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TRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao Thursday said he would take efforts for the formation of a non-Congress, non-BJP government at the Centre to realise increase in reservations to Muslims and STs in Telangana.

"I tell one thing to our tribal children, Muslim children. You know that if I take up anything, I will be stubborn. When I started for Telangana, nobody had confidence. But, Telangana came," he pointed out.

"Today, STs reservation, Muslims reservation also.. I will achieve your reservation by getting a non-BJP, non-Congress government installed in Delhi next term by winning all MP seats," Rao said at party campaign rallies.

He criticised the NDA government for not accepting the proposal through the state government and Assembly sent resolutions seeking an increase in reservations.

"Narendra Modi says I will not increase. Is India your 'jagir' (fiefdom)," he said.

Noting that the population of STs and Muslims increased (in the overall population) in Telangana following bifurcation of undivided Andhra Pradesh, he said the reservation is being sought in view of prevailing poverty.

Rao, the Caretaker Chief Minister, has been extensively campaigning for the December seven Assembly polls criss-crossing the state.

KCR, as Rao is popularly known, has been highlighting the various welfare schemes of his government, including free power to farm sector, investment support and insurance schemes for the benefit of farmers and the hike in social security pensions.

The TRS is going it alone in the elections.

Earlier this year, Rao had also met TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and Deve Gowda, among others, to prop up a non-Congress, non-BJP front.

TRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao Thursday said he would take efforts for the formation of a non-Congress, non-BJP government at the Centre to realise increase in reservations to Muslims and STs in Telangana.

TRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao Thursday said he would take efforts for the formation of a non-Congress, non-BJP government at the Centre to realise increase in reservations to Muslims and STs in Telangana. "I tell one thing to our tribal children, Muslim children. You know that if I take up anything, I will be stubborn. When I started for Telangana, nobody had confidence. But, Telangana came," he pointed out. "Today, STs reservation, Muslims reservation also.. I will achieve your reservation by getting a non-BJP, non-Congress government installed in Delhi next term by winning all MP seats," Rao said at party campaign rallies. He criticised the NDA government for not accepting the proposal through the state government and Assembly sent resolutions seeking an increase in reservations. "Narendra Modi says I will not increase. Is India your 'jagir' (fiefdom)," he said. Noting that the population of STs and Muslims increased (in the overall population) in Telangana following bifurcation of undivided Andhra Pradesh, he said the reservation is being sought in view of prevailing poverty. Rao, the Caretaker Chief Minister, has been extensively campaigning for the December seven Assembly polls criss-crossing the state. KCR, as Rao is popularly known, has been highlighting the various welfare schemes of his government, including free power to farm sector, investment support and insurance schemes for the benefit of farmers and the hike in social security pensions. The TRS is going it alone in the elections. Earlier this year, Rao had also met TMC supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and Deve Gowda, among others, to prop up a non-Congress, non-BJP front.

Will take efforts to form non-Congress, non-BJP government at Centre: KCR

The BJP Friday alleged that Robert Vadra had put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for revocation of an Income Tax department order penalising a company that gave a loan to another entity to buy his land in Rajasthan.

Dubbing Vadra a "tained son-in-law", BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra claimed that in 2010, Vadra's Skylight Hospitality Pvt Ltd had bought 70 hectares of land for nearly Rs 70 lakh and sold it to another entity, Allegeny Finlease Pvt Ltd, in 2012 for Rs 5.15 crore, "seven times the original cost".

Bhushan Power and Steel Limited (BSPL) gave an unsecured loan of Rs 5.64 crore to Allegeny Finlease for buying the same land, he claimed.

During the same time, BSPL had got a tax notice that cited anomalies in its returns from 2004-2005 to 2011-12, and was asked to pay Rs 500 crore for the difference, Patra claimed.

"BSPL wrote to the Settlement Commission of the IT (Income Tax) department appealing against the order, which said the company has to pay Rs 500 crore. The commission also granted no immunity to BSPL against prosecution and penalty," the BJP spokesperson told reporters here.

The Settlement Commission reconstituted a bench that rescinded the earlier order and had asked the company to pay Rs 500 crore, he claimed.&nbsp;

"As Bhushan Steel had given money for buying a plot of land from Robert Vadra, he put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to ask the Income Tax department to waive the penalty and save BSPL from punishment. It is a clear case of corruption," Patra said.&nbsp;

"This is case of quid pro quo between Skylight Hospitality, Allegeny Finlease and Bhushan Steel," Patra said, alleging that unaccounted money has been by misusing the powers.&nbsp;

Patra also targeted former prime minister Manmohan Singh and dubbed him a "puppet PM" for overlooking the "corruption" during his time.

He also asked, "How much did the Gandhis benefit (from this deal)?"

Targeting Vadra, the BJP leader said his modus operandi is to buy land at a cheaper price, change the utility of the land and then sell it at a rate several times the original cost.

When asked what his party did as it was in power both in Rajasthan as well as the Centre, Patra said, the BJP governments investigated the case.&nbsp;

"We came to power in 2013-2014. We investigated it. The whole ball started moving since 2015. In early 2015, we had an FIR registered in Rajasthan against the Bikaner land allotment of Mr Robert Vadra.&nbsp;

"Thereafter, the whole thing is moving smoothly according to the law. The ED (Enforcement Directorate) had talked about the whole thing in 2016. In 2017, notices were issued and people were arrested in 2017. In 2018, the settlement commission issue had been taken up and yet again you see how the ED is moving ahead," Patra said.&nbsp;

The ED has summoned Vadra in connection with its money laundering probe in the land scam case in Rajasthan's Bikaner city, agency officials said Friday.&nbsp;

The BJP Friday alleged that Robert Vadra had put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for revocation of an Income Tax department order penalising a company that gave a loan to another entity to buy his land in Rajasthan.

The BJP Friday alleged that Robert Vadra had put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi for revocation of an Income Tax department order penalising a company that gave a loan to another entity to buy his land in Rajasthan. Dubbing Vadra a "tained son-in-law", BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra claimed that in 2010, Vadra's Skylight Hospitality Pvt Ltd had bought 70 hectares of land for nearly Rs 70 lakh and sold it to another entity, Allegeny Finlease Pvt Ltd, in 2012 for Rs 5.15 crore, "seven times the original cost". Bhushan Power and Steel Limited (BSPL) gave an unsecured loan of Rs 5.64 crore to Allegeny Finlease for buying the same land, he claimed. During the same time, BSPL had got a tax notice that cited anomalies in its returns from 2004-2005 to 2011-12, and was asked to pay Rs 500 crore for the difference, Patra claimed. "BSPL wrote to the Settlement Commission of the IT (Income Tax) department appealing against the order, which said the company has to pay Rs 500 crore. The commission also granted no immunity to BSPL against prosecution and penalty," the BJP spokesperson told reporters here. The Settlement Commission reconstituted a bench that rescinded the earlier order and had asked the company to pay Rs 500 crore, he claimed. "As Bhushan Steel had given money for buying a plot of land from Robert Vadra, he put pressure on Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to ask the Income Tax department to waive the penalty and save BSPL from punishment. It is a clear case of corruption," Patra said. "This is case of quid pro quo between Skylight Hospitality, Allegeny Finlease and Bhushan Steel," Patra said, alleging that unaccounted money has been by misusing the powers. Patra also targeted former prime minister Manmohan Singh and dubbed him a "puppet PM" for overlooking the "corruption" during his time. He also asked, "How much did the Gandhis benefit (from this deal)?" Targeting Vadra, the BJP leader said his modus operandi is to buy land at a cheaper price, change the utility of the land and then sell it at a rate several times the original cost. When asked what his party did as it was in power both in Rajasthan as well as the Centre, Patra said, the BJP governments investigated the case. "We came to power in 2013-2014. We investigated it. The whole ball started moving since 2015. In early 2015, we had an FIR registered in Rajasthan against the Bikaner land allotment of Mr Robert Vadra. "Thereafter, the whole thing is moving smoothly according to the law. The ED (Enforcement Directorate) had talked about the whole thing in 2016. In 2017, notices were issued and people were arrested in 2017. In 2018, the settlement commission issue had been taken up and yet again you see how the ED is moving ahead," Patra said. The ED has summoned Vadra in connection with its money laundering probe in the land scam case in Rajasthan's Bikaner city, agency officials said Friday.

Vadra put pressure on Rahul, Sonia to revoke I-T order to benefit him: BJP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-a-day-of-trilaterals-for-india-180323">G20 summit</a> here on Friday and they discussed ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties.

The two sides also held discussions on enhancing investment in technology, renewable energy and food security.

"Had a fruitful interaction with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. We discussed multiple aspects of India-Saudi Arabia relations and ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties," the prime minister wrote on Twitter.

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Had a fruitful interaction with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. We discussed multiple aspects of India-Saudi Arabia relations and ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties. <a href="https://t.co/KYeIiG2FET">pic.twitter.com/KYeIiG2FET</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1068274451286880256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Deepening strategic ties. PM @narendramodi met with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud on sidelines of #G20Argentina. Discussed enhancing Saudi investment in technology, infrastructure, petroleum, renewable energy, food security, fintech &amp; defence sectors," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Ravish Kumar tweeted.

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Foreign Secy:Crown Prince informed PM that Saudi will be finalising an initial investment into national infrastructure fund.He referred to future prospects for investment in tech,agricultural&amp;energy sectors. PM,in particular,stressed upon importance of having stable energy prices <a href="https://t.co/A1TXQp5z2Y">pic.twitter.com/A1TXQp5z2Y</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1068298727423655936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"In recent years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been a valuable partner. The relationship has expanded beyond the Indian community to issues related to the economy, energy and security. All issues of bilateral and regional interest will be discussed," PMO sources said.

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PM Narendra Modi held bilateral meeting with Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in Buenos Aires, Argentina. PM Modi is in Argentina to attend the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a>. <a href="https://t.co/hKV9HZQhH8">pic.twitter.com/hKV9HZQhH8</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1068279688001282048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Later, the prime minister will meet UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. According to the sources, the UN Secretary-General has reached out to the PM for the second time in two months.

They said the meeting signifies the importance that both leaders attach to the issue of climate change. This outreach comes just a week before the COP24 meeting in Katowice, Poland.

"It reflects the respect in which the prime minister and his initiatives are held globally to take the lead on issues of global importance," the sources said.

On the sidelines of the two-day 13th <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-begins-today-pm-modi-says-focus-on-fugitive-economic-offenders-strengthening-global-economy-180324">G-20 summit</a>, Modi, Trump and Japanese Premier Shinzo Abe will hold a trilateral meeting amidst China flexing its muscles in the strategic Indo-Pacific region.

The trilateral, which would be an expansion of the bilateral meeting between Trump and Abe, is part of the series of meetings the US president would have on the sidelines of the G-20 summit on November 30 and December 1.

White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said on Thursday the trilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi will be held towards the end of the Trump-Abe talks.

"Looking forward to a wide range of interactions at the G-20 Summit, aimed at furthering sustainable development," Prime Minister Modi tweeted soon after he landed here.

Modi will also meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the sidelines of the event, the Ministry of External Affairs had said on the eve of his departure.

