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PM Modi today addressed a rally in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/assembly-elections-2018-voters-counter-maoist-threat-in-chhattisgarh-177306">Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur district </a>as he targeted the Congress in the poll-bound state.

"People disproved that it was the 'right of only one family' to speak from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi," he said at the rally.

The prime minister said BJP's popularity is a threat to the Congress.

PM Modi applauded the people of Bastar in Chhattisgarh asserting that they gave a "strong response" to the Naxals by registering record voting percentage in the first phase of assembly polls.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi plays a traditional drum during a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur. <a href="https://t.co/rh7MAplnZ7">pic.twitter.com/rh7MAplnZ7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1063326643551432704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Shouldn't people of Bastar be appreciated for such high voting percentages, he asked the people in the rally, adding, "I will tell you a way to appreciate them, on November 20 you register even higher voting percentage than Bastar."

Chattishgarh recorded 70 per cent polling in the first phase held on November 12th.

"I want to challenge them, let some good leader of Congress outside of the family become the party president for five years, then I will say that Nehruji really created a truly democratic system there," he said in Ambikapur.

Taking another jibe at the Congress, the PM said: "These people still have not come to terms that I am the PM, it has been nearly four and a half years. They are still crying, how can a 'chaiwala'(tea seller) become PM? Now they say a 'chaiwala' became PM because of one great person," he declared.&nbsp;

The second phase of polling is due to take place on November 20th in the state. The polling in the first phase took place even as Naxals tried to disrupt the proceedings blasting multiple crude bombs ahead of election day and detonated an IED in Dantewada.

On November 12th, 18 seats went to polls, out of which 12 have been reserved for the Scheduled Tribes, while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. In the second and last phase, as many as 72 constituencies in the state will go to the polls.

BJP chief minister Raman Singh is hoping to retain power in the state although the Congress and Ajit Jogi's party&nbsp;Janta Congress Chhattisgarh(JCC) which has tied up with Mayawati's BSP is set to give a tough fight to the ruling party in the state.

The result of the assembly polls will be announced on December 11.

PM Modi today addressed a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur district as he targeted the Congress in the poll-bound state. "People disproved that it was the 'right of only one family' to speak from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi," he said at the rally.

PM Modi today addressed a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur district as he targeted the Congress in the poll-bound state. "People disproved that it was the 'right of only one family' to speak from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi," he said at the rally. The prime minister said BJP's popularity is a threat to the Congress. PM Modi applauded the people of Bastar in Chhattisgarh asserting that they gave a "strong response" to the Naxals by registering record voting percentage in the first phase of assembly polls. #WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi plays a traditional drum during a rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur. pic.twitter.com/rh7MAplnZ7 — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × "Shouldn't people of Bastar be appreciated for such high voting percentages, he asked the people in the rally, adding, "I will tell you a way to appreciate them, on November 20 you register even higher voting percentage than Bastar." Chattishgarh recorded 70 per cent polling in the first phase held on November 12th. "I want to challenge them, let some good leader of Congress outside of the family become the party president for five years, then I will say that Nehruji really created a truly democratic system there," he said in Ambikapur. Taking another jibe at the Congress, the PM said: "These people still have not come to terms that I am the PM, it has been nearly four and a half years. They are still crying, how can a 'chaiwala'(tea seller) become PM? Now they say a 'chaiwala' became PM because of one great person," he declared. The second phase of polling is due to take place on November 20th in the state. The polling in the first phase took place even as Naxals tried to disrupt the proceedings blasting multiple crude bombs ahead of election day and detonated an IED in Dantewada. On November 12th, 18 seats went to polls, out of which 12 have been reserved for the Scheduled Tribes, while one is a Scheduled Caste-reserved seat. In the second and last phase, as many as 72 constituencies in the state will go to the polls. BJP chief minister Raman Singh is hoping to retain power in the state although the Congress and Ajit Jogi's party Janta Congress Chhattisgarh(JCC) which has tied up with Mayawati's BSP is set to give a tough fight to the ruling party in the state. The result of the assembly polls will be announced on December 11.

People have disapproved that only one family has right to speak from Red Fort, says PM Modi at Chhattisgarh rally

The Election Commission Thursday appointed IAS officer Ashish Kundra as poll-bound Mizoram's new chief electoral officer, replacing S B Shashank.

The order came after some civil society groups in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mizoram-where-all-parties-have-allied-with-bjp-despite-claiming-to-be-anti-bjp-177096">Mizoram</a> demanded Shashank's ouster over a row on allowing Bru voters lodged in Tripura relief camps to exercise their franchise from there.

"The Election Commission of India in consultation with the Government of Mizoram hereby nominates Ashish Kundra as the chief electoral officer for the state of Mizoram with immediate effect," a notification issued by the EC said.

The EC had earlier asked the Mizoram government for a panel of names to replace Shashank.

Mizoram goes to polls on November 28.

The Election Commission Thursday appointed IAS officer Ashish Kundra as poll-bound Mizoram's new chief electoral officer, replacing S B Shashank. The order came after some civil society groups in Mizoram demanded Shashank's ouster over a row on allowing Bru voters lodged in Tripura relief camps to exercise their franchise from there.

The Election Commission Thursday appointed IAS officer Ashish Kundra as poll-bound Mizoram's new chief electoral officer, replacing S B Shashank. The order came after some civil society groups in Mizoram demanded Shashank's ouster over a row on allowing Bru voters lodged in Tripura relief camps to exercise their franchise from there. "The Election Commission of India in consultation with the Government of Mizoram hereby nominates Ashish Kundra as the chief electoral officer for the state of Mizoram with immediate effect," a notification issued by the EC said. The EC had earlier asked the Mizoram government for a panel of names to replace Shashank. Mizoram goes to polls on November 28.

Ashish Kundra appointed new Mizoram chief electoral officer

India's government and its central bank are getting close to ironing out some of their policy differences, said two sources familiar with the discussions, as they seek to defuse worsening tensions that had threatened to unnerve investors.

While the rift is far from healed, the sources said enough progress had been made to avoid acrimony at a board meeting of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) next Monday.

The threat that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-met-pm-modi-on-november-9-possibly-to-sort-out-differences-with-centre-176983">RBI Governor Urjit Patel</a> would quit, as reported by some newspapers last week, is also thought to be off the table for now, they said.

The uneasy truce is likely to see the RBI ease up on some lending restrictions to help the government stimulate the economy, said the sources. One source said the RBI could agree to tweak restrictions on lending to improve credit flows for smaller companies with a borrowing limit of 250 million rupees ($3.4 million).

Neither the RBI nor the finance ministry responded to requests for comment for this article. The prime minister’s office declined to comment.

It is unclear how much of a role Prime Minister Narendra Modi played in defusing the tension. Local media reported that Modi met Patel last week in an attempt to sort out the contentious issues but officials in the prime minister`s office and the RBI said they did not know of such a meeting.

Modi had appointed Patel as the RBI governor in 2016 for a three-year term that ends in September next year.

For weeks, government officials in New Delhi have been pressuring the Mumbai-based RBI to accede to a range of demands, from easing lending curbs to handing over surplus reserves to the government. This prompted RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya to warn late last month that undermining a central bank`s independence could be "catastrophic," bringing the feud into the open.

Tensions were expected to come to a head at Monday`s meeting as government representatives on the board appeared to be ready to turn up the heat on Patel and accuse the RBI of being intransigent in the face of government demands.&nbsp;

Now, it seems likely there will be a more constructive atmosphere with agreement on some issues, and disputed questions shelved for another day, the sources said.

Can't agree to everything

The government is keen to provide more stimulus to the economy heading into next year`s election, especially as the incomes of many farmers have been hit by low crop prices. At the same time it doesn`t want a bust-up with the central bank, which could badly affect investor sentiment and provide political fodder to the opposition Congress party.

