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India's Centre for Development of Advanced Computing and France's IT services company Atos Saturday signed a three-year industrial contract for designing, building and installing the BullSequana, its high-performance supercomputers, in the country. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Jean Yves Le Drian, French minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs and Ajay Prakash Sawhney, secretary - Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.&nbsp;

It was signed between Hemant Darbari, Director General of C-DAC, and Pierre Barnab, chief operating officer - Big Data &amp; Security at Atos.

Speaking at the ceremony, Jean said the agreement will deepen our bilateral ties. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

"India and France have a strategic partnership and we are two nations that innovate a lot. It is true that supercomputers are a necessity and not a luxury. We often say that data for the 21st century is what oil was to the 20th century, we are using data in a massive way and that raises questions of ethics. India and

France share not only interests but also values that require us to use technology for good for humanity," he said.

"India and France have the same vision of what cyberspace should and we would like to deepen our cooperation in areas of cyberspace in R&amp;D or regulation for digital technology," Jean added.

This contract has been awarded to Atos under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), a scheme of Rs 4,500 crores, aimed at creating a network of over 70 high-performance supercomputing facilities for various academic and research institutions across India.&nbsp;

This contract is of special importance as Atos has become India's preferred industrial partner in a highly strategic field, according to a statement by the French Embassy.

The delivery of BullSequana supercomputers is expected to start in early next year, it said.&nbsp;

India's Centre for Development of Advanced Computing and France's IT services company Atos Saturday signed a three-year industrial contract for designing, building and installing the BullSequana, its high-performance supercomputers, in the country.

India's Centre for Development of Advanced Computing and France's IT services company Atos Saturday signed a three-year industrial contract for designing, building and installing the BullSequana, its high-performance supercomputers, in the country. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Jean Yves Le Drian, French minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs and Ajay Prakash Sawhney, secretary - Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. It was signed between Hemant Darbari, Director General of C-DAC, and Pierre Barnab, chief operating officer - Big Data & Security at Atos. Speaking at the ceremony, Jean said the agreement will deepen our bilateral ties. "India and France have a strategic partnership and we are two nations that innovate a lot. It is true that supercomputers are a necessity and not a luxury. We often say that data for the 21st century is what oil was to the 20th century, we are using data in a massive way and that raises questions of ethics. India and France share not only interests but also values that require us to use technology for good for humanity," he said. "India and France have the same vision of what cyberspace should and we would like to deepen our cooperation in areas of cyberspace in R&D or regulation for digital technology," Jean added. This contract has been awarded to Atos under the National Supercomputing Mission (NSM), a scheme of Rs 4,500 crores, aimed at creating a network of over 70 high-performance supercomputing facilities for various academic and research institutions across India. This contract is of special importance as Atos has become India's preferred industrial partner in a highly strategic field, according to a statement by the French Embassy. The delivery of BullSequana supercomputers is expected to start in early next year, it said.

India's CDAC, France' Atos sign contract on supercomputers

The Andhra Pradesh government put its machinery on high alert and positioned NDRF and State Disaster Response Force in five districts Saturday as the deep depression in the Bay of Bengal was set to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and cross the coast between Ongole and Kakinada on Monday.

The Met office said that coastal Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu are likely to experience rainfall in the next two days with the system making landfall between Ongole and Kakinada in the neighbouring state on Monday.

A report from Amaravati, quoting State Disaster Management Authority Director Prasanna Venkatesh,said teams of National Disaster Response Force and SDRF have been positioned in the coastal districts of Guntur, Krishna, West Godavari, East Godavari and Visakhapatnam and the government machinery put on high alert.

He said two teams of SDRF (80 members) and two of NDRF (60 members) have been deployed in these districts with all necessary equipment for evacuation and rescue operations.

Sixteen teams of Andhra Pradesh Disaster Response and Fire Services have been kept on reserve at Rajamahendravaram, while another nine (of five members each) have been positioned in West Godavari district for road clearance, he said.

"Additionally,four teams of NDRF personnel have been sent to East Godavari district and another kept on standby at the 10th Battalion headquarters for ready movement," Venkatesh said.

East Godavari District Collector Kartikeya Misra declared a two-day holiday for all schools in eight coastal mandals in view of the cyclone threat.

State Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha spoke to Collectors of all coastal districts and reviewed the preparedness to tackle the possible calamity.

Misra said that 50 relief camps have been opened in eight coastal mandals and four IAS officers stationed at Amalapuram to monitor the situation and take appropriate action.

A report from Puducherry, quoting revenue Minister M O H F Shah Jahan,said he asked the Regional Administrative Officer of Yanam (en enclave of the union territory near Kakinda in Andhra Pradesh) D Subramaniswara Rao, to take precautionary measures in view of the cyclone.

Shah Jahan said that Health and Tourism Minister Malladi Krishna Rao, elected from the lone Assembly segment in Yanam, was camping in the region, coordinating preventive steps and gearing up departments to ensure that people in vulnerable areas are evacuated to safer places.

A Met department bulletin said that squally winds, with a speed of 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph was likely off Andhra Pradesh, north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts from Saturday.

The deep depression over southeast Bay of Bengal moved further west-northwestwards and lay centred on Saturday morning over southwest and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal.

It lay about 690 km southeast of here, 890 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh and 440 km east-northeast of Trincomalee in Sri Lanka.

"It is very likely to intensify further into a cyclonic storm during the next 24 hours (between Saturday and Sunday) and into a severe cyclonic storm in the subsequent 24 hours (between Sunday and Monday morning)," it said.

The system is very likely to move north-northwestwards further and cross Andhra Pradesh coast between Ongole and Kakinada during December 17 afternoon.

In view of the system, rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy showers at a few places is very likely over coastal Andhra Pradesh on December 16 and 17.

"Extremely heavy falls at isolated places is also likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh on 17 December," it said.

Rainfall at many places with isolated heavy rain over north Tamil Nadu was likely on December 16, the bulletin said.

The wind speed was very likely to increase gradually to gale force with speeds of 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph along and off Andhra Pradesh coast from December 17 morning, it said.

The sea would be rough to very rough in south Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu from Saturday till December 17, it said, adding that fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Bay of Bengal.&nbsp;

The Andhra Pradesh government put its machinery on high alert and positioned NDRF and State Disaster Response Force in five districts Saturday as the deep depression in the Bay of Bengal was set to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and cross the coast between Ongole and Kakinada on Monday.

The Andhra Pradesh government put its machinery on high alert and positioned NDRF and State Disaster Response Force in five districts Saturday as the deep depression in the Bay of Bengal was set to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm and cross the coast between Ongole and Kakinada on Monday. The Met office said that coastal Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu are likely to experience rainfall in the next two days with the system making landfall between Ongole and Kakinada in the neighbouring state on Monday. A report from Amaravati, quoting State Disaster Management Authority Director Prasanna Venkatesh,said teams of National Disaster Response Force and SDRF have been positioned in the coastal districts of Guntur, Krishna, West Godavari, East Godavari and Visakhapatnam and the government machinery put on high alert. He said two teams of SDRF (80 members) and two of NDRF (60 members) have been deployed in these districts with all necessary equipment for evacuation and rescue operations. Sixteen teams of Andhra Pradesh Disaster Response and Fire Services have been kept on reserve at Rajamahendravaram, while another nine (of five members each) have been positioned in West Godavari district for road clearance, he said. "Additionally,four teams of NDRF personnel have been sent to East Godavari district and another kept on standby at the 10th Battalion headquarters for ready movement," Venkatesh said. East Godavari District Collector Kartikeya Misra declared a two-day holiday for all schools in eight coastal mandals in view of the cyclone threat. State Chief Secretary Anil Chandra Punetha spoke to Collectors of all coastal districts and reviewed the preparedness to tackle the possible calamity. Misra said that 50 relief camps have been opened in eight coastal mandals and four IAS officers stationed at Amalapuram to monitor the situation and take appropriate action. A report from Puducherry, quoting revenue Minister M O H F Shah Jahan,said he asked the Regional Administrative Officer of Yanam (en enclave of the union territory near Kakinda in Andhra Pradesh) D Subramaniswara Rao, to take precautionary measures in view of the cyclone. Shah Jahan said that Health and Tourism Minister Malladi Krishna Rao, elected from the lone Assembly segment in Yanam, was camping in the region, coordinating preventive steps and gearing up departments to ensure that people in vulnerable areas are evacuated to safer places. A Met department bulletin said that squally winds, with a speed of 45-55 kmph gusting to 65 kmph was likely off Andhra Pradesh, north Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts from Saturday. The deep depression over southeast Bay of Bengal moved further west-northwestwards and lay centred on Saturday morning over southwest and adjoining southeast Bay of Bengal. It lay about 690 km southeast of here, 890 km south-southeast of Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh and 440 km east-northeast of Trincomalee in Sri Lanka. "It is very likely to intensify further into a cyclonic storm during the next 24 hours (between Saturday and Sunday) and into a severe cyclonic storm in the subsequent 24 hours (between Sunday and Monday morning)," it said. The system is very likely to move north-northwestwards further and cross Andhra Pradesh coast between Ongole and Kakinada during December 17 afternoon. In view of the system, rainfall at most places with heavy to very heavy showers at a few places is very likely over coastal Andhra Pradesh on December 16 and 17. "Extremely heavy falls at isolated places is also likely over north coastal Andhra Pradesh on 17 December," it said. Rainfall at many places with isolated heavy rain over north Tamil Nadu was likely on December 16, the bulletin said. The wind speed was very likely to increase gradually to gale force with speeds of 80-90 kmph gusting to 100 kmph along and off Andhra Pradesh coast from December 17 morning, it said. The sea would be rough to very rough in south Andhra Pradesh and north Tamil Nadu from Saturday till December 17, it said, adding that fishermen have been advised not to venture into the Bay of Bengal.

Andhra Pradesh on high alert following cyclone threat, NDRF deployed

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Saturday ordered a probe into the death of seven civilians when security forces allegedly opened fire at a mob that thronged an encounter site in Pulwama district, an official spokesperson said.

He appealed to people to stay away from encounter sites while directing Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to inquire into the Saturday incident, the spokesman said.&nbsp;

Seven people were killed in alleged firing by security forces during post-operation clashes at Simoo village in Pulwama district after a gunfight with terrorists left three extremists and an army jawan dead.

In the wake of the incident, the governor chaired a high-level meeting of&nbsp; 
senior officers of the state and central police forces at the Raj Bhavan where he reviewed law and order and other security-related issues.

Expressing grief over the loss of lives during post-operation clashes, the governor directed the security forces to minimize collateral damage during anti-terror operations.

