28, 2015, and Reliance Aerostructure on April 24, 2015. It is during this time that Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited France on April 10, 2015," he said.

On Finance Minister Arun Jaitley terming the JPC as a divided political body, Singhvi said the BJP, when in opposition, had demanded a JPC probe many times, including in Bofors, 2G and VVIP helicopter scams.

"This is the worst kind of hypocrisy," he said.

The SC judgement said the material placed before it showed that the Centre disclosed pricing details of the jets to the CAG, and the CAG report was examined by the PAC.

However, PAC chairman and Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge have said he never received any such report.

The Congress on Saturday alleged that the BJP-led government at the Centre had misled the Supreme Court over the Rafale deal and committed contempt of court and perjury.

The Congress on Saturday alleged that the BJP-led government at the Centre had misled the Supreme Court over the Rafale deal and committed contempt of court and perjury. The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed petitions seeking a direction to the CBI to register an FIR for alleged irregularities in the multi-billion dollar deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale jets. It said there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision making the process" warranting setting aside of the contract. Speaking to media persons here, Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi said the basis of the court ruling was a report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) which has not been seen by anyone, nor has it been shared with Parliament's Public Accounts Committee (PAC). The apex court said it was ill-equipped to conduct judicial review of issues related to pricing, and this has been the Congress' stand. Hence, the party is demanding a probe by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), he said. "The BJP has hoodwinked the nation and cheated the people. Now it has the guts to do the same to mislead the apex court. There is a serious misrepresentation of vital, significant facts to the apex court. This amounts to contempt (of court), (breach of) privilege as well as perjury," he claimed. 'Modi' now stands for 'Misleading Of Democratic Institutions', he quipped. The government has now moved an application before the SC, seeking correction of reference to CAG report, the Congress leader said. "If this is true, it means a clear admission by the government that what is reported in para 25 of the judgement is a misrepresentation of facts...The government is saving its skin. How can the SC imagine a CAG report and its vetting by the Public Accounts Committee on its own?" Singhvi asked. He also contested a mention in the SC judgement that relations between Dassault, the manufacturer of Rafale, and Reliance dated back to 2012. "Reliance Defence was set up on March 28, 2015, and Reliance Aerostructure on April 24, 2015. It is during this time that Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited France on April 10, 2015," he said. On Finance Minister Arun Jaitley terming the JPC as a divided political body, Singhvi said the BJP, when in opposition, had demanded a JPC probe many times, including in Bofors, 2G and VVIP helicopter scams. "This is the worst kind of hypocrisy," he said. The SC judgement said the material placed before it showed that the Centre disclosed pricing details of the jets to the CAG, and the CAG report was examined by the PAC. However, PAC chairman and Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge have said he never received any such report.

Government lied to Supreme Court on Rafale; committed contempt of court, perjury: Congress

Prime Minister Narendra <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-sonia-gandhis-home-turf-pm-says-cong-upset-there-is-no-quatrocchi-mama-in-bjps-defence-deals-184507">Modi repeated his allegation</a> Sunday that the Congress was putting pressure on the judiciary. "In such a situation," he said, "it's essential to alert the nation and young generation."&nbsp;

Modi was speaking at Prayagraj (Allahabad).&nbsp;

"Prayagraj is a place which can also be called 'the temple of justice' in Uttar Pradesh. In the recent times, the game of building pressure on the judiciary has started. In such a situation, it's essential to alert the nation and young generation," Modi said.&nbsp;

"Their actions, their conspiracies are proving it again and again that they (Congress) consider themselves above country, democracy, judiciary and public," Modi added. "Two days ago, we saw another example of it (#Rafale). Stay alert and safe from such people and parties."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: PM Modi says in Prayagraj, "their actions &amp; conspiracies are proving it again &amp; again that they (Congress) consider themselves above country, democracy, judiciary &amp; public. 2 days ago, we saw another example of it (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a>). Stay alert &amp; safe from such people &amp; parties <a href="https://t.co/I0MdCHSVC3">pic.twitter.com/I0MdCHSVC3</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1074266216519233538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Supreme Court this week said that the new Rafale deal signed by Prime Minister Modi and the french government <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-probe-needed-in-rafale-fighter-jet-deal-rules-supreme-court-183957">did not need to be probed</a>.&nbsp;

Modi has said before this that the Congress has tried to put pressure on judges who had tried to hear the Ayodhya (Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi) cases. He was at the time referring to the petition by the opposition to impeach former chief justice of India Dipak Misra. The petition was returned by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu who is also chairperson of the Rajya Sabha.&nbsp;

Modi added on Sunday that the Congress had "destroyed every agency that didn’t work according to them".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
WATCH PM Narendra Modi in Prayagraj: The party that has ruled the nation for the longest duration of time has always considered itself above law, judiciary, every agency &amp; even above the nation. This party destroyed every agency that didn’t work according to them. <a href="https://t.co/P1M1YQWYRX">pic.twitter.com/P1M1YQWYRX</a>
— ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1074264980546052098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The charge that the judiciary is being pressured (in the Sabarimala and Ayodhya cases) and that the country's institutions are being undermined (because of recent developments at the RBI and the CBI) has also been made against the BJP in recent times.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated his allegation Sunday that the Congress was putting pressure on the judiciary. "In such a situation," he said, "it's essential to alert the nation and young generation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated his allegation Sunday that the Congress was putting pressure on the judiciary. "In such a situation," he said, "it's essential to alert the nation and young generation." Modi was speaking at Prayagraj (Allahabad). "Prayagraj is a place which can also be called 'the temple of justice' in Uttar Pradesh. In the recent times, the game of building pressure on the judiciary has started. In such a situation, it's essential to alert the nation and young generation," Modi said. "Their actions, their conspiracies are proving it again and again that they (Congress) consider themselves above country, democracy, judiciary and public," Modi added. "Two days ago, we saw another example of it (#Rafale). Stay alert and safe from such people and parties." #WATCH: PM Modi says in Prayagraj, "their actions & conspiracies are proving it again & again that they (Congress) consider themselves above country, democracy, judiciary & public. 2 days ago, we saw another example of it (#Rafale). Stay alert & safe from such people & parties pic.twitter.com/I0MdCHSVC3 — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 16, 2018 × The Supreme Court this week said that the new Rafale deal signed by Prime Minister Modi and the french government did not need to be probed. Modi has said before this that the Congress has tried to put pressure on judges who had tried to hear the Ayodhya (Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi) cases. He was at the time referring to the petition by the opposition to impeach former chief justice of India Dipak Misra. The petition was returned by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu who is also chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. Modi added on Sunday that the Congress had "destroyed every agency that didn’t work according to them". WATCH PM Narendra Modi in Prayagraj: The party that has ruled the nation for the longest duration of time has always considered itself above law, judiciary, every agency & even above the nation. This party destroyed every agency that didn’t work according to them. pic.twitter.com/P1M1YQWYRX — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) December 16, 2018 × The charge that the judiciary is being pressured (in the Sabarimala and Ayodhya cases) and that the country's institutions are being undermined (because of recent developments at the RBI and the CBI) has also been made against the BJP in recent times.

Game of building pressure on the judiciary has begun: PM Modi

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nations-reach-deal-to-bring-landmark-2015-paris-climate-treaty-to-life-184369">Nations reach </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nations-reach-deal-to-bring-landmark-2015-paris-climate-treaty-to-life-184369">deal</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nations-reach-deal-to-bring-landmark-2015-paris-climate-treaty-to-life-184369"> to bring landmark 2015 Paris climate treaty to life</a>

Nations on Sunday struck a deal to breathe life into the landmark 2015 Paris climate treaty after marathon UN talks that failed to match the ambition the world's most vulnerable countries need to avert dangerous global warming.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/frances-yellow-vest-protests-lose-momentum-on-decisive-weekend-184379">France's 'yellow vest' protests lose momentum on decisive weekend</a>

Groups of defiant "yellow vest" demonstrators faced off with tens of thousands of police around France on Saturday, but the protest movement appeared to have lost momentum on a fifth and decisive weekend.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/outraged-democrats-vow-to-challenge-court-ruling-undercutting-obamacare-184387">Outraged Democrats vow to challenge court ruling undercutting Obamacare</a>

Outraged Democrats vowed to appeal a federal judge's ruling that could undo the US health care law known as Obamacare, saying on Saturday that they will use their new power in Congress to hold Republicans responsible and "expose their lies."

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/father-of-dead-guatemalan-migrant-calls-for-objective-investigation-into-death-184403">Father of dead Guatemalan migrant calls for objective investigation into </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/father-of-dead-guatemalan-migrant-calls-for-objective-investigation-into-death-184403">death</a>

The father of the seven-year-old Guatemalan migrant who died after being detained by US border agents called for an objective investigation into the incident on Saturday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-virat-kohli-slams-25th-test-century-in-perth-test-184408">India vs Australia: Virat Kohli slams 25th Test century in Perth Test</a>

Virat Kohli slammed his 25th century in his test career while playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series at Perth Stadium.

&nbsp;

Nations reach deal to bring landmark 2015 Paris climate treaty to life Nations on Sunday struck a deal to breathe life into the landmark 2015 Paris climate treaty after marathon UN talks that failed to match the ambition the world's most vulnerable countries need to avert dangerous global warming.