He will be in Buenos Aires from November 29 to December 1.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the G20 summit here on Friday and they discussed ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the G20 summit here on Friday and they discussed ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties. The two sides also held discussions on enhancing investment in technology, renewable energy and food security. "Had a fruitful interaction with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. We discussed multiple aspects of India-Saudi Arabia relations and ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties," the prime minister wrote on Twitter. Had a fruitful interaction with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. We discussed multiple aspects of India-Saudi Arabia relations and ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties. pic.twitter.com/KYeIiG2FET — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 29, 2018 × "Deepening strategic ties. PM @narendramodi met with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud on sidelines of #G20Argentina. Discussed enhancing Saudi investment in technology, infrastructure, petroleum, renewable energy, food security, fintech & defence sectors," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Ravish Kumar tweeted. Foreign Secy:Crown Prince informed PM that Saudi will be finalising an initial investment into national infrastructure fund.He referred to future prospects for investment in tech,agricultural&energy sectors. PM,in particular,stressed upon importance of having stable energy prices pic.twitter.com/A1TXQp5z2Y — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × "In recent years, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been a valuable partner. The relationship has expanded beyond the Indian community to issues related to the economy, energy and security. All issues of bilateral and regional interest will be discussed," PMO sources said. PM Narendra Modi held bilateral meeting with Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in Buenos Aires, Argentina. PM Modi is in Argentina to attend the #G20Summit. pic.twitter.com/hKV9HZQhH8 — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2018 × Later, the prime minister will meet UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. According to the sources, the UN Secretary-General has reached out to the PM for the second time in two months. They said the meeting signifies the importance that both leaders attach to the issue of climate change. This outreach comes just a week before the COP24 meeting in Katowice, Poland. "It reflects the respect in which the prime minister and his initiatives are held globally to take the lead on issues of global importance," the sources said. On the sidelines of the two-day 13th G-20 summit, Modi, Trump and Japanese Premier Shinzo Abe will hold a trilateral meeting amidst China flexing its muscles in the strategic Indo-Pacific region. The trilateral, which would be an expansion of the bilateral meeting between Trump and Abe, is part of the series of meetings the US president would have on the sidelines of the G-20 summit on November 30 and December 1. White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said on Thursday the trilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi will be held towards the end of the Trump-Abe talks. "Looking forward to a wide range of interactions at the G-20 Summit, aimed at furthering sustainable development," Prime Minister Modi tweeted soon after he landed here. Modi will also meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the sidelines of the event, the Ministry of External Affairs had said on the eve of his departure. He will be in Buenos Aires from November 29 to December 1.

Discussed ways to further boost ties: PM Modi after meeting Saudi Crown Prince on G20 sidelines

The BJP Friday accused the Congress and other opposition parties of misleading farmers on the issue of agrarian distress, asserting that people no longer support those who have had their "eyes shut for 70 years" on the problem and have now decided to side with Narendra Modi.

The BJP's reaction came after thousands of farmers, backed by Left parties and organisations, marched through the streets of Delhi for debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

<a href="Delhi: Rahul, Kejriwal join farmers' protest at Jantar Mantar">Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal</a>, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, CPI leader S Sudhakar Reddy and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah were among the political leaders who joined the farmers at Jantar Mantar.

Hitting out at opposition parties, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra asked why their leaders did not take measures to reduce the problem of farmers in the past 70 years when they governed India.

On Kejriwal and Gandhi sharing a stage during the rally at Jantar Mantar, Patra said it was like "drama and confusion together on the dais".

"Remember, if drama and confusion are together, there is only destruction and devastation for democracy. The country rejects drama, corruption and confusion and has done so in 2014. Their coming together through photo-ops will not help, as the country has left their hands and has held the hands of Narendra Modi and BJP," he said.

He said the opposition parties have been exposed before the people for indulging in corruption and "politics of deception".

"They are today talking about farmers. They need to answer why the Congress was sitting with eyes shut for 70 years. Why the Congress did not worry about farmers all this time," he told reporters.

He said it was "unfortunate" that leaders of the Congress and other opposition parties were lowering the level of political discourse in the country. His comments came after following reports that CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury used inappropriate words to describe Prime Minister Modi.

"This shows the frustration of Congress and others. It shows their frustration," Patra said. 
Training his guns on Gandhi, Patra alleged that the Congress chief has one tape-recorder and only has one script. "He does not even prepare his speeches," Patra said.

"He does politics of falsehood and deception... All these parties were in power for so many years, but they did not implement the Swaminathan Committee report, because they were deep in corruption" he alleged.

The final volume of the Swaminathan Committee report on agrarian distress and recommendations was tabled in Parliament in 2016 and is yet to be discussed in the House.

Patra claimed farm loan has been waived twice so far in Rajasthan's history and on both occasions it has been done under BJP rule.

The Congress-ruled Rajasthan for nearly 50 years but did not waived farm loans and now they are doing politics here, Patra alleged.

"You have seen how Mr Rahul Gandhi have misled farmers and people of this country. You have seen how Mr Robert Vadra's (Gandhi's brother-in-law) company took loans which were unaccounted, not secured and not paid in the name of farmers and how they were misused for commercial purposes.

"You have seen how this was totally a commercial venture in the name of farming. This is Rahul Gandhi's way and Prime Minister Modi has rightly said that he does not know anything about farming," Patra alleged.

The BJP leader was referring to a newspaper report published Friday. The report said a firm got a big tax relief after it gave loan to a company that bought land owned by Skylight Hospitality, which is allegedly linked to Vadra.

"He (Gandhi) added to country's NPAs by giving loans through banks to such people, from whom they have benefitted themselves. Rahul Gandhi and Congress party indulged in commercial ventures and corruption ventures from which the country lost," he alleged.

The BJP Friday accused the Congress and other opposition parties of misleading farmers on the issue of agrarian distress, asserting that people no longer support those who have had their "eyes shut for 70 years" on the problem and have now decided to side with Narendra Modi.

The BJP Friday accused the Congress and other opposition parties of misleading farmers on the issue of agrarian distress, asserting that people no longer support those who have had their "eyes shut for 70 years" on the problem and have now decided to side with Narendra Modi. The BJP's reaction came after thousands of farmers, backed by Left parties and organisations, marched through the streets of Delhi for debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, CPI leader S Sudhakar Reddy and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah were among the political leaders who joined the farmers at Jantar Mantar. Hitting out at opposition parties, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra asked why their leaders did not take measures to reduce the problem of farmers in the past 70 years when they governed India. On Kejriwal and Gandhi sharing a stage during the rally at Jantar Mantar, Patra said it was like "drama and confusion together on the dais". "Remember, if drama and confusion are together, there is only destruction and devastation for democracy. The country rejects drama, corruption and confusion and has done so in 2014. Their coming together through photo-ops will not help, as the country has left their hands and has held the hands of Narendra Modi and BJP," he said. He said the opposition parties have been exposed before the people for indulging in corruption and "politics of deception". "They are today talking about farmers. They need to answer why the Congress was sitting with eyes shut for 70 years. Why the Congress did not worry about farmers all this time," he told reporters. He said it was "unfortunate" that leaders of the Congress and other opposition parties were lowering the level of political discourse in the country. His comments came after following reports that CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury used inappropriate words to describe Prime Minister Modi. "This shows the frustration of Congress and others. It shows their frustration," Patra said. Training his guns on Gandhi, Patra alleged that the Congress chief has one tape-recorder and only has one script. "He does not even prepare his speeches," Patra said. "He does politics of falsehood and deception... All these parties were in power for so many years, but they did not implement the Swaminathan Committee report, because they were deep in corruption" he alleged. The final volume of the Swaminathan Committee report on agrarian distress and recommendations was tabled in Parliament in 2016 and is yet to be discussed in the House. Patra claimed farm loan has been waived twice so far in Rajasthan's history and on both occasions it has been done under BJP rule. The Congress-ruled Rajasthan for nearly 50 years but did not waived farm loans and now they are doing politics here, Patra alleged. "You have seen how Mr Rahul Gandhi have misled farmers and people of this country. You have seen how Mr Robert Vadra's (Gandhi's brother-in-law) company took loans which were unaccounted, not secured and not paid in the name of farmers and how they were misused for commercial purposes. "You have seen how this was totally a commercial venture in the name of farming. This is Rahul Gandhi's way and Prime Minister Modi has rightly said that he does not know anything about farming," Patra alleged. The BJP leader was referring to a newspaper report published Friday. The report said a firm got a big tax relief after it gave loan to a company that bought land owned by Skylight Hospitality, which is allegedly linked to Vadra. "He (Gandhi) added to country's NPAs by giving loans through banks to such people, from whom they have benefitted themselves. Rahul Gandhi and Congress party indulged in commercial ventures and corruption ventures from which the country lost," he alleged.

People don't trust Congress, other Opposition parties on agrarian distress issue: BJP

Maharashtra legislature's passage of a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/obc-outfit-to-challenge-maratha-reservation-in-court-180304">bill granting 16 per cent quota to Marathas</a> in jobs and education marked the culmination of a 36-year-long movement by the community that saw many ups and downs and loss of lives.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-government-proposes-16-quota-for-maratha-180173">bill was passed Thursday unanimously</a>, establishing wide political support for the measure and also reflecting the clout of the influential agrarian community.

Community leaders say their long-drawn struggle has finally paid off, but maintain they will continue their fight for withdrawal of cases against their members filed when their agitation turned violent and invited police action.

"The credit for the passage of the bills goes largely to those who laid their lives for the cause and also to those who have struggled for it," Ankush Mohite, state coordinator of the Maratha Kranti Morcha, said.

The Morcha is among the outfits which spearheaded the Maratha quota agitation.

Mohite said the next step of the protesters is to ensure that police cases filed against their colleagues at various places in the state are withdrawn.

Rajendra Kondhare, general secretary, Akhil Bhartiya Maratha Mahasangh, agreed with him. "Though the bill is cleared, our battle is still not over," he said.

According to him, the quota agitation claimed around 40 lives in nearly four decades.

The demand for quota for Marathas -- who form 33 per cent of the state's around 13 crore population - came to the fore prominently in March 1982 when Annasaheb Patil (28), a native of Satara district, shot himself, Kondhare said.

"Annasaheb had led a march in Mumbai over the issue. The government ignored the demand, prompting Annasaheb to end his life," Kondhare said.

The issue remained on the back burner largely till the previous Congress-NCP government, ahead of the 2014 Assembly polls, came out with an ordinance granting reservation to the community. It was, however, stayed by the Bombay High Court.

The campaign for the quota intensified after a 14- year-old Maratha girl from Kopardi village in Ahemadnagar district was raped and murdered in July 2016.

The rape-cum-murder incident triggered an outrage among the community whose members took to streets and vented their anger against the stringent SC/ST Atrocities Act (the accused were Dalits) and demanded justice for the victim.

The demand for justice in the rape-murder case was coalesced with the large issue of Maratha reservation and the agitation attracted widespread attention.

Over 50 well-attended 'mook morchas' (silent marches) were held by Maratha organisations across the state in 2016 and 2017, sending a message to the BJP-led government about their demand and intention to continue their struggle.

The agitation took a violent turn in July this year with protesters slamming the government over delay in fulfilling the demand.

Amid restlessness among Marathas, started another phase which saw community members taking their own lives in support of the long-pending demand for quota.

Kakasaheb Shinde, from Aurangabad district, the hotbed of the latest phase of quota stir, allegedly flung himself to death in Godavari river over the demand.

Jagannath Sonavane, also hailing from Aurangabad, reportedly consumed poison and died to press for Maratha quota.

Abhijit Deshmukh (35), who hailed from Beed, allegedly hanged himself for the cause August 31.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Maharashtra legislature's passage of a bill granting 16 per cent quota to Marathas in jobs and education marked the culmination of a 36-year-long movement by the community that saw many ups and downs and loss of lives.

Maharashtra legislature's passage of a bill granting 16 per cent quota to Marathas in jobs and education marked the culmination of a 36-year-long movement by the community that saw many ups and downs and loss of lives. The bill was passed Thursday unanimously, establishing wide political support for the measure and also reflecting the clout of the influential agrarian community. Community leaders say their long-drawn struggle has finally paid off, but maintain they will continue their fight for withdrawal of cases against their members filed when their agitation turned violent and invited police action. "The credit for the passage of the bills goes largely to those who laid their lives for the cause and also to those who have struggled for it," Ankush Mohite, state coordinator of the Maratha Kranti Morcha, said. The Morcha is among the outfits which spearheaded the Maratha quota agitation. Mohite said the next step of the protesters is to ensure that police cases filed against their colleagues at various places in the state are withdrawn. Rajendra Kondhare, general secretary, Akhil Bhartiya Maratha Mahasangh, agreed with him. "Though the bill is cleared, our battle is still not over," he said. According to him, the quota agitation claimed around 40 lives in nearly four decades. The demand for quota for Marathas -- who form 33 per cent of the state's around 13 crore population - came to the fore prominently in March 1982 when Annasaheb Patil (28), a native of Satara district, shot himself, Kondhare said. "Annasaheb had led a march in Mumbai over the issue. The government ignored the demand, prompting Annasaheb to end his life," Kondhare said. The issue remained on the back burner largely till the previous Congress-NCP government, ahead of the 2014 Assembly polls, came out with an ordinance granting reservation to the community. It was, however, stayed by the Bombay High Court. The campaign for the quota intensified after a 14- year-old Maratha girl from Kopardi village in Ahemadnagar district was raped and murdered in July 2016. The rape-cum-murder incident triggered an outrage among the community whose members took to streets and vented their anger against the stringent SC/ST Atrocities Act (the accused were Dalits) and demanded justice for the victim. The demand for justice in the rape-murder case was coalesced with the large issue of Maratha reservation and the agitation attracted widespread attention. Over 50 well-attended 'mook morchas' (silent marches) were held by Maratha organisations across the state in 2016 and 2017, sending a message to the BJP-led government about their demand and intention to continue their struggle. The agitation took a violent turn in July this year with protesters slamming the government over delay in fulfilling the demand. Amid restlessness among Marathas, started another phase which saw community members taking their own lives in support of the long-pending demand for quota. Kakasaheb Shinde, from Aurangabad district, the hotbed of the latest phase of quota stir, allegedly flung himself to death in Godavari river over the demand. Jagannath Sonavane, also hailing from Aurangabad, reportedly consumed poison and died to press for Maratha quota. Abhijit Deshmukh (35), who hailed from Beed, allegedly hanged himself for the cause August 31.