"The government understands the regulator will remain a regulator and can`t agree to all demands," said a government official, who declined to be named, referring to the RBI.&nbsp;

While the official did not give any details of the solutions being worked out with the RBI, he acknowledged that the government did not want to trigger Patel`s departure at such a sensitive time.&nbsp;

There are five key state elections in the next few weeks and a general election due by May. The Congress party has already been harrying the government over allegations of corruption in a military jet deal with France and infighting between the top officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

A RBI board member said that helping to ease tensions was the idea that both sides wanted a healthy economy. It was just a question of how to get there. "The main issue is how to boost credit growth," the member said referring to the credit crunch facing small companies.&nbsp;

Economics Affairs Secretary S.C. Garg is expected to make a presentation in the board meeting to outline the concerns of the finance ministry and could bring up the question about the transfer of surplus cash reserves held by the RBI, the sources said.

The board member said that an expert panel may be set up to work out the appropriate level of contingency reserves for the RBI, effectively kicking that question down the road. The RBI introduced a so-called corrective action plan in 2014 for 11 state-run banks with bad loan issues and depleted capital. That plan included curbs on risky lending and RBI officials said, as a result, the banks` loan growth fell to zero and had remained there since 2016, from 10 percent in 2014.&nbsp;

&nbsp;According to the RBI board member, the government wants the RBI to ease those curbs and lower capital requirements for the 11.&nbsp;

Some improvements in the balance sheets of those lenders might give the RBI leeway to do that, although the RBI would prefer to give the mending process more time, said another official who is aware of discussions within the central bank. 
 
&nbsp;

India's government and its central bank are getting close to ironing out some of their policy differences, said two sources familiar with the discussions, as they seek to defuse worsening tensions that had threatened to unnerve investors.

India's government and its central bank are getting close to ironing out some of their policy differences, said two sources familiar with the discussions, as they seek to defuse worsening tensions that had threatened to unnerve investors. While the rift is far from healed, the sources said enough progress had been made to avoid acrimony at a board meeting of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) next Monday. The threat that RBI Governor Urjit Patel would quit, as reported by some newspapers last week, is also thought to be off the table for now, they said. The uneasy truce is likely to see the RBI ease up on some lending restrictions to help the government stimulate the economy, said the sources. One source said the RBI could agree to tweak restrictions on lending to improve credit flows for smaller companies with a borrowing limit of 250 million rupees ($3.4 million). Neither the RBI nor the finance ministry responded to requests for comment for this article. The prime minister’s office declined to comment. It is unclear how much of a role Prime Minister Narendra Modi played in defusing the tension. Local media reported that Modi met Patel last week in an attempt to sort out the contentious issues but officials in the prime minister`s office and the RBI said they did not know of such a meeting. Modi had appointed Patel as the RBI governor in 2016 for a three-year term that ends in September next year. For weeks, government officials in New Delhi have been pressuring the Mumbai-based RBI to accede to a range of demands, from easing lending curbs to handing over surplus reserves to the government. This prompted RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya to warn late last month that undermining a central bank`s independence could be "catastrophic," bringing the feud into the open. Tensions were expected to come to a head at Monday`s meeting as government representatives on the board appeared to be ready to turn up the heat on Patel and accuse the RBI of being intransigent in the face of government demands. Now, it seems likely there will be a more constructive atmosphere with agreement on some issues, and disputed questions shelved for another day, the sources said. Can't agree to everything The government is keen to provide more stimulus to the economy heading into next year`s election, especially as the incomes of many farmers have been hit by low crop prices. At the same time it doesn`t want a bust-up with the central bank, which could badly affect investor sentiment and provide political fodder to the opposition Congress party. "The government understands the regulator will remain a regulator and can`t agree to all demands," said a government official, who declined to be named, referring to the RBI. While the official did not give any details of the solutions being worked out with the RBI, he acknowledged that the government did not want to trigger Patel`s departure at such a sensitive time. There are five key state elections in the next few weeks and a general election due by May. The Congress party has already been harrying the government over allegations of corruption in a military jet deal with France and infighting between the top officials of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). A RBI board member said that helping to ease tensions was the idea that both sides wanted a healthy economy. It was just a question of how to get there. "The main issue is how to boost credit growth," the member said referring to the credit crunch facing small companies. Economics Affairs Secretary S.C. Garg is expected to make a presentation in the board meeting to outline the concerns of the finance ministry and could bring up the question about the transfer of surplus cash reserves held by the RBI, the sources said. The board member said that an expert panel may be set up to work out the appropriate level of contingency reserves for the RBI, effectively kicking that question down the road. The RBI introduced a so-called corrective action plan in 2014 for 11 state-run banks with bad loan issues and depleted capital. That plan included curbs on risky lending and RBI officials said, as a result, the banks` loan growth fell to zero and had remained there since 2016, from 10 percent in 2014. According to the RBI board member, the government wants the RBI to ease those curbs and lower capital requirements for the 11. Some improvements in the balance sheets of those lenders might give the RBI leeway to do that, although the RBI would prefer to give the mending process more time, said another official who is aware of discussions within the central bank.

Modi government, RBI close to ironing out policy differences: Sources

A 53-year-old fashion designer and her house help has been&nbsp;found murdered at her&nbsp;house in Delhi's&nbsp;Vasant Kunj enclave&nbsp;last night, news agency ANI&nbsp;reported.

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Deceased have been identified as 53-yr-old Mala Lakhani &amp; her 50-yr-old servant Bahadur. 3 arrested. Bodies sent for postmortem: Delhi Police on fashion designer (in pic) and her servant found murdered in her house in Vasant Kunj last night <a href="https://t.co/Auxqzm28ca">pic.twitter.com/Auxqzm28ca</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1062909419615334402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The deceased has been identified as Mala Lakhani. According to reports, she runs a boutique in Delhi's&nbsp;Green Park area.

So far three people have been detained as police launched an investigation into the matter.

All three accused have confessed to their crime, ANI reported. One of the accused Rahul Anwar was a tailor at Lakhani's&nbsp;fashion designer's workshop.

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Delhi: Picture of three persons arrested for murdering a fashion designer &amp; her servant at her residence in Vasant Kunj. One of accused Rahul Anwar was a tailor at deceased fashion designer's workshop.He committed the crime with 2 of his relatives in an attempt to loot <a href="https://t.co/iqcrS0r8ZZ">pic.twitter.com/iqcrS0r8ZZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1062951200759394304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"He committed the crime with two&nbsp;of his relatives in an attempt to loot," ANI quoted Joint Commissioner of Police Ajay Chaudhary as saying.

PTI quoted a police officer saying, "The bodies have been sent for postmortem," adding "investigation is in progress."

More details regarding the story are awaited.

A 53-year-old fashion designer and her house help has been found murdered at her house in Delhi's Vasant Kunj enclave last night, news agency ANI reported. Deceased have been identified as 53-yr-old Mala Lakhani & her 50-yr-old servant Bahadur.

A 53-year-old fashion designer and her house help has been found murdered at her house in Delhi's Vasant Kunj enclave last night, news agency ANI reported. Deceased have been identified as 53-yr-old Mala Lakhani & her 50-yr-old servant Bahadur. 3 arrested. Bodies sent for postmortem: Delhi Police on fashion designer (in pic) and her servant found murdered in her house in Vasant Kunj last night pic.twitter.com/Auxqzm28ca — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2018 × The deceased has been identified as Mala Lakhani. According to reports, she runs a boutique in Delhi's Green Park area. So far three people have been detained as police launched an investigation into the matter. All three accused have confessed to their crime, ANI reported. One of the accused Rahul Anwar was a tailor at Lakhani's fashion designer's workshop. Delhi: Picture of three persons arrested for murdering a fashion designer & her servant at her residence in Vasant Kunj. One of accused Rahul Anwar was a tailor at deceased fashion designer's workshop.He committed the crime with 2 of his relatives in an attempt to loot pic.twitter.com/iqcrS0r8ZZ — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2018 × "He committed the crime with two of his relatives in an attempt to loot," ANI quoted Joint Commissioner of Police Ajay Chaudhary as saying. PTI quoted a police officer saying, "The bodies have been sent for postmortem," adding "investigation is in progress." More details regarding the story are awaited.