Nations reach deal to bring landmark 2015 Paris climate treaty to life Nations on Sunday struck a deal to breathe life into the landmark 2015 Paris climate treaty after marathon UN talks that failed to match the ambition the world's most vulnerable countries need to avert dangerous global warming. France's 'yellow vest' protests lose momentum on decisive weekend Groups of defiant "yellow vest" demonstrators faced off with tens of thousands of police around France on Saturday, but the protest movement appeared to have lost momentum on a fifth and decisive weekend. Outraged Democrats vow to challenge court ruling undercutting Obamacare Outraged Democrats vowed to appeal a federal judge's ruling that could undo the US health care law known as Obamacare, saying on Saturday that they will use their new power in Congress to hold Republicans responsible and "expose their lies." Father of dead Guatemalan migrant calls for objective investigation into death The father of the seven-year-old Guatemalan migrant who died after being detained by US border agents called for an objective investigation into the incident on Saturday. India vs Australia: Virat Kohli slams 25th Test century in Perth Test Virat Kohli slammed his 25th century in his test career while playing against Australia in the second Test of a four-match series at Perth Stadium.

News brief: Big stories of the day

New Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will arrive in New Delhi today on a three-day state visit, during which he will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen bilateral ties.

President Solih, who defeated strongman Abdulla Yameen in September to take over as President, will arrive in the afternoon and hold talks with PM Modi on Monday after a ceremonial reception. He will also meet President Ram Nath Kovind the same day.

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will also call on President Solih during his visit.

The Maldivian president, who will be accompanied by his wife Fazna Ahmed, will visit the Taj Mahal on Tuesday before heading back to his country.

President Solih's visit comes about a month after PM Modi attended his swearing-in ceremony.

PM Modi had said in the Maldives that he was looking forward to working closely with President Solih as both the leaders expressed confidence in the renewal of the close ties and friendship between the two countries, which was briefly interrupted by political turmoil in the Indian Ocean island nation.

Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated after Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 this year.

India had criticised Yameen's decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days.

New Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will arrive in New Delhi today on a three-day state visit, during which he will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen bilateral ties.

New Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih will arrive in New Delhi today on a three-day state visit, during which he will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen bilateral ties. President Solih, who defeated strongman Abdulla Yameen in September to take over as President, will arrive in the afternoon and hold talks with PM Modi on Monday after a ceremonial reception. He will also meet President Ram Nath Kovind the same day. Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will also call on President Solih during his visit. The Maldivian president, who will be accompanied by his wife Fazna Ahmed, will visit the Taj Mahal on Tuesday before heading back to his country. President Solih's visit comes about a month after PM Modi attended his swearing-in ceremony. PM Modi had said in the Maldives that he was looking forward to working closely with President Solih as both the leaders expressed confidence in the renewal of the close ties and friendship between the two countries, which was briefly interrupted by political turmoil in the Indian Ocean island nation. Relations between India and the Maldives deteriorated after Yameen imposed emergency on February 5 this year. India had criticised Yameen's decision and asked his government to restore the credibility of the electoral and political process by releasing political prisoners. The emergency lasted for 45 days.

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed to reach New Delhi today on a 3-day visit to India

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister-designate Bhupesh Baghel said Sunday that a loan waiver for farmers will be announced in the first meeting of the new state Cabinet.

Baghel, who will be taking the oath of office Monday afternoon, also said that a Special Investigation Team will be constituted to probe the 2013 Jhiram Valley Naxal attack in which several senior Congress leaders were killed.

"In the first Cabinet meeting, the loan waiver will be announced and an SIT will be constituted to probe the Jhiram valley incident," Baghel told reporters here.

"Promises made by Congress president Rahul Gandhi to farmers will be our first priority. To probe the conspiracy behind the Jhiram valley incident will also be our priority," he said.

"Our focus will be on the welfare of farmers, tribals, youth, women and small traders," he added.

The Congress' manifesto had promised to waive the loans of farmers within 10 days of coming to power.

It had also promised a bonus on paddy procurement and a minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 2,500 per quintal of paddy.

Baghel, a five-time MLA from Patan and the state Congress chief, was named earlier Sunday as the next chief minister at the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting.

He will take oath at 4.30 PM at Science College ground here Monday.

In a Naxal attack in Jhiram Valley in Bastar district on May 25, 2013, almost entire state Congress leadership was wiped out.

State Congress chief Nandkumar Patel and former leader of opposition Mahendra Karma were among those killed.

The Congress had demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister-designate Bhupesh Baghel said Sunday that a loan waiver for farmers will be announced in the first meeting of the new state Cabinet. Baghel, who will be taking the oath of office Monday afternoon, also said that a Special Investigation Team will be constituted to probe the 2013 Jhiram Valley Naxal attack in which several senior Congress leaders were killed.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister-designate Bhupesh Baghel said Sunday that a loan waiver for farmers will be announced in the first meeting of the new state Cabinet. Baghel, who will be taking the oath of office Monday afternoon, also said that a Special Investigation Team will be constituted to probe the 2013 Jhiram Valley Naxal attack in which several senior Congress leaders were killed. "In the first Cabinet meeting, the loan waiver will be announced and an SIT will be constituted to probe the Jhiram valley incident," Baghel told reporters here. "Promises made by Congress president Rahul Gandhi to farmers will be our first priority. To probe the conspiracy behind the Jhiram valley incident will also be our priority," he said. "Our focus will be on the welfare of farmers, tribals, youth, women and small traders," he added. The Congress' manifesto had promised to waive the loans of farmers within 10 days of coming to power. It had also promised a bonus on paddy procurement and a minimum support price (MSP) of Rs 2,500 per quintal of paddy. Baghel, a five-time MLA from Patan and the state Congress chief, was named earlier Sunday as the next chief minister at the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting. He will take oath at 4.30 PM at Science College ground here Monday. In a Naxal attack in Jhiram Valley in Bastar district on May 25, 2013, almost entire state Congress leadership was wiped out. State Congress chief Nandkumar Patel and former leader of opposition Mahendra Karma were among those killed. The Congress had demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident.

Loan waiver will be announced in first Cabinet meet: Bhupesh Baghel

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/un-calls-for-credible-probe-into-khashoggi-murder-184518">UN chief Guterres calls for 'credible' probe into Khashoggi murder</a>

The UN chief said he had no information on the case except what had been reported in the media. "It is absolutely essential to have a credible investigation and to have the punishment of those that were guilty," Guterres said at a conference in Doha.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/game-of-building-pressure-on-the-judiciary-has-begun-pm-modi-184537">Game of building pressure on the judiciary has begun: PM Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated his allegation Sunday that the Congress was putting pressure on the judiciary. "In such a situation," he said, "it's essential to alert the nation and young generation."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hope-no-one-will-question-me-about-my-final-losses-anymore-sindhu-184512">Hope no one will now question my ability to win big titles: Sindhu after maiden WTF title</a>

After losing seven successive summit clashes, Olympic silver medallist Sindhu finally settled her finals blues with a 21-19 21-17 win over Japan's Nozomi Okuhara to lift the prestigious season-ending trophy.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britain-not-planning-second-referendum-on-brexit-minister-184494">Britain not planning the second referendum on Brexit: Minister</a>

British Education Minister Damian Hinds said on Sunday the government was not planning for a second referendum, denying reports that ministers were looking at such a vote to break the deadlock over Brexit.

He described Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to the leave the European Union as a "balanced" agreement that lawmakers should support.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/transgenders-on-way-to-sabarimala-sent-back-by-police-184510">Now, transgenders en route to Sabarimala sent back by police</a>

The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue.

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

UN chief Guterres calls for 'credible' probe into Khashoggi murder The UN chief said he had no information on the case except what had been reported in the media.

UN chief Guterres calls for 'credible' probe into Khashoggi murder The UN chief said he had no information on the case except what had been reported in the media. "It is absolutely essential to have a credible investigation and to have the punishment of those that were guilty," Guterres said at a conference in Doha. Game of building pressure on the judiciary has begun: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi repeated his allegation Sunday that the Congress was putting pressure on the judiciary. "In such a situation," he said, "it's essential to alert the nation and young generation." Hope no one will now question my ability to win big titles: Sindhu after maiden WTF title After losing seven successive summit clashes, Olympic silver medallist Sindhu finally settled her finals blues with a 21-19 21-17 win over Japan's Nozomi Okuhara to lift the prestigious season-ending trophy. Britain not planning the second referendum on Brexit: Minister British Education Minister Damian Hinds said on Sunday the government was not planning for a second referendum, denying reports that ministers were looking at such a vote to break the deadlock over Brexit. He described Prime Minister Theresa May's deal to the leave the European Union as a "balanced" agreement that lawmakers should support. Now, transgenders en route to Sabarimala sent back by police The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue.

The government is learnt to have decided to revoke passports of 23 Indians and issue them anew following reports that the original ones allegedly went missing from the Pakistan High Commission here after they applied for a visa to visit that country.

Official sources said the Ministry of External Affairs has issued instructions to its passport division to revoke the passports and issue new ones to the 23 Indians.

The Indians whose passport went missing belonged to the Sikh community and applied for a visa in Pakistan High Commission to visit Gurudwaras, including the Kartarpur Sahib, in that country.

There were apprehensions among the affected people that their passports may be misused.&nbsp;

There was no immediate reaction from the Pakistan High Commission.&nbsp; 
The affected people will be issued fresh passports, the sources said. 
Instructions have been issued to take necessary action in the case, they said.

Pakistan issued visas to over 3,800 Sikh pilgrims to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev there from November 21-30.

It is learnt that the 23 Indians, whose passports went missing, had applied for the visa to travel to Pakistan along with the group of 3,800 Sikh pilgrims. A number of persons have approached police after their passports went missing.&nbsp;

The government is learnt to have decided to revoke passports of 23 Indians and issue them anew following reports that the original ones allegedly went missing from the Pakistan High Commission here after they applied for a visa to visit that country.