Maratha quota bill marks end of 36-year struggle by community

TRS leader and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao lost his cool and asked a man to remain silent when he raised a question on the proposed 12 per cent reservation for Muslims during an election meeting in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district.

During the meeting Thursday, the man asked Rao about the status of the proposed quota which was passed by the State Assembly and sent to the Centre for approval.

"What are you talking? Sit silent. What about 12 per cent? Why are you in hurry? Tere baap ko bolunga na (I will tell your father). Are you doing tamasha," Rao asked.

In his election speeches, Rao had accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of not clearing the proposed reservation for Muslims.

Later, during the course of his speech, Rao dubbed the man a 'sanyasi' and said there was a need to increase reservation for tribals and Muslim minorities.

Reacting to KCRs comments, Congress' Telangana unit tweeted "Drunk with power, KCR acts like a dictator. Mr KCR, you are answerable to the people of Telangana. Arrogance and dictatorship have no space in a democracy!"

The BJP has attacked the TRS on the quota issue while campaigning.&nbsp;

Hitting out at the Telangana Rashtra Samithi during an election rally at Mahabubnagar recently, the prime minister had said, "TRS's talk of (raising) Muslim reservations is vote bank politics which the Congress has been doing for a long time."

Former India cricketer and senior Congress leader Mohammed Azharuddin said KCR should tender an apology and also answer the question about the 12 per cent reservation he promised for Muslims.

"He should tender an apology. He should not have said that," Azharuddin said, reacting to Rao's remarks.

"Why should he make such promises when he knows very well that it cannot be fulfilled," Azharuddin, who is the Congress' Telangana unit working president, said.&nbsp;

TRS leader and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao lost his cool and asked a man to remain silent when he raised a question on the proposed 12 per cent reservation for Muslims during an election meeting in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district.

TRS leader and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao lost his cool and asked a man to remain silent when he raised a question on the proposed 12 per cent reservation for Muslims during an election meeting in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district. During the meeting Thursday, the man asked Rao about the status of the proposed quota which was passed by the State Assembly and sent to the Centre for approval. "What are you talking? Sit silent. What about 12 per cent? Why are you in hurry? Tere baap ko bolunga na (I will tell your father). Are you doing tamasha," Rao asked. In his election speeches, Rao had accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of not clearing the proposed reservation for Muslims. Later, during the course of his speech, Rao dubbed the man a 'sanyasi' and said there was a need to increase reservation for tribals and Muslim minorities. Reacting to KCRs comments, Congress' Telangana unit tweeted "Drunk with power, KCR acts like a dictator. Mr KCR, you are answerable to the people of Telangana. Arrogance and dictatorship have no space in a democracy!" The BJP has attacked the TRS on the quota issue while campaigning. Hitting out at the Telangana Rashtra Samithi during an election rally at Mahabubnagar recently, the prime minister had said, "TRS's talk of (raising) Muslim reservations is vote bank politics which the Congress has been doing for a long time." Former India cricketer and senior Congress leader Mohammed Azharuddin said KCR should tender an apology and also answer the question about the 12 per cent reservation he promised for Muslims. "He should tender an apology. He should not have said that," Azharuddin said, reacting to Rao's remarks. "Why should he make such promises when he knows very well that it cannot be fulfilled," Azharuddin, who is the Congress' Telangana unit working president, said.

Telangana CM KCR snaps at man questioning Muslim quota

Amidst peace overtures from Islamabad, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-has-changed-the-demography-of-pok-army-chief-general-bipin-rawat-180110">Army chief General Bipin Rawat </a>said Friday Pakistan cannot stay together with India as long as it is an Islamic state and if they are willing to become secular, then there is an opportunity.

While Rawat has expressed concerns over cross-border terror emanating from Pakistan, this is probably for the first time, he has talked about religious character of the neighbouring country apparently responsible for strained Indo-Pak ties.

"If they (Pakistan) have to stay together with India, then they have to develop as a secular state," Gen Rawat told reporters on the sidelines of the Passing Out Parade of the 135th course at the National Defence Academy here.

"See this staying together, staying separate, ispe Pakistan ko apni andruni halat dekhni hogi. Pakistan ne apne state ko Islamic state bana diya hai. Hum log secular state hai (Pakistan has to look at its internal situation. They are an Islamic state, we (India) are a secular state)," he said.

General Rawat said, "How can we stay together if you say I am an Islamic state and there is no role for anybody else," he said. "If they are willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity. Pehle dekhe, karte hai ki nahi karte (Let us see if they do so or not)."

Rawat's comments come amidst Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-googly-ensured-presence-of-indian-ministers-at-kartarpur-corridor-event-pakistan-foreign-minister-180412">Imran Khan's efforts to resume dialogue</a> with India.

During a press conference in Islamabad yesterday, Khan said he was "ready" to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and for the first time admitted that it was not in the interest of his country to allow its territories to be used for terror activities in other countries. India has always maintained that

Pakistan-sponsor terrorism was its "core concern" and unless Islamabad takes action to stop it, the dialogue process cannot be resumed.

Asked about Khan's statement that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step, Rawat said the neighbouring nation should first take steps to stop terror activities.

"I would like to tell Pakistan to initiate that first step (of ending terror emanating from its soil). In the past, India has taken several steps. When we say terror is being harboured in your country, show some action by curtailing terror activities which are used against India," Rawat said.

On Khan's contention that why India and Pakistan could not be friends when Germany and France could be good neighbours, he said the neighbouring nation first needs to see its internal condition.

Amidst peace overtures from Islamabad, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Friday Pakistan cannot stay together with India as long as it is an Islamic state and if they are willing to become secular, then there is an opportunity.

Amidst peace overtures from Islamabad, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Friday Pakistan cannot stay together with India as long as it is an Islamic state and if they are willing to become secular, then there is an opportunity. While Rawat has expressed concerns over cross-border terror emanating from Pakistan, this is probably for the first time, he has talked about religious character of the neighbouring country apparently responsible for strained Indo-Pak ties. "If they (Pakistan) have to stay together with India, then they have to develop as a secular state," Gen Rawat told reporters on the sidelines of the Passing Out Parade of the 135th course at the National Defence Academy here. "See this staying together, staying separate, ispe Pakistan ko apni andruni halat dekhni hogi. Pakistan ne apne state ko Islamic state bana diya hai. Hum log secular state hai (Pakistan has to look at its internal situation. They are an Islamic state, we (India) are a secular state)," he said. General Rawat said, "How can we stay together if you say I am an Islamic state and there is no role for anybody else," he said. "If they are willing to become secular like us, then they seem to have an opportunity. Pehle dekhe, karte hai ki nahi karte (Let us see if they do so or not)." Rawat's comments come amidst Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's efforts to resume dialogue with India. During a press conference in Islamabad yesterday, Khan said he was "ready" to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi and for the first time admitted that it was not in the interest of his country to allow its territories to be used for terror activities in other countries. India has always maintained that Pakistan-sponsor terrorism was its "core concern" and unless Islamabad takes action to stop it, the dialogue process cannot be resumed. Asked about Khan's statement that Islamabad would move two steps forward if New Delhi took one step, Rawat said the neighbouring nation should first take steps to stop terror activities. "I would like to tell Pakistan to initiate that first step (of ending terror emanating from its soil). In the past, India has taken several steps. When we say terror is being harboured in your country, show some action by curtailing terror activities which are used against India," Rawat said. On Khan's contention that why India and Pakistan could not be friends when Germany and France could be good neighbours, he said the neighbouring nation first needs to see its internal condition.

If Pakistan has to stay together with India, they have to develop as secular state: Army chief

Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi on the first day of G20 Summit in Argentina took part in BRICS informal meet<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-pm-modi-discusses-global-climate-change-with-un-secretary-general-180330"> and met </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/g20-pm-modi-invites-president-xi-to-india-for-next-informal-summit-180529">Chinese&nbsp;President Xi Jinping</a>.

At the BRICS informal meet, which has become a tradition on the sidelines of G20, PM Modi raised the issue of terror and radicalisation. He said, "Terrorism and radicalism are a threat to the world, those who commit financial crimes are also a big threat. We have to work together against black money."

India has already been raising the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating&nbsp;from Pakistan from the various global forum.&nbsp;

Lauding <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-connecting-india-argentina-pm-modi-180331">BRICS as a grouping</a>, PM said, "We have to talk in one voice for the interest of developing nations in the United Nations and other multilateral organisations. This is the reason we have come together for BRICS".

Last year, informal BRICS meet on the sidelines of 12th G20 summit in Hamburg helped India and China break the ice on the Doklam issue. Indian PM and Chinese president had met on the sidelines of that BRICS informal meet.

Later, PM Modi met the&nbsp;Chinese president - the fourth meeting between the two leaders in this&nbsp;year. PM said,&nbsp;"This has been a good year for bilateral ties".&nbsp;

Recalling the Wuhan informal summit, PM Modi said, "it was&nbsp;a&nbsp;milestone and&nbsp;engagement&nbsp;between the two countries got new&nbsp;momentum".

He also invited Chinese&nbsp;President Xi Jinping to India for the 2019 informal meet.&nbsp;

Recalling his meet with Chinese&nbsp;president on the sidelines of SCO summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa, PM hoped the momentum in ties continued.

Later briefing the media, foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "fourth meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi made progress on the economic side. On the political side as well both leaders&nbsp;felt that there has been a&nbsp;progress on border management, counter-terrorism agenda and people to people issues".

China is willing to exchange more on the hydrological issue. Remember India was alerted on Brahmaputra flow issue earlier this year. Both sides are also training Afghan diplomats as part of a first joint project between India and China agreed during the Wuhan summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first day of G20 Summit in Argentina took part in BRICS informal meet and met Chinese President Xi Jinping. At the BRICS informal meet, which has become a tradition on the sidelines of G20, PM Modi raised the issue of terror and radicalisation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first day of G20 Summit in Argentina took part in BRICS informal meet and met Chinese President Xi Jinping. At the BRICS informal meet, which has become a tradition on the sidelines of G20, PM Modi raised the issue of terror and radicalisation. He said, "Terrorism and radicalism are a threat to the world, those who commit financial crimes are also a big threat. We have to work together against black money." India has already been raising the issue of cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan from the various global forum. Lauding BRICS as a grouping, PM said, "We have to talk in one voice for the interest of developing nations in the United Nations and other multilateral organisations. This is the reason we have come together for BRICS". Last year, informal BRICS meet on the sidelines of 12th G20 summit in Hamburg helped India and China break the ice on the Doklam issue. Indian PM and Chinese president had met on the sidelines of that BRICS informal meet. Later, PM Modi met the Chinese president - the fourth meeting between the two leaders in this year. PM said, "This has been a good year for bilateral ties". Recalling the Wuhan informal summit, PM Modi said, "it was a milestone and engagement between the two countries got new momentum". He also invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to India for the 2019 informal meet. Recalling his meet with Chinese president on the sidelines of SCO summit in China and BRICS summit in South Africa, PM hoped the momentum in ties continued. Later briefing the media, foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "fourth meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi made progress on the economic side. On the political side as well both leaders felt that there has been a progress on border management, counter-terrorism agenda and people to people issues". China is willing to exchange more on the hydrological issue. Remember India was alerted on Brahmaputra flow issue earlier this year. Both sides are also training Afghan diplomats as part of a first joint project between India and China agreed during the Wuhan summit.