He also reviewed the latest security scenario in Kashmir including details of the counter-infiltration and counterterrorist operations are undertaken recently, the spokesman said.

He recommended people-friendly measures during such operations, asking the security forces and the administration to address the post-operation complications.

The governor emphasized the importance of maintaining a sustained and close watch on the ground situation and lauded the real-time coordination between the security forces and the civil administration. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Pained by the unnecessary and avoidable loss of civilian lives in operation, the governor appealed to the people to not go near such areas during or immediately after such operations, the spokesman said.

He said the governor directed security forces to give time for people to evacuate an area during an anti-militancy operation as per the laid down procedure.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Saturday ordered a probe into the death of seven civilians when security forces allegedly opened fire at a mob that thronged an encounter site in Pulwama district, an official spokesperson said.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik Saturday ordered a probe into the death of seven civilians when security forces allegedly opened fire at a mob that thronged an encounter site in Pulwama district, an official spokesperson said. He appealed to people to stay away from encounter sites while directing Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to inquire into the Saturday incident, the spokesman said. Seven people were killed in alleged firing by security forces during post-operation clashes at Simoo village in Pulwama district after a gunfight with terrorists left three extremists and an army jawan dead. In the wake of the incident, the governor chaired a high-level meeting of senior officers of the state and central police forces at the Raj Bhavan where he reviewed law and order and other security-related issues. Expressing grief over the loss of lives during post-operation clashes, the governor directed the security forces to minimize collateral damage during anti-terror operations. He also reviewed the latest security scenario in Kashmir including details of the counter-infiltration and counterterrorist operations are undertaken recently, the spokesman said. He recommended people-friendly measures during such operations, asking the security forces and the administration to address the post-operation complications. The governor emphasized the importance of maintaining a sustained and close watch on the ground situation and lauded the real-time coordination between the security forces and the civil administration. Pained by the unnecessary and avoidable loss of civilian lives in operation, the governor appealed to the people to not go near such areas during or immediately after such operations, the spokesman said. He said the governor directed security forces to give time for people to evacuate an area during an anti-militancy operation as per the laid down procedure.

J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik orders probe into Pulwama incident

A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG&nbsp;report and PAC, reported news agency PTI.

A law officer said that the application has been filed to convey to the court that there has been some misinterpretation on the issue of the documents placed in a sealed cover relating to the CAG and PAC, the report added.

In the judgement on Friday, the apex court had noted that the pricing details have been shared with CAG, and the report of the CAG has been examined by the PAC.

The issue of CAG and PAC was mentioned in para 25 of the judgement of the top court which had held that there were no irregularities in the procurement of 36 Rafale jets from France.

The judgement had said that the material placed before it shows that the Centre did not disclose in Parliament the pricing details of the Rafale fighter jet, but revealed it to the Comptroller and Auditor General.&nbsp;

After the SC verdict on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who chairs the PAC, had said no such report had come to him.&nbsp;

Swaraj Abhiyan's founder member and one of the petitioners in the case Prashant Bhushan too&nbsp;expressed shock that the judgement on the deal between India and France was based on "false information" about CAG report.

The Supreme Court Friday dismissed the pleas challenging the deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale jets saying there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision making the process" warranting setting aside of the contract.

The court rejected the pleas which sought lodging of an FIR and a court-monitored probe alleging irregularities in the Rs 58,000 crore deal, in which both the countries have entered into an inter-governmental agreement (IGA).&nbsp;

A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG report and PAC, reported news agency PTI.

A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG report and PAC, reported news agency PTI. A law officer said that the application has been filed to convey to the court that there has been some misinterpretation on the issue of the documents placed in a sealed cover relating to the CAG and PAC, the report added. In the judgement on Friday, the apex court had noted that the pricing details have been shared with CAG, and the report of the CAG has been examined by the PAC. The issue of CAG and PAC was mentioned in para 25 of the judgement of the top court which had held that there were no irregularities in the procurement of 36 Rafale jets from France. The judgement had said that the material placed before it shows that the Centre did not disclose in Parliament the pricing details of the Rafale fighter jet, but revealed it to the Comptroller and Auditor General. After the SC verdict on Friday, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who chairs the PAC, had said no such report had come to him. Swaraj Abhiyan's founder member and one of the petitioners in the case Prashant Bhushan too expressed shock that the judgement on the deal between India and France was based on "false information" about CAG report. The Supreme Court Friday dismissed the pleas challenging the deal between India and France for procurement of 36 Rafale jets saying there was no occasion to "really doubt the decision making the process" warranting setting aside of the contract. The court rejected the pleas which sought lodging of an FIR and a court-monitored probe alleging irregularities in the Rs 58,000 crore deal, in which both the countries have entered into an inter-governmental agreement (IGA).

Government moves SC seeking 'correction' in Rafale judgement

The<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/portfolios-allotted-to-new-mizoram-ministers-184307"> newly appointed chief minister of Mizoram</a>, Zoramthanga, claimed on Saturday that his party Mizo National Front would not leave the BJP-led NDA and the North East Democratic Alliance.&nbsp;

After taking oath as the chief minister of the state, Zoramthanga said to the reporters, "There is no intention at this juncture to leave the NDA and NEDA".

He further said that his government would majorly focus on combating alcoholism and drug addiction and added that he would work on the development project in the state from day 1.

Zoranthanga who took over the state after a decade is heading for a third term in the state.

Although facing criticism from certain sections in the Christian-dominated state for joining hands with the BJP, Zoramthanga said the MNF's ties with the NDA and NEDA will continue.

"With vast lands available for cultivation, we hope to increase the per capita income so that it is among the highest in the country," he said.

He emphasized the need for good roads saying that efforts would be made to repair the highways while sports and information technology would be accorded priority to benefit the youths.

(With inputs from agencies)

The newly appointed chief minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga, claimed on Saturday that his party Mizo National Front would not leave the BJP-led NDA and the North East Democratic Alliance.

The newly appointed chief minister of Mizoram, Zoramthanga, claimed on Saturday that his party Mizo National Front would not leave the BJP-led NDA and the North East Democratic Alliance. After taking oath as the chief minister of the state, Zoramthanga said to the reporters, "There is no intention at this juncture to leave the NDA and NEDA". He further said that his government would majorly focus on combating alcoholism and drug addiction and added that he would work on the development project in the state from day 1. Zoranthanga who took over the state after a decade is heading for a third term in the state. Although facing criticism from certain sections in the Christian-dominated state for joining hands with the BJP, Zoramthanga said the MNF's ties with the NDA and NEDA will continue. "With vast lands available for cultivation, we hope to increase the per capita income so that it is among the highest in the country," he said. He emphasized the need for good roads saying that efforts would be made to repair the highways while sports and information technology would be accorded priority to benefit the youths. (With inputs from agencies)

MNF not to leave NDA or NEDA: Mizoram CM Zoramthanga

The Ministry of External Affairs and Uttar Pradesh government hosted 72 heads of mission, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, on Saturday in Prayagraj. The visit was to showcase the preparedness for grand Kumbha Mela that is to be organised in the city in January.&nbsp;

Prayagraj Ardh Kumbh Mela 2019 will take place at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from 15th January to March 2019. Minister of State, External Affairs General V K Singh led the delegation of diplomats.

Speaking to WION, Dean of Diplomatic Corps Hans Dannenberg Castellanos, said, "The visit was extremely well prepared and organised by the UP government as well as the MEA. Kudos to the chief of protocol, MEA MOS General VK Singh, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for having the vision for this group visit by the head of mission to go to Kumbh Mela and personally experience what so many of our citizens come to India to experience."

Dean of the diplomatic corps is the representative of the diplomatic missions, a person who deals with the government on behalf of the diplomatic community of a country. Dean of the diplomatic corps is an ambassador of a particular country. Frank Hans Dannenberg Castellanos is the Ambassador of Dominican Republic to India.

He said all heads of mission were satisfied and "staff of MEA went above and beyond the call of duty in making this visit a successful one." He added that the visit will "bring more confidence in travellers from our country when they visit here (Kumbh Mela). When they ask our embassy for an opinion if they should go to Kumbh. UP govt is working with central govt to better develop the facility, to better develop the area."

Castellanos thanked Prime Minister Modi and said that "it was a personal decision of him to make sure that we as heads of mission posted in India have this experience."

The Kumbh Mela was inscribed on the list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2017.

Meanwhile, Minister of State, External Affairs VK Singh, speaking to reporters after the visit, said the reaction of the ambassadors and high commissioners was a "positive one" and the ministry was able to "clarify all concerns on safety and security." The basic purpose of the visit, he said, was to "showcase the preparations that go into Kumbh Mela preparations."

The Ministry of External Affairs and Uttar Pradesh government hosted 72 heads of mission, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, on Saturday in Prayagraj. The visit was to showcase the preparedness for grand Kumbha Mela that is to be organised in the city in January.

The Ministry of External Affairs and Uttar Pradesh government hosted 72 heads of mission, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, on Saturday in Prayagraj. The visit was to showcase the preparedness for grand Kumbha Mela that is to be organised in the city in January. Prayagraj Ardh Kumbh Mela 2019 will take place at Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh from 15th January to March 2019. Minister of State, External Affairs General V K Singh led the delegation of diplomats. Speaking to WION, Dean of Diplomatic Corps Hans Dannenberg Castellanos, said, "The visit was extremely well prepared and organised by the UP government as well as the MEA. Kudos to the chief of protocol, MEA MOS General VK Singh, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj for having the vision for this group visit by the head of mission to go to Kumbh Mela and personally experience what so many of our citizens come to India to experience." Dean of the diplomatic corps is the representative of the diplomatic missions, a person who deals with the government on behalf of the diplomatic community of a country. Dean of the diplomatic corps is an ambassador of a particular country. Frank Hans Dannenberg Castellanos is the Ambassador of Dominican Republic to India. He said all heads of mission were satisfied and "staff of MEA went above and beyond the call of duty in making this visit a successful one." He added that the visit will "bring more confidence in travellers from our country when they visit here (Kumbh Mela). When they ask our embassy for an opinion if they should go to Kumbh. UP govt is working with central govt to better develop the facility, to better develop the area." Castellanos thanked Prime Minister Modi and said that "it was a personal decision of him to make sure that we as heads of mission posted in India have this experience." The Kumbh Mela was inscribed on the list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO in 2017. Meanwhile, Minister of State, External Affairs VK Singh, speaking to reporters after the visit, said the reaction of the ambassadors and high commissioners was a "positive one" and the ministry was able to "clarify all concerns on safety and security." The basic purpose of the visit, he said, was to "showcase the preparations that go into Kumbh Mela preparations."