The government is learnt to have decided to revoke passports of 23 Indians and issue them anew following reports that the original ones allegedly went missing from the Pakistan High Commission here after they applied for a visa to visit that country. Official sources said the Ministry of External Affairs has issued instructions to its passport division to revoke the passports and issue new ones to the 23 Indians. The Indians whose passport went missing belonged to the Sikh community and applied for a visa in Pakistan High Commission to visit Gurudwaras, including the Kartarpur Sahib, in that country. There were apprehensions among the affected people that their passports may be misused. There was no immediate reaction from the Pakistan High Commission. The affected people will be issued fresh passports, the sources said. Instructions have been issued to take necessary action in the case, they said. Pakistan issued visas to over 3,800 Sikh pilgrims to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev there from November 21-30. It is learnt that the 23 Indians, whose passports went missing, had applied for the visa to travel to Pakistan along with the group of 3,800 Sikh pilgrims. A number of persons have approached police after their passports went missing.

Government likely to revoke Indian passports that went missing from Pakistan mission over fear of misuse

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson and former President of the Congress party Sonia Gandhi unveiled the bronze statue of late DMK President M Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu on Sunday in Chennai.

Sonia Gandhi was received by DMK President M K Stalin at the party office in the city.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi &amp; Congress President Rahul Gandhi at a public rally in Chennai. <a href="https://t.co/RH3LnTlaOI">pic.twitter.com/RH3LnTlaOI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074282117008248832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu Naidu, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, &nbsp;Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy, &nbsp;BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha and leaders of DMK and several other parties, movie actors and industrialists were present when she unveiled former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi`s statue installed at the DMK headquarters Anna Arivalayam in Chennai.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Chennai: UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi unveils former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's statue, at DMK headquarters <a href="https://t.co/hM34stQqof">pic.twitter.com/hM34stQqof</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074270638502666241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Rajnikanth was also present on the occasion.&nbsp;

Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Stalin, Chief Ministers Naidu, Vijayan, Narayanasamy and others will be addressing a public rally in Chennai later in the day.

 
&nbsp;

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson and former President of the Congress party Sonia Gandhi unveiled the bronze statue of late DMK President M Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu on Sunday in Chennai.

The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson and former President of the Congress party Sonia Gandhi unveiled the bronze statue of late DMK President M Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu on Sunday in Chennai. Sonia Gandhi was received by DMK President M K Stalin at the party office in the city. UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi & Congress President Rahul Gandhi at a public rally in Chennai. pic.twitter.com/RH3LnTlaOI — ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2018 × Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu Naidu, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy, BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha and leaders of DMK and several other parties, movie actors and industrialists were present when she unveiled former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Karunanidhi`s statue installed at the DMK headquarters Anna Arivalayam in Chennai. Chennai: UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi unveils former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi's statue, at DMK headquarters pic.twitter.com/hM34stQqof — ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2018 × Rajnikanth was also present on the occasion. Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Stalin, Chief Ministers Naidu, Vijayan, Narayanasamy and others will be addressing a public rally in Chennai later in the day.

Sonia Gandhi unveils Karunanidhi's statue at DMK headquarters in Chennai

A group of transgenders, who were <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/sabarimala-verdict-missteps-on-gods-stairway-172050">on their way to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, were stopped here</a>, around 60 km from the shrine, and sent back by police Sunday.

The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue.

Ananya, Trupti, Renjumol and Avanthika were dressed in black sarees, the traditional pilgrim attire, and were carrying the customary 'irumudikettu' (sacred offerings to God).

They said they reached here in the early hours but the police was reluctant to provide them security and permission to proceed further.

They alleged that the Erumeli Police even asked them to change into male attire for proceeding to the Lord Ayyappa temple.&nbsp;

Ananya said they did not want to change the saree.

"The ban on menstruating women is not applicable to us. Though we have told this to the police, they were not ready to allow us to proceed further. They harassed us mentally and forced us to wear a male dress," Ananya said.

The devotee also said they would approach the high court against the police's move.

However, Kottayam Superintendent of Police S Harishankar rejected the charges of harassment and said everyone had the right to offer prayers at Sabarimala.

"We need to get some more legal clarity in this regard. So, we will approach the high court-appointed panel and seek their advice," he told reporters.

The state had witnessed massive protests by Lord Ayyappa devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple since the Kerala government decided to implement a Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups into the shrine.

Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek the holy hills due to furious protests by devotees and right-wing groups.&nbsp;

A group of transgenders, who were on their way to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, were stopped here, around 60 km from the shrine, and sent back by police Sunday.

A group of transgenders, who were on their way to offer prayers at Sabarimala temple, were stopped here, around 60 km from the shrine, and sent back by police Sunday. The transgenders alleged that the police harassed them and said they were not banned from darshan at the shrine, but the police said there was a need to get some legal clarity in this issue. Ananya, Trupti, Renjumol and Avanthika were dressed in black sarees, the traditional pilgrim attire, and were carrying the customary 'irumudikettu' (sacred offerings to God). They said they reached here in the early hours but the police was reluctant to provide them security and permission to proceed further. They alleged that the Erumeli Police even asked them to change into male attire for proceeding to the Lord Ayyappa temple. Ananya said they did not want to change the saree. "The ban on menstruating women is not applicable to us. Though we have told this to the police, they were not ready to allow us to proceed further. They harassed us mentally and forced us to wear a male dress," Ananya said. The devotee also said they would approach the high court against the police's move. However, Kottayam Superintendent of Police S Harishankar rejected the charges of harassment and said everyone had the right to offer prayers at Sabarimala. "We need to get some more legal clarity in this regard. So, we will approach the high court-appointed panel and seek their advice," he told reporters. The state had witnessed massive protests by Lord Ayyappa devotees opposing the entry of girls and women of menstrual age into the Sabarimala temple since the Kerala government decided to implement a Supreme Court order permitting women of all age groups into the shrine. Over a dozen women have so far made unsuccessful attempts to trek the holy hills due to furious protests by devotees and right-wing groups.

Now, transgenders en route to Sabarimala sent back by police

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in India Sunday on a three-day India visit. He was received by Minister of State Hardeep Singh Puri. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-maldives-see-closer-ties-india-under-ibrahim-mohamed-solih-167676">This is Solih's first visit to a foreign country</a> after taking over as president of the Maldives on November 17. Maldivian First Lady Fazna Ahmed and a high-level delegation of the Maldives government are accompanying President Solih on his visit.

In a statement on his visit, Solih highlighted that India was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives. He also expressed his "gratitude to the Indian government for the continuous support and assistance provided for the development of the Maldives".&nbsp;

Solih had, on the eve of his visit to India, appointed Aishath Mohamed Didi as the new Maldivian ambassador to India.

Solih will during his visit also meet with the Maldivian community and enquire about the challenges they face.&nbsp;

A number of bilateral agreements will be signed between the Maldives and India during Solih's visit, one of which is an agreement on a new visa regime that will ease the process of obtaining a dependent and medical visa for Maldivian travellers to India.

Monday will be the main day of engagements.&nbsp;

Solih will be given a guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, followed by a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House and a press statement at 1 pm.&nbsp;

Solih will also meet Indian business leaders.&nbsp;

As part of the state visit, a banquet in honour of President Solih and the first lady will be hosted by Prime Minister Modi.&nbsp;

Modi visited the Maldives last month to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony. Ties between India and the Maldives had suffered a downward spiral under the previous Abdulla Yameen administration who replaced the Maldives' pro-India stance with a pro-Bejing stance. Yameen had also signed a free trade agreement with China.&nbsp;

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in India Sunday on a three-day India visit. He was received by Minister of State Hardeep Singh Puri. This is Solih's first visit to a foreign country after taking over as president of the Maldives on November 17.

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in India Sunday on a three-day India visit. He was received by Minister of State Hardeep Singh Puri. This is Solih's first visit to a foreign country after taking over as president of the Maldives on November 17. Maldivian First Lady Fazna Ahmed and a high-level delegation of the Maldives government are accompanying President Solih on his visit. In a statement on his visit, Solih highlighted that India was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives. He also expressed his "gratitude to the Indian government for the continuous support and assistance provided for the development of the Maldives". Solih had, on the eve of his visit to India, appointed Aishath Mohamed Didi as the new Maldivian ambassador to India. Solih will during his visit also meet with the Maldivian community and enquire about the challenges they face. A number of bilateral agreements will be signed between the Maldives and India during Solih's visit, one of which is an agreement on a new visa regime that will ease the process of obtaining a dependent and medical visa for Maldivian travellers to India. Monday will be the main day of engagements. Solih will be given a guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, followed by a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House and a press statement at 1 pm. Solih will also meet Indian business leaders. As part of the state visit, a banquet in honour of President Solih and the first lady will be hosted by Prime Minister Modi. Modi visited the Maldives last month to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony. Ties between India and the Maldives had suffered a downward spiral under the previous Abdulla Yameen administration who replaced the Maldives' pro-India stance with a pro-Bejing stance. Yameen had also signed a free trade agreement with China.

In first visit to foreign country after taking over, Maldives President Solih arrives in India    

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official Spokesperson &nbsp;Raveesh Kumar on Sunday welcomed the resolution of the political unrest in Sri Lanka,&nbsp;

"As a close neighbour and true friend, India welcomes the resolution of the political situation in Sri Lanka. This is a reflection of the maturity demonstrated by all political forces, and also of the resilience of Sri Lankan democracy and its institutions," ANI reported quoting the spokesperson.