Delhi: Fashion designer, domestic help found murdered in Vasant Kunj Enclave

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday felicitated the six winning teams, including three from India, of the first India-Singapore Hackathon, a platform for the youth of the two countries to harness and showcase their innovations.

The top six teams, three each from India and Singapore, participated in a 36-hour long Hackathon Grande Finale here.

"PM Narendra Modi met and felicitated the winning teams of India Singapore Hackathon, agreed to during the visit of PM to Singapore in June 2018," Ministry of External Affairs spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

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Showcasing Solutions for Humanity 
 
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> met &amp; felicitated the winning teams of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaSingapore?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaSingapore</a> Hackathon, agreed to during the visit of PM to Singapore in June 2018. NTU in Singapore &amp; AICTE in India conducted the hackathon that included solving 8 problem statements <a href="https://t.co/lgqeapGBLP">pic.twitter.com/lgqeapGBLP</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1062900976384757760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"Happy to have met innovators who won prizes in the first ever Singapore-India Hackathon. They talked about their extensive work. I was impressed by their passion and commitment towards solving problems our world faces," Modi said.

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A boost to technology, innovation and youth power. 
 
Happy to have met innovators who won prizes in the first ever Singapore-India Hackathon. They talked about their extensive work. I was impressed by their passion and commitment towards solving problems our world faces. <a href="https://t.co/GLRIAe4wRf">pic.twitter.com/GLRIAe4wRf</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1062907824563380224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Modi presented the awards to the winning teams at an awards ceremony which was also attended by Education Minister of Singapore Ong Ye Kung.

The teams were chosen after a final pitching session. First prize of SGD 10000, second prize of SGD 6000 and third prize of SGD 4000 was announced for each of the three winners from India and Singapore.

The winning teams from India were IIT Kharagpur, NIT, Trichy and MIT College of Engineering, Pune, the Indian High Commission in Singapore said.

The winning teams from Singapore comprised Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), it said in a statement.

"Platforms like the Singapore-India Hackathon serve as excellent opportunities for our youngsters to showcase their work. They also serve as forums to learn about pioneering innovations by youngsters from other nations and institutes. A win-win for our students!" Modi said in a tweet.

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Platforms like the Singapore-India Hackathon serve as excellent opportunities for our youngsters to showcase their work. They also serve as forums to learn about pioneering innovations by youngsters from other nations and institutes. A win-win for our students!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1062907829441286144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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During his official visit to Singapore in June, Modi proposed to his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong that India and Singapore should organise a joint Hackathon to harness and showcase the innovation potential of their youth. The proposal was welcomed by Prime Minister Lee.

The Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) conducted the hackathon that included solving eight problem statements.

Twenty teams, each from both the countries comprising university and college students selected on nationwide basis, participated in the event to harness and showcase the innovation potential of the youth. Each of these teams had three students and one mentor.

From India, an 83-member delegation comprising 60 students, 20 mentors and three officials of the AICTE visited Singapore for the event which Modi said is a "boost to technology, innovation and youth power".

The eight 'Problems Statements' presented to the participants were in the areas of mapping, synchronised output of diverse social media, shared digital identity verification, effective number estimate, space management and allotment, effective learning and personal security.

Prime Minister Modi also met the National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets Thursday who were in Singapore as a part of a cadet exchange programme.

"Spent time with NCC cadets, who got the opportunity to come to Singapore as a part of a cadet exchange programme. They shared their memorable learnings and experiences with me," he said.

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Wonderful moments with my young friends. 
 
Spent time with NCC cadets, who got the opportunity to come to Singapore as a part of a cadet exchange programme. They shared their memorable learnings and experiences with me. <a href="https://t.co/GmDXQfdsBx">pic.twitter.com/GmDXQfdsBx</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1062906847705722882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Modi is in Singapore for the two-day visit to the country. He began his visit on Wednesday by delivering his keynote address at the prestigious Fintech Festival.

He also held separate bilateral meetings with the premiers of Singapore, Australia and Thailand and discussed ways to further strengthen ties, including in areas of trade, defence and security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday felicitated the six winning teams, including three from India, of the first India-Singapore Hackathon, a platform for the youth of the two countries to harness and showcase their innovations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday felicitated the six winning teams, including three from India, of the first India-Singapore Hackathon, a platform for the youth of the two countries to harness and showcase their innovations. The top six teams, three each from India and Singapore, participated in a 36-hour long Hackathon Grande Finale here. "PM Narendra Modi met and felicitated the winning teams of India Singapore Hackathon, agreed to during the visit of PM to Singapore in June 2018," Ministry of External Affairs spokesman Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Showcasing Solutions for Humanity PM @narendramodi met & felicitated the winning teams of #IndiaSingapore Hackathon, agreed to during the visit of PM to Singapore in June 2018. NTU in Singapore & AICTE in India conducted the hackathon that included solving 8 problem statements pic.twitter.com/lgqeapGBLP — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) November 15, 2018 × "Happy to have met innovators who won prizes in the first ever Singapore-India Hackathon. They talked about their extensive work. I was impressed by their passion and commitment towards solving problems our world faces," Modi said. A boost to technology, innovation and youth power. Happy to have met innovators who won prizes in the first ever Singapore-India Hackathon. They talked about their extensive work. I was impressed by their passion and commitment towards solving problems our world faces. pic.twitter.com/GLRIAe4wRf — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2018 × Prime Minister Modi presented the awards to the winning teams at an awards ceremony which was also attended by Education Minister of Singapore Ong Ye Kung. The teams were chosen after a final pitching session. First prize of SGD 10000, second prize of SGD 6000 and third prize of SGD 4000 was announced for each of the three winners from India and Singapore. The winning teams from India were IIT Kharagpur, NIT, Trichy and MIT College of Engineering, Pune, the Indian High Commission in Singapore said. The winning teams from Singapore comprised Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), it said in a statement. "Platforms like the Singapore-India Hackathon serve as excellent opportunities for our youngsters to showcase their work. They also serve as forums to learn about pioneering innovations by youngsters from other nations and institutes. A win-win for our students!" Modi said in a tweet. Platforms like the Singapore-India Hackathon serve as excellent opportunities for our youngsters to showcase their work. They also serve as forums to learn about pioneering innovations by youngsters from other nations and institutes. A win-win for our students! — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2018 × During his official visit to Singapore in June, Modi proposed to his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong that India and Singapore should organise a joint Hackathon to harness and showcase the innovation potential of their youth. The proposal was welcomed by Prime Minister Lee. The Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) conducted the hackathon that included solving eight problem statements. Twenty teams, each from both the countries comprising university and college students selected on nationwide basis, participated in the event to harness and showcase the innovation potential of the youth. Each of these teams had three students and one mentor. From India, an 83-member delegation comprising 60 students, 20 mentors and three officials of the AICTE visited Singapore for the event which Modi said is a "boost to technology, innovation and youth power". The eight 'Problems Statements' presented to the participants were in the areas of mapping, synchronised output of diverse social media, shared digital identity verification, effective number estimate, space management and allotment, effective learning and personal security. Prime Minister Modi also met the National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets Thursday who were in Singapore as a part of a cadet exchange programme. "Spent time with NCC cadets, who got the opportunity to come to Singapore as a part of a cadet exchange programme. They shared their memorable learnings and experiences with me," he said. Wonderful moments with my young friends. Spent time with NCC cadets, who got the opportunity to come to Singapore as a part of a cadet exchange programme. They shared their memorable learnings and experiences with me. pic.twitter.com/GmDXQfdsBx — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 15, 2018 × Prime Minister Modi is in Singapore for the two-day visit to the country. He began his visit on Wednesday by delivering his keynote address at the prestigious Fintech Festival. He also held separate bilateral meetings with the premiers of Singapore, Australia and Thailand and discussed ways to further strengthen ties, including in areas of trade, defence and security.

PM Modi gives awards to winning teams of first India-Singapore Hackathon

Following light rainfall on Wednesday night, the air quality in the national capital has slightly improved Thursday, bringing down the pollution level to 'very poor'&nbsp;category from 'hazardous'.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of New Delhi recorded at 342 at around 9:09 am as compared to 419 on the previous day.