Heads of missions visit Prayagraj to witness Kumbh Mela preparations

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/flooding-in-illegal-coal-mine-in-meghalaya-13-feared-dead-183935">Thirteen people remain trapped</a> in an illegal coal mine due to flooding in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district.

The incident was reported to the district authorities Thursday morning and rescue efforts are on, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sylvester Nongtynger said.

A pump was pressed into service around 4 pm that day and is being turned off every three hours to give it a rest, officials said on Friday.

Two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) consisting of over 60 personnel and 12 personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have present on the site.

"We are trying to pump the water out from the mine which is about 370 feet deep. The water level is about 70 feet according to the NDRF," Police DIG (eastern range) A R Mawthoh told PTI.

NDRF divers will also make an attempt to reach the trapped miners, the DIG said.

The miners went in by 15 feet by 15 feet vertical shaft which is around 370 feet deep. At the bottom of the mine, at least four to five horizontal holes are dug from which coal chips are taken out, local people said.

"The chances of survival of the miners are very bleak. The mine is way deeper than the nearby river. There are also around 20 shafts," an elder from the village said, adding three of the trapped miners are from the village and the rest are non-tribals.

"Appropriate actions will be taken against people who are involved in illegal mining," Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said.&nbsp;

Thirteen people remain trapped in an illegal coal mine due to flooding in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district. The incident was reported to the district authorities Thursday morning and rescue efforts are on, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sylvester Nongtynger said.

Thirteen people remain trapped in an illegal coal mine due to flooding in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district. The incident was reported to the district authorities Thursday morning and rescue efforts are on, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sylvester Nongtynger said. A pump was pressed into service around 4 pm that day and is being turned off every three hours to give it a rest, officials said on Friday. Two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) consisting of over 60 personnel and 12 personnel from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) have present on the site. "We are trying to pump the water out from the mine which is about 370 feet deep. The water level is about 70 feet according to the NDRF," Police DIG (eastern range) A R Mawthoh told PTI. NDRF divers will also make an attempt to reach the trapped miners, the DIG said. The miners went in by 15 feet by 15 feet vertical shaft which is around 370 feet deep. At the bottom of the mine, at least four to five horizontal holes are dug from which coal chips are taken out, local people said. "The chances of survival of the miners are very bleak. The mine is way deeper than the nearby river. There are also around 20 shafts," an elder from the village said, adding three of the trapped miners are from the village and the rest are non-tribals. "Appropriate actions will be taken against people who are involved in illegal mining," Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said.

13 miners still trapped in flooded Meghalaya mine as efforts to pump out water yet to yield result

The Bhartiya Janata party will hold press conferences at 70 locations across the country on December 17 to "expose Congress".

The conferences have been called following the Supreme Court's ruling where the top court dismissed all petitions pertaining to the Rafale fighter jet deal.

The apex court on Friday said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required and ruled out the probe&nbsp;into the pricing details of the deal.

The BJP in a statement after the verdict demanded an apology from the Congress and its president Rahul Gandhi for levying false allegations against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to hold Press Conferences at 70 locations across the nation on Monday, December 17, to "expose Congress' for plotting conspiracy against Central government and messing with country's defence". <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> <a href="https://t.co/gGdxvq7PwC">pic.twitter.com/gGdxvq7PwC</a>
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India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of the Indian Air Force equipment. The estimated cost of the deal is Rs 58,000 crore.

The Bhartiya Janata party will hold press conferences at 70 locations across the country on December 17 to "expose Congress". The conferences have been called following the Supreme Court's ruling where the top court dismissed all petitions pertaining to the Rafale fighter jet deal.

The Bhartiya Janata party will hold press conferences at 70 locations across the country on December 17 to "expose Congress". The conferences have been called following the Supreme Court's ruling where the top court dismissed all petitions pertaining to the Rafale fighter jet deal. The apex court on Friday said that detailed scrutiny of the Rafale fighter jet deal was not required and ruled out the probe into the pricing details of the deal. The BJP in a statement after the verdict demanded an apology from the Congress and its president Rahul Gandhi for levying false allegations against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to hold Press Conferences at 70 locations across the nation on Monday, December 17, to "expose Congress' for plotting conspiracy against Central government and messing with country's defence". #Rafale pic.twitter.com/gGdxvq7PwC — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of the Indian Air Force equipment. The estimated cost of the deal is Rs 58,000 crore.

BJP to hold 70 press conferences across country to 'expose Congress'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/federal-judge-rules-obamas-affordable-care-act-unconstitutional-184151">Entire 'Obamacare' unconstitutional, declares federal judge in Texas</a>

A US federal judge in Texas ruled on Friday that the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, is unconstitutional, a decision that was likely to be appealed to the Supreme Court.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/big-china-us-trade-deal-could-happen-rather-soon-trump-184127">'Big' China-US trade deal could happen rather </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/big-china-us-trade-deal-could-happen-rather-soon-trump-184127">soon :</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/big-china-us-trade-deal-could-happen-rather-soon-trump-184127"> Trump</a>

President Donald Trump on Friday predicted a major US-China trade deal in the near future, saying that Beijing's negotiating position had been weakened by the impact of the tariffs war between the world's top two economies.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-johnson-shares-plunge-after-report-on-asbestos-in-baby-powder-184131">Johnson &amp; Johnson shares plunge after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-johnson-shares-plunge-after-report-on-asbestos-in-baby-powder-184131">report</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/johnson-johnson-shares-plunge-after-report-on-asbestos-in-baby-powder-184131"> on asbestos in baby powder</a>

US pharmaceutical and cosmetics group Johnson &amp; Johnson saw its shares plunge Friday after a media report alleged the group had deliberately concealed for decades that its baby powder sometimes contained asbestos.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/death-of-seven-year-old-migrant-girl-in-us-custody-sparks-furor-184139">Death of seven-year-old migrant girl in US custody sparks </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/death-of-seven-year-old-migrant-girl-in-us-custody-sparks-furor-184139">furor</a>

The death of a seven-year-old Guatemalan girl last week in the custody of US border agents sparked furore Friday and raised new pressure on the Trump administration's efforts to halt the migration of Central American families.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/france-set-for-more-yellow-vest-protests-despite-macron-concessions-184141">France set for more 'yellow vest' protests despite Macron concessions</a>

Thousands of France's "yellow vest" demonstrators were expected to take to the streets again on Saturday, a month after the start of their protest movement which has plunged President Emmanuel Macron's government into its biggest crisis.

&nbsp;

Entire 'Obamacare' unconstitutional, declares federal judge in Texas A US federal judge in Texas ruled on Friday that the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, is unconstitutional, a decision that was likely to be appealed to the Supreme Court.

Entire 'Obamacare' unconstitutional, declares federal judge in Texas A US federal judge in Texas ruled on Friday that the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare, is unconstitutional, a decision that was likely to be appealed to the Supreme Court. 'Big' China-US trade deal could happen rather soon : Trump President Donald Trump on Friday predicted a major US-China trade deal in the near future, saying that Beijing's negotiating position had been weakened by the impact of the tariffs war between the world's top two economies. Johnson & Johnson shares plunge after report on asbestos in baby powder US pharmaceutical and cosmetics group Johnson & Johnson saw its shares plunge Friday after a media report alleged the group had deliberately concealed for decades that its baby powder sometimes contained asbestos. Death of seven-year-old migrant girl in US custody sparks furor The death of a seven-year-old Guatemalan girl last week in the custody of US border agents sparked furore Friday and raised new pressure on the Trump administration's efforts to halt the migration of Central American families. France set for more 'yellow vest' protests despite Macron concessions Thousands of France's "yellow vest" demonstrators were expected to take to the streets again on Saturday, a month after the start of their protest movement which has plunged President Emmanuel Macron's government into its biggest crisis.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party, saying national security and defence sector were either a punching bag or a funding source for it.

For Congress, national security and defence sector is either a punching bag or a funding source. On one hand, the leaders called Army chief names and mocked surgical strikes, Modi said.

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PM Modi in interaction with BJP booth-level workers from Tamil Nadu: to Bofors in the 80s to the Augusta scam &amp; the submarine scam, among many others. All they see are ways to make money, even if it means the morale of our forces is diminished. Thankfully those days are gone. 2/2 <a href="https://t.co/Suye8EtGU7">pic.twitter.com/Suye8EtGU7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073939169284517888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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''The Congress looted the defence sector from the jeep scam back in the 1940s and 50s to the Bofors in the 80s, the AgustaWestland and submarine scam, among many others,'' he added.

The Prime Minister was interacting with the booth-level workers from Tamil Nadu earlier today.

"All they see is the way to make money even if it means the morale of our forces is diminished," Modi said.

"We are proud of our forces and have faith in them," the Prime Minister said.

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PM Modi: Sadly, for Congress, national security &amp; defence sector is either a punching bag or a funding source. On one hand, the leaders called Army chief names &amp; mocked surgical strikes. On the other, they looted the defence sector, from the jeep scam back in the 40s &amp; 50s, (1/2) <a href="https://t.co/4K2NxnW5sj">pic.twitter.com/4K2NxnW5sj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073939166356955136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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''Our government had the honour to fulfil the demand of One Rank One Pension that was lying unattended for 40 years. Previous government after much persuasion left mere Rs 500 crore aside for OROP which was nothing short of a cruel joke,'' Modi said.&nbsp;

His jibe at the Congress came after Gandhi accused him of shaping the Army's surgical strike across the LoC into a "political asset" and being "unsuccessful" in creating job opportunities for the youth.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party, saying national security and defence sector were either a punching bag or a funding source for it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party, saying national security and defence sector were either a punching bag or a funding source for it. For Congress, national security and defence sector is either a punching bag or a funding source. On one hand, the leaders called Army chief names and mocked surgical strikes, Modi said. PM Modi in interaction with BJP booth-level workers from Tamil Nadu: to Bofors in the 80s to the Augusta scam & the submarine scam, among many others. All they see are ways to make money, even if it means the morale of our forces is diminished. Thankfully those days are gone. 2/2 pic.twitter.com/Suye8EtGU7 — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × ''The Congress looted the defence sector from the jeep scam back in the 1940s and 50s to the Bofors in the 80s, the AgustaWestland and submarine scam, among many others,'' he added. The Prime Minister was interacting with the booth-level workers from Tamil Nadu earlier today. "All they see is the way to make money even if it means the morale of our forces is diminished," Modi said. "We are proud of our forces and have faith in them," the Prime Minister said. PM Modi: Sadly, for Congress, national security & defence sector is either a punching bag or a funding source. On one hand, the leaders called Army chief names & mocked surgical strikes. On the other, they looted the defence sector, from the jeep scam back in the 40s & 50s, (1/2) pic.twitter.com/4K2NxnW5sj — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × ''Our government had the honour to fulfil the demand of One Rank One Pension that was lying unattended for 40 years. Previous government after much persuasion left mere Rs 500 crore aside for OROP which was nothing short of a cruel joke,'' Modi said. His jibe at the Congress came after Gandhi accused him of shaping the Army's surgical strike across the LoC into a "political asset" and being "unsuccessful" in creating job opportunities for the youth.