PM Modi meets President Xi, takes part in BRICS meet as G20 summit begins

The BJP accused the Congress Thursday of copying its manifesto for the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajasthan-polls-in-bjp-vs-congress-fight-a-third-front-takes-shape-180025">Rajasthan Assembly polls</a> scheduled to be held on December 7.

While talking to reporters in Rajasthan, Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said most of the public welfare issues in the Congress's manifesto were already raised by the BJP.

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-promises-farm-loan-waiver-unemployment-allowance-to-youths-in-rajasthan-180149">Congress in its election manifesto </a>released Thursday made promises like loan waiver to farmers, free education to girls and women, unemployment allowance of up to Rs 3,500 to educated youth and pension to elderly farmers, among others.

"The Congress has released its manifesto four days after the BJP did so. But surprisingly, no mind was applied by the Congress in drafting it, which contained most of the issues mentioned by the BJP in its manifesto," Shekhawat claimed.

He said the Congress has misled the people by producing a "tampered version" of the BJP's announcements ahead of the elections.

Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also slammed the Congress, saying the party was deceiving the people of Rajasthan with the announcements ahead of the elections.&nbsp;

"The Congress has talked about waiving-off loans of farmers. They had made a similar promise in Punjab and Karnataka before election, but did not waive-off loans worth a single penny," Meghwal said in a statement.

While referring to the Right to Health announcement made by the Congress in its election manifesto, the Union Water Resources minister said the scheme was a replica of the BJP's Ayushman Bharat.&nbsp;

Briefing about electioneering in the poll-bound state, he said the BJP will run a 'Kamal Diya' campaign across the state on Friday during which the party workers will contact 51 lakh beneficiaries of various government schemes.&nbsp;

The BJP accused the Congress Thursday of copying its manifesto for the Rajasthan Assembly polls scheduled to be held on December 7. While talking to reporters in Rajasthan, Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said most of the public welfare issues in the Congress's manifesto were already raised by the BJP.

The BJP accused the Congress Thursday of copying its manifesto for the Rajasthan Assembly polls scheduled to be held on December 7. While talking to reporters in Rajasthan, Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said most of the public welfare issues in the Congress's manifesto were already raised by the BJP. The Congress in its election manifesto released Thursday made promises like loan waiver to farmers, free education to girls and women, unemployment allowance of up to Rs 3,500 to educated youth and pension to elderly farmers, among others. "The Congress has released its manifesto four days after the BJP did so. But surprisingly, no mind was applied by the Congress in drafting it, which contained most of the issues mentioned by the BJP in its manifesto," Shekhawat claimed. He said the Congress has misled the people by producing a "tampered version" of the BJP's announcements ahead of the elections. Union minister Arjun Ram Meghwal also slammed the Congress, saying the party was deceiving the people of Rajasthan with the announcements ahead of the elections. "The Congress has talked about waiving-off loans of farmers. They had made a similar promise in Punjab and Karnataka before election, but did not waive-off loans worth a single penny," Meghwal said in a statement. While referring to the Right to Health announcement made by the Congress in its election manifesto, the Union Water Resources minister said the scheme was a replica of the BJP's Ayushman Bharat. Briefing about electioneering in the poll-bound state, he said the BJP will run a 'Kamal Diya' campaign across the state on Friday during which the party workers will contact 51 lakh beneficiaries of various government schemes.

BJP accuses Congress of copying manifesto for Rajasthan Assembly polls

In a jolt to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, its MLA Ravela Kishore Babu resigned from the party and assembly membership Friday.

He is likely to join the Jana Sena Party of actor Pawan Kalyan, according to sources close to the legislator.

A first time MLA, Ravela served as social welfare minister in the Chandrababu Naidu Cabinet from June 8, 2014 to April 1, 2017.

He was sacked for non-performance and his controversial behaviour.

He was elected from the Prathipadu Assembly constituency in Guntur district but reportedly never maintained cordial relations with the local party leaders.

He has been staying away from party affairs for some time now.

Babu sent his resignation letter to the Assembly Speakers office Friday evening, party sources said.

He also sent a note, addressed to Chandrababu Naidu, to the TDP state office at Guntur, saying he was resigning from the primary membership of the TDP with effect from November 30.

He, however, did not give any reason.

Reacting to the development, state Civil Supplies minister P Pulla Rao, who represents Guntur district, said it was a hasty decision by Babu.

"I tried speaking to him since yesterday but he was not available," Rao added.&nbsp;

In a jolt to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, its MLA Ravela Kishore Babu resigned from the party and assembly membership Friday. He is likely to join the Jana Sena Party of actor Pawan Kalyan, according to sources close to the legislator.

In a jolt to the ruling Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, its MLA Ravela Kishore Babu resigned from the party and assembly membership Friday. He is likely to join the Jana Sena Party of actor Pawan Kalyan, according to sources close to the legislator. A first time MLA, Ravela served as social welfare minister in the Chandrababu Naidu Cabinet from June 8, 2014 to April 1, 2017. He was sacked for non-performance and his controversial behaviour. He was elected from the Prathipadu Assembly constituency in Guntur district but reportedly never maintained cordial relations with the local party leaders. He has been staying away from party affairs for some time now. Babu sent his resignation letter to the Assembly Speakers office Friday evening, party sources said. He also sent a note, addressed to Chandrababu Naidu, to the TDP state office at Guntur, saying he was resigning from the primary membership of the TDP with effect from November 30. He, however, did not give any reason. Reacting to the development, state Civil Supplies minister P Pulla Rao, who represents Guntur district, said it was a hasty decision by Babu. "I tried speaking to him since yesterday but he was not available," Rao added.

TDP MLA resigns from party and assembly membership

Ahead of the Telangana Assembly elections, Income Tax department officials have seized Rs 51 lakh from P Narender Reddy, who is representing the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) party from the Kodangal constituency.

On Wednesday, the IT officials on a tip-off conducted raids on P Narender Reddy`s residence and seized Rs 51 lakh worth unaccounted cash.

Narender Reddy has not shown proper proof for the cash.

It is not yet known if the money which is seized was to be distributed to voters.

Further investigation in the case is currently underway," Rajat Kumar, Telangana`s Chief Electoral Officer told ANI.

Narender Reddy is the brother of Patnam Mahender Reddy, who was the Transport Minister in the state.

The Assembly elections will take place on December 7 in Telangana and results will be announced on December 11.

Ahead of the Telangana Assembly elections, Income Tax department officials have seized Rs 51 lakh from P Narender Reddy, who is representing the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) party from the Kodangal constituency.

Ahead of the Telangana Assembly elections, Income Tax department officials have seized Rs 51 lakh from P Narender Reddy, who is representing the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) party from the Kodangal constituency. On Wednesday, the IT officials on a tip-off conducted raids on P Narender Reddy`s residence and seized Rs 51 lakh worth unaccounted cash. Narender Reddy has not shown proper proof for the cash. It is not yet known if the money which is seized was to be distributed to voters. Further investigation in the case is currently underway," Rajat Kumar, Telangana`s Chief Electoral Officer told ANI. Narender Reddy is the brother of Patnam Mahender Reddy, who was the Transport Minister in the state. The Assembly elections will take place on December 7 in Telangana and results will be announced on December 11.

Assembly elections 2018: IT officials seize Rs 51 lakh cash from TRS leader's residence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue of global climate change in his meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale informed.

Gokhale said that the UN Secretary-General specifically acknowledged the fact that India played a very major role in climate change negotiations.

He also acknowledged that the Indian Prime Minister had taken a number of concrete steps towards addressing climate change in his own country.

Apart from mentioning the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as one of the major initiatives of India towards climate change, Guterres also recalled the environmental impacts of the Swachh Bharat Mission and other campaigns that he witnessed during his recent visit to India last month.

The UN Secretary-General also sincerely hoped and expected that in the forthcoming meeting on COP24 (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), scheduled next week in Poland, India will be playing the role of a good Samaritan and urge various countries to come up with certain solutions which would eventually feed into the climate change summit that Guterres is planning in 2019.

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Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale in Buenos Aires, Argentina: The main subject of discussion in Prime Minister's meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was the forthcoming climate change meeting in Katowice, Poland, the so-called 'COP 24' <a href="https://t.co/zmrMtv6O8D">pic.twitter.com/zmrMtv6O8D</a>
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Prime Minister Modi also assured the UN Secretary-General that India would play a positive role in the climate change negotiations as it is a part of the Indian culture and civilisation to preserve the environment.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue of global climate change in his meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale informed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the issue of global climate change in his meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale informed. Gokhale said that the UN Secretary-General specifically acknowledged the fact that India played a very major role in climate change negotiations. He also acknowledged that the Indian Prime Minister had taken a number of concrete steps towards addressing climate change in his own country. Apart from mentioning the International Solar Alliance (ISA) as one of the major initiatives of India towards climate change, Guterres also recalled the environmental impacts of the Swachh Bharat Mission and other campaigns that he witnessed during his recent visit to India last month. The UN Secretary-General also sincerely hoped and expected that in the forthcoming meeting on COP24 (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change), scheduled next week in Poland, India will be playing the role of a good Samaritan and urge various countries to come up with certain solutions which would eventually feed into the climate change summit that Guterres is planning in 2019. Foreign Secy Vijay Gokhale in Buenos Aires, Argentina: The main subject of discussion in Prime Minister's meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was the forthcoming climate change meeting in Katowice, Poland, the so-called 'COP 24' pic.twitter.com/zmrMtv6O8D — ANI (@ANI) November 30, 2018 × Prime Minister Modi also assured the UN Secretary-General that India would play a positive role in the climate change negotiations as it is a part of the Indian culture and civilisation to preserve the environment.

G20 Summit: PM Modi discusses global climate change with UN Secretary General

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-mbs-on-g20-sidelines-discussed-ways-to-boost-india-saudi-economic-ties-180320">Discussed ways to further boost ties: PM Modi after meeting Saudi Crown Prince on G20 sidelines</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the G20 summit here on Friday and they discussed ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-cancels-meeting-with-putin-at-g20-over-russia-ukraine-standoff-180314">Trump cancels meeting with Putin at G20 over Russia-Ukraine standoff</a>

In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine crisis,&nbsp;US President Trump today cancelled&nbsp;his meeting Russian President Putin in Argentina during the G20 summit to held in Buenos Aires from November 30th.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-a-day-of-trilaterals-for-india-180323">G20 Summit: A day of </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-a-day-of-trilaterals-for-india-180323">trilaterals</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-a-day-of-trilaterals-for-india-180323"> for India&nbsp;</a>

This is an important trilateral coming on the background of Indo-Pacific concept gaining currency and quad meeting--India, Japan, Australia and the US-- taking place earlier this year in Singapore.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-denies-media-reports-of-indian-army-deployment-180327">Maldives</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-denies-media-reports-of-indian-army-deployment-180327"> denies media reports of Indian Army deployment</a>

The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-brave-chilly-night-at-ramlila-maidan-khudai-khidmatgaars-offer-comfort-180322">Farmers brave chilly night at Ramlila Maidan, 'Khudai </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-brave-chilly-night-at-ramlila-maidan-khudai-khidmatgaars-offer-comfort-180322">Khidmatgaars</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-brave-chilly-night-at-ramlila-maidan-khudai-khidmatgaars-offer-comfort-180322">' offer comfort</a>

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Discussed ways to further boost ties: PM Modi after meeting Saudi Crown Prince on G20 sidelines Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the G20 summit here on Friday and they discussed ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties.

Discussed ways to further boost ties: PM Modi after meeting Saudi Crown Prince on G20 sidelines Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the G20 summit here on Friday and they discussed ways to further boost economic, cultural and energy ties. Trump cancels meeting with Putin at G20 over Russia-Ukraine standoff In the wake of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, US President Trump today cancelled his meeting Russian President Putin in Argentina during the G20 summit to held in Buenos Aires from November 30th. G20 Summit: A day of trilaterals for India This is an important trilateral coming on the background of Indo-Pacific concept gaining currency and quad meeting--India, Japan, Australia and the US-- taking place earlier this year in Singapore. Maldives denies media reports of Indian Army deployment The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation. Farmers brave chilly night at Ramlila Maidan, 'Khudai Khidmatgaars' offer comfort Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A day after he retired, former Supreme Court Judge Kurian Joseph on Friday said that he has no regrets over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-row-chief-justice-of-india-to-meet-rebel-judges-today-29457">controversial January 12 press conference</a> in which he along with three other judges<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/issues-raised-by-sc-judges-internal-matter-of-judiciary-sources-29332"> flagged various issues with regard to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/issues-raised-by-sc-judges-internal-matter-of-judiciary-sources-29332">functioning</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/issues-raised-by-sc-judges-internal-matter-of-judiciary-sources-29332"> of the top cour</a>t, and noted that things are changing.