The AQI around Lodhi Road recorded PM 10 levels at 200 and PM 2.5 levels at 336. PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels around the Delhi University are slightly higher with 259 and 345 respectively.

"Air quality has improved significantly mainly due to sufficient rainfall last night to wash away bigger particles and created space for faster dispersion without a decline in temperature. AQI is back to 'very poor.'&nbsp;It may recover further today. A slight increase in AQI is predicted next three days but is likely to remain in very poor," said SAFAR in a statement.

After battling the thick fog for days, the residents of national capital are taking the sigh of relief following the rain. "The weather is quite pleasant. There is no smog. The air is somewhat breathable," said a jogger.

Taking the cognizance of Delhi's worsening pollution level, the chairman of Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) Bhure Lal has asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to discuss the matter of restricting private vehicles during severe and prolonged pollution episode with Graded Response Action Plan task force.

While suggesting corrective measures to CPCB, Lal wrote, "In this situation, the only option is to look at either a complete ban on all private vehicles (without the identification of petrol or diesel), other than CNG and/or restriction on plying by number plate (odd-even). However, please note that the odd-even scheme, as practiced in other cities for similar pollution abatement, is done for extended hours and includes all private vehicles."

Recently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) also formed a committee, headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice S P Garg to check the causes of air pollution in Delhi.&nbsp;

Following light rainfall on Wednesday night, the air quality in the national capital has slightly improved Thursday, bringing down the pollution level to 'very poor' category from 'hazardous'.

Following light rainfall on Wednesday night, the air quality in the national capital has slightly improved Thursday, bringing down the pollution level to 'very poor' category from 'hazardous'. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of New Delhi recorded at 342 at around 9:09 am as compared to 419 on the previous day. The AQI around Lodhi Road recorded PM 10 levels at 200 and PM 2.5 levels at 336. PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels around the Delhi University are slightly higher with 259 and 345 respectively. "Air quality has improved significantly mainly due to sufficient rainfall last night to wash away bigger particles and created space for faster dispersion without a decline in temperature. AQI is back to 'very poor.' It may recover further today. A slight increase in AQI is predicted next three days but is likely to remain in very poor," said SAFAR in a statement. After battling the thick fog for days, the residents of national capital are taking the sigh of relief following the rain. "The weather is quite pleasant. There is no smog. The air is somewhat breathable," said a jogger. Taking the cognizance of Delhi's worsening pollution level, the chairman of Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) Bhure Lal has asked the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to discuss the matter of restricting private vehicles during severe and prolonged pollution episode with Graded Response Action Plan task force. While suggesting corrective measures to CPCB, Lal wrote, "In this situation, the only option is to look at either a complete ban on all private vehicles (without the identification of petrol or diesel), other than CNG and/or restriction on plying by number plate (odd-even). However, please note that the odd-even scheme, as practiced in other cities for similar pollution abatement, is done for extended hours and includes all private vehicles." Recently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) also formed a committee, headed by former Delhi High Court judge Justice S P Garg to check the causes of air pollution in Delhi.

Delhi's air quality improves slightly after light rain

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Singapore visit is scheduled on November 14- 15 to participate in the ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits.

Live: PM Modi gives awards to winning teams of first India-Singapore Hackathon

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a fresh attack on prime minister and accused Modi of personally increasing the benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros &nbsp;(Rs. 22,743Cr).

''Another RAFALE Skeleton! Mr Modi personally increased the benchmark price of RAFALE jets by 3 Billion Euros (₹22,743Cr). The former Director of Finance, MOD, just said that he and the negotiating team were overruled by Mr 56,'' Rahul Gandhi tweeted.

The Gandhi scion's fresh attack comes even as the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Congress accused Prime Minister Modi of sabotaging country's interest for the sake of his cronies and alleging he fixed a higher benchmark price for the French fighter jets.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took on Modi, saying the "Chowkidar (watchman) has sold out".

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a fresh attack on prime minister and accused Modi of personally increasing the benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros (Rs.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Thursday launched a fresh attack on prime minister and accused Modi of personally increasing the benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros (Rs. 22,743Cr). ''Another RAFALE Skeleton! Mr Modi personally increased the benchmark price of RAFALE jets by 3 Billion Euros (₹22,743Cr). The former Director of Finance, MOD, just said that he and the negotiating team were overruled by Mr 56,'' Rahul Gandhi tweeted. The Gandhi scion's fresh attack comes even as the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal. Earlier in the day, Congress accused Prime Minister Modi of sabotaging country's interest for the sake of his cronies and alleging he fixed a higher benchmark price for the French fighter jets. Congress President Rahul Gandhi took on Modi, saying the "Chowkidar (watchman) has sold out".

Modi increased benchmark price of Rafale jets by 3 billion Euros: Rahul Gandhi

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been named as an accused in a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by the Delhi Police on the complaint of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit chief and Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari in connection with the scuffle that took place during the inauguration ceremony of Signature Bridge.

On November 4, Tiwari got into a brawl with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers and the Delhi Police at the event after which he wrote to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) North- East Delhi and filed a complaint against AAP Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Amanatullah Khan, Kejriwal and unknown persons.

Khan was caught on camera shoving Tiwari during the inauguration ceremony of the Signature Bridge.

In a video footage of the incident, Tiwari was seen standing at the edge of an elevated platform when Khan, an AAP MLA from Okhla, pushed the BJP's Delhi unit chief, nearly causing him to fall.

A large number of police personnel and AAP workers were also present on the occasion.

While speaking to ANI after the scuffle, Tiwari had claimed that the entire incident took place in front of Kejriwal.

He had alleged that he was stopped by the police and AAP supporters from attending the event.

The bridge was inaugurated on November 4 and was opened for the public the next day.

It was inaugurated by the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Announced in 2004, the 575-metre bridge over the river Yamuna aims at reducing travel time and traffic congestion between the north-eastern and northern parts of the national capital, and is the first asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge in India.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been named as an accused in a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by the Delhi Police on the complaint of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit chief and Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari in connection with the scuffle that took place during the inauguration ceremony of Signature Bridge.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been named as an accused in a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by the Delhi Police on the complaint of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state unit chief and Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari in connection with the scuffle that took place during the inauguration ceremony of Signature Bridge. On November 4, Tiwari got into a brawl with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) workers and the Delhi Police at the event after which he wrote to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) North- East Delhi and filed a complaint against AAP Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Amanatullah Khan, Kejriwal and unknown persons. Khan was caught on camera shoving Tiwari during the inauguration ceremony of the Signature Bridge. In a video footage of the incident, Tiwari was seen standing at the edge of an elevated platform when Khan, an AAP MLA from Okhla, pushed the BJP's Delhi unit chief, nearly causing him to fall. A large number of police personnel and AAP workers were also present on the occasion. While speaking to ANI after the scuffle, Tiwari had claimed that the entire incident took place in front of Kejriwal. He had alleged that he was stopped by the police and AAP supporters from attending the event. The bridge was inaugurated on November 4 and was opened for the public the next day. It was inaugurated by the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Announced in 2004, the 575-metre bridge over the river Yamuna aims at reducing travel time and traffic congestion between the north-eastern and northern parts of the national capital, and is the first asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge in India.

Signature Bridge scuffle: CM Arvind Kejriwal named as accused in Manoj Tiwari's FIR

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has initiated a series of preemptive and proactive measures to prevent loss of lives of fishermen as cyclone 'Gaja' intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Thursday, the Defence Ministry said. Around eight ICG ships and two Dornier aircraft were pressed into action since November 9 for issuance of advisories and warnings in local languages to fishermen at sea for their safe return to ports, it said.&nbsp;

The Coast Guard Remote Operating Stations have also requested fisheries authorities in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh to account for all fishing boats.&nbsp;

"The ICG conducted series of community interaction programmes in Kanyakumari, Mandapam, Rameswaram, Cuddalore, Chennai, Nellore, Nizampatnam, Uppada and Vishakhapatnam to sensitise fishermen and coastal population for taking safety measures for the impending cyclone," the statement said.