India remains committed to taking forward its people-oriented development projects in Sri Lanka, he further said.

"We are confident that India-Sri Lanka relations will continue to move on an upward trajectory," Kumar added.

The statement comes after the former Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe was reinstated as the Premier on Sunday.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe sworn-in a day after disputed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned from the office.

Political crisis prevailed in the island nation for two months after Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly ousted the then-Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapaksa, the country`s former President, as the new premier on October 26.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. However, the country's Supreme Court struck down his decision.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Sunday welcomed the resolution of the political unrest in Sri Lanka, "As a close neighbour and true friend, India welcomes the resolution of the political situation in Sri Lanka.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Sunday welcomed the resolution of the political unrest in Sri Lanka, "As a close neighbour and true friend, India welcomes the resolution of the political situation in Sri Lanka. This is a reflection of the maturity demonstrated by all political forces, and also of the resilience of Sri Lankan democracy and its institutions," ANI reported quoting the spokesperson. India remains committed to taking forward its people-oriented development projects in Sri Lanka, he further said. "We are confident that India-Sri Lanka relations will continue to move on an upward trajectory," Kumar added. The statement comes after the former Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe was reinstated as the Premier on Sunday. Wickremesinghe sworn-in a day after disputed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned from the office. Political crisis prevailed in the island nation for two months after Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly ousted the then-Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapaksa, the country`s former President, as the new premier on October 26. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. However, the country's Supreme Court struck down his decision.

India welcomes resolution of political unrest in Sri Lanka

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal.&nbsp;

Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik. He also spoke China's plan to have a polar silk route, Pakistan's status as a Major Non-Nato Ally (Iceland is Nato Country), Climate change, Brexit and future of European Union (EU). He also called on Bollywood (Gerua song from Bollywood movie Dilwale was shot in Iceland) to shoot more movies in Iceland.&nbsp;

WION: What is the focus of your India visit?

Gudlaugur Thor: We want to strengthen ties between India and Iceland. Obviously, we are very different. You are big populated, a superpower in every way. We are a small country but we share many similarities. We share the same values. Relations between India and Iceland always been good with a lot of opportunities.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in the Arctic Council?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, in the Arctic Council, we have Nordic countries like Russia, Canada, US. Other large countries, especially in Asia, are very important. When it comes to research and the scientific method, we are not going alone. We also need to have an international law when it comes to transportation and exploring natural resources. Because what we seeing now is shorting of the distances of sailing routes. Routes between Asia and Europe shorten by 40 per cent when the sailing route is open. Same when we saw Suez and Panama canal was opened. Its very important arctic is the peaceful area, low tension area. The only way is we work with all the stakeholder and India is a large stakeholder.

WION: Gerua song from Dilwale movie was shot in Iceland. Would like more Bollywood movies to be shot in Iceland?&nbsp;

Gudlaugur Thor: Gerua is a very beautiful video, well recognised. We didn't know how famous these actors are. We realized it when they come to Iceland. People who knew them, Indian tourist were very interested. &nbsp;We see a beautiful video. We know that Iceland film industry interested in working with the Indian film industry. Its been very successful. We see a lot of opportunities. Things you see in the video are not far away and it is easy to go.

WION: How popular is yoga in Iceland?

Gudlaugur Thor: It is not only yoga. Indian cuisine very popular. My favourite restaurant in Iceland is an Indian restaurant. Indian spices and Icelandic lamb go hand in hand.

WION: India has been calling for reforms at UN. Do you back India's bid at UNSC seat?

Gudlaugur Thor: We totally agree when it comes to UN reforms. It is good that Secretary-General emphasised on that. We have supported India at the security council. Actually, we find it is important that India has a regular role. We are not optimistic changes will happen. When it comes to value, Iceland and India do agree. That is why we both support UN reforms and support India to UNSC.

WION: But you don't sound optimistic?&nbsp;

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, there is someone who is dragging the reforms. We want UN to be a much more efficient instrument. Security Council should not block things.

WION: Your take on China's Polar Silk Road?

Gudlaugur Thor: In general its good that we are building infrastructure project around the world. But very important that all multilateralism based on values we have built so far. Find it essential, the multilateralism should be based on rule of law, human rights and democratic values.

WION: China says its a near arctic country. Do you think so?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well it is important we work together on multilateralism when it comes to the Arctic. Of course, when we look at the Arctic, we need to look at the people. there are 4 million people in the Arctic. Can't make decisions without them. we also need transportations when it comes to exploiting resources. we need some kind of structure. That is why we supported India, China's observer status at the Arctic Council. Everyone needs to be on the table when you are discussing those topics. Otherwise, we won't succeed. The main thing is that the Arctic remains a low tension and peaceful area.

WION: Your take on Arctic report saying the Arctic faces danger?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, the challenge is there. No doubt about it. &nbsp;I am an optimist. We need to address it and do it together. Iceland can't do alone. Even India can't do alone. I see the positive sign, lot of enthusiasm when it comes to fighting against climate change.

WION: But a Major country has withdrawn from the Paris Climate deal?

Gudlaugur Thor: Yes, but at the same time, both states in the US and huge firms and cities are more enthusiastic than ever when it comes fighting climate change. It is not all bleak. It needs to be discussed and we need to listen to voices who are concerned. We can't ignore that. Because if we do we can do in an open and transparent manner based on scientific knowledge.

WION: Europe is not going through a positive phase?

Gudlaugur Thor: Europe is not about institutions. There are challenges they need to sort out. European nations working together. Europe has layers of cooperation. It's not only EU. there is EFTA, NATO, EEA, EUROZONE. We have layers of cooperation. The best way is to approach is via the a la carte way. &nbsp;If we do that it will lower the tension. It's not me who makes a decision. We are outside EU.

WION:&nbsp;What are the advantages of staying away from EU. You are not part of EU?

Gudlaugur Thor: These are challenges we hope are resolved. Its very important they are resolved. We are not part of EU, these are our friends and allies, we wish them all the best so that they can try to find some solution. Its clear advantage we not part of EU. we have access to European markets. Very important for us. We need free trade all around the world. A perfect example of the importance of free trade. We used to be poor and we would still be poor if we didn't have access to others markets and our markets are not open. Every once in while this idea of protectionism comes up. It is always a bad idea. We are just emphasizing the importance of free trade.

WION: Would you like to sign FTA with India. ?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;Defiantly. The policy is to have a free trade agreement between EFTA and India. It is a good idea. you will only benefit from it. you will never lose by having FTA with EFTA.&nbsp;

WION: What suggestion would you like to give to British PM May?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;From the start, Brexit has been a priority for us. The UK is our 2nd most important trading partner. Fifth largest economy. We are saying do not put any trade restrictions in Europe. Think in a constructive way. If we can be part of the solution. For example, if UK would like to be part of EFTA or EEA we should look in a positive way. It will be awful if we see trade restrictions in Europe in future. It is just, we should try to work in a constructive way and look long term. We should think about people in Europe and not institution.

WION: You are part of NATO. US president is calling for budget cuts. Your take?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;NATO is an extremely important organization. NATO is the cornerstone of our foreign policy, a stronger supporter of NATO and it needs to be strengthened. And we are seeing that, since 2014 increase in the defence budget. It going in the right direction. And we need to have to strong defence, for reasons we all know.&nbsp;

WION: Voices in Washington say Pakistan should be removed from its status of major non-NATO ally. Your thoughts?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;We need to fight terrorism. NATO has emphasised on Europe 360 degree. But also emphasising on the fight against terror &amp; cyber attacks. We can not forget we need to fight terror every way we can, only message we give.

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik.