Joseph, who was part of the press conference in which the now Chief Justice of India, Ranjan Gogoi, Justice M B Lokur and former judge J Chelameswar had raised serious questions including over allocation of cases in the top court, said the systems and practices in the apex court would take time to change as they have been there for quite long.

He also asserted that there is no political pressure in exercise of judicial powers by a judge, but added that the manner in which appointments are "selectively delayed" or "withheld" is "in a way interference" in the administration of justice.

Asked whether he regrets being part of the January 12 press conference, he replied, "What a strange question you are asking? I never regretted whatever I did, I did it very consciously for a cause and for a cause for which there was no other way left. That was the stage when we did it".

When asked whether the crisis to which they had referred was now over in the apex court, Joseph said, "You can't say it fully that the crisis is over because it was an institutional crisis, so it takes a long time for the systems and the practices to change. Hopefully, it would change".

Referring to CJI Gogoi, Justice Joseph said, "It's because one who was part of the clamour for change is also now the captain over there so things should change".&nbsp;

He said that the systems and practices have been there in the apex court for quite a long, so it would take time for them to change, "though it is changing".&nbsp;

"The process of change will continue. Even the earlier chief justice made changes after the press conference," he said.&nbsp; 
When Joseph was asked whether the problem of roster is now over in the apex court, he replied, "Probably that is the one mistake. It is not a question of roster.&nbsp;

"It was question of some unhealthy practice and systems which were followed in the Supreme Court but in the matter of business actually. So it was against that although roster was one of the issues but there were other issues along with that," he added.

Elaborating on issues raised in the press conference, Justice Joseph said, "As I told that roster was one of the issue but not the only issue. There were certain systems and practices which we have been asking like instead of individual taking a decision without consulting anybody, let's have some systems and practices to be followed which would be healthy for the institutions".&nbsp;

He said "it does not look nice particularly for institutions like a court to have an individual exclusively or solely taking a decision".&nbsp;

"That's what we have been asking that let's have a consultative process. Some sort of consultative process," he said and added that such kind of process is at least happening now.

He also spoke on why the four judges of the top court chose to address a press conference, raising the problems on a public platform, and why they did not seek a full court meeting to sort out the problem in-house.

"No judge can convene a full court meeting on its own. Only the chief justice can convene a full court meeting. It was for the CJI to convene a full court meeting. There were many such requests made in this regard," he said.

On allegations of government "interference" in judiciary especially in the context of high profile cases like Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri masjid dispute, Justice Joseph said he would not like to answer the questions with regard to issues which are currently pending before the court.

Asked whether at any point of time he felt any government or political pressure, Joseph said, "There is no political pressure in the judicial exercise of a judge. I am very clear about it."

"No political party or a political system or a political authority have ever requested me to decide a particular case in a particular manner. To me, at least it has never happened. I don't know whether it has happened to anyone else but to me it has not happened. I do believe that there is no such interference in as far as judicial powers," he said.

However, he said there is "something connected with the administration of justice. It is not delivery of justice, what is said as Judge hearing the case and deciding the case. No, one has ever tried to influence a judge".&nbsp;

"But in the matter of appointment the manner in which appointment are being delayed and the appointments have been selectively delayed, the appointments have been withheld. All this are in a way interference," he said.&nbsp;

A day after he retired, former Supreme Court Judge Kurian Joseph on Friday said that he has no regrets over the controversial January 12 press conference in which he along with three other judges flagged various issues with regard to functioning of the top court, and noted that things are changing.

A day after he retired, former Supreme Court Judge Kurian Joseph on Friday said that he has no regrets over the controversial January 12 press conference in which he along with three other judges flagged various issues with regard to functioning of the top court, and noted that things are changing. Joseph, who was part of the press conference in which the now Chief Justice of India, Ranjan Gogoi, Justice M B Lokur and former judge J Chelameswar had raised serious questions including over allocation of cases in the top court, said the systems and practices in the apex court would take time to change as they have been there for quite long. He also asserted that there is no political pressure in exercise of judicial powers by a judge, but added that the manner in which appointments are "selectively delayed" or "withheld" is "in a way interference" in the administration of justice. Asked whether he regrets being part of the January 12 press conference, he replied, "What a strange question you are asking? I never regretted whatever I did, I did it very consciously for a cause and for a cause for which there was no other way left. That was the stage when we did it". When asked whether the crisis to which they had referred was now over in the apex court, Joseph said, "You can't say it fully that the crisis is over because it was an institutional crisis, so it takes a long time for the systems and the practices to change. Hopefully, it would change". Referring to CJI Gogoi, Justice Joseph said, "It's because one who was part of the clamour for change is also now the captain over there so things should change". He said that the systems and practices have been there in the apex court for quite a long, so it would take time for them to change, "though it is changing". "The process of change will continue. Even the earlier chief justice made changes after the press conference," he said. When Joseph was asked whether the problem of roster is now over in the apex court, he replied, "Probably that is the one mistake. It is not a question of roster. "It was question of some unhealthy practice and systems which were followed in the Supreme Court but in the matter of business actually. So it was against that although roster was one of the issues but there were other issues along with that," he added. Elaborating on issues raised in the press conference, Justice Joseph said, "As I told that roster was one of the issue but not the only issue. There were certain systems and practices which we have been asking like instead of individual taking a decision without consulting anybody, let's have some systems and practices to be followed which would be healthy for the institutions". He said "it does not look nice particularly for institutions like a court to have an individual exclusively or solely taking a decision". "That's what we have been asking that let's have a consultative process. Some sort of consultative process," he said and added that such kind of process is at least happening now. He also spoke on why the four judges of the top court chose to address a press conference, raising the problems on a public platform, and why they did not seek a full court meeting to sort out the problem in-house. "No judge can convene a full court meeting on its own. Only the chief justice can convene a full court meeting. It was for the CJI to convene a full court meeting. There were many such requests made in this regard," he said. On allegations of government "interference" in judiciary especially in the context of high profile cases like Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri masjid dispute, Justice Joseph said he would not like to answer the questions with regard to issues which are currently pending before the court. Asked whether at any point of time he felt any government or political pressure, Joseph said, "There is no political pressure in the judicial exercise of a judge. I am very clear about it." "No political party or a political system or a political authority have ever requested me to decide a particular case in a particular manner. To me, at least it has never happened. I don't know whether it has happened to anyone else but to me it has not happened. I do believe that there is no such interference in as far as judicial powers," he said. However, he said there is "something connected with the administration of justice. It is not delivery of justice, what is said as Judge hearing the case and deciding the case. No, one has ever tried to influence a judge". "But in the matter of appointment the manner in which appointment are being delayed and the appointments have been selectively delayed, the appointments have been withheld. All this are in a way interference," he said.

No regrets about  January 12 press conference: Former SC judge Kurian Joseph

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said yoga is bridging the vast distance between Argentina and India, and connecting their people.&nbsp;

Addressing participants at 'Yoga for Peace'&nbsp;event, he said the practice is India's gift to the world for health and peace.&nbsp;

"I arrived here just a few hours ago after travelling over 15,000 kilometers in more than 24 hours. And because of your love and enthusiasm, I did not feel at all that I am outside India," the prime minister said in Hindi.&nbsp;

Praising the organisers of the "Yoga for Peace" event, he said it's hard to think of a better name. "Yoga keeps both your body and mind healthy. It strengthens your body and keeps your mind at peace," he said.

The prime minister said if the mind is at peace, there would be peace in family, society, country and the world as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;"Yoga is India's gift to the world for health, wellness and peace. It connects us with wellness and happiness.&nbsp;

"Yoga is bridging the vast distance between India and Argentina. It is connecting the two countries and their people," Prime Minister Modi said.

While Argentina has a keen interest in India's art, music and dance, there are lakhs of fans of Argentine soccer players in our country. Maradona's name has become part of our daily conversations and sayings, Prime Minister Modi said.&nbsp;

He also congratulated the Argentina hockey team for winning their first match of the Hockey World Cup being held in Odisha.&nbsp;

"It's a matter of pride and happiness for us that Argentina is hosting the G20 summit. Issues such as global economy, sustainable development, climate change, and fugitive economic offenders will be discussed during the summit. These are in the interest of the entire world, and not just India and Argentina," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said yoga is bridging the vast distance between Argentina and India, and connecting their people. Addressing participants at 'Yoga for Peace' event, he said the practice is India's gift to the world for health and peace.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday said yoga is bridging the vast distance between Argentina and India, and connecting their people. Addressing participants at 'Yoga for Peace' event, he said the practice is India's gift to the world for health and peace. "I arrived here just a few hours ago after travelling over 15,000 kilometers in more than 24 hours. And because of your love and enthusiasm, I did not feel at all that I am outside India," the prime minister said in Hindi. Praising the organisers of the "Yoga for Peace" event, he said it's hard to think of a better name. "Yoga keeps both your body and mind healthy. It strengthens your body and keeps your mind at peace," he said. The prime minister said if the mind is at peace, there would be peace in family, society, country and the world as well. "Yoga is India's gift to the world for health, wellness and peace. It connects us with wellness and happiness. "Yoga is bridging the vast distance between India and Argentina. It is connecting the two countries and their people," Prime Minister Modi said. While Argentina has a keen interest in India's art, music and dance, there are lakhs of fans of Argentine soccer players in our country. Maradona's name has become part of our daily conversations and sayings, Prime Minister Modi said. He also congratulated the Argentina hockey team for winning their first match of the Hockey World Cup being held in Odisha. "It's a matter of pride and happiness for us that Argentina is hosting the G20 summit. Issues such as global economy, sustainable development, climate change, and fugitive economic offenders will be discussed during the summit. These are in the interest of the entire world, and not just India and Argentina," he said.

Yoga connecting India, Argentina: PM Modi at 'Yoga for Peace' event

The Indian Army is not yet ready to have women in combat roles, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-cannot-stay-together-with-india-as-long-as-it-is-an-islamic-state-army-chief-180522">Army chief General Bipin Rawat</a> said Friday.

The Army chief, however, said there are several other fields where the Army is thinking of inducting women, such as information and psychological warfare.

"We are not yet ready for that (women in combat roles) as facilities have to be created... Women also need to be prepared for that kind of hardships," he said.

"It is not easy. Let us not compare ourselves with Western nations, which are more open," Gen Rawat told reporters on the sidelines of the Passing Out Parade of the 135th course at the National Defence Academy here.

"Yes, we may be more open in our big cities, but our Army personnel are not coming from big cities only. They are coming from rural areas too, where the inter-mingling, which is expected, is still not there," he said.

"They are already there in education and law, so the other field we have identified for them is information warfare, psychological warfare and (we are) also considering the accounting field where women can be inducted," he said.

"Women officers are being inducted into all the three services. But what we have to decide is whether some of them can be given permanent commission," General Rawat said.

The Army has taken a call that there are some aspects and fields where "we need some kind of continuity and permanency," he said.

"In a command-oriented army, male officers do not fit the bill everywhere. The Army needs language interpreters as military diplomacy is gaining ground. The basic requirement is understanding the language while talking to other nations, military to military. So we are looking for women as interpreters," he said.&nbsp;

The Indian Army is not yet ready to have women in combat roles, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Friday. The Army chief, however, said there are several other fields where the Army is thinking of inducting women, such as information and psychological warfare.

The Indian Army is not yet ready to have women in combat roles, Army chief General Bipin Rawat said Friday. The Army chief, however, said there are several other fields where the Army is thinking of inducting women, such as information and psychological warfare. "We are not yet ready for that (women in combat roles) as facilities have to be created... Women also need to be prepared for that kind of hardships," he said. "It is not easy. Let us not compare ourselves with Western nations, which are more open," Gen Rawat told reporters on the sidelines of the Passing Out Parade of the 135th course at the National Defence Academy here. "Yes, we may be more open in our big cities, but our Army personnel are not coming from big cities only. They are coming from rural areas too, where the inter-mingling, which is expected, is still not there," he said. "They are already there in education and law, so the other field we have identified for them is information warfare, psychological warfare and (we are) also considering the accounting field where women can be inducted," he said. "Women officers are being inducted into all the three services. But what we have to decide is whether some of them can be given permanent commission," General Rawat said. The Army has taken a call that there are some aspects and fields where "we need some kind of continuity and permanency," he said. "In a command-oriented army, male officers do not fit the bill everywhere. The Army needs language interpreters as military diplomacy is gaining ground. The basic requirement is understanding the language while talking to other nations, military to military. So we are looking for women as interpreters," he said.