National security is a punching bag for Congress, says PM Modi

Newly-appointed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/trs-heads-towards-decisive-victory-in-telangana-183095">TRS </a>Working President K T Rama Rao Saturday claimed that neither the Congress nor BJP would be able to get a majority after the general elections next year and said Telangana can get its interests safeguarded if his party wins 16 of the 17 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

BJP would not be able to get more than 150-160 seats and Congress, even if the 44 seats it won in last Lok Sabha polls doubles, would not secure more than 80-90 seats in 2019, he maintained.

Even their combined tally would not cross 270, he claimed adding in such a situation every MP seat becomes important in the election.

"If TRS wins 16 seats with people's blessings, it would be dictating to the government in Delhi (Centre) with those 16 seats," he said indicating a crucial role for the party.

Telangana was not able to realise the assurances given to it in the Andhra Pradesh Re-organisation Act like setting up a steel plant in the state with the NDA government at the Centre having a comfortable majority on its own, he said.

TRS would play a decisive role if a non-Congress, non-BJP government assumes office at the Centre, he said.

The total number of Lok Sabha seats in Telangana is 17. AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, an ally of TRS, traditionally wins from the Hyderabad parliamentary constituency.

Rama Rao said his appointment as working president should not lead to speculation that something more was in store for him.

On the party's stand that it would not hesitate to play a role in Andhra Pradesh politics, he said people of the neighbouring state would decide what was good for them.

Rama Rao was speaking at a 'Meet the Press' programme organised at the Press Club of Hyderabad.

He would formally take over as working president of TRS on Monday, party sources said.&nbsp;

Newly-appointed TRS Working President K T Rama Rao Saturday claimed that neither the Congress nor BJP would be able to get a majority after the general elections next year and said Telangana can get its interests safeguarded if his party wins 16 of the 17 Lok Sabha seats in the state.

Newly-appointed TRS Working President K T Rama Rao Saturday claimed that neither the Congress nor BJP would be able to get a majority after the general elections next year and said Telangana can get its interests safeguarded if his party wins 16 of the 17 Lok Sabha seats in the state. BJP would not be able to get more than 150-160 seats and Congress, even if the 44 seats it won in last Lok Sabha polls doubles, would not secure more than 80-90 seats in 2019, he maintained. Even their combined tally would not cross 270, he claimed adding in such a situation every MP seat becomes important in the election. "If TRS wins 16 seats with people's blessings, it would be dictating to the government in Delhi (Centre) with those 16 seats," he said indicating a crucial role for the party. Telangana was not able to realise the assurances given to it in the Andhra Pradesh Re-organisation Act like setting up a steel plant in the state with the NDA government at the Centre having a comfortable majority on its own, he said. TRS would play a decisive role if a non-Congress, non-BJP government assumes office at the Centre, he said. The total number of Lok Sabha seats in Telangana is 17. AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi, an ally of TRS, traditionally wins from the Hyderabad parliamentary constituency. Rama Rao said his appointment as working president should not lead to speculation that something more was in store for him. On the party's stand that it would not hesitate to play a role in Andhra Pradesh politics, he said people of the neighbouring state would decide what was good for them. Rama Rao was speaking at a 'Meet the Press' programme organised at the Press Club of Hyderabad. He would formally take over as working president of TRS on Monday, party sources said.

Congress, BJP will not be able to get majority in Lok Sabha polls, claims TRS leader Rama Rao

Hindutva leader Pravin Togadia Saturday blamed "wrong policies" of Narendra Modi government for farmers' suicides in the country.

Togadia, who has recently floated Antar-Rashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP), Saturday took part in a 20-km march from Dehgam to Gandhinagar in support of the farmers.

Several locals and farmers participated in the protest which was organised by the Rashtriya Kissan Parishad (RKP), an AHP wing.

While talking to reporters at Gandhinagar after culmination of the march, Togadia said the BJP should stop considering the farmers as a "vote-bank".

"Government has betrayed and tortured the farmers to the limits. Enough is enough. Farmers are being crushed under a mountain of debt and are committing suicides due to wrong policies of the government. This government should resign if they cannot do justice to the farming community", demanded Togadia.

He accused the prime minister of "betraying" farmers by "not keeping" promises.

"Modi had promised that recommendations made by the Swaminathan Commission for farmers in its report will be implemented in toto. But, as usual, he betrayed farmers on this promise too. The government has also fooled farmers in the name of Minimum Support Price (MSP) declared recently", the former VHP leader said.

Commenting on the problems being faced by the agriculturists in Gujarat, Togadia alleged the BJP government is favouring industries over farmers by supplying them water and electricity.

"Though a canal passes from Dehgam, local farmers do not get water from it. On the other hand, industries are getting water generously. Crop insurance is a scheme to fill the pockets of some insurance companies. If this continues, such protests would take place across the country", he said.

Togadia demanded a total debt waiver for farmers, a separate budget for agriculture, better MSP, and implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendation. 
"If the government fails to act now, farmers would teach a lesson to the ruling BJP in the 2019 polls", he said.&nbsp;

Hindutva leader Pravin Togadia Saturday blamed "wrong policies" of Narendra Modi government for farmers' suicides in the country. Togadia, who has recently floated Antar-Rashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP), Saturday took part in a 20-km march from Dehgam to Gandhinagar in support of the farmers.

Hindutva leader Pravin Togadia Saturday blamed "wrong policies" of Narendra Modi government for farmers' suicides in the country. Togadia, who has recently floated Antar-Rashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP), Saturday took part in a 20-km march from Dehgam to Gandhinagar in support of the farmers. Several locals and farmers participated in the protest which was organised by the Rashtriya Kissan Parishad (RKP), an AHP wing. While talking to reporters at Gandhinagar after culmination of the march, Togadia said the BJP should stop considering the farmers as a "vote-bank". "Government has betrayed and tortured the farmers to the limits. Enough is enough. Farmers are being crushed under a mountain of debt and are committing suicides due to wrong policies of the government. This government should resign if they cannot do justice to the farming community", demanded Togadia. He accused the prime minister of "betraying" farmers by "not keeping" promises. "Modi had promised that recommendations made by the Swaminathan Commission for farmers in its report will be implemented in toto. But, as usual, he betrayed farmers on this promise too. The government has also fooled farmers in the name of Minimum Support Price (MSP) declared recently", the former VHP leader said. Commenting on the problems being faced by the agriculturists in Gujarat, Togadia alleged the BJP government is favouring industries over farmers by supplying them water and electricity. "Though a canal passes from Dehgam, local farmers do not get water from it. On the other hand, industries are getting water generously. Crop insurance is a scheme to fill the pockets of some insurance companies. If this continues, such protests would take place across the country", he said. Togadia demanded a total debt waiver for farmers, a separate budget for agriculture, better MSP, and implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendation. "If the government fails to act now, farmers would teach a lesson to the ruling BJP in the 2019 polls", he said.

Modi govt responsible for suicides by farmers: Pravin Togadia

A total of 24 of the 90 legislators in the newly-elected <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-remain-in-state-politics-raman-singh-after-chhattisgarh-result-184145">Chhattisgarh Assembly</a> have declared that they are facing criminal cases.

Thirteen of them are facing serious charges including assault and criminal intimidation, a report prepared by two NGOs said.

The Congress registered a landslide victory in the state in the recently concluded polls by winning 68 of the 90 seats. The BJP, in power since 2003, was reduced to 15 seats.

According to the report issued by Chhattisgarh Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), of the 90 newly-elected legislators, 24 (27 per cent) have declared in their election affidavits that they are facing criminal cases. From these, 19 belong to the Congress and three are legislators of the BJP while two are from the Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J).

As per the report, Congress' Ashish Kumar Chhabra, elected from Bemetara, has declared that he is facing a case related to attempt to murder.

State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel, who has won from Patan, has declared that he is facing charges of "voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty" (IPC section 332), and criminal conspiracy (IPC section 120 B), among others.

JCC(J)'s Pramod Kumar Sharma, elected from Balodabazar seat, has declared a case related to"causing death by negligence" (IPC section 304A).

In the previous Assembly, 15 (17 per cent) of the MLAs had declared that they were facing criminal cases.

A total of 24 of the 90 legislators in the newly-elected Chhattisgarh Assembly have declared that they are facing criminal cases. Thirteen of them are facing serious charges including assault and criminal intimidation, a report prepared by two NGOs said.

A total of 24 of the 90 legislators in the newly-elected Chhattisgarh Assembly have declared that they are facing criminal cases. Thirteen of them are facing serious charges including assault and criminal intimidation, a report prepared by two NGOs said. The Congress registered a landslide victory in the state in the recently concluded polls by winning 68 of the 90 seats. The BJP, in power since 2003, was reduced to 15 seats. According to the report issued by Chhattisgarh Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), of the 90 newly-elected legislators, 24 (27 per cent) have declared in their election affidavits that they are facing criminal cases. From these, 19 belong to the Congress and three are legislators of the BJP while two are from the Janata Congress Chhattisgarh (J). As per the report, Congress' Ashish Kumar Chhabra, elected from Bemetara, has declared that he is facing a case related to attempt to murder. State Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel, who has won from Patan, has declared that he is facing charges of "voluntarily causing hurt to deter public servant from his duty" (IPC section 332), and criminal conspiracy (IPC section 120 B), among others. JCC(J)'s Pramod Kumar Sharma, elected from Balodabazar seat, has declared a case related to"causing death by negligence" (IPC section 304A). In the previous Assembly, 15 (17 per cent) of the MLAs had declared that they were facing criminal cases.

24 of 90 Chhattisgarh lawmakers have criminal records: Report

Delhi's air quality continued to be in the poor category but is likely to improve with authorities forecasting increased wind speed.

The overall air quality index (AQI) for the national capital was recorded at 263, which falls in the 'poor' category. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) also the overall Delhi air quality is still poor.&nbsp;

"It may improve as wind speed is sufficiently high. Wind speed continued to remain a key factor in improving the air quality. Temperature is not declining and there is good sunlight. However, humidity is still high and temperature is likely to cool. Both factors are unfavourable and push AQI to very poor," it said.