The actions taken by the Coast Guard are a part of the lessons learnt from cyclone 'Ockhi' and success in preventing loss of lives during recent cyclones 'Luban' and 'Titli'.&nbsp;

Cyclone 'Gaja' is expected to cross the south Tamil Nadu coast by late Thursday evening or night, with the government machinery put on high alert in vulnerable districts in the state.&nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has initiated a series of preemptive and proactive measures to prevent loss of lives of fishermen as cyclone 'Gaja' intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Thursday, the Defence Ministry said.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has initiated a series of preemptive and proactive measures to prevent loss of lives of fishermen as cyclone 'Gaja' intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Thursday, the Defence Ministry said. Around eight ICG ships and two Dornier aircraft were pressed into action since November 9 for issuance of advisories and warnings in local languages to fishermen at sea for their safe return to ports, it said. The Coast Guard Remote Operating Stations have also requested fisheries authorities in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh to account for all fishing boats. "The ICG conducted series of community interaction programmes in Kanyakumari, Mandapam, Rameswaram, Cuddalore, Chennai, Nellore, Nizampatnam, Uppada and Vishakhapatnam to sensitise fishermen and coastal population for taking safety measures for the impending cyclone," the statement said. The actions taken by the Coast Guard are a part of the lessons learnt from cyclone 'Ockhi' and success in preventing loss of lives during recent cyclones 'Luban' and 'Titli'. Cyclone 'Gaja' is expected to cross the south Tamil Nadu coast by late Thursday evening or night, with the government machinery put on high alert in vulnerable districts in the state.

Coast Guard gears up for cyclone 'Gaja', issues warnings to fishermen

The Punjab Police is on alert after its counter-intelligence wing on Thursday informed that six to seven Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists are "planning to move towards Delhi" from the state.

Police commissioners and district police chiefs have been put on alert following the input, according to a letter issued by the Punjab Inspector General of Police (Counter Intelligence) office.&nbsp;

The letter stated that "according to an input, a group of 6-7 JeM terrorists are reportedly in Punjab, India (possibly in Ferozepur area) and are planning to move towards Delhi from Punjab side."

The letter has been sent to all police officials in Punjab. They have been asked to set up checkpoints at all important routes, conduct strict vehicle inspection and take suitable countermeasures for all sensitive locations, it stated.

The letter stated that police areas along the India-Pakistan border have been asked to coordinate with the Border Security Force (BSF). 
The officers have been advised to plan and implement precautionary measures to thwart any untoward incident, it said.&nbsp;

The Punjab Police is on alert after its counter-intelligence wing on Thursday informed that six to seven Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists are "planning to move towards Delhi" from the state.

The Punjab Police is on alert after its counter-intelligence wing on Thursday informed that six to seven Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists are "planning to move towards Delhi" from the state. Police commissioners and district police chiefs have been put on alert following the input, according to a letter issued by the Punjab Inspector General of Police (Counter Intelligence) office. The letter stated that "according to an input, a group of 6-7 JeM terrorists are reportedly in Punjab, India (possibly in Ferozepur area) and are planning to move towards Delhi from Punjab side." The letter has been sent to all police officials in Punjab. They have been asked to set up checkpoints at all important routes, conduct strict vehicle inspection and take suitable countermeasures for all sensitive locations, it stated. The letter stated that police areas along the India-Pakistan border have been asked to coordinate with the Border Security Force (BSF). The officers have been advised to plan and implement precautionary measures to thwart any untoward incident, it said.

Punjab Police on alert after input on JeM terrorists in state, moving towards Delhi

CPI (M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury on Thursday accused the BJP and the Congress of "duplicity" on the Sabarimala issue, saying their "opportunistic" stand was only whipping up communal polarisation.

The CPM leader also alleged that by boycotting an all-party meeting called by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday, the two parties have shown that they do want a solution to the issue.

"They want to topple the (state) government ... That is the sense," he told reporters in Delhi.

He said it is the constitutional obligation of any state government to implement the verdict of the Supreme Court.

"There was no stay on the entry of women today. The state government has to implement the verdict. The meeting was convened as part of the government's desire to find a solution," he said.

The stand-off over the entry of women of menstruating age to the temple continued Thursday, as consensus eluded a crucial all-party meeting called to resolve the issue.

At the meeting, the Kerala government said it would implement the September 28 Supreme Court order, allowing women of all ages to offer prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple, prompting the opposition to walk out in protest.&nbsp;

CPI (M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury on Thursday accused the BJP and the Congress of "duplicity" on the Sabarimala issue, saying their "opportunistic" stand was only whipping up communal polarisation.

CPI (M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury on Thursday accused the BJP and the Congress of "duplicity" on the Sabarimala issue, saying their "opportunistic" stand was only whipping up communal polarisation. The CPM leader also alleged that by boycotting an all-party meeting called by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday, the two parties have shown that they do want a solution to the issue. "They want to topple the (state) government ... That is the sense," he told reporters in Delhi. He said it is the constitutional obligation of any state government to implement the verdict of the Supreme Court. "There was no stay on the entry of women today. The state government has to implement the verdict. The meeting was convened as part of the government's desire to find a solution," he said. The stand-off over the entry of women of menstruating age to the temple continued Thursday, as consensus eluded a crucial all-party meeting called to resolve the issue. At the meeting, the Kerala government said it would implement the September 28 Supreme Court order, allowing women of all ages to offer prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple, prompting the opposition to walk out in protest.

Sabarimala row: Opportunistic stand of BJP, Congress whipping up communal polarisation, says Yechury

Top officials of India and China held the ninth Annual Defence and Security Dialogue here after a one-year gap due to the Doklam standoff, as both countries agreed to enhance military exchanges and interactions.

The dialogue on November 13 was held between the two defence delegations headed by Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and China's Deputy Chief of Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission.

At the talks both sides agreed on enhancing defence exchanges and interactions at different levels between the two militaries, a press release by the Indian Embassy here said on Thursday.

After the talks, Mitra called on Chinese State Councillor and Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday, the release said.

Mitra was accompanied by senior officials of the ministry of defence and Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.

The annual dialogue did not take place last year following the 73-day tense standoff between the two militaries at Doklam, which was triggered by the Chinese PLA's plan to build a road close to the narrow Chicken's Neck corridor connecting India's northeastern states in an area also claimed by Bhutan besides China.

The standoff ended when Chinese troops stopped the road construction after which both countries stepped up efforts to normalise relations leading to the informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan in April this year.

The defence dialogue was also held ahead of the 21st round of border talks between the Special Representatives of the two countries in the Chinese city of Dujiangyan on November 23-24.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi are the designated Special Representatives for the border talks. 
Besides efforts to work out a solution to resolve the boundary dispute spanning 3,488 kms, the border talks also focussed on discussions on other aspects of India-China relations.

Also the two militaries are due to hold the annual 'Hand-in-Hand' drills next month in China after gap of one year.

During the dialogue, both sides also agreed on specific defence exchanges for 2019.

"Both sides agreed to enhance exchanges and interactions through reciprocal high-level visits between the two ministries of defence as well as between military commands, joint training exercises, mutual visits by defence personnel including mid-level and cadet officers were also agreed upon," the Indian Embassy's press release said.

Both sides reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas, implementing the consensus reached between Modi and Xi and specific additional confidence building measures at the operational level, it said.

The two sides also had exchange of views on regional and global issues.

"Both sides underlined the importance of this dialogue as an important mechanism between the two countries for consultations on defence and security matters. They emphasised the need to further strengthen military-to- military ties in order to strengthen political and strategic mutual trust between the two countries," it said.

Both sides agreed to hold the next round of the dialogue at a mutually convenient time in India in 2019.&nbsp;

Top officials of India and China held the ninth Annual Defence and Security Dialogue here after a one-year gap due to the Doklam standoff, as both countries agreed to enhance military exchanges and interactions.