Army not yet ready for women in combat roles: General Rawat

The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid said that the Maldivian territory would not be used for the establishment of any foreign military bases.

Taking to Twitter, Shahid said, "Categorically refute media reports alleging that government is planning to allow the establishment of an Indian military base in Maldives in exchange for financial assistance or other material benefits. It is baseless and aimed at discrediting the government as it starts to rebuild good relations with its neighbours and the rest of the international community."

"Government assures the people, that it will always act in the national interest of Maldives and will not undertake any international engagement that will compromise the sovereignty and independence of the country," he added.

Shahid was reacting to a news article published in a Japanese Daily, NIKKIE Asian Review, which stated that India offered Maldives US $1 billion in exchange for stronger security ties.

Abdullah Shahid was recently on an official visit to New Delhi, where he met top leaders including his counterpart Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

He described India as time-tested and a trusted partner. He showed commitment to strengthen bilateral trade ties between the two countries.

The Foreign Minister, however, mentioned that his country will closely work with all of its neighbours and the international community.

He also called China as a friend and one of the largest economies of the world whose assistance had benefited Maldives.

New Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is scheduled to visit India on December 17 in keeping with his 'India-First'&nbsp;policy.&nbsp;

The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation.

The Maldives Government has strongly denied media reports which stated that India had offered US $1 billion to the Maldives in exchange for the deployment of Indian troops in the island nation. The Minister for Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid said that the Maldivian territory would not be used for the establishment of any foreign military bases. Taking to Twitter, Shahid said, "Categorically refute media reports alleging that government is planning to allow the establishment of an Indian military base in Maldives in exchange for financial assistance or other material benefits. It is baseless and aimed at discrediting the government as it starts to rebuild good relations with its neighbours and the rest of the international community." "Government assures the people, that it will always act in the national interest of Maldives and will not undertake any international engagement that will compromise the sovereignty and independence of the country," he added. Shahid was reacting to a news article published in a Japanese Daily, NIKKIE Asian Review, which stated that India offered Maldives US $1 billion in exchange for stronger security ties. Abdullah Shahid was recently on an official visit to New Delhi, where he met top leaders including his counterpart Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. He described India as time-tested and a trusted partner. He showed commitment to strengthen bilateral trade ties between the two countries. The Foreign Minister, however, mentioned that his country will closely work with all of its neighbours and the international community. He also called China as a friend and one of the largest economies of the world whose assistance had benefited Maldives. New Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is scheduled to visit India on December 17 in keeping with his 'India-First' policy.

Maldives denies media reports of Indian Army deployment

An estimated 120,000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 were living with HIV in India in 2017, the highest number in South Asia, according a report by UNICEF which warned that around 80 adolescents will be dying of AIDS every day globally by 2030 if progress in preventing transmission is not accelerated.&nbsp;

The report noted that South Asia has made substantial progress in reducing HIV risks and vulnerability among children, adolescents, pregnant women and mothers.&nbsp;

In India, an estimated 120,000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 were living with HIV in 2017. In Pakistan, this number was 5,800, followed by Nepal (1,600) and Bangladesh (less than 1,000), according to the UNICEF report released Thursday 'Children, HIV and AIDS: The World in 2030.'&nbsp;

In 2017, the estimated number of children under 5 years old newly diagnosed with HIV was 43 per cent lower than the comparable estimate in 2010&nbsp;a decline greater than the 35 per cent recorded globally.&nbsp;

The estimated share of those aged 0-14 living with HIV who had been initiated on lifesaving antiretroviral therapy (ART) was 73 per cent in 2017, an increase of nearly 50 percentage points from 2010.&nbsp;

The report, however, warned that by 2030, around 80 adolescents will be dying of AIDS every day if "we don't accelerate progress in preventing transmission."

The report said current trends indicate AIDS-related deaths and new infections are slowing, but the downward trajectory is not happening fast enough.&nbsp; 
"The report makes it clear, without the shadow of a doubt, that the world is off track when it comes to ending AIDS among children and adolescents by 2030," said UNICEF chief Henrietta Fore.&nbsp;

More than half of those children known to be dying of AIDS won't reach the age of five, the report reveals. Prevention and infection treatment efforts, Fore noted, are still missing the mark, specifically when it comes to "HIV transmission from mothers to babies. Programmes to treat the virus and prevent it from spreading among older children are nowhere near where they should be."

The number of mother-to-child infections have fallen by around 40 per cent in the last eight years, but girls still account for two-thirds of all adolescent HIV infections, and rates of infection among older children are the slowest to decline, according to current data.

Further, the report cites a global target reduction in the number of HIV-infected children by 2030 to 1.4 million, while the projected number today of 1.9 million, shows that the world is off-track by around 500,000.&nbsp;

Currently, three million persons 19 years and younger, are infected with HIV worldwide. Two million new infections could be averted by 2030, if global targets are met this means providing adequate access to HIV prevention, care and treatment services, and testing and diagnoses.&nbsp;

The major shortfalls show slow progress in prevention among the young, and a failure to address the key drivers of the epidemic. Many infected children and adolescents are unaware of their illness, and even when tested HIV-positive, rarely adhere to proper treatment.&nbsp;

The UNICEF vision for an AIDS-free generation entails upscaling family-centred testing to help identify children living with HIV who have not been diagnosed, and greater use of digital platforms to improve education when it comes to HIV and AIDS contraction and prevention.

An estimated 120,000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 were living with HIV in India in 2017, the highest number in South Asia, according a report by UNICEF which warned that around 80 adolescents will be dying of AIDS every day globally by 2030 if progress in preventing transmission is not accelerated.

An estimated 120,000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 were living with HIV in India in 2017, the highest number in South Asia, according a report by UNICEF which warned that around 80 adolescents will be dying of AIDS every day globally by 2030 if progress in preventing transmission is not accelerated. The report noted that South Asia has made substantial progress in reducing HIV risks and vulnerability among children, adolescents, pregnant women and mothers. In India, an estimated 120,000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 were living with HIV in 2017. In Pakistan, this number was 5,800, followed by Nepal (1,600) and Bangladesh (less than 1,000), according to the UNICEF report released Thursday 'Children, HIV and AIDS: The World in 2030.' In 2017, the estimated number of children under 5 years old newly diagnosed with HIV was 43 per cent lower than the comparable estimate in 2010 a decline greater than the 35 per cent recorded globally. The estimated share of those aged 0-14 living with HIV who had been initiated on lifesaving antiretroviral therapy (ART) was 73 per cent in 2017, an increase of nearly 50 percentage points from 2010. The report, however, warned that by 2030, around 80 adolescents will be dying of AIDS every day if "we don't accelerate progress in preventing transmission." The report said current trends indicate AIDS-related deaths and new infections are slowing, but the downward trajectory is not happening fast enough. "The report makes it clear, without the shadow of a doubt, that the world is off track when it comes to ending AIDS among children and adolescents by 2030," said UNICEF chief Henrietta Fore. More than half of those children known to be dying of AIDS won't reach the age of five, the report reveals. Prevention and infection treatment efforts, Fore noted, are still missing the mark, specifically when it comes to "HIV transmission from mothers to babies. Programmes to treat the virus and prevent it from spreading among older children are nowhere near where they should be." The number of mother-to-child infections have fallen by around 40 per cent in the last eight years, but girls still account for two-thirds of all adolescent HIV infections, and rates of infection among older children are the slowest to decline, according to current data. Further, the report cites a global target reduction in the number of HIV-infected children by 2030 to 1.4 million, while the projected number today of 1.9 million, shows that the world is off-track by around 500,000. Currently, three million persons 19 years and younger, are infected with HIV worldwide. Two million new infections could be averted by 2030, if global targets are met this means providing adequate access to HIV prevention, care and treatment services, and testing and diagnoses. The major shortfalls show slow progress in prevention among the young, and a failure to address the key drivers of the epidemic. Many infected children and adolescents are unaware of their illness, and even when tested HIV-positive, rarely adhere to proper treatment. The UNICEF vision for an AIDS-free generation entails upscaling family-centred testing to help identify children living with HIV who have not been diagnosed, and greater use of digital platforms to improve education when it comes to HIV and AIDS contraction and prevention.

In 2017, 120,000 children and adolescents were living with HIV in India: UN Report

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-second-quarter-gdp-slips-to-71-per-cent-180485">India's </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-second-quarter-gdp-slips-to-71-per-cent-180485">second quarter</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indias-second-quarter-gdp-slips-to-71-per-cent-180485"> GDP slips to 7.1 per cent</a>

India recorded its second quarter(Q2) GDP at 7.1 per cent which was slower than the last quarter.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-central-leadership-asked-me-to-go-to-kartarpur-navjot-singh-sidhu-on-pakistan-visit-180481">Congress central leadership asked me to go to Kartarpur: Sidhu</a>

Amid the criticism over Pakistan visit, Punjab Cabinet Minister, Navjot Singh Sidhu said that he went for the Kartapur Corridor inauguration ceremony with the consent of his party's central leadership.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/g20-trump-meets-argentine-president-mauricio-macri-discuss-trade-military-ties-180467">G20: Trump meets Argentine President Mauricio Macri; discuss trade, military ties</a>

President Trump met Argentine President Mauricio Macri ahead of the G20 opening at Buenos Aires in Argentina on Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-rahul-gandhi-arvind-kejriwal-farooq-abdullah-join-farmers-protest-at-jantar-mantar-180470">Delhi: Rahul, Kejriwal join farmers' protest at Jantar Mantar</a>

Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in massive farmers protest in Delhi on Friday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/telangana-cm-kcr-under-fire-for-snapping-at-man-querying-about-12-quota-for-muslims-180499">Telangana CM KCR under fire for snapping at man querying about 12% quota for Muslims</a>

TRS leader and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao lost his cool and asked a man to remain silent when he raised a question on the proposed 12 per cent reservation for Muslims during an election meeting in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district.

&nbsp;

India's second quarter GDP slips to 7.1 per cent India recorded its second quarter(Q2) GDP at 7.1 per cent which was slower than the last quarter. Congress central leadership asked me to go to Kartarpur: Sidhu Amid the criticism over Pakistan visit, Punjab Cabinet Minister, Navjot Singh Sidhu said that he went for the Kartapur Corridor inauguration ceremony with the consent of his party's central leadership.

India's second quarter GDP slips to 7.1 per cent India recorded its second quarter(Q2) GDP at 7.1 per cent which was slower than the last quarter. Congress central leadership asked me to go to Kartarpur: Sidhu Amid the criticism over Pakistan visit, Punjab Cabinet Minister, Navjot Singh Sidhu said that he went for the Kartapur Corridor inauguration ceremony with the consent of his party's central leadership. G20: Trump meets Argentine President Mauricio Macri; discuss trade, military ties President Trump met Argentine President Mauricio Macri ahead of the G20 opening at Buenos Aires in Argentina on Friday. Delhi: Rahul, Kejriwal join farmers' protest at Jantar Mantar Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in massive farmers protest in Delhi on Friday. Telangana CM KCR under fire for snapping at man querying about 12% quota for Muslims TRS leader and Telangana caretaker Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao lost his cool and asked a man to remain silent when he raised a question on the proposed 12 per cent reservation for Muslims during an election meeting in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district.

India will be taking part in two major trilaterals on Friday. One with Japan and US, another with China and Russia. The very first trilateral with Japan, America will take place on Friday. It was United States National Security Advisor Ambassador John Bolton who announced it and said," (Trump will be meeting)...Prime Minister Abe of Japan. That will transform at some point during that meeting into a trilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi."

This is an important trilateral coming on the background of Indo-Pacific concept gaining currency and quad meeting--India, Japan, Australia and the US-- taking place earlier this year in Singapore.

The second meeting with Russia and China (RIC) will take place after an interval of twelve years.