The overall PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level was recorded at 119 and the PM10 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) level at 210, SAFAR said.

The national capital recorded its best air quality in moderate category in over two months on Thursday after rains washed down pollutants before slipping into poor category on Friday.

On Saturday, four areas -- Jahangirpuri, Nehru Nagar, Wazirpur and R K Puram -- recorded very poor air quality while 24 recorded poor air quality and four moderate air quality, the Central Pollution Control Board said.

An AQI between 100 to 200 comes under moderate category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor' and 401 and 500 'severe'.

Neighbouring Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad recorded 'poor' air quality, while Gurgaon recorded 'moderate' air quality, the CPCB data showed.

According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the maximum ventilation index is 3000 sqm/second on Saturday.

A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second with average wind speed less than 10 kmph are unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.&nbsp;

Delhi's air quality continued to be in the poor category but is likely to improve with authorities forecasting increased wind speed. The overall air quality index (AQI) for the national capital was recorded at 263, which falls in the 'poor' category.

Delhi's air quality continued to be in the poor category but is likely to improve with authorities forecasting increased wind speed. The overall air quality index (AQI) for the national capital was recorded at 263, which falls in the 'poor' category. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR) also the overall Delhi air quality is still poor. "It may improve as wind speed is sufficiently high. Wind speed continued to remain a key factor in improving the air quality. Temperature is not declining and there is good sunlight. However, humidity is still high and temperature is likely to cool. Both factors are unfavourable and push AQI to very poor," it said. The overall PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres) level was recorded at 119 and the PM10 (fine particulate matter in the air with a diameter of less than 10 micrometres) level at 210, SAFAR said. The national capital recorded its best air quality in moderate category in over two months on Thursday after rains washed down pollutants before slipping into poor category on Friday. On Saturday, four areas -- Jahangirpuri, Nehru Nagar, Wazirpur and R K Puram -- recorded very poor air quality while 24 recorded poor air quality and four moderate air quality, the Central Pollution Control Board said. An AQI between 100 to 200 comes under moderate category, 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor' and 401 and 500 'severe'. Neighbouring Ghaziabad, Noida and Faridabad recorded 'poor' air quality, while Gurgaon recorded 'moderate' air quality, the CPCB data showed. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the maximum ventilation index is 3000 sqm/second on Saturday. A ventilation index lower than 6,000 sqm/second with average wind speed less than 10 kmph are unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants.

Delhi's air quality continues to be in poor category

The CPI(M) has filed an intervention plea in the pending Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of Article 370 of the Constitution, which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The intervention plea is filed through advocate-on-record Resmitha R Chandran. Senior advocate P V Surendranath will argue the matter in the apex court for the party.

"The party is of the unequivocal opinion that Article 370 shall in no circumstance be annulled, modified or repealed. The party opposes the relief sought in the Special Leave Petition," CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam M Y Tarigami said in a statement.

"The special status guaranteed to the State of Jammu Kashmir under the Constitution of India which has assumed the permanent feature of the Constitution requires protection as any alteration would be against the policy of federalism envisaged by the framers of the Constitution," he said.

Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India in unique circumstances and it poses a unique problem which requires a unique solution, he said.

It was the only state to declare its intention to have its own Constitution drafted by its own constituent assembly as far back as March 5, 1948, he said.

"Federalism is a basic feature and part of basic structure of the Constitution. To promote fraternity among all the citizens, assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the nation is our constitutional motto as declared in the preamble of our Constitution," he said.

Tarigami said the relative autonomy of states on federal principle was a pre-condition for preserving and developing unity and integrity of the nation.

"Federalism also presupposes acknowledgment of historical realities and special nature and objective factors with respect to deferent states and their population," he said.

Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir while Article 35A empowers the state legislature to define permanent citizens. 
The next date for hearing on Article 370 is scheduled on January 19.

The CPI(M) has filed an intervention plea in the pending Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of Article 370 of the Constitution, which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

The CPI(M) has filed an intervention plea in the pending Special Leave Petition in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of Article 370 of the Constitution, which grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The intervention plea is filed through advocate-on-record Resmitha R Chandran. Senior advocate P V Surendranath will argue the matter in the apex court for the party. "The party is of the unequivocal opinion that Article 370 shall in no circumstance be annulled, modified or repealed. The party opposes the relief sought in the Special Leave Petition," CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam M Y Tarigami said in a statement. "The special status guaranteed to the State of Jammu Kashmir under the Constitution of India which has assumed the permanent feature of the Constitution requires protection as any alteration would be against the policy of federalism envisaged by the framers of the Constitution," he said. Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India in unique circumstances and it poses a unique problem which requires a unique solution, he said. It was the only state to declare its intention to have its own Constitution drafted by its own constituent assembly as far back as March 5, 1948, he said. "Federalism is a basic feature and part of basic structure of the Constitution. To promote fraternity among all the citizens, assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the nation is our constitutional motto as declared in the preamble of our Constitution," he said. Tarigami said the relative autonomy of states on federal principle was a pre-condition for preserving and developing unity and integrity of the nation. "Federalism also presupposes acknowledgment of historical realities and special nature and objective factors with respect to deferent states and their population," he said. Article 370 grants special status to Jammu and Kashmir while Article 35A empowers the state legislature to define permanent citizens. The next date for hearing on Article 370 is scheduled on January 19.

CPI(M) files intervention plea in pending SLP in Supreme Court challenging Article 370

Outgoing Chhattisgarh <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-take-responsibility-for-this-defeat-will-forge-strong-opposition-for-chhattisgarhs-development-raman-singh-183294">Chief Minister Raman Singh</a> said on Friday that he will not move to the Centre but remain in state politics.

The Congress, in the recently concluded election, ended the BJP's 15-year rule in the state.

"Mai yahi tha aur yahi rahunga (I was here and will stay here)," Mr Singh said at a press conference.

"Now I will keep on coming to the BJP office in my new role. I will be meeting the press more often. Earlier as a chief minister, there were certain limitations for me but now I will come to party office and keep on meeting my workers," a smiling Singh said.

He also touched on the Supreme Court's ruling on the Rafale issue, and slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi.

"For the last eight months, as part of a well-planned conspiracy, an attempt was being made to malign the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi by levelling false charges."

"The Supreme Court's decision has exposed the lies of the Congress president," he said.

The Congress, itself embroiled in corruption scandals, was spreading lies against the BJP and the prime minister who has been discharging his duty with complete honesty, he said.

Rahul Gandhi and his party should apologise, he demanded, saying that such a smear campaign against a prime minister was never seen earlier.

The Congress will pay for this in Lok Sabha elections, he said, seeking Rahul Gandhi's resignation as Congress chief.

Mr Gandhi had raised the issue of alleged irregularities in Rafale deal throughout his poll campaign in Chhattisgarh.

When asked if the issue had any impact in the elections, Mr Singh said, "There has been no assessment of its impact so far. But such issues which are based on lies should not be raised by the president of a leading party."

Asked about the Congress' promise of loan waiver to farmers, Singh said he will speak about it after ten days.

The Gandhi-led party had promised to waive loans of farmers within ten days of coming to power.

The Congress won 68 out of 90 seats in the Assembly elections.

Outgoing Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh said on Friday that he will not move to the Centre but remain in state politics. The Congress, in the recently concluded election, ended the BJP's 15-year rule in the state.

Outgoing Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh said on Friday that he will not move to the Centre but remain in state politics. The Congress, in the recently concluded election, ended the BJP's 15-year rule in the state. "Mai yahi tha aur yahi rahunga (I was here and will stay here)," Mr Singh said at a press conference. "Now I will keep on coming to the BJP office in my new role. I will be meeting the press more often. Earlier as a chief minister, there were certain limitations for me but now I will come to party office and keep on meeting my workers," a smiling Singh said. He also touched on the Supreme Court's ruling on the Rafale issue, and slammed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi. "For the last eight months, as part of a well-planned conspiracy, an attempt was being made to malign the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi by levelling false charges." "The Supreme Court's decision has exposed the lies of the Congress president," he said. The Congress, itself embroiled in corruption scandals, was spreading lies against the BJP and the prime minister who has been discharging his duty with complete honesty, he said. Rahul Gandhi and his party should apologise, he demanded, saying that such a smear campaign against a prime minister was never seen earlier. The Congress will pay for this in Lok Sabha elections, he said, seeking Rahul Gandhi's resignation as Congress chief. Mr Gandhi had raised the issue of alleged irregularities in Rafale deal throughout his poll campaign in Chhattisgarh. When asked if the issue had any impact in the elections, Mr Singh said, "There has been no assessment of its impact so far. But such issues which are based on lies should not be raised by the president of a leading party." Asked about the Congress' promise of loan waiver to farmers, Singh said he will speak about it after ten days. The Gandhi-led party had promised to waive loans of farmers within ten days of coming to power. The Congress won 68 out of 90 seats in the Assembly elections.

'Will remain in state politics': Raman Singh after Chhattisgarh result

Madhya Pradesh <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-fulfill-all-promise-made-by-congress-kamal-nath-183909">chief minister-elect Kamal Nath</a> said on Friday that ensuring safety of women will be among his top priorities, also strengthening of farm sector and job creations.

He also assured that the promise of farm loan waiver made by the Congress will be fulfilled.

"Our priority will be to strengthen the agriculture sector to ramp up farm-based economy in Madhya Pradesh," he told reporters at his residence in Bhopal.&nbsp;

"My government will provide a safe environment to women and shore up employment avenues for the youth," he added.

"We are going to waive farmers' loans as promised," Nath said, adding, "I thank the people from the bottom of my heart for voting for the Congress. I assure them I will never let them down."

Kamal Nath will take oath as chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17 at Lal Parade ground in Bhopal.

The announcement of Nath's name as the new chief minister was made by the party observer for the state AK Antony on Thursday after being elected "unanimously" as the new Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader at meeting of the newly-elected MLAs.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister-elect Kamal Nath said on Friday that ensuring safety of women will be among his top priorities, also strengthening of farm sector and job creations.

Madhya Pradesh chief minister-elect Kamal Nath said on Friday that ensuring safety of women will be among his top priorities, also strengthening of farm sector and job creations. He also assured that the promise of farm loan waiver made by the Congress will be fulfilled. "Our priority will be to strengthen the agriculture sector to ramp up farm-based economy in Madhya Pradesh," he told reporters at his residence in Bhopal. "My government will provide a safe environment to women and shore up employment avenues for the youth," he added. "We are going to waive farmers' loans as promised," Nath said, adding, "I thank the people from the bottom of my heart for voting for the Congress. I assure them I will never let them down." Kamal Nath will take oath as chief minister of Madhya Pradesh on December 17 at Lal Parade ground in Bhopal. The announcement of Nath's name as the new chief minister was made by the party observer for the state AK Antony on Thursday after being elected "unanimously" as the new Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader at meeting of the newly-elected MLAs.