Top officials of India and China held the ninth Annual Defence and Security Dialogue here after a one-year gap due to the Doklam standoff, as both countries agreed to enhance military exchanges and interactions. The dialogue on November 13 was held between the two defence delegations headed by Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and China's Deputy Chief of Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission. At the talks both sides agreed on enhancing defence exchanges and interactions at different levels between the two militaries, a press release by the Indian Embassy here said on Thursday. After the talks, Mitra called on Chinese State Councillor and Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday, the release said. Mitra was accompanied by senior officials of the ministry of defence and Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. The annual dialogue did not take place last year following the 73-day tense standoff between the two militaries at Doklam, which was triggered by the Chinese PLA's plan to build a road close to the narrow Chicken's Neck corridor connecting India's northeastern states in an area also claimed by Bhutan besides China. The standoff ended when Chinese troops stopped the road construction after which both countries stepped up efforts to normalise relations leading to the informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan in April this year. The defence dialogue was also held ahead of the 21st round of border talks between the Special Representatives of the two countries in the Chinese city of Dujiangyan on November 23-24. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi are the designated Special Representatives for the border talks. Besides efforts to work out a solution to resolve the boundary dispute spanning 3,488 kms, the border talks also focussed on discussions on other aspects of India-China relations. Also the two militaries are due to hold the annual 'Hand-in-Hand' drills next month in China after gap of one year. During the dialogue, both sides also agreed on specific defence exchanges for 2019. "Both sides agreed to enhance exchanges and interactions through reciprocal high-level visits between the two ministries of defence as well as between military commands, joint training exercises, mutual visits by defence personnel including mid-level and cadet officers were also agreed upon," the Indian Embassy's press release said. Both sides reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas, implementing the consensus reached between Modi and Xi and specific additional confidence building measures at the operational level, it said. The two sides also had exchange of views on regional and global issues. "Both sides underlined the importance of this dialogue as an important mechanism between the two countries for consultations on defence and security matters. They emphasised the need to further strengthen military-to- military ties in order to strengthen political and strategic mutual trust between the two countries," it said. Both sides agreed to hold the next round of the dialogue at a mutually convenient time in India in 2019.

A year after Doklam standoff, top India, China officials hold defence, security dialogue

Chef Garima Arora, owner of Gaa restaurant in Bangkok, became the first Indian woman to be awarded the prestigious Michelin star as it released its closely watched guide to Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-nga for 2019 this week.

Before Garima Arora, the list of Indian chefs whose restaurants have received a Michelin star include&nbsp;Vineet Bhatia, Vikas Khanna, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gagan-anand-becomes-first-indian-chef-to-win-two-michelin-star-award-26050">Gaggan Anand</a>.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/why-do-women-chefs-keep-missing-out-on-michelin-stars-32036">Why do women chefs keep missing out on Michelin stars?</a>

The former chef de partie&nbsp;at Copenhagen’s Noma, consistently ranked as one of the world’s best restaurants, Arora hails from Mumbai. She opened Gaa&nbsp;last year&nbsp;which is popular for its Indian-Thai menu.

Garima Arora is an alumni of Paris' popular culinary school, Le Cordon Bleu. During her career in culinary and cuisines, she has worked with many renowned international chefs namely&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-michelin-star-chef-gordon-ramsay-takes-a-u-turn-says-will-give-vegan-a-try-131135">Gordan Ramsay</a> and Rene Redzepi.

She has also briefly worked as a journalist in Mumbai before realising that being chef was her real call.

"Go Team Gaa!&nbsp;We couldn’t have done it without your hard work and commitment in the past one and a half year. Congratulations to our chef Garima, the first female Indian chef to ever get a star, you’re a force," the post on Gaa's official Facebook read.

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This was&nbsp;the second edition of the 'Michelin guide Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-Nga 2019 Selection'.&nbsp;It recognised 27 dining eateries with&nbsp;23&nbsp;restaurants being awarded one star each, four had the honour of gaining two Michelin stars.

Among the top four restaurants to get two Michelin stars were Gaa, Suhring, Le Normandie and Mezzaluna.&nbsp;

According to the guide, one star signifies "a very good restaurant", two stars are "excellent cooking that is worth a detour", and three stars mean "exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey".

Chef Garima Arora, owner of Gaa restaurant in Bangkok, became the first Indian woman to be awarded the prestigious Michelin star as it released its closely watched guide to Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-nga for 2019 this week.

Chef Garima Arora, owner of Gaa restaurant in Bangkok, became the first Indian woman to be awarded the prestigious Michelin star as it released its closely watched guide to Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-nga for 2019 this week. Before Garima Arora, the list of Indian chefs whose restaurants have received a Michelin star include Vineet Bhatia, Vikas Khanna, Gaggan Anand. Also read: Why do women chefs keep missing out on Michelin stars? The former chef de partie at Copenhagen’s Noma, consistently ranked as one of the world’s best restaurants, Arora hails from Mumbai. She opened Gaa last year which is popular for its Indian-Thai menu. Garima Arora is an alumni of Paris' popular culinary school, Le Cordon Bleu. During her career in culinary and cuisines, she has worked with many renowned international chefs namely Gordan Ramsay and Rene Redzepi. She has also briefly worked as a journalist in Mumbai before realising that being chef was her real call. "Go Team Gaa! We couldn’t have done it without your hard work and commitment in the past one and a half year. Congratulations to our chef Garima, the first female Indian chef to ever get a star, you’re a force," the post on Gaa's official Facebook read. × This was the second edition of the 'Michelin guide Bangkok, Phuket and Phang-Nga 2019 Selection'. It recognised 27 dining eateries with 23 restaurants being awarded one star each, four had the honour of gaining two Michelin stars. Among the top four restaurants to get two Michelin stars were Gaa, Suhring, Le Normandie and Mezzaluna. According to the guide, one star signifies "a very good restaurant", two stars are "excellent cooking that is worth a detour", and three stars mean "exceptional cuisine that is worth a special journey".

Chef Garima Arora becomes first Indian woman to receive Michelin star

Indian Navy has been put <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-gaja-to-intensify-before-crossing-tamil-nadu-coast-on-november-15-red-alert-issued-177071">on high alert with&nbsp;cyclonic storm</a> Gaja set to make landfall in Tamil Nadu today afternoon.

"The Eastern Naval Command(ENC) has assumed high degree of readiness to render necessary humanitarian assistance. Two Indian Naval ships Ranvir and Khanjar are standing by to proceed to the most affected areas to undertake Humanitarian Aid Distress Relief (HADR), evacuation, logistic support including providing medical aid,"&nbsp;an official statement said.

"These ships will be embarked with additional divers, doctors, inflatable rubber boats, integral helicopters and relief material that include food, tentage, clothes, medicines, blankets etc," it added.

Additionally, aircraft from Naval Air Stations Dega, Rajali and Parundu and Water Jet FACs and patrolling boats from naval detachments in Ramnad and Nagapatnam have been warning fishing vessels about the approaching cyclonic storm and directing them to return to the nearest harbour.

The ENC is also monitoring developments closely and flag officer commanding Tamil Nadu and Puducherry naval area have been in constant communication with the state administration to augment rescue and relief operations.

"One P8I aircraft, Dornier aircraft and helicopters are also standing by to undertake reconnaissance, rescue, casualty evacuation and air drop of relief material to the stranded," the statement further noted.

Cyclone Gaja is expected to make a landfall between Pamban and Cuddalore today by afternoon.

In an attempt to mitigate potential damage, the state administration headed by chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami has planned to evacuate around 20,000 people residing on the coastal line and moving them to relief camps.

On Wednesday, Cuddalore district collector V Anbuselvan, who visited the possible affected areas, said all private and government schools in Cuddalore would remain closed due to the cyclonic storm.

Apart from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh is also bracing for the impact of the cyclone which is likely to bring heavy downpour and strong winds to several parts of the region for the next couple of days.

Indian Navy has been put on high alert with cyclonic storm Gaja set to make landfall in Tamil Nadu today afternoon. "The Eastern Naval Command(ENC) has assumed high degree of readiness to render necessary humanitarian assistance.