The timing of the&nbsp;meetings is directly related to the&nbsp;period of major global developments from trade wars to climate change issue. Sources told WION that, "It is indicative of India's growing diplomatic and economic profile in the world."

Sources added that it is "recognition of India assuming the leadership role on global issues of people's concerns such as climate change, renewable energy, corruption and disaster resilient infrastructure. Reflection of our willingness to contribute in a positive and a constructive way in strengthening multilateral institutions like WTO and trying to build a consensus on new ideas like Indo-Pacific."

BRICS informal summit will also take place which has been a permanent fixture on the sidelines of G20 summits.

Last year in 2017 the BRICS Informal summit took place on the sidelines of the 12th G20 summit during which the Indian PM met Chinese President Xi Jinping which helped in brokering peace at a time when the Doklam crisis was looming large on Sino-India ties. 
&nbsp;

India will be taking part in two major trilaterals on Friday. One with Japan and US, another with China and Russia. The very first trilateral with Japan, America will take place on Friday.

India will be taking part in two major trilaterals on Friday. One with Japan and US, another with China and Russia. The very first trilateral with Japan, America will take place on Friday. It was United States National Security Advisor Ambassador John Bolton who announced it and said," (Trump will be meeting)...Prime Minister Abe of Japan. That will transform at some point during that meeting into a trilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi." This is an important trilateral coming on the background of Indo-Pacific concept gaining currency and quad meeting--India, Japan, Australia and the US-- taking place earlier this year in Singapore. The second meeting with Russia and China (RIC) will take place after an interval of twelve years. The timing of the meetings is directly related to the period of major global developments from trade wars to climate change issue. Sources told WION that, "It is indicative of India's growing diplomatic and economic profile in the world." Sources added that it is "recognition of India assuming the leadership role on global issues of people's concerns such as climate change, renewable energy, corruption and disaster resilient infrastructure. Reflection of our willingness to contribute in a positive and a constructive way in strengthening multilateral institutions like WTO and trying to build a consensus on new ideas like Indo-Pacific." BRICS informal summit will also take place which has been a permanent fixture on the sidelines of G20 summits. Last year in 2017 the BRICS Informal summit took place on the sidelines of the 12th G20 summit during which the Indian PM met Chinese President Xi Jinping which helped in brokering peace at a time when the Doklam crisis was looming large on Sino-India ties.

G20 Summit: A day of trilaterals for India 

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

They are spending the night at the ground before marching to Parliament on Friday.&nbsp;

Kartar Singh, 50, a sugarcane farmer from Sambal district, Uttar Pradesh, is anxious about the march on Friday and cannot sleep, but he's not complaining.

"We have not come here to sleep. Farmers have converged in Delhi to remind the Union government that the party leading it had made promises of waiving off loans in its manifesto. And, its been four and a half years since they came to power," he said, with an edge of anger in his voice.

Singh, a father of two sons is from Fatehpur Sarai village and, his younger son (22 years) has taken the field work while he is away.

"My wife and children have told me, that I should fight and stay even for a week in Delhi, if needed," he told PTI.

Inside the tents, farmers, both men and women, from all parts of India try to sleep in a chilly night, while many sat huddled together, discussing the next strategy and family issues.

But, a group of volunteers, belonging to the welfare organisation 'Khudai Khidmatgar' are trying to offer some comfort to these wearied farmers in the cold weather.

Shahjeb Jamal, a civil engineering student at Jamia Islamia and a volunteer with the group is lugging around a steel container and a hands out paper cups to farmers as they huddle around.

"Our organisation's philosophy as envisioned by its founder Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, is service and public harmony, and so we are here. We Stand with the farmers," he said.

Jamal said Friday morning another batch of volunteers would be coming to offer tea and some breakfast to them.

A group of 25-30 doctors also offered medical aid till about 11 pm, some of them took off from work to volunteer.

Rashid, a junior resident at AIIMS was among the doctor's volunteers who attended to people till night.

"I took an off today from work, as I had to be here. They feed us, and we are not doing any favour by helping them, we are serving them," he told PTI.

Doctors also came from Aligarh Muslim university and Rohtak and Chandigarh and other Delhi hospitals to assist farmers, many of whom complained of body ache as they had travelled long distance.

"One person had fainted, so, after first aid, we sent him to LNJP Hospital," said Mahtab Alam, a doctor at a Delhi government hospital.

The historic ground, known for hosting big political events over the years, resonated with slogans like 'Ayodhya nahi, karz maafi chahiye' earlier in the day.&nbsp; 
Now, many are waiting for the crack of dawn, for start of a new day, filled with unwavering hope.&nbsp;

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.

Thousands of farmers from across the country converged Thursday at the historic Ramlila Ground after journeys that took some as long as 36 hours to complete to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. They are spending the night at the ground before marching to Parliament on Friday. Kartar Singh, 50, a sugarcane farmer from Sambal district, Uttar Pradesh, is anxious about the march on Friday and cannot sleep, but he's not complaining. "We have not come here to sleep. Farmers have converged in Delhi to remind the Union government that the party leading it had made promises of waiving off loans in its manifesto. And, its been four and a half years since they came to power," he said, with an edge of anger in his voice. Singh, a father of two sons is from Fatehpur Sarai village and, his younger son (22 years) has taken the field work while he is away. "My wife and children have told me, that I should fight and stay even for a week in Delhi, if needed," he told PTI. Inside the tents, farmers, both men and women, from all parts of India try to sleep in a chilly night, while many sat huddled together, discussing the next strategy and family issues. But, a group of volunteers, belonging to the welfare organisation 'Khudai Khidmatgar' are trying to offer some comfort to these wearied farmers in the cold weather. Shahjeb Jamal, a civil engineering student at Jamia Islamia and a volunteer with the group is lugging around a steel container and a hands out paper cups to farmers as they huddle around. "Our organisation's philosophy as envisioned by its founder Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, is service and public harmony, and so we are here. We Stand with the farmers," he said. Jamal said Friday morning another batch of volunteers would be coming to offer tea and some breakfast to them. A group of 25-30 doctors also offered medical aid till about 11 pm, some of them took off from work to volunteer. Rashid, a junior resident at AIIMS was among the doctor's volunteers who attended to people till night. "I took an off today from work, as I had to be here. They feed us, and we are not doing any favour by helping them, we are serving them," he told PTI. Doctors also came from Aligarh Muslim university and Rohtak and Chandigarh and other Delhi hospitals to assist farmers, many of whom complained of body ache as they had travelled long distance. "One person had fainted, so, after first aid, we sent him to LNJP Hospital," said Mahtab Alam, a doctor at a Delhi government hospital. The historic ground, known for hosting big political events over the years, resonated with slogans like 'Ayodhya nahi, karz maafi chahiye' earlier in the day. Now, many are waiting for the crack of dawn, for start of a new day, filled with unwavering hope.

Farmers brave chilly night at Ramlila Maidan, 'Khudai Khidmatgaars' offer comfort

Amid the criticism over Pakistan visit,&nbsp;Punjab Cabinet Minister, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/today-72-years-of-wait-is-turning-into-reality-sidhu-on-kartarpur-corridor-180241">Navjot Singh Sidhu</a> said that he went&nbsp;for the Kartapur Corridor inauguration ceremony with the consent of his party's central leadership.

"At least 20 Congress leaders asked me to go, Central leadership asked me to go. The Central leadership of the party asked me to go. Punjab Cabinet Minister is like my father, I told him that I had already promised them (Pakistan) that I will go," Sidhu told news agency ANI. 
&nbsp; 
Sidhu also slammed people criticising his visit saying that the critics mocked and made fun of him are "now licking their own spit and taking U-turns."

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sidhu-was-hugging-the-general-who-is-killing-our-men-union-minister-harsimrat-kaur-badal-180210"> 'Sidhu was hugging the General who is killing our men,' says, Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal</a>

"When I first went to Pakistan and talked about them promising Kartarpur Corridor, the critics mocked and made fun of me, now the same people are licking their own spit and taking U-turns; ANI reported," ANI quoted him as saying.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the corridor linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district.

Congress leader Navjot Singh Sindhu was one of the invitees, who went to Pakistan to attend the groundbreaking ceremony on November 28.

The leader became a subject of controversy after a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ten-thousand-pictures-were-clicked-daily-among-them-who-was-chawla-or-cheema-i-dont-know-sidhu-on-pic-with-khalistan-leader-180274">photograph of him with a pro-Khalistani leader </a>went viral.&nbsp;

In August, Sidhu had gone to Islamabad for the oath-taking ceremony of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. That visit also racked up a controversy after Sidhu claimed that Pakistan as opening the Kartarpir Corridor.

The Kartarpur Corridor, which will facilitate the visa-free travel of Sikh pilgrims on both sides, is expected to be completed within six months.

Amid the criticism over Pakistan visit, Punjab Cabinet Minister, Navjot Singh Sidhu said that he went for the Kartapur Corridor inauguration ceremony with the consent of his party's central leadership.

Amid the criticism over Pakistan visit, Punjab Cabinet Minister, Navjot Singh Sidhu said that he went for the Kartapur Corridor inauguration ceremony with the consent of his party's central leadership. "At least 20 Congress leaders asked me to go, Central leadership asked me to go. The Central leadership of the party asked me to go. Punjab Cabinet Minister is like my father, I told him that I had already promised them (Pakistan) that I will go," Sidhu told news agency ANI. Sidhu also slammed people criticising his visit saying that the critics mocked and made fun of him are "now licking their own spit and taking U-turns." Also read: 'Sidhu was hugging the General who is killing our men,' says, Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal "When I first went to Pakistan and talked about them promising Kartarpur Corridor, the critics mocked and made fun of me, now the same people are licking their own spit and taking U-turns; ANI reported," ANI quoted him as saying. Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the corridor linking Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan's Kartarpur - the final resting place of Sikh faith's founder Guru Nanak Dev - to Dera Baba Nanak shrine in India's Gurdaspur district. Congress leader Navjot Singh Sindhu was one of the invitees, who went to Pakistan to attend the groundbreaking ceremony on November 28. The leader became a subject of controversy after a photograph of him with a pro-Khalistani leader went viral. In August, Sidhu had gone to Islamabad for the oath-taking ceremony of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. That visit also racked up a controversy after Sidhu claimed that Pakistan as opening the Kartarpir Corridor. The Kartarpur Corridor, which will facilitate the visa-free travel of Sikh pilgrims on both sides, is expected to be completed within six months.

Congress central leadership asked me to go to Kartarpur: Sidhu

In the poll battle for Rajasthan where the ruling BJP is pitted against its arch-rival Congress, the saffron party has got another task at hand - keeping their traditional vote bank of Rajputs intact.

Over the last few years, some Rajput groups have gone to the extent of forming anti-BJP fronts, including some against Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje.

However, the BJP leaders are confident that the Rajputs will once again vote for the party.

Rajputs form 12 per cent of Rajasthan's total population and play a decisive role in at least 30 seats of the 200-member assembly. Almost every seat in the state has a sizeable portion of Rajput voters.

In Jodhpur region, there are some seats where the BJP is facing challenge from some Rajput leaders.

In Jodhpur's Arsia constituency, independent Rajput candidate Mahendra Singh Bhati is fighting against the BJP. In Phalodi seat of the district, the BJP has fielded Pabba Ram Bishnoi, but independent Rajput candidate Kumbh Singh Patwat is also in the fray.

The Rajput community is said to have been traditionally voting for the BJP and before that for the erstwhile Jan Sangh.

However, some leaders say, the relationship started getting sour in 2016. What has added to the party's woes was the recent crossing-over to Congress by Manvendra Singh, son of former union minister and BJP leader Jaswant Singh who is a well-regarded face in the Rajput community.

According to political analysts, there have been multiple reasons for this relationship to go wrong - protests over film 'Padmavaat', encounter of gangster Anandpal Singh and Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje's reported opposition to appoint the party's Rajput face and Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as state BJP chief.

When contacted, Shekhawat asserted that the entire community was with the BJP and that there was no anger at all among them.

"Every community is supporting the BJP and every one will come together to elect a government with full majority led by Vasundhara Raje," he said.

Over the last few months, BJP has put in all efforts to win back the Rajput votes, but they are not confident of a sweeping mandate as yet, experts said. The BJP has given ticket to 26 Rajput candidates for the December 7 polls.

Still, some fringe Rajput groups are said to be opposing ruling party candidates in some seats.