Kamal Nath lists out priorities as Madhya Pradesh chief minister ahead of swearing-in

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami Saturday said the state will challenge in the Supreme Court an <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-clears-way-for-reopening-vedanta-copper-smelter-tamil-nadu-government-to-appeal-184256">order of the National Green Tribunal</a> which set aside the government's closure of mining firm Vedanta Ltd's Sterlite Copper plant at Tuticorin.

The NGT Saturday allowed the appeal of the company challenging closure of its plant, saying the closure order was "non-sustainable" and "unjustified".

The tribunal has asked the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to pass a fresh order for renewal of consent and authorisation to handle hazardous substances.

"The Tamil Nadu government will appeal against this order in the Supreme Court," Palaniswami told reporters here.

On May 28, the state government had ordered the TNPCB to seal and "permanently" close the mining group's copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns.

At least 13 people were killed and several injured in police firing during anti-Sterilte protests on May 22 and 23.

The Supreme Court recently refused to stay a Madras High Court order for a CBI probe against police officials for firing during the protests.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami Saturday said the state will challenge in the Supreme Court an order of the National Green Tribunal which set aside the government's closure of mining firm Vedanta Ltd's Sterlite Copper plant at Tuticorin.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami Saturday said the state will challenge in the Supreme Court an order of the National Green Tribunal which set aside the government's closure of mining firm Vedanta Ltd's Sterlite Copper plant at Tuticorin. The NGT Saturday allowed the appeal of the company challenging closure of its plant, saying the closure order was "non-sustainable" and "unjustified". The tribunal has asked the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to pass a fresh order for renewal of consent and authorisation to handle hazardous substances. "The Tamil Nadu government will appeal against this order in the Supreme Court," Palaniswami told reporters here. On May 28, the state government had ordered the TNPCB to seal and "permanently" close the mining group's copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns. At least 13 people were killed and several injured in police firing during anti-Sterilte protests on May 22 and 23. The Supreme Court recently refused to stay a Madras High Court order for a CBI probe against police officials for firing during the protests.

Tamil Nadu will challenge NGT order for reopening Sterlite plant in SC: Palaniswami

With the general elections expected to take place within the next six months, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/matter-on-rafael-deal-has-been-thouroughly-through-the-supreme-court-laid-to-rest-sitharaman-184062">Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley</a> asserted that going forward, India cannot afford to have "fragile coalitions."

Addressing an annual gathering of the Federation of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) on Friday, Jaitley noted that the need of the hour was to formulate policies that have clarity, directional stability and decisive leadership, and establish a market economy with social consciousness for ensuring equitable growth.

"The next six months would see a rise in political rhetoric with voices which may not be the expression of the real intent. The need of the hour is continuation of sound policies as against transient populism. The immediate target should be one that spells out the recipe for the next two decades; for an India where further reforms would be the only constant for aspirational people whose attitude is for change and desire for a better quality of life," he said while addressing members of the industry body.

Jaitley further said that if the current growth rate and India's global position is retained, the country will be able to go beyond growth rate of 7-8 per cent. In order to achieve this, however, Jaitley said it is important to identify several unreformed sectors such as state road transportation, railways, dealing with urbanisation, focusing on science and technology and research.

"India has done extremely well in infrastructure areas such as aviation and ports and it must be ensured that these success stories are not converted into challenges for the economy," he added.

Amid reports of Urjit Patel stepping down as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor over the central bank's alleged stifled autonomy, Jaitley clarified that the government was in no way trying to interfere in the autonomy of the central bank.

He further said he was unable to perceive how an elected, sovereign government which flags off issues of credit and liquidity could be construed as infringing on the autonomy of the institution.

"Autonomy is not synonymous with isolationism, and therefore, bringing issues of concern to the notice of the central bank should not be regarded as a hindrance to the autonomy of the RBI," Jaitley asserted.

A tiff between the RBI and the Centre allegedly ensued after RBI deputy Governor Viral Acharya earlier this year stressed on the need to ensure the central bank's independence.

On Thursday, former chief economic advisor Arvind Subramanian had opined that creative tension between the RBI and the Centre should exist in line with the autonomy of the central bank.

"We want autonomy and independence but along with communication and cooperation because both parts of the government (i.e RBI and government) have to work together as many of their objectives are common. There will be some objectives which are different and that's why we created RBI. They will never agree, they should never agree, there has to be a creative tension," he had said.

With the general elections expected to take place within the next six months, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley asserted that going forward, India cannot afford to have "fragile coalitions.

With the general elections expected to take place within the next six months, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley asserted that going forward, India cannot afford to have "fragile coalitions." Addressing an annual gathering of the Federation of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) on Friday, Jaitley noted that the need of the hour was to formulate policies that have clarity, directional stability and decisive leadership, and establish a market economy with social consciousness for ensuring equitable growth. "The next six months would see a rise in political rhetoric with voices which may not be the expression of the real intent. The need of the hour is continuation of sound policies as against transient populism. The immediate target should be one that spells out the recipe for the next two decades; for an India where further reforms would be the only constant for aspirational people whose attitude is for change and desire for a better quality of life," he said while addressing members of the industry body. Jaitley further said that if the current growth rate and India's global position is retained, the country will be able to go beyond growth rate of 7-8 per cent. In order to achieve this, however, Jaitley said it is important to identify several unreformed sectors such as state road transportation, railways, dealing with urbanisation, focusing on science and technology and research. "India has done extremely well in infrastructure areas such as aviation and ports and it must be ensured that these success stories are not converted into challenges for the economy," he added. Amid reports of Urjit Patel stepping down as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor over the central bank's alleged stifled autonomy, Jaitley clarified that the government was in no way trying to interfere in the autonomy of the central bank. He further said he was unable to perceive how an elected, sovereign government which flags off issues of credit and liquidity could be construed as infringing on the autonomy of the institution. "Autonomy is not synonymous with isolationism, and therefore, bringing issues of concern to the notice of the central bank should not be regarded as a hindrance to the autonomy of the RBI," Jaitley asserted. A tiff between the RBI and the Centre allegedly ensued after RBI deputy Governor Viral Acharya earlier this year stressed on the need to ensure the central bank's independence. On Thursday, former chief economic advisor Arvind Subramanian had opined that creative tension between the RBI and the Centre should exist in line with the autonomy of the central bank. "We want autonomy and independence but along with communication and cooperation because both parts of the government (i.e RBI and government) have to work together as many of their objectives are common. There will be some objectives which are different and that's why we created RBI. They will never agree, they should never agree, there has to be a creative tension," he had said.

India cannot function with fragile coalitions in future: Arun Jaitley

Members of the Jammu and Kashmir United Peace Movement (JKUPM) Saturday protested in Jammu against the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-encounter-in-jk-8-civilians-3-militants-and-one-soldier-among-12-dead-184239">killings in the valley</a> and advocated dialogue to resolve the Kashmir problem.

The protesters assembled at Exhibition Ground and staged a peaceful sit-in on a day when seven civilians, three militants and an army soldier were killed and scores of others injured in a gunfight and subsequent protests in Pulwama district of south Kashmir.

"We have assembled here to seek an end to the killings, spread the message of peace and highlight the need to maintain communal harmony," chairman JKUPM Himmat Singh Singh told PTI.

He said the unabated violence in Kashmir and the loss of human lives on a daily basis should be put to an end which was possible only when the concerned parties start a meaningful dialogue.

"Kashmir has become a flashpoint in the sub-continent and a major hurdle in the development of South Asia. Bullet is not a solution to the problem," he said.

Former minister Baba Singh said the unrealistic approach of the successive governments at the centre and state is the root cause of the prevailing situation in the valley.

"We demand immediate end to the human rights violations. Kashmir is a dispute pending solution since 1947,? he said advocating a trilateral approach involving India, Pakistan and people of Jammu and Kashmir to address the issue.

He said JKUPM will launch a massive campaign across the state and the country to press for solution to the Kashmir problem through a meaningful dialogue.&nbsp;

Members of the Jammu and Kashmir United Peace Movement (JKUPM) Saturday protested in Jammu against the killings in the valley and advocated dialogue to resolve the Kashmir problem.

Members of the Jammu and Kashmir United Peace Movement (JKUPM) Saturday protested in Jammu against the killings in the valley and advocated dialogue to resolve the Kashmir problem. The protesters assembled at Exhibition Ground and staged a peaceful sit-in on a day when seven civilians, three militants and an army soldier were killed and scores of others injured in a gunfight and subsequent protests in Pulwama district of south Kashmir. "We have assembled here to seek an end to the killings, spread the message of peace and highlight the need to maintain communal harmony," chairman JKUPM Himmat Singh Singh told PTI. He said the unabated violence in Kashmir and the loss of human lives on a daily basis should be put to an end which was possible only when the concerned parties start a meaningful dialogue. "Kashmir has become a flashpoint in the sub-continent and a major hurdle in the development of South Asia. Bullet is not a solution to the problem," he said. Former minister Baba Singh said the unrealistic approach of the successive governments at the centre and state is the root cause of the prevailing situation in the valley. "We demand immediate end to the human rights violations. Kashmir is a dispute pending solution since 1947,? he said advocating a trilateral approach involving India, Pakistan and people of Jammu and Kashmir to address the issue. He said JKUPM will launch a massive campaign across the state and the country to press for solution to the Kashmir problem through a meaningful dialogue.

JKUPM protests killings in valley, advocates dialogue to resolve Kashmir issue

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-house-passes-resolution-on-kartarpur-corridor-suggests-land-swap-with-pak-184124">Punjab Legislative Assembly</a> unanimously passed a resolution urging the Centre to enact Women's Reservation Bill to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in both Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies by voice vote on Friday after the resolution was moved by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

While moving the resolution during the winter session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Singh pointed to the previous Congress government's decision to reserve 50 per cent seats for women in Urban Local Bodies and Panchayat Raj Institutions and urged the Centre to hasten the enactment of this bill.

"The Bill would ensure greater equity and balanced representation for both men and women in the national electoral process and decision making. This would fulfil a legitimate and long pending demand of women to ensure their empowerment," he said.