Indian Navy has been put on high alert with cyclonic storm Gaja set to make landfall in Tamil Nadu today afternoon. "The Eastern Naval Command(ENC) has assumed high degree of readiness to render necessary humanitarian assistance. Two Indian Naval ships Ranvir and Khanjar are standing by to proceed to the most affected areas to undertake Humanitarian Aid Distress Relief (HADR), evacuation, logistic support including providing medical aid," an official statement said. "These ships will be embarked with additional divers, doctors, inflatable rubber boats, integral helicopters and relief material that include food, tentage, clothes, medicines, blankets etc," it added. Additionally, aircraft from Naval Air Stations Dega, Rajali and Parundu and Water Jet FACs and patrolling boats from naval detachments in Ramnad and Nagapatnam have been warning fishing vessels about the approaching cyclonic storm and directing them to return to the nearest harbour. The ENC is also monitoring developments closely and flag officer commanding Tamil Nadu and Puducherry naval area have been in constant communication with the state administration to augment rescue and relief operations. "One P8I aircraft, Dornier aircraft and helicopters are also standing by to undertake reconnaissance, rescue, casualty evacuation and air drop of relief material to the stranded," the statement further noted. Cyclone Gaja is expected to make a landfall between Pamban and Cuddalore today by afternoon. In an attempt to mitigate potential damage, the state administration headed by chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami has planned to evacuate around 20,000 people residing on the coastal line and moving them to relief camps. On Wednesday, Cuddalore district collector V Anbuselvan, who visited the possible affected areas, said all private and government schools in Cuddalore would remain closed due to the cyclonic storm. Apart from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh is also bracing for the impact of the cyclone which is likely to bring heavy downpour and strong winds to several parts of the region for the next couple of days.

Indian Navy on alert as cyclone Gaja set to make landfall in Tamil Nadu today

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das Thursday announced the entire state as open defecation free (ODF).

The ODF target for the state was October 2, 2019, but Jharkhand has achieved it a year in advance, Das said at the Statehood Day function here.

Jharkhand was carved out from Bihar on November 15, 2000 by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

The chief minister also announced Lohardaga, Hazaribagh and Deoghar as total electrified districts, joining Ranchi, Dhanbad, Ramgarh and Bokaro.

The electrification target for the entire state was December, 2018, he said.

The chief minister said Jharkhand is second in the country in terms of development growth, fourth in ease of doing business and number one in achieving health reforms.

So far, more than 32 lakh people of Jharkhand have been given employment or self-employment, he said.

Besides this, 16 lakh women were connected with 'Sakhi Mandal' for self-employment.

He said the state government was getting full support from the Centre in developmental initiatives.

'Krishi Pakhwada' (agriculture fortnight) has been announced and a camp will be organised on November 18 and 19 to facilitate reimbursement of funds under 'Fasal Bima'.

Das also vowed to accelerate the process of development and make the state an example in the country.

The chief minister called upon everyone to work towards a state which is free of corruption, dynastic politics, and caste, communal issues, so that citizens get the opportunity to live with dignity.

Cheques were given to farmers under MUDRA Swachch Card, Fasal Bima Yozana and Ved Vyas Awas Yojana at the function.&nbsp;

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das Thursday announced the entire state as open defecation free (ODF). The ODF target for the state was October 2, 2019, but Jharkhand has achieved it a year in advance, Das said at the Statehood Day function here.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das Thursday announced the entire state as open defecation free (ODF). The ODF target for the state was October 2, 2019, but Jharkhand has achieved it a year in advance, Das said at the Statehood Day function here. Jharkhand was carved out from Bihar on November 15, 2000 by the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. The chief minister also announced Lohardaga, Hazaribagh and Deoghar as total electrified districts, joining Ranchi, Dhanbad, Ramgarh and Bokaro. The electrification target for the entire state was December, 2018, he said. The chief minister said Jharkhand is second in the country in terms of development growth, fourth in ease of doing business and number one in achieving health reforms. So far, more than 32 lakh people of Jharkhand have been given employment or self-employment, he said. Besides this, 16 lakh women were connected with 'Sakhi Mandal' for self-employment. He said the state government was getting full support from the Centre in developmental initiatives. 'Krishi Pakhwada' (agriculture fortnight) has been announced and a camp will be organised on November 18 and 19 to facilitate reimbursement of funds under 'Fasal Bima'. Das also vowed to accelerate the process of development and make the state an example in the country. The chief minister called upon everyone to work towards a state which is free of corruption, dynastic politics, and caste, communal issues, so that citizens get the opportunity to live with dignity. Cheques were given to farmers under MUDRA Swachch Card, Fasal Bima Yozana and Ved Vyas Awas Yojana at the function.

Jharkhand CM Raghubar Das declares entire state open defecation free

A day after the Airport Authorities of India scrapped TM Krishna's November 17 concert, the Delhi government on Thursday stepped in to organise another performance by the Carnatic singer who often finds himself in the cross-hairs of controversy for his outspoken views.

The performance was scheduled to be part of the 'Dance and Music in the Park' concert in Nehru Park on November 17-18.

It was allegedly cancelled following a troll campaign against AAI for hosting Krishna, a Magsaysay award winner who has been called an "urban Naxal" and "a converted bigot" among other epithets.&nbsp;

"The Delhi government has been in touch with me and are interested in hosting a concert on the 17th. We will know the details tomorrow but I have in principle said yes," the 42-year-old said.

Delhi government sources added that the office of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has been in touch with Krishna's office.&nbsp;

"The Delhi government is working out the dates for the concert of T M Krishna in the national capital," an official said.&nbsp;

AAI and cultural organisation Spic Macay which were organising the concert jointly said the event was not cancelled but "postponed".&nbsp;

AAI was the major sponsor, said Rashmi Mallik from Spic Macay.&nbsp;

They were informed by AAI that the event had to postponed due to "some internal challenges within AAI", she said.&nbsp;

"It has not been cancelled. It has been postponed. We will be working out the new dates and share them," she told.&nbsp;

AAI also expressed its regret.

"We would like to inform that due to some urgent engagements, 'Dance and Music in the Park' programme jointly organised by AAI and SPICMACAY, scheduled on November 17 and 18 has been postponed. New dates would be announced shortly," an AAI spokesperson said.&nbsp;

Krishna, considered one of the finest proponents of Carnatic music, has often been the subject of hate trolls for his critical views on Hindutva and the establishment.

The artist, who is credited for being one of those taking the 600-year-old Carnatic musical tradition forward, is also an activist who has worked on creating egalitarian spaces for music and breaking down caste barriers.

He was part of a movement to help the Tamil-dominated and the war-ravaged northern province of Sri Lanka rebuild its classical music traditions.

An outspoken columnist, Krishna, has written and talked on a wide range of socio-political issues, including women's rights.&nbsp;

"I have been trolled for a long time for my social position, my perspectives on politics in India and my disagreements with the BJP regime...I believe in every art form... Allah, Jesus and Ram make no difference...It is a multi-lingual and multi-religious country," Krishna told a television channel on Thursday.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, he said on Twitter that he was subjected to "vile comments" and "threats" after an audio clip of one of his compositions about Jesus started doing the rounds.&nbsp;

But Krishna remained unperturbed. Instead, he declared that he would release "one Karnatik song every month on Jesus or Allah".&nbsp;

Following the row, a concert in the US was also cancelled.&nbsp;

A day after the Airport Authorities of India scrapped TM Krishna's November 17 concert, the Delhi government on Thursday stepped in to organise another performance by the Carnatic singer who often finds himself in the cross-hairs of controversy for his outspoken views.