In the poll battle for Rajasthan where the ruling BJP is pitted against its arch-rival Congress, the saffron party has got another task at hand - keeping their traditional vote bank of Rajputs intact.

In the poll battle for Rajasthan where the ruling BJP is pitted against its arch-rival Congress, the saffron party has got another task at hand - keeping their traditional vote bank of Rajputs intact. Over the last few years, some Rajput groups have gone to the extent of forming anti-BJP fronts, including some against Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje. However, the BJP leaders are confident that the Rajputs will once again vote for the party. Rajputs form 12 per cent of Rajasthan's total population and play a decisive role in at least 30 seats of the 200-member assembly. Almost every seat in the state has a sizeable portion of Rajput voters. In Jodhpur region, there are some seats where the BJP is facing challenge from some Rajput leaders. In Jodhpur's Arsia constituency, independent Rajput candidate Mahendra Singh Bhati is fighting against the BJP. In Phalodi seat of the district, the BJP has fielded Pabba Ram Bishnoi, but independent Rajput candidate Kumbh Singh Patwat is also in the fray. The Rajput community is said to have been traditionally voting for the BJP and before that for the erstwhile Jan Sangh. However, some leaders say, the relationship started getting sour in 2016. What has added to the party's woes was the recent crossing-over to Congress by Manvendra Singh, son of former union minister and BJP leader Jaswant Singh who is a well-regarded face in the Rajput community. According to political analysts, there have been multiple reasons for this relationship to go wrong - protests over film 'Padmavaat', encounter of gangster Anandpal Singh and Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje's reported opposition to appoint the party's Rajput face and Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as state BJP chief. When contacted, Shekhawat asserted that the entire community was with the BJP and that there was no anger at all among them. "Every community is supporting the BJP and every one will come together to elect a government with full majority led by Vasundhara Raje," he said. Over the last few months, BJP has put in all efforts to win back the Rajput votes, but they are not confident of a sweeping mandate as yet, experts said. The BJP has given ticket to 26 Rajput candidates for the December 7 polls. Still, some fringe Rajput groups are said to be opposing ruling party candidates in some seats.

In poll battle for Rajasthan, BJP fights Rajput woes

All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi launched a scathing attack on former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, calling him a 'Ghulam' (slave) of the Congress party.

"I want to tell Ghulam Nabi Azad that there is a difference between him and me in implementing and talking about issues. But your problem is, while your name is Ghulam Nabi, you have been serving as a Ghulam (slave) to the Congress party your entire lifetime," he said on Thursday.

Owaisi, while addressing a rally in Vikarabad district of poll-bound Telangana, further said that during Azad's 45 years in politics, he only fought once for an Assembly seat when he was the chief minister. "After that, he fought and won the parliamentary elections in Maharashtra's Washim. Then he fought three elections and he kept on losing in every election," he added.

The legislative assembly election in Telangana is scheduled to be held on December 7, and the counting of votes will take place on December 11.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi launched a scathing attack on former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, calling him a 'Ghulam' (slave) of the Congress party.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Chief Asaduddin Owaisi launched a scathing attack on former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, calling him a 'Ghulam' (slave) of the Congress party. "I want to tell Ghulam Nabi Azad that there is a difference between him and me in implementing and talking about issues. But your problem is, while your name is Ghulam Nabi, you have been serving as a Ghulam (slave) to the Congress party your entire lifetime," he said on Thursday. Owaisi, while addressing a rally in Vikarabad district of poll-bound Telangana, further said that during Azad's 45 years in politics, he only fought once for an Assembly seat when he was the chief minister. "After that, he fought and won the parliamentary elections in Maharashtra's Washim. Then he fought three elections and he kept on losing in every election," he added. The legislative assembly election in Telangana is scheduled to be held on December 7, and the counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Azad a 'Ghulam' of Congress: Asaduddin Owaisi in election rally in Telangana

Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-march-to-parliament-throws-traffic-in-tizzy-in-central-lutyens-delhi-180383">massive&nbsp;farmers protest</a> in Delhi on Friday.&nbsp;

Addressing the gathering of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmers-begin-march-towards-parliament-from-ramlila-maidan-3500-cops-deployed-180376">protesting farmers at Jantar Mantar</a>, Rahul Gandhi called for a farm loan waiver as he assured support of all opposition leaders.

Rahul Gandhi said that the farmers were not seeking a "free gift" from the government by asking for a farm loan waiver. They were only asking for what's due to them.

"If this government can waive Rs 3.5 lakh crore loans of 15 big industrialists, why can't the loans of crores of farmers in the country be waived?" he asked.&nbsp;

He also said that no one will be able to silence the voice of farmers and youth.

"If the Indian government insults them, then they will ensure its removal, " Gandhi added.

Arvind Kejriwal, also participating in the protest, warned prime minister Narendra Modi saying, "Five months are left, I demand that the Central Government implement Swaminathan panel report soon, otherwise farmers will wreak havoc in 2019," news agency PTI reported.

Kejriwal further tageted Modi saying that prime minister has "stabbed" farmers in the back by not keeping promises made to them.

Around 35,000 farmers from across the country converged in the national capital Friday to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce.&nbsp;

Farmers have come to the capital from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh.

The protest is called by&nbsp;&nbsp;All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on trains, buses and other modes of transport.

Many political leaders, including Trinamool Congress' Dinesh Trivedi, Loktantrik Janata Dal's Sharad Yadav have extended their support to protesting farmers.

The Friday's rally is the fourth major farmers' rally being held by the AIKSCC.

The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi.

Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in massive farmers protest in Delhi on Friday.

Opposition leaders including Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and National Conference Chairman Farooq Abdullah participated in massive farmers protest in Delhi on Friday. Addressing the gathering of protesting farmers at Jantar Mantar, Rahul Gandhi called for a farm loan waiver as he assured support of all opposition leaders. Rahul Gandhi said that the farmers were not seeking a "free gift" from the government by asking for a farm loan waiver. They were only asking for what's due to them. "If this government can waive Rs 3.5 lakh crore loans of 15 big industrialists, why can't the loans of crores of farmers in the country be waived?" he asked. He also said that no one will be able to silence the voice of farmers and youth. "If the Indian government insults them, then they will ensure its removal, " Gandhi added. Arvind Kejriwal, also participating in the protest, warned prime minister Narendra Modi saying, "Five months are left, I demand that the Central Government implement Swaminathan panel report soon, otherwise farmers will wreak havoc in 2019," news agency PTI reported. Kejriwal further tageted Modi saying that prime minister has "stabbed" farmers in the back by not keeping promises made to them. Around 35,000 farmers from across the country converged in the national capital Friday to press for their demands, including debt relief and remunerative prices for their produce. Farmers have come to the capital from different parts of the country, including Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh. The protest is called by All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee, which claims to be an umbrella body of 207 organisations of farmers and agricultural workers, many farmers arrived in the city on trains, buses and other modes of transport. Many political leaders, including Trinamool Congress' Dinesh Trivedi, Loktantrik Janata Dal's Sharad Yadav have extended their support to protesting farmers. The Friday's rally is the fourth major farmers' rally being held by the AIKSCC. The AIKSCC has claimed that the two-day rally will be one of the largest congregations of farmers in Delhi.

Delhi: Rahul, Kejriwal join farmers' protest at Jantar Mantar

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu made Nandamuri Suhasini, who is contesting from Kukatpally constituency on a TDP ticket, a 'scapegoat' by fielding her from a 'losing' segment, Telangana caretaker IT and Industries minister K T Rama Rao has alleged.

Speaking at a roadshow at Kukatpally on Thursday, the TRS leader lashed out at Telugu Desam Party and its chief Naidu, questioning as to why Naidu's son and AP Minister N Lokesh was not asked to contest the seat.

Suhasini is the daughter of former Rajya Sabha MP N Hari Krishna and grand-daughter of TDP founder and former Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh NT Rama Rao.

"If Chandrababu Naidu really loves the Nandamuri family, why didn't he appoint Suhasini as a Minister in Andhra Pradesh, like he appointed Lokesh? If Chandrababu Naidu really wants to strengthen TDP in Telangana, he could have made Lokesh contest from Kukatpally. But he did not, because he knows Kukatpally is a losing seat," the TRS leader alleged.

In a dramatic turn of events, Naidu decided to field Suhasini from Kukatpally ignoring senior party leader E Peddireddy, who evinced interest in contesting from the constituency.

Rubbishing K T Rama Rao's remarks, Peddireddy said it was the party's decision to field Suhasini from Kukatpally and people in the constituency are accepting her.

He also said Lokesh is now a minister in the Andhra government and he chose Andhra Pradesh for his political career.

"Lokesh chose AP for his political career. He is a minister there. How will he contest from here. Suhasini belongs to the NTR family. People are accepting her in Kukatpally. KTR was talking in desperation," Peddireddy said.

Naidu wants to make Suhasini a scapegoat and later prevent her brothers (Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram) from entering politics, the TRS leader alleged.

Talking about alliance between the Congress and TDP, Rama Rao said, NTR's soul would be 'troubled' seeing the alliance and sought to know on what basis did they form an alliance.

Justifying the TRS alliance with TDP in the 2009 elections, Rama Rao said they tied up with the TDP only after the latter assured to support separate Telangana statehood.

"Naidu today is asking why he is being criticised. Was he not the one who tried to poach TRS MLAs? Was he not the one who wrote letters to the Centre, creating hurdles in irrigation project works," the TRS leader asked.

The TRS leader the support of the people asking them to vote for the paryt and said, "development in Kukatpally will come to a halt if TRS doesn't come to power."

Elections to the 119-member Telangana assembly are scheduled to be held on December 7.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu made Nandamuri Suhasini, who is contesting from Kukatpally constituency on a TDP ticket, a 'scapegoat' by fielding her from a 'losing' segment, Telangana caretaker IT and Industries minister K T Rama Rao has alleged.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu made Nandamuri Suhasini, who is contesting from Kukatpally constituency on a TDP ticket, a 'scapegoat' by fielding her from a 'losing' segment, Telangana caretaker IT and Industries minister K T Rama Rao has alleged. Speaking at a roadshow at Kukatpally on Thursday, the TRS leader lashed out at Telugu Desam Party and its chief Naidu, questioning as to why Naidu's son and AP Minister N Lokesh was not asked to contest the seat. Suhasini is the daughter of former Rajya Sabha MP N Hari Krishna and grand-daughter of TDP founder and former Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh NT Rama Rao. "If Chandrababu Naidu really loves the Nandamuri family, why didn't he appoint Suhasini as a Minister in Andhra Pradesh, like he appointed Lokesh? If Chandrababu Naidu really wants to strengthen TDP in Telangana, he could have made Lokesh contest from Kukatpally. But he did not, because he knows Kukatpally is a losing seat," the TRS leader alleged. In a dramatic turn of events, Naidu decided to field Suhasini from Kukatpally ignoring senior party leader E Peddireddy, who evinced interest in contesting from the constituency. Rubbishing K T Rama Rao's remarks, Peddireddy said it was the party's decision to field Suhasini from Kukatpally and people in the constituency are accepting her. He also said Lokesh is now a minister in the Andhra government and he chose Andhra Pradesh for his political career. "Lokesh chose AP for his political career. He is a minister there. How will he contest from here. Suhasini belongs to the NTR family. People are accepting her in Kukatpally. KTR was talking in desperation," Peddireddy said. Naidu wants to make Suhasini a scapegoat and later prevent her brothers (Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram) from entering politics, the TRS leader alleged. Talking about alliance between the Congress and TDP, Rama Rao said, NTR's soul would be 'troubled' seeing the alliance and sought to know on what basis did they form an alliance. Justifying the TRS alliance with TDP in the 2009 elections, Rama Rao said they tied up with the TDP only after the latter assured to support separate Telangana statehood. "Naidu today is asking why he is being criticised. Was he not the one who tried to poach TRS MLAs? Was he not the one who wrote letters to the Centre, creating hurdles in irrigation project works," the TRS leader asked. The TRS leader the support of the people asking them to vote for the paryt and said, "development in Kukatpally will come to a halt if TRS doesn't come to power." Elections to the 119-member Telangana assembly are scheduled to be held on December 7.

Chandrababu Naidu has made NTR's grand-daughter a 'scapegoat': KT Rama Rao

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Chandrababu Naidu has made NTR's grand-daughter a 'scapegoat': KT Rama Rao