Underlining the fact that then Congress president Sonia Gandhi had initiated the process towards ensuring substantial women representation in Parliament and the Vidhan Sabhas, Singh said the Congress government had ensured passage of the earlier Bill in the Upper House but it had lapsed in the Lok Sabha due to the indifferent attitude of the opposition.

Once passed, the Bill would ensure reservation of 181 seats out of the total 543 Lok Sabha seats, besides earmarking 1370 assembly seats out of the total 4109 assembly seats across the nation.

The Punjab Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the Centre to enact Women's Reservation Bill to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in both Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies by voice vote on Friday after the resolution was moved by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh.

The Punjab Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the Centre to enact Women's Reservation Bill to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in both Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies by voice vote on Friday after the resolution was moved by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh. While moving the resolution during the winter session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Singh pointed to the previous Congress government's decision to reserve 50 per cent seats for women in Urban Local Bodies and Panchayat Raj Institutions and urged the Centre to hasten the enactment of this bill. "The Bill would ensure greater equity and balanced representation for both men and women in the national electoral process and decision making. This would fulfil a legitimate and long pending demand of women to ensure their empowerment," he said. Underlining the fact that then Congress president Sonia Gandhi had initiated the process towards ensuring substantial women representation in Parliament and the Vidhan Sabhas, Singh said the Congress government had ensured passage of the earlier Bill in the Upper House but it had lapsed in the Lok Sabha due to the indifferent attitude of the opposition. Once passed, the Bill would ensure reservation of 181 seats out of the total 543 Lok Sabha seats, besides earmarking 1370 assembly seats out of the total 4109 assembly seats across the nation.

Punjab Assembly passes resolution on 33% reservation for women

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-killed-in-encounter-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-pulwama-180137">Jammu and Kashmir </a>has become the first state in the country to have a law banning sexual exploitation of women by those in positions of authority, having a fiduciary relationship or a public servant.

The State Administrative Council (SAC) under the chairmanship of Governor Satya Pal Malik on Friday approved the 'Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018' and the 'Jammu and Kashmir Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018', an official spokesman said.

The Jammu and Kashmir Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 seeks to amend the Ranbir Penal Code, whereby specific offence under section 354 E is being inserted to provide for the offence of 'Sextortion', he said.

Amendments are being made in section 154, 161 and Schedule of Criminal Procedure Code and section 53 A of the Evidence Act so as to bring sextortion at par with similar offences prescribed under Ranbir Penal Code, and amendment is being made in the Prevention of Corruption Act to amend the definition of misconduct and provide that demand for sexual favours would also constitute misconduct within the meaning of section 5, the spokesman added.

Jammu and Kashmir has become the first state in the country to have a law banning sexual exploitation of women by those in positions of authority, having a fiduciary relationship or a public servant.

Jammu and Kashmir has become the first state in the country to have a law banning sexual exploitation of women by those in positions of authority, having a fiduciary relationship or a public servant. The State Administrative Council (SAC) under the chairmanship of Governor Satya Pal Malik on Friday approved the 'Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018' and the 'Jammu and Kashmir Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018', an official spokesman said. The Jammu and Kashmir Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 seeks to amend the Ranbir Penal Code, whereby specific offence under section 354 E is being inserted to provide for the offence of 'Sextortion', he said. Amendments are being made in section 154, 161 and Schedule of Criminal Procedure Code and section 53 A of the Evidence Act so as to bring sextortion at par with similar offences prescribed under Ranbir Penal Code, and amendment is being made in the Prevention of Corruption Act to amend the definition of misconduct and provide that demand for sexual favours would also constitute misconduct within the meaning of section 5, the spokesman added.

Jammu and Kashmir becomes first state to have a law banning 'sextortion'

At least 11 people have died and over 50 were hospitalised on Friday after consuming 'prasad' at a temple in Karnataka, the Chamarajanagar Superintendent of Police, Dharmendra Kumar Meena said.

The ill-stricken people were admitted to various hospitals in multiple locations in Chamarajanagar and Mysuru district.

The district health officer said that poison might have gotten mixed with the 'prasad', which eventually lead to this tragedy.

“It is suspected that the prasad was laced with poison. A team would be constituted to conduct a probe. The samples of the Prasad have already been sent to the lab. The exact reason would be ascertained only after receiving the reports," Chamarajanagar Deputy Commissioner B B Kaveri said.

Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy announced an initial compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the deceased, also&nbsp;the government will pay for treatment charges and ordered the Director General of Police to investigate further and report the matter immediately.

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Chief minister HD Kumaraswamy has announced Rs 5 lakh as compensation to the families of the deceased in the Chamrajanagar food poisoning incident. 
The CM held a meeting to discuss the accident that took place at Sulvadi village.
— CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMofKarnataka/status/1073622660926636032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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CM has announced that the Govt will bear the medical expenses of all those affected in the food poisoning incident. He also ordered the Director General of Police to investigate further &amp; report the matter immediately.
— CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMofKarnataka/status/1073622664558841862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Chief minister HD Kumaraswamy visited the K.R. Hospital, Mysuru, where the injured from the Chamarajanagar food poisoning incident is being treated. He consoled the victims of the tragedy, in which 8 people were dead and several others were taken ill. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chamarajanagar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chamarajanagar</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZsYyhLckJr">pic.twitter.com/ZsYyhLckJr</a>
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Kumaraswamy described the incident as unfortunate stating that, "there is an unfortunate food poisoning incident in Kamgere village. Principal Secretary and the commissioner has instructed DHOs Mandya and Mysore to provide help to Chamrajnagar health administration."

"The concerned program officer is monitoring calls at 108 call centre and coordinating services of ambulances. Commissioner has instructed ADC Mysore to provide services of private ALP ambulances. 2 senior officers are on way from state HQ to coordinate and supervise activities," Kumaraswamy added.&nbsp;

At least 11 people have died and over 50 were hospitalised on Friday after consuming 'prasad' at a temple in Karnataka, the Chamarajanagar Superintendent of Police, Dharmendra Kumar Meena said.

At least 11 people have died and over 50 were hospitalised on Friday after consuming 'prasad' at a temple in Karnataka, the Chamarajanagar Superintendent of Police, Dharmendra Kumar Meena said. The ill-stricken people were admitted to various hospitals in multiple locations in Chamarajanagar and Mysuru district. The district health officer said that poison might have gotten mixed with the 'prasad', which eventually lead to this tragedy. “It is suspected that the prasad was laced with poison. A team would be constituted to conduct a probe. The samples of the Prasad have already been sent to the lab. The exact reason would be ascertained only after receiving the reports," Chamarajanagar Deputy Commissioner B B Kaveri said. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy announced an initial compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the deceased, also the government will pay for treatment charges and ordered the Director General of Police to investigate further and report the matter immediately. Chief minister HD Kumaraswamy has announced Rs 5 lakh as compensation to the families of the deceased in the Chamrajanagar food poisoning incident. The CM held a meeting to discuss the accident that took place at Sulvadi village. — CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) December 14, 2018 × CM has announced that the Govt will bear the medical expenses of all those affected in the food poisoning incident. He also ordered the Director General of Police to investigate further & report the matter immediately. — CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) December 14, 2018 × Chief minister HD Kumaraswamy visited the K.R. Hospital, Mysuru, where the injured from the Chamarajanagar food poisoning incident is being treated. He consoled the victims of the tragedy, in which 8 people were dead and several others were taken ill. #Chamarajanagar pic.twitter.com/ZsYyhLckJr — CM of Karnataka (@CMofKarnataka) December 14, 2018 × Kumaraswamy described the incident as unfortunate stating that, "there is an unfortunate food poisoning incident in Kamgere village. Principal Secretary and the commissioner has instructed DHOs Mandya and Mysore to provide help to Chamrajnagar health administration." "The concerned program officer is monitoring calls at 108 call centre and coordinating services of ambulances. Commissioner has instructed ADC Mysore to provide services of private ALP ambulances. 2 senior officers are on way from state HQ to coordinate and supervise activities," Kumaraswamy added.

At least 11 dead, over 50 hospitalised after consuming prasad at a temple in Karnataka

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-judgement-govt-moves-sc-seeking-correction-in-para-which-makes-reference-to-cag-report-pac-184280">Govt files affidavit in SC seeking 'correction' in para which makes reference to CAG report, PAC in Rafale judgement</a>

A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG&nbsp;report and PAC, reported news agency PTI.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-maldivian-president-solih-arrives-in-india-on-sunday-visa-pact-on-the-cards-184252">New Maldivian president Solih arrives in India on Sunday; visa pact on the cards</a>

Solih arrives in India at 2 pm on Sunday. The 3-day visit from 16-18th will see the President meeting Indian business leaders, being accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and address a joint press conference&nbsp;with Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-clears-way-for-reopening-vedanta-copper-smelter-tamil-nadu-government-to-appeal-184256">NGT clears </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-clears-way-for-reopening-vedanta-copper-smelter-tamil-nadu-government-to-appeal-184256">way</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-clears-way-for-reopening-vedanta-copper-smelter-tamil-nadu-government-to-appeal-184256"> for reopening Thoothukudi Sterlite plant, Tamil Nadu govt to appeal</a>

The National Green Tribunal has set aside Tamil Nadu government's closure order of Vedanta`s copper smelter plant permanently saying it was non-sustainable and unjustified.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/court-extends-christian-michels-cbi-custody-by-4-days-184263">AgustaWestland case: Court extends Christian Michel's CBI custody by 4 days</a>

The Patiala House Court on Saturday extended the CBI custody of&nbsp;Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case, by four days.&nbsp;The next hearing in the case is scheduled for December 19.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-wont-give-up-on-khashoggi-murder-probe-foreign-minister-184299">Turkey won't 'give up' on Khashoggi murder probe: Foreign minister</a>

Turkey's foreign minister said Saturday his country would "not give up" on finding out the truth about the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul.

&nbsp;

Govt files affidavit in SC seeking 'correction' in para which makes reference to CAG report, PAC in Rafale judgement A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG report and PAC, reported news agency PTI.

Govt files affidavit in SC seeking 'correction' in para which makes reference to CAG report, PAC in Rafale judgement A day after Congress president Rahul Gandhi alleged that Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report on Rafale pricing never reached Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the Centre on Saturday filed an application in the Supreme Court seeking ''correction'' in a paragraph in its judgement on Rafale fighter jet deal in which a reference has been made about the CAG report and PAC, reported news agency PTI. New Maldivian president Solih arrives in India on Sunday; visa pact on the cards Solih arrives in India at 2 pm on Sunday. The 3-day visit from 16-18th will see the President meeting Indian business leaders, being accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan and address a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. NGT clears way for reopening Thoothukudi Sterlite plant, Tamil Nadu govt to appeal The National Green Tribunal has set aside Tamil Nadu government's closure order of Vedanta`s copper smelter plant permanently saying it was non-sustainable and unjustified. AgustaWestland case: Court extends Christian Michel's CBI custody by 4 days The Patiala House Court on Saturday extended the CBI custody of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the AgustaWestland case, by four days. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for December 19. Turkey won't 'give up' on Khashoggi murder probe: Foreign minister Turkey's foreign minister said Saturday his country would "not give up" on finding out the truth about the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside the kingdom's consulate in Istanbul.