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik. He also spoke China's plan to have a polar silk route, Pakistan's status as a Major Non-Nato Ally (Iceland is Nato Country), Climate change, Brexit and future of European Union (EU). He also called on Bollywood (Gerua song from Bollywood movie Dilwale was shot in Iceland) to shoot more movies in Iceland. WION: What is the focus of your India visit? Gudlaugur Thor: We want to strengthen ties between India and Iceland. Obviously, we are very different. You are big populated, a superpower in every way. We are a small country but we share many similarities. We share the same values. Relations between India and Iceland always been good with a lot of opportunities. WION: How do you see India's role in the Arctic Council? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, in the Arctic Council, we have Nordic countries like Russia, Canada, US. Other large countries, especially in Asia, are very important. When it comes to research and the scientific method, we are not going alone. We also need to have an international law when it comes to transportation and exploring natural resources. Because what we seeing now is shorting of the distances of sailing routes. Routes between Asia and Europe shorten by 40 per cent when the sailing route is open. Same when we saw Suez and Panama canal was opened. Its very important arctic is the peaceful area, low tension area. The only way is we work with all the stakeholder and India is a large stakeholder. WION: Gerua song from Dilwale movie was shot in Iceland. Would like more Bollywood movies to be shot in Iceland? Gudlaugur Thor: Gerua is a very beautiful video, well recognised. We didn't know how famous these actors are. We realized it when they come to Iceland. People who knew them, Indian tourist were very interested. We see a beautiful video. We know that Iceland film industry interested in working with the Indian film industry. Its been very successful. We see a lot of opportunities. Things you see in the video are not far away and it is easy to go. WION: How popular is yoga in Iceland? Gudlaugur Thor: It is not only yoga. Indian cuisine very popular. My favourite restaurant in Iceland is an Indian restaurant. Indian spices and Icelandic lamb go hand in hand. WION: India has been calling for reforms at UN. Do you back India's bid at UNSC seat? Gudlaugur Thor: We totally agree when it comes to UN reforms. It is good that Secretary-General emphasised on that. We have supported India at the security council. Actually, we find it is important that India has a regular role. We are not optimistic changes will happen. When it comes to value, Iceland and India do agree. That is why we both support UN reforms and support India to UNSC. WION: But you don't sound optimistic? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, there is someone who is dragging the reforms. We want UN to be a much more efficient instrument. Security Council should not block things. WION: Your take on China's Polar Silk Road? Gudlaugur Thor: In general its good that we are building infrastructure project around the world. But very important that all multilateralism based on values we have built so far. Find it essential, the multilateralism should be based on rule of law, human rights and democratic values. WION: China says its a near arctic country. Do you think so? Gudlaugur Thor: Well it is important we work together on multilateralism when it comes to the Arctic. Of course, when we look at the Arctic, we need to look at the people. there are 4 million people in the Arctic. Can't make decisions without them. we also need transportations when it comes to exploiting resources. we need some kind of structure. That is why we supported India, China's observer status at the Arctic Council. Everyone needs to be on the table when you are discussing those topics. Otherwise, we won't succeed. The main thing is that the Arctic remains a low tension and peaceful area. WION: Your take on Arctic report saying the Arctic faces danger? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, the challenge is there. No doubt about it. I am an optimist. We need to address it and do it together. Iceland can't do alone. Even India can't do alone. I see the positive sign, lot of enthusiasm when it comes to fighting against climate change. WION: But a Major country has withdrawn from the Paris Climate deal? Gudlaugur Thor: Yes, but at the same time, both states in the US and huge firms and cities are more enthusiastic than ever when it comes fighting climate change. It is not all bleak. It needs to be discussed and we need to listen to voices who are concerned. We can't ignore that. Because if we do we can do in an open and transparent manner based on scientific knowledge. WION: Europe is not going through a positive phase? Gudlaugur Thor: Europe is not about institutions. There are challenges they need to sort out. European nations working together. Europe has layers of cooperation. It's not only EU. there is EFTA, NATO, EEA, EUROZONE. We have layers of cooperation. The best way is to approach is via the a la carte way. If we do that it will lower the tension. It's not me who makes a decision. We are outside EU. WION: What are the advantages of staying away from EU. You are not part of EU? Gudlaugur Thor: These are challenges we hope are resolved. Its very important they are resolved. We are not part of EU, these are our friends and allies, we wish them all the best so that they can try to find some solution. Its clear advantage we not part of EU. we have access to European markets. Very important for us. We need free trade all around the world. A perfect example of the importance of free trade. We used to be poor and we would still be poor if we didn't have access to others markets and our markets are not open. Every once in while this idea of protectionism comes up. It is always a bad idea. We are just emphasizing the importance of free trade. WION: Would you like to sign FTA with India. ? Gudlaugur Thor: Defiantly. The policy is to have a free trade agreement between EFTA and India. It is a good idea. you will only benefit from it. you will never lose by having FTA with EFTA. WION: What suggestion would you like to give to British PM May? Gudlaugur Thor: From the start, Brexit has been a priority for us. The UK is our 2nd most important trading partner. Fifth largest economy. We are saying do not put any trade restrictions in Europe. Think in a constructive way. If we can be part of the solution. For example, if UK would like to be part of EFTA or EEA we should look in a positive way. It will be awful if we see trade restrictions in Europe in future. It is just, we should try to work in a constructive way and look long term. We should think about people in Europe and not institution. WION: You are part of NATO. US president is calling for budget cuts. Your take? Gudlaugur Thor: NATO is an extremely important organization. NATO is the cornerstone of our foreign policy, a stronger supporter of NATO and it needs to be strengthened. And we are seeing that, since 2014 increase in the defence budget. It going in the right direction. And we need to have to strong defence, for reasons we all know. WION: Voices in Washington say Pakistan should be removed from its status of major non-NATO ally. Your thoughts? Gudlaugur Thor: We need to fight terrorism. NATO has emphasised on Europe 360 degree. But also emphasising on the fight against terror & cyber attacks. We can not forget we need to fight terror every way we can, only message we give.

India is a large stakeholder in Arctic: Iceland FM Gudlaugur Thor to WION

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-attacks-sonia-rahul-gandhi-in-chhattisgarh-poll-rally-176811">Narendra Modi tore into the Congress Sunday on Sonia Gandhi's home turf</a>, saying the party was "agitated" and telling "lies" as there was no "Quattrocchi uncle" or Christian Michel in BJP government's defence deals and slammed it for trying to create "distrust" against the judiciary.&nbsp;

They were the prime minister's first public comments after the Supreme Court gave a clean chit to the BJP government on the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

It was also the prime minister's first public meeting on Sonia Gandhi's home turf after the BJP lost the three heartland states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to the Congress and its allies.

In an&nbsp;all-out attack on the Congress, Modi accused the Congress of aligning with forces which do not want to see India's defence forces becoming strong.

"There are two facets before the country...One is of the government which is making every possible effort to augment the strength of defence forces, and the second is of those forces which want to weaken the country at every cost," he said.

The prime minister said people were witnessing that "the Congress is aligning with those forces which do not want our defence forces to become stronger."

Citing a couplet from the Ramcharit Manas, he said there were some people who only accept lies and share these with other people.

"For these very people the defence ministry, the defence minister, officers of the Indian Air Force, government of France, are all lies...Now the Supreme Court also appears to be a lie to them," Modi said in his 50-minute address, nearly 30 minutes of which were devoted to the Rafale deal.

Holding that previous defence deals were tainted, he said the&nbsp;history of the Congress in terms of such deals "belong to (Italian businessman Ottavio) Quattrocchi mama".

Quattrocchi was one of the alleged middlemen in the Bofors deal inked by the government led by then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1986.

Referring to the AgustaWestland chopper case, he said, "We have brought one uncle Christian Michel to India a few days back."

The 54-year-old British national is one of the three alleged middlemen being investigated by the CBI over charges of organising bribes for Indian politicians and bureaucrats to push for the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland chopper deal.

"Everyone is seeing as to how to save the accused the Congress had sent its advocate to the court," Modi charged.

"I want to know from the Congress as to why it is agitated and telling lies repeatedly. Is it because there is no Quattrocchi mama or Christian Michel in defence deals done by the BJP government?" he asked.

"Is it because of this that they (Congress) have started creating an atmosphere of distrust against the judiciary?" he posed.

Noting that after the Kargil conflict, there was a need for modern aircraft, the prime minister said, "The Congress ruled the country for ten years, but it did not allow the Air Force to get strengthened. Why? And under whose pressure?"

Accusing the Congress of failing to provide bulletproof jackets to jawans, he said, "In 2009, the Indian Army had demanded 1.86 lakh bullet-proof jackets. But, in the five years of UPA-II, these were not purchased."

"But, after we came to power, we purchased 50,000 BP jackets in 2016," he said, adding that this year the order for purchasing 1.86 lakh jackets from a domestic company has been placed.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tore into the Congress Sunday on Sonia Gandhi's home turf, saying the party was "agitated" and telling "lies" as there was no "Quattrocchi uncle" or Christian Michel in BJP government's defence deals and slammed it for trying to create "distrust" against the judiciary.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tore into the Congress Sunday on Sonia Gandhi's home turf, saying the party was "agitated" and telling "lies" as there was no "Quattrocchi uncle" or Christian Michel in BJP government's defence deals and slammed it for trying to create "distrust" against the judiciary. They were the prime minister's first public comments after the Supreme Court gave a clean chit to the BJP government on the Rafale deal. It was also the prime minister's first public meeting on Sonia Gandhi's home turf after the BJP lost the three heartland states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to the Congress and its allies. In an all-out attack on the Congress, Modi accused the Congress of aligning with forces which do not want to see India's defence forces becoming strong. "There are two facets before the country...One is of the government which is making every possible effort to augment the strength of defence forces, and the second is of those forces which want to weaken the country at every cost," he said. The prime minister said people were witnessing that "the Congress is aligning with those forces which do not want our defence forces to become stronger." Citing a couplet from the Ramcharit Manas, he said there were some people who only accept lies and share these with other people. "For these very people the defence ministry, the defence minister, officers of the Indian Air Force, government of France, are all lies...Now the Supreme Court also appears to be a lie to them," Modi said in his 50-minute address, nearly 30 minutes of which were devoted to the Rafale deal. Holding that previous defence deals were tainted, he said the history of the Congress in terms of such deals "belong to (Italian businessman Ottavio) Quattrocchi mama". Quattrocchi was one of the alleged middlemen in the Bofors deal inked by the government led by then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1986. Referring to the AgustaWestland chopper case, he said, "We have brought one uncle Christian Michel to India a few days back." The 54-year-old British national is one of the three alleged middlemen being investigated by the CBI over charges of organising bribes for Indian politicians and bureaucrats to push for the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland chopper deal. "Everyone is seeing as to how to save the accused the Congress had sent its advocate to the court," Modi charged. "I want to know from the Congress as to why it is agitated and telling lies repeatedly. Is it because there is no Quattrocchi mama or Christian Michel in defence deals done by the BJP government?" he asked. "Is it because of this that they (Congress) have started creating an atmosphere of distrust against the judiciary?" he posed. Noting that after the Kargil conflict, there was a need for modern aircraft, the prime minister said, "The Congress ruled the country for ten years, but it did not allow the Air Force to get strengthened. Why? And under whose pressure?" Accusing the Congress of failing to provide bulletproof jackets to jawans, he said, "In 2009, the Indian Army had demanded 1.86 lakh bullet-proof jackets. But, in the five years of UPA-II, these were not purchased." "But, after we came to power, we purchased 50,000 BP jackets in 2016," he said, adding that this year the order for purchasing 1.86 lakh jackets from a domestic company has been placed.

On Sonia Gandhi's home turf, Modi says Cong upset there is no 'Quatrocchi mama' in BJP's defence deals

At least six workers lost their lives while five were critically injured in a boiler explosion at the distillery unit of the Nirani sugar factory in Kulalli village of Mudhol in Bagalkot district on Sunday afternoon.

About 10 people were working in the sugar factory when the blast took place, according to a report. The intensity of the blast was so strong that the three-floor building housing the sugar factory caved in, killing six on the spot.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Visuals from Nirani sugars in Mudhol, Bagalkot where 6 people died and 5 were critically injured in a boiler blast earlier today. <a href="https://t.co/PlzlwjCvkd">pic.twitter.com/PlzlwjCvkd</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1074238025503268864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The deceased are yet to be identified, with news reports saying their faces had been damaged beyond recognition.&nbsp;

The reason behind the blast is not yet known.

Firefighters had rushed to the site and begun rescue operations.

The injured meanwhile have been rushed to Mudhol Hospital.

At least six workers lost their lives while five were critically injured in a boiler explosion at the distillery unit of the Nirani sugar factory in Kulalli village of Mudhol in Bagalkot district on Sunday afternoon.

At least six workers lost their lives while five were critically injured in a boiler explosion at the distillery unit of the Nirani sugar factory in Kulalli village of Mudhol in Bagalkot district on Sunday afternoon. About 10 people were working in the sugar factory when the blast took place, according to a report. The intensity of the blast was so strong that the three-floor building housing the sugar factory caved in, killing six on the spot. Visuals from Nirani sugars in Mudhol, Bagalkot where 6 people died and 5 were critically injured in a boiler blast earlier today. pic.twitter.com/PlzlwjCvkd — ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2018 × The deceased are yet to be identified, with news reports saying their faces had been damaged beyond recognition. The reason behind the blast is not yet known. Firefighters had rushed to the site and begun rescue operations. The injured meanwhile have been rushed to Mudhol Hospital.

Karnataka: Six dead, five critically injured after sugar factory boiler explodes

Tribal Rajkumar Roat was till recently waiting for the results of the Rajasthan Police recruitment exam but fortunes changed for the 26-year-old with the state assembly results.

Roat will now be taking oath as a member of the 15th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.

Elected on a Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) ticket from Chorasi constituency of tribal Dungarpur district by defeating BJP candidate Sushil Katara, Roat is now looking forward to raising issues of his constituency in the assembly instead of looking for a government job.

The journey from the nondescript Khankar Khoonia village in Dungarpur, where he was active in student politics and working on local issues, to the state capital has been just a three-odd month affair for Roat who was picked up by BTP to contest elections.

"Proper Implementation of schedule of V of the Constitution in tribal areas is the main agenda we tribals want. Both BJP and Congress have ruled the country and the state but issues related to tribals were never addressed in a suitable manner and my full focus will be on working in this direction,? Roat told PTI.

Like any other graduate, Roat, youngest among three siblings, was also looking for a job and his inspiration was his elder sister, who is in government service but he developed an interest in students politics and won student union elections in 2013-14.&nbsp;

Covering a distance of nearly 25 km to reach Dungarpur from his village on his motorcycle was a routine affair for Roat who established a great connect with locals, both young and old, and was working to make them aware of their rights and constitutional provisions for tribals.

The popularity of the young man as a "true voice of tribals"&nbsp;in the local area paid dividends and people voted him in the December 7 elections, results of which were announced on December 11.

"I will be raising the voice of my people in the temple of democracy,"&nbsp;he said.

After his father, who was the lone bread earner for the family, died sometime before his birth, his mother started working and somehow the family of four sustained.&nbsp;

"Farming is now the main source of income for us. My family wanted me to get a government job. I too initially wanted and appeared in competitive exams like RAS and recently appeared in sub inspector exam for which results are awaited. Three months back when I was asked by BTP to contest election, I was like, 'Okay? let's see', and comfortably won,"&nbsp;he said.

Roat defeated Sushil Katara, who was a state minister in the Vasundhara raje government, with a margin of 12,934 votes.

"I understand that this is a big responsibility at this young age but I am confident of performing well and stand true to the expectations of my people,? he said. 
The Gujarat-based party had fielded 11 candidates in South Rajasthan and two of them have won elections.

Tribal Rajkumar Roat was till recently waiting for the results of the Rajasthan Police recruitment exam but fortunes changed for the 26-year-old with the state assembly results.

Tribal Rajkumar Roat was till recently waiting for the results of the Rajasthan Police recruitment exam but fortunes changed for the 26-year-old with the state assembly results. Roat will now be taking oath as a member of the 15th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Elected on a Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP) ticket from Chorasi constituency of tribal Dungarpur district by defeating BJP candidate Sushil Katara, Roat is now looking forward to raising issues of his constituency in the assembly instead of looking for a government job. The journey from the nondescript Khankar Khoonia village in Dungarpur, where he was active in student politics and working on local issues, to the state capital has been just a three-odd month affair for Roat who was picked up by BTP to contest elections. "Proper Implementation of schedule of V of the Constitution in tribal areas is the main agenda we tribals want. Both BJP and Congress have ruled the country and the state but issues related to tribals were never addressed in a suitable manner and my full focus will be on working in this direction,? Roat told PTI. Like any other graduate, Roat, youngest among three siblings, was also looking for a job and his inspiration was his elder sister, who is in government service but he developed an interest in students politics and won student union elections in 2013-14. Covering a distance of nearly 25 km to reach Dungarpur from his village on his motorcycle was a routine affair for Roat who established a great connect with locals, both young and old, and was working to make them aware of their rights and constitutional provisions for tribals. The popularity of the young man as a "true voice of tribals" in the local area paid dividends and people voted him in the December 7 elections, results of which were announced on December 11. "I will be raising the voice of my people in the temple of democracy," he said. After his father, who was the lone bread earner for the family, died sometime before his birth, his mother started working and somehow the family of four sustained. "Farming is now the main source of income for us. My family wanted me to get a government job. I too initially wanted and appeared in competitive exams like RAS and recently appeared in sub inspector exam for which results are awaited. Three months back when I was asked by BTP to contest election, I was like, 'Okay? let's see', and comfortably won," he said. Roat defeated Sushil Katara, who was a state minister in the Vasundhara raje government, with a margin of 12,934 votes. "I understand that this is a big responsibility at this young age but I am confident of performing well and stand true to the expectations of my people,? he said. The Gujarat-based party had fielded 11 candidates in South Rajasthan and two of them have won elections.

Roat hopes to raise tribal issues in Rajasthan Assembly

A joint parliamentary committee has expressed dismay over long working hours of CRPF personnel, who cannot even avail holidays and weekly offs, saying such a situation is neither healthy nor sustainable. 
Advertising

The parliamentary standing committee on home affairs, headed by Congress leader P Chidambaram, also said the accommodation provided by the state governments to paramilitary forces sometimes are unhygienic, insecure and poorly maintained, which affects dignity, morale and motivation of troops.

“The committee is dismayed to note that the CRPF personnel work for 12-14 hours a day and more than 80 per cent of CRPF personnel cannot avail holidays and Sundays,” it said in a report submitted to Rajya Sabha.

The panel said it understands that the job of an armed force personnel is such that he or she has to be alert 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. However, working 12 to 14 hours daily with no scope for holidays and Sundays will result in psychological and physical consequences and affect their work, it said.

The committee said it is important to acknowledge that the working hours regulation under Indian Labour Law stipulates a maximum of 48 hours per week. While the armed forces are exempted from this directive, it does indicate that their working hours are “neither healthy nor sustainable in the long term”, it said.

The committee, therefore, recommends that some mechanism should be worked out by the ministry to provide the much-needed rest and optimal duty hours for the personnel. The panel notes that there is a constant increase in the demand for CRPF deployment by the state governments. The states are over-dependent on the CRPF for maintaining all kinds of major as well as minor law and order situations.

The committee also notes that no CRPF battalion is presently designated for the purpose of providing rest and recuperation. Moreover, almost 98 per cent of training companies remains deployed in various short-term law and order assignments across the country. This continuous deployment of training companies affects the overall operational efficiency of the force, besides denying troops the much-wanted training and rest and recuperation.

“The committee is concerned to observe this over-deployment of the CRPF which is curtailing their training, rest and recuperation. The committee is of the considered view that one-sixth of a battalion, should be, at any given time, mandatorily under training or rest or in peace stations,” the report said.

The committee recommends that the state governments may work out their own systems and make arrangements for appropriate training of their respective state police forces such that their over-reliance on the CRPF for every law and order situation may be reduced. During evidence before the committee, the Home Ministry apprised it that battalion camping sites and companies locations provided by states are sometimes inadequate, unhygienic, insecure and poorly maintained.

“Often state governments fail to provide basic infrastructure. Funds may be given directly to the CRPF to build its own infrastructure. “Due to the absence of adequate and suitable accommodation the jawans are compelled to live in sub-human conditions which affect their dignity, morale and motivation besides affecting the command and control,” it said.

A joint parliamentary committee has expressed dismay over long working hours of CRPF personnel, who cannot even avail holidays and weekly offs, saying such a situation is neither healthy nor sustainable.