The RLSP Saturday received a major setback with all its members in the bicameral legislature of Bihar declaring that they were still with the NDA as they accused party president <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rlsp-chief-upendra-kushwaha-quits-as-union-minister-likely-to-quit-nda-reports-182855">Upendra Kushwaha</a> of pursuing personal interests in announcing a break up with the coalition.

Both the Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) MLAs-- Sudhanshu Shekhar and Lalan Paswan-- and its lone MLC-Sanjiv Singh Shyam- made a statement to this effect at a joint press conference in Patna.

They also pitched for a ministerial berth for Shekhar a first-term MLA and the youngest among the three.

We will also approach the Election Commission with the claim that we represent the real RLSP and we enjoy the support of most workers and office-bearers in the party, Shyam said making it clear that the RLSP was heading towards a split.

RLSP which fought the 2014 general election as well the 2015 state polls as a NDA constituent has altogether three MPs, including Kushwaha, two MLAs and one MLC in Bihar.

While the three Legislators have announced their separation from Kushwaha, among the two other Lok Sabha members--Arun Kumar from Jehanabad and Ram Kumar Sharma from Sitamarhi--the former has been charting an independent course for past two years.

Sharma, who initially made statements in favour of NDA and Nitish Kumar later changed his stance and was seen with Kushwaha when he had announced his resignation from the cabinet and also severing ties with the NDA in Delhi.

We had been stating since long that we were in favour of the RLSP remaining in the NDA but Kushwaha, who was more interested in his personal gains, paid no heed, Shyam said pointing to the RLSP chiefs quitting announcement on Monday.

The RLSP MLC alleged that Khushwaha had of late been making noises about the RLSP bot being considered for a ministerial berth after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar returned to the NDA last year.&nbsp;

In reality, he never tried. When ministerial berths were being allocated among allies he was simply roaming around in Patna, Shyam claimed.

Khushwaha was happy with his own ministerial berth at the Centre. After that his entire attention had been on getting a deal that served his interests better. He simply did not care that somebody from his party should get a ministerial berth in the state as well, he added.

Replying to a query, he said neither he nor Paswan want ministerial berths.

We would like Sudhanshu Shekhar's inclusion in the state council of ministers and we would be hugely disappointed if he is not considered for the same, he said.

We are not defectors. Rather, we represent the real RLSP. Our stance is in line with the sentiments of most workers and office-bearers in the party. We will soon be approaching the Election Commission with our claim, he added.

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RLSP MLA Lalan Paswan: RLSP is ours. Sudhanshu Shekhar Ji (RLSP MLA) should be made a minister in NDA. We are in the NDA since the start. We want to make Narendra Modi the prime minister again in 2019. We've no relations with Upendra Kushwaha Ji now, he went with Mahagathbandhan <a href="https://t.co/q9cQBCCUZD">pic.twitter.com/q9cQBCCUZD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1073928036196773889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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NDA leaders in Bihar were not immediately available for comments on the development.&nbsp;

However, rumblings within the party had come to the fore last month when Shekhar and Paswan turned up at a meeting of BJP legislature party held at the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi.&nbsp;

The RLSP Saturday received a major setback with all its members in the bicameral legislature of Bihar declaring that they were still with the NDA as they accused party president Upendra Kushwaha of pursuing personal interests in announcing a break up with the coalition.

The RLSP Saturday received a major setback with all its members in the bicameral legislature of Bihar declaring that they were still with the NDA as they accused party president Upendra Kushwaha of pursuing personal interests in announcing a break up with the coalition. Both the Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) MLAs-- Sudhanshu Shekhar and Lalan Paswan-- and its lone MLC-Sanjiv Singh Shyam- made a statement to this effect at a joint press conference in Patna. They also pitched for a ministerial berth for Shekhar a first-term MLA and the youngest among the three. We will also approach the Election Commission with the claim that we represent the real RLSP and we enjoy the support of most workers and office-bearers in the party, Shyam said making it clear that the RLSP was heading towards a split. RLSP which fought the 2014 general election as well the 2015 state polls as a NDA constituent has altogether three MPs, including Kushwaha, two MLAs and one MLC in Bihar. While the three Legislators have announced their separation from Kushwaha, among the two other Lok Sabha members--Arun Kumar from Jehanabad and Ram Kumar Sharma from Sitamarhi--the former has been charting an independent course for past two years. Sharma, who initially made statements in favour of NDA and Nitish Kumar later changed his stance and was seen with Kushwaha when he had announced his resignation from the cabinet and also severing ties with the NDA in Delhi. We had been stating since long that we were in favour of the RLSP remaining in the NDA but Kushwaha, who was more interested in his personal gains, paid no heed, Shyam said pointing to the RLSP chiefs quitting announcement on Monday. The RLSP MLC alleged that Khushwaha had of late been making noises about the RLSP bot being considered for a ministerial berth after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar returned to the NDA last year. In reality, he never tried. When ministerial berths were being allocated among allies he was simply roaming around in Patna, Shyam claimed. Khushwaha was happy with his own ministerial berth at the Centre. After that his entire attention had been on getting a deal that served his interests better. He simply did not care that somebody from his party should get a ministerial berth in the state as well, he added. Replying to a query, he said neither he nor Paswan want ministerial berths. We would like Sudhanshu Shekhar's inclusion in the state council of ministers and we would be hugely disappointed if he is not considered for the same, he said. We are not defectors. Rather, we represent the real RLSP. Our stance is in line with the sentiments of most workers and office-bearers in the party. We will soon be approaching the Election Commission with our claim, he added. RLSP MLA Lalan Paswan: RLSP is ours. Sudhanshu Shekhar Ji (RLSP MLA) should be made a minister in NDA. We are in the NDA since the start. We want to make Narendra Modi the prime minister again in 2019. We've no relations with Upendra Kushwaha Ji now, he went with Mahagathbandhan pic.twitter.com/q9cQBCCUZD — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2018 × NDA leaders in Bihar were not immediately available for comments on the development. However, rumblings within the party had come to the fore last month when Shekhar and Paswan turned up at a meeting of BJP legislature party held at the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi.

RLSP legislators revolt; declare they will remain in NDA

Portfolios were allotted to the 12 members of the Mizoram council of ministers on Saturday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mnf-leader-zoramthanga-sworn-in-as-mizorams-chief-minister-184213">Chief Minister Zoramthanga </a>will hold charge of finance, political and cabinet, planning and program implementation, general administration, vigilance, public works and horticulture departments, a government notification here said.

Deputy Chief Minister Tawnluia was allotted public health engineering, urban development and poverty alleviation, animal husbandry and veterinary and department of personnel and administrative reforms.

R Lalthangliana was allocated health and family welfare, higher and technical education and commerce and industries departments, the notification said.

Former speaker Lalchamliana was given home, taxation and disaster management and rehabilitation departments while R Lalzirliana was allotted power and electricity, art and culture, land resources, soil and water conservation and district council affairs departments, it said.

C Lalrinsanga was allocated agriculture, irrigation and water resources and cooperation departments.

Other than the five cabinet ministers, six ministers of state were also sworn-in.

K Lalrinliana was given food, civil supplies and consumer affairs, local administration and fisheries departments while Lalchhandama Ralte was allocated school education, labour, employment and skill development, entrepreneurship and printing and stationery departments, the notification said.

Lalruatkima was given rural development, land revenue and settlement and information and public relations and K Beichhua got social welfare, excise and narcotics and sericulture departments.

T J Lalnuntluanga, a first-time legislator and advocate who defeated former chief minister Lal Thanhawla in Champhai South seat, was allotted law and judicial, parliamentary affairs, transport and environment and forests departments, it said.

Robert Romawia Royte, another first-timer and president of the Aizawl Football Club (ACF) which bagged the prestigious I-League trophy in 2016, was allocated sports and youth services, tourism and information and communication departments, the notification said.

Election to the 40-member Mizoram assembly had taken place on November 28 and Mizo National Front had won 26 seats. The Congress, which had been in power for the past two terms, was routed in the state, winning just five seats.&nbsp;

Portfolios were allotted to the 12 members of the Mizoram council of ministers on Saturday. Chief Minister Zoramthanga will hold charge of finance, political and cabinet, planning and program implementation, general administration, vigilance, public works and horticulture departments, a government notification here said.

Portfolios were allotted to the 12 members of the Mizoram council of ministers on Saturday. Chief Minister Zoramthanga will hold charge of finance, political and cabinet, planning and program implementation, general administration, vigilance, public works and horticulture departments, a government notification here said. Deputy Chief Minister Tawnluia was allotted public health engineering, urban development and poverty alleviation, animal husbandry and veterinary and department of personnel and administrative reforms. R Lalthangliana was allocated health and family welfare, higher and technical education and commerce and industries departments, the notification said. Former speaker Lalchamliana was given home, taxation and disaster management and rehabilitation departments while R Lalzirliana was allotted power and electricity, art and culture, land resources, soil and water conservation and district council affairs departments, it said. C Lalrinsanga was allocated agriculture, irrigation and water resources and cooperation departments. Other than the five cabinet ministers, six ministers of state were also sworn-in. K Lalrinliana was given food, civil supplies and consumer affairs, local administration and fisheries departments while Lalchhandama Ralte was allocated school education, labour, employment and skill development, entrepreneurship and printing and stationery departments, the notification said. Lalruatkima was given rural development, land revenue and settlement and information and public relations and K Beichhua got social welfare, excise and narcotics and sericulture departments. T J Lalnuntluanga, a first-time legislator and advocate who defeated former chief minister Lal Thanhawla in Champhai South seat, was allotted law and judicial, parliamentary affairs, transport and environment and forests departments, it said. Robert Romawia Royte, another first-timer and president of the Aizawl Football Club (ACF) which bagged the prestigious I-League trophy in 2016, was allocated sports and youth services, tourism and information and communication departments, the notification said. Election to the 40-member Mizoram assembly had taken place on November 28 and Mizo National Front had won 26 seats. The Congress, which had been in power for the past two terms, was routed in the state, winning just five seats.

Portfolios allotted to new Mizoram ministers

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