A joint parliamentary committee has expressed dismay over long working hours of CRPF personnel, who cannot even avail holidays and weekly offs, saying such a situation is neither healthy nor sustainable. Advertising The parliamentary standing committee on home affairs, headed by Congress leader P Chidambaram, also said the accommodation provided by the state governments to paramilitary forces sometimes are unhygienic, insecure and poorly maintained, which affects dignity, morale and motivation of troops. “The committee is dismayed to note that the CRPF personnel work for 12-14 hours a day and more than 80 per cent of CRPF personnel cannot avail holidays and Sundays,” it said in a report submitted to Rajya Sabha. The panel said it understands that the job of an armed force personnel is such that he or she has to be alert 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year. However, working 12 to 14 hours daily with no scope for holidays and Sundays will result in psychological and physical consequences and affect their work, it said. The committee said it is important to acknowledge that the working hours regulation under Indian Labour Law stipulates a maximum of 48 hours per week. While the armed forces are exempted from this directive, it does indicate that their working hours are “neither healthy nor sustainable in the long term”, it said. The committee, therefore, recommends that some mechanism should be worked out by the ministry to provide the much-needed rest and optimal duty hours for the personnel. The panel notes that there is a constant increase in the demand for CRPF deployment by the state governments. The states are over-dependent on the CRPF for maintaining all kinds of major as well as minor law and order situations. The committee also notes that no CRPF battalion is presently designated for the purpose of providing rest and recuperation. Moreover, almost 98 per cent of training companies remains deployed in various short-term law and order assignments across the country. This continuous deployment of training companies affects the overall operational efficiency of the force, besides denying troops the much-wanted training and rest and recuperation. “The committee is concerned to observe this over-deployment of the CRPF which is curtailing their training, rest and recuperation. The committee is of the considered view that one-sixth of a battalion, should be, at any given time, mandatorily under training or rest or in peace stations,” the report said. The committee recommends that the state governments may work out their own systems and make arrangements for appropriate training of their respective state police forces such that their over-reliance on the CRPF for every law and order situation may be reduced. During evidence before the committee, the Home Ministry apprised it that battalion camping sites and companies locations provided by states are sometimes inadequate, unhygienic, insecure and poorly maintained. “Often state governments fail to provide basic infrastructure. Funds may be given directly to the CRPF to build its own infrastructure. “Due to the absence of adequate and suitable accommodation the jawans are compelled to live in sub-human conditions which affect their dignity, morale and motivation besides affecting the command and control,” it said.

Joint parliamentary panel expresses dismay over long working hours of CRPF personnel

BJP Chief Amit Shah would review the party’s performance in the December 7 assembly polls in Telangana this month end and gear up the party for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, state BJP president K Laxman said here Saturday.

Shah would visit the state in the last week of this month and review the party’s performance and its preparedness for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, a party release quoted Laxman as saying.

BJP contested the polls on its own and won only one Assembly segment (out of the total of 119).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also likely to visit the state in January, Laxman added.

The contest in the polls turned out to be one between TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu (TDP allied with Congress and other parties for the elections) and TRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao, which led to a rise in ‘Telangana sentiment’ among people, Laxman claimed.

This helped the TRS, he said.

TRS won the polls with a thumping majority, winning 88 seats.

BJP Chief Amit Shah would review the party’s performance in the December 7 assembly polls in Telangana this month end and gear up the party for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, state BJP president K Laxman said here Saturday.

BJP Chief Amit Shah would review the party’s performance in the December 7 assembly polls in Telangana this month end and gear up the party for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, state BJP president K Laxman said here Saturday. Shah would visit the state in the last week of this month and review the party’s performance and its preparedness for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, a party release quoted Laxman as saying. BJP contested the polls on its own and won only one Assembly segment (out of the total of 119). Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also likely to visit the state in January, Laxman added. The contest in the polls turned out to be one between TDP Chief N Chandrababu Naidu (TDP allied with Congress and other parties for the elections) and TRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao, which led to a rise in ‘Telangana sentiment’ among people, Laxman claimed. This helped the TRS, he said. TRS won the polls with a thumping majority, winning 88 seats.

Amit Shah to review BJP’s performance in Telangana assembly polls

To facilitate pilgrims arriving in large numbers during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, the railways has proposed running 800 special trains from various stations of Allahabad district, an official has said. These trains would be in addition to the regular trains run by the North Central Railway (NCR).

PRO NCR Amit Malviya said, “Six special trains will come to Allahabad from different railway zones of the country for pilgrims and tourists participating in the Kumbh Mela.” He said the railways planned to operate four to five special trains to ferry 5,000 Pravasi Bhartiyas from Allahabad to New Delhi. They will be in Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela after attending the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas at Varanasi.

The Pravasi Bhartiyas will be taken to New Delhi for Republic Day celebrations. He also said branding of the Kumbh Mela will be done on 1,400 coaches of special trains and the originating trains of the NCR by vinyl wrapping, to take the message about the religious fair across the country.

The coaches will have colourful and attractive images of Kumbh Mela and landmark structures of Allahabad. “The railways have given space for ‘Paint My City’ initiative at its stations and residential colonies which is another big branding exercise for the Kumbh Mela,” Malviya said.

He also said that to promote local culture, the North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), under the Ministry of Culture, will be co-opted to put up stalls in passenger enclosures showcasing the art, culture and heritage of Allahabad and surrounding areas.

“Four big enclosures to house about 10,000 pilgrims have been constructed at Allahabad Junction railway station. These will have vending stalls, water booths and ticket counters, LCD TVs, public address system, CCTV cameras and separate toilets blocks for men and women. Similar passenger enclosures have also been built at other stations,” the PRO said.

To facilitate pilgrims arriving in large numbers during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, the railways has proposed running 800 special trains from various stations of Allahabad district, an official has said.

To facilitate pilgrims arriving in large numbers during the Kumbh Mela in 2019, the railways has proposed running 800 special trains from various stations of Allahabad district, an official has said. These trains would be in addition to the regular trains run by the North Central Railway (NCR). PRO NCR Amit Malviya said, “Six special trains will come to Allahabad from different railway zones of the country for pilgrims and tourists participating in the Kumbh Mela.” He said the railways planned to operate four to five special trains to ferry 5,000 Pravasi Bhartiyas from Allahabad to New Delhi. They will be in Allahabad to participate in the Kumbh Mela after attending the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas at Varanasi. The Pravasi Bhartiyas will be taken to New Delhi for Republic Day celebrations. He also said branding of the Kumbh Mela will be done on 1,400 coaches of special trains and the originating trains of the NCR by vinyl wrapping, to take the message about the religious fair across the country. The coaches will have colourful and attractive images of Kumbh Mela and landmark structures of Allahabad. “The railways have given space for ‘Paint My City’ initiative at its stations and residential colonies which is another big branding exercise for the Kumbh Mela,” Malviya said. He also said that to promote local culture, the North Central Zone Cultural Centre (NCZCC), under the Ministry of Culture, will be co-opted to put up stalls in passenger enclosures showcasing the art, culture and heritage of Allahabad and surrounding areas. “Four big enclosures to house about 10,000 pilgrims have been constructed at Allahabad Junction railway station. These will have vending stalls, water booths and ticket counters, LCD TVs, public address system, CCTV cameras and separate toilets blocks for men and women. Similar passenger enclosures have also been built at other stations,” the PRO said.

Railways to run 800 special trains for Kumbh Mela pilgrims

Taking on the Congress in Sonia Gandhi's home turf, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday accused earlier governments of neglecting the constituency.

The prime minister laid the foundation stone of some projects and inaugurated few others worth Rs 1,100 crore during his first visit to Sonia Gandhi's Lok Sabha constituency.

He also flagged off the 900th coach and Humsafar rake made by the Modern Coach Factory here.

"The Centre is committed to the development of Raebareli. Earlier governments neglected it," he said in his first public meeting after the BJP's loss in recent Assembly polls.

He, however, did not name any party.

Modi, who inspected the Modern Coach Factory, said its neglect was "an example of injustice to the country's means and resources by previous governments".

The factory was sanctioned in 2007 but failed to take off, he said.

Taking on the Congress in Sonia Gandhi's home turf, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday accused earlier governments of neglecting the constituency. The prime minister laid the foundation stone of some projects and inaugurated few others worth Rs 1,100 crore during his first visit to Sonia Gandhi's Lok Sabha constituency.

Taking on the Congress in Sonia Gandhi's home turf, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday accused earlier governments of neglecting the constituency. The prime minister laid the foundation stone of some projects and inaugurated few others worth Rs 1,100 crore during his first visit to Sonia Gandhi's Lok Sabha constituency. He also flagged off the 900th coach and Humsafar rake made by the Modern Coach Factory here. "The Centre is committed to the development of Raebareli. Earlier governments neglected it," he said in his first public meeting after the BJP's loss in recent Assembly polls. He, however, did not name any party. Modi, who inspected the Modern Coach Factory, said its neglect was "an example of injustice to the country's means and resources by previous governments". The factory was sanctioned in 2007 but failed to take off, he said.

PM Narendra Modi slams Congress in Sonia Gandhi's constituency Rae Bareli

An IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Lucknow via Delhi was grounded Saturday after a bomb threat call, airport officials said.

The flight, with 169 passengers on board, was scheduled to depart at 6.05 am, they said.

"A passenger travelling with another private carrier told our staff at the Mumbai airport that there could be a bomb on Mumbai-Delhi flight 6E 3612. IndiGo reported the matter to the authorities concerned and followed the normal security protocol," an IndiGo spokesperson said.

"The passenger was found to be mentally unsound. Operations have resumed. However, the flight was delayed by one hour," the spokesperson said.

An airport source said, A woman passenger travelling to Delhi on Go Air flight G8 329 approached an IndiGo check-in counter at T1 and informed that there was a bomb in flight 6E 3612 (operating on Mumbai-Delhi/Lucknow route).

She also showed photographs of a few people and claimed that they were a "threat to the nation, the source said.

CISF personnel took her to the airport police station for questioning. 
The aircraft was taken to an isolated bay for a secondary ladder point check after a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) found the threat as specific, the sources said.

Later, security agencies declared the plane "safe", they said.

An IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Lucknow via Delhi was grounded Saturday after a bomb threat call, airport officials said. The flight, with 169 passengers on board, was scheduled to depart at 6.

An IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Lucknow via Delhi was grounded Saturday after a bomb threat call, airport officials said. The flight, with 169 passengers on board, was scheduled to depart at 6.05 am, they said. "A passenger travelling with another private carrier told our staff at the Mumbai airport that there could be a bomb on Mumbai-Delhi flight 6E 3612. IndiGo reported the matter to the authorities concerned and followed the normal security protocol," an IndiGo spokesperson said. "The passenger was found to be mentally unsound. Operations have resumed. However, the flight was delayed by one hour," the spokesperson said. An airport source said, A woman passenger travelling to Delhi on Go Air flight G8 329 approached an IndiGo check-in counter at T1 and informed that there was a bomb in flight 6E 3612 (operating on Mumbai-Delhi/Lucknow route). She also showed photographs of a few people and claimed that they were a "threat to the nation, the source said. CISF personnel took her to the airport police station for questioning. The aircraft was taken to an isolated bay for a secondary ladder point check after a Bomb Threat Assessment Committee (BTAC) found the threat as specific, the sources said. Later, security agencies declared the plane "safe", they said.

Mumbai-Lucknow IndiGO flight grounded after bomb threat call

Mizo National Front (MNF) <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/imposing-prohibition-on-liquor-repairing-roads-on-agenda-mnf-chief-after-assembly-poll-win-183258">leader Zoramthanga </a>was Saturday sworn in as Mizoram's new chief minister.

Zoramthanga was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor K Rajasekharan at a ceremony here. The MNF president took the oath in Mizo language.

The Mizo National Front on Tuesday won the state assembly elections by bagging 26 out of 40 assembly seats. According to the official Election Commission data, Congress managed to bag five seats while the BJP got just one. Independent candidates captured eight assembly seats.&nbsp;

Expressing happiness over MNF's victory, party chief Zoramthanga said that his first priority will be to "to impose a prohibition on liquor, repair roads and implement Social Economic Development Programme (SEDP) which is our flagship programme."

Meanwhile, incumbent Mizoram Chief Minister and Congress candidate Lal Thanhawla lost from both his home turf Serchhip and Champhai South seat Tuesday, Election Commission sources said, news agency PTI reported.

Mizo National Front (MNF) leader Zoramthanga was Saturday sworn in as Mizoram's new chief minister. Zoramthanga was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor K Rajasekharan at a ceremony here.

Mizo National Front (MNF) leader Zoramthanga was Saturday sworn in as Mizoram's new chief minister. Zoramthanga was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor K Rajasekharan at a ceremony here. The MNF president took the oath in Mizo language. The Mizo National Front on Tuesday won the state assembly elections by bagging 26 out of 40 assembly seats. According to the official Election Commission data, Congress managed to bag five seats while the BJP got just one. Independent candidates captured eight assembly seats. Expressing happiness over MNF's victory, party chief Zoramthanga said that his first priority will be to "to impose a prohibition on liquor, repair roads and implement Social Economic Development Programme (SEDP) which is our flagship programme." Meanwhile, incumbent Mizoram Chief Minister and Congress candidate Lal Thanhawla lost from both his home turf Serchhip and Champhai South seat Tuesday, Election Commission sources said, news agency PTI reported.

MNF leader Zoramthanga sworn in as Mizoram's chief minister

Three terrorists and one soldier have reportedly been killed in the ongoing encounter&nbsp;in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir.

An encounter broke out Saturday between militants and security forces, police said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> One soldier has lost his life in the encounter, operation continues <a href="https://t.co/a4v9CvcU1a">https://t.co/a4v9CvcU1a</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073826098671165441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Sirnoo village in Pulwama district of south Kashmir after receiving specific intelligence input about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Jammu and Kashmir: Encounter underway between Security forces and terrorists in Pulwama district. (visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/vQ1ryAxODJ">pic.twitter.com/vQ1ryAxODJ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073782058118455296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He said as the forces were conducting searches, the militants opened fire on them.

The forces retaliated, leading to an encounter, the official said.

He said the gunfight is going on. Further details are awaited.&nbsp;

Three terrorists and one soldier have reportedly been killed in the ongoing encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. An encounter broke out Saturday between militants and security forces, police said.

Three terrorists and one soldier have reportedly been killed in the ongoing encounter in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. An encounter broke out Saturday between militants and security forces, police said. #UPDATE One soldier has lost his life in the encounter, operation continues https://t.co/a4v9CvcU1a — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × The security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Sirnoo village in Pulwama district of south Kashmir after receiving specific intelligence input about the presence of militants in the area, a police official said. Jammu and Kashmir: Encounter underway between Security forces and terrorists in Pulwama district. (visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/vQ1ryAxODJ — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × He said as the forces were conducting searches, the militants opened fire on them. The forces retaliated, leading to an encounter, the official said. He said the gunfight is going on. Further details are awaited.

Jammu and Kashmir: Three terrorists, one soldier dead in ongoing encounter in Pulwama district

Indian peacekeepers serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan have been lauded for providing lifesaving medical supplies to prisoners in the country's Malakal city.

Indian peacekeepers deployed with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) donated medical supplies, including antibiotics, fortified malnutrition supplements and bandages to a state prison in Malakal.&nbsp;

"This medicine will go a long way in helping the vulnerable people who are here, said Major General Paul Puk Kun, director of the correctional facility, adding that the donated drugs would also provide a buffer to cover their shortages.

A total of 32 cartons containing an assortment of multi-purpose drugs were handed over to the prison. The contribution was made possible by the proactive cooperation between the peacekeeping mission's Human Rights office and the hospital run by the Indian battalion, according to information on the UNMISS website.

Colonel Anupam Tuteja, in charge of the Indian health facility, said that he remains committed to supporting the prison population as much as possible.

Human Rights Officers who regularly visit the jail have noted that conditions have greatly improved, particularly related to health and cleanliness.

India is currently the largest contributor of peacekeepers to UNMISS with close to 2,400 military and police personnel deployed.

Indian peacekeepers serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan have been lauded for providing lifesaving medical supplies to prisoners in the country's Malakal city.

Indian peacekeepers serving with the UN Mission in South Sudan have been lauded for providing lifesaving medical supplies to prisoners in the country's Malakal city. Indian peacekeepers deployed with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) donated medical supplies, including antibiotics, fortified malnutrition supplements and bandages to a state prison in Malakal. "This medicine will go a long way in helping the vulnerable people who are here, said Major General Paul Puk Kun, director of the correctional facility, adding that the donated drugs would also provide a buffer to cover their shortages. A total of 32 cartons containing an assortment of multi-purpose drugs were handed over to the prison. The contribution was made possible by the proactive cooperation between the peacekeeping mission's Human Rights office and the hospital run by the Indian battalion, according to information on the UNMISS website. Colonel Anupam Tuteja, in charge of the Indian health facility, said that he remains committed to supporting the prison population as much as possible. Human Rights Officers who regularly visit the jail have noted that conditions have greatly improved, particularly related to health and cleanliness. India is currently the largest contributor of peacekeepers to UNMISS with close to 2,400 military and police personnel deployed.

Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan lauded for providing medical supplies to prisoners 

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news

Stalin proposes Rahul Gandhi as PM candidate

Sonia bats for strong Cong-DMK ties to take on BJP in Lok Sabha elections

Bangladesh felicitates Indian soldiers who died in 1971 Liberation War

Government lied to Supreme Court on Rafale; committed contempt of court, perjury: Congress

Game of building pressure on the judiciary has begun: PM Modi

News brief: Big stories of the day

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed to reach New Delhi today on a 3-day visit to India

Loan waiver will be announced in first Cabinet meet: Bhupesh Baghel

News brief: Big stories of the day

Government likely to revoke Indian passports that went missing from Pakistan mission over fear of misuse

Sonia Gandhi unveils Karunanidhi's statue at DMK headquarters in Chennai

Now, transgenders en route to Sabarimala sent back by police

In first visit to foreign country after taking over, Maldives President Solih arrives in India

India welcomes resolution of political unrest in Sri Lanka

India is a large stakeholder in Arctic: Iceland FM Gudlaugur Thor to WION

On Sonia Gandhi's home turf, Modi says Cong upset there is no 'Quatrocchi mama' in BJP's defence deals

Karnataka: Six dead, five critically injured after sugar factory boiler explodes

Roat hopes to raise tribal issues in Rajasthan Assembly

Joint parliamentary panel expresses dismay over long working hours of CRPF personnel

Amit Shah to review BJP’s performance in Telangana assembly polls

Railways to run 800 special trains for Kumbh Mela pilgrims

PM Narendra Modi slams Congress in Sonia Gandhi's constituency Rae Bareli

Mumbai-Lucknow IndiGO flight grounded after bomb threat call

MNF leader Zoramthanga sworn in as Mizoram's chief minister

Jammu and Kashmir: Three terrorists, one soldier dead in ongoing encounter in Pulwama district

Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan lauded for providing medical supplies to prisoners