A day after the Airport Authorities of India scrapped TM Krishna's November 17 concert, the Delhi government on Thursday stepped in to organise another performance by the Carnatic singer who often finds himself in the cross-hairs of controversy for his outspoken views. The performance was scheduled to be part of the 'Dance and Music in the Park' concert in Nehru Park on November 17-18. It was allegedly cancelled following a troll campaign against AAI for hosting Krishna, a Magsaysay award winner who has been called an "urban Naxal" and "a converted bigot" among other epithets. "The Delhi government has been in touch with me and are interested in hosting a concert on the 17th. We will know the details tomorrow but I have in principle said yes," the 42-year-old said. Delhi government sources added that the office of Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia has been in touch with Krishna's office. "The Delhi government is working out the dates for the concert of T M Krishna in the national capital," an official said. AAI and cultural organisation Spic Macay which were organising the concert jointly said the event was not cancelled but "postponed". AAI was the major sponsor, said Rashmi Mallik from Spic Macay. They were informed by AAI that the event had to postponed due to "some internal challenges within AAI", she said. "It has not been cancelled. It has been postponed. We will be working out the new dates and share them," she told. AAI also expressed its regret. "We would like to inform that due to some urgent engagements, 'Dance and Music in the Park' programme jointly organised by AAI and SPICMACAY, scheduled on November 17 and 18 has been postponed. New dates would be announced shortly," an AAI spokesperson said. Krishna, considered one of the finest proponents of Carnatic music, has often been the subject of hate trolls for his critical views on Hindutva and the establishment. The artist, who is credited for being one of those taking the 600-year-old Carnatic musical tradition forward, is also an activist who has worked on creating egalitarian spaces for music and breaking down caste barriers. He was part of a movement to help the Tamil-dominated and the war-ravaged northern province of Sri Lanka rebuild its classical music traditions. An outspoken columnist, Krishna, has written and talked on a wide range of socio-political issues, including women's rights. "I have been trolled for a long time for my social position, my perspectives on politics in India and my disagreements with the BJP regime...I believe in every art form... Allah, Jesus and Ram make no difference...It is a multi-lingual and multi-religious country," Krishna told a television channel on Thursday. Earlier this year, he said on Twitter that he was subjected to "vile comments" and "threats" after an audio clip of one of his compositions about Jesus started doing the rounds. But Krishna remained unperturbed. Instead, he declared that he would release "one Karnatik song every month on Jesus or Allah". Following the row, a concert in the US was also cancelled.

Show must go on: TM Krishna ready to perform after Delhi govt reaches out

ABVP has asked DUSU president Ankiv Baisoya to resign from his post and also suspended him from the students body till an inquiry into the allegations that he furnished a fake degree is completed, drawing criticism from NSUI that the decision was taken under pressure ahead of the high court hearing.

The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad said in a statement it has asked Baisoya to step down as DUSU president and also relieved him of all responsibilities in ABVP till the Delhi University completes the verification process.

ABVP said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of Delhi University Students Union.

But NSUI said this was clearly a decision taken under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20.

"This is an attempt to save whatever little face ABVP can. They waited for two months in an attempt to keep the DUSU presidentship with ABVP instead of asking him to step down when the matter came to light. ABVP also didn't set up any inquiry committee of its own. So, this decision at this belated hour is clearly cynical and cowardly," the National Students Union of India said.

The Delhi High Court on Monday gave DU time till November 20 to verify the authenticity of Baisoya's bachelors degree from a university in Tamil Nadu. The two-month period within which a re-election could be held ended on November 13.

Baisoya was elected DUSU president in September.

NSUI and AISA have accused the DU administration of deliberately delaying an investigation of the alleged fake degree of Baisoya.

The high court is hearing the case on a plea of NSUI student leader Sunny Chillar, who has sought from the court that Baisoya's election be set aside after news reports said the registrar of Thiruvalluvar University had "unambiguously and unequivocally" declared Baisoya's certificate "fake and forged".

Chillar has also alleged that DU was "deliberately delaying" the verification process as no fresh polls would be held for DUSU presidency in case Baisoya's election is set aside over the fake degree issue after expiry of the two-month period.

According to Lyngdoh Committee guidelines on university elections, if a post fell vacant within two months of declaration of results, fresh polls would be held, his plea has said.&nbsp;

ABVP has asked DUSU president Ankiv Baisoya to resign from his post and also suspended him from the students body till an inquiry into the allegations that he furnished a fake degree is completed, drawing criticism from NSUI that the decision was taken under pressure ahead of the high court hearing.

ABVP has asked DUSU president Ankiv Baisoya to resign from his post and also suspended him from the students body till an inquiry into the allegations that he furnished a fake degree is completed, drawing criticism from NSUI that the decision was taken under pressure ahead of the high court hearing. The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad said in a statement it has asked Baisoya to step down as DUSU president and also relieved him of all responsibilities in ABVP till the Delhi University completes the verification process. ABVP said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of Delhi University Students Union. But NSUI said this was clearly a decision taken under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20. "This is an attempt to save whatever little face ABVP can. They waited for two months in an attempt to keep the DUSU presidentship with ABVP instead of asking him to step down when the matter came to light. ABVP also didn't set up any inquiry committee of its own. So, this decision at this belated hour is clearly cynical and cowardly," the National Students Union of India said. The Delhi High Court on Monday gave DU time till November 20 to verify the authenticity of Baisoya's bachelors degree from a university in Tamil Nadu. The two-month period within which a re-election could be held ended on November 13. Baisoya was elected DUSU president in September. NSUI and AISA have accused the DU administration of deliberately delaying an investigation of the alleged fake degree of Baisoya. The high court is hearing the case on a plea of NSUI student leader Sunny Chillar, who has sought from the court that Baisoya's election be set aside after news reports said the registrar of Thiruvalluvar University had "unambiguously and unequivocally" declared Baisoya's certificate "fake and forged". Chillar has also alleged that DU was "deliberately delaying" the verification process as no fresh polls would be held for DUSU presidency in case Baisoya's election is set aside over the fake degree issue after expiry of the two-month period. According to Lyngdoh Committee guidelines on university elections, if a post fell vacant within two months of declaration of results, fresh polls would be held, his plea has said.

ABVP suspends Ankiv Baisoya, asks him to quit DUSU presidency; NSUI says too late

The Kerala all-party meet on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/gates-of-sabarimala-open-women-are-not-allowed-to-enter-171993">Sabarimala imbroglio</a> ended Thursday with the Congress and BJP walking out of the meeting.&nbsp;

After the nearly three-hour long meeting, dubbed a 'farce' by the opposition, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said his government was duty bound to enforce the court's September 28 verdict allowing women of all ages to pray at Lord Ayyappa hill temple.

"The government has no other option as Supreme Court has made it clear that the September 28 verdict has not been stayed, which means women in the 10-50 age group have the right to visit the Sabarimala temple," Vijayan told reporters.

News reports however quoted Kerala Vijayan as wondering whether women could visit the temple on separate days from men. "This needs to be discussed," he said.&nbsp;

The all-party meet was convened by Vijayan in the backdrop of state-wide protests by devotees after the Supreme Court ended an age-old ban on the entry of women in the 10-50 age group.

The opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front and the BJP staged a walkout from the meeting convened two days ahead of the temple's opening on November 17 for the two-month long pilgrim season when lakhs of devotees are expected to throng the shrine.

Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly Ramesh Chennithala accused the government of being adamant, while BJP state President PS Sreedharan Pillai said the meeting was a "waste of time".

Both the BJP and the Congress have led the protests against the Supreme Court verdict.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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We must ensure that women during periods don't come to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a>. Since SC order is there,Govt can't do anything directly legally. So,CM is saying you can take action not to allow women&amp;advise them not to come: Pandalam erstwhile royal Shashi Verma after meeting Kerala CM <a href="https://t.co/nXOsfgka0a">pic.twitter.com/nXOsfgka0a</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1063049336374915072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the erstwhile Pandalam Royal family, associated with the temple, told Vijayan that there was no change in its stand with regard to the rituals and traditions of the shrine and that it was against the entry of young women.

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Kerala all-party meet on the Sabarimala imbroglio ended Thursday with the Congress and BJP walking out of the meeting. After the nearly three-hour long meeting, dubbed a 'farce' by the opposition, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said his government was duty bound to enforce the court's September 28 verdict allowing women of all ages to pray at Lord Ayyappa hill temple.

The Kerala all-party meet on the Sabarimala imbroglio ended Thursday with the Congress and BJP walking out of the meeting. After the nearly three-hour long meeting, dubbed a 'farce' by the opposition, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said his government was duty bound to enforce the court's September 28 verdict allowing women of all ages to pray at Lord Ayyappa hill temple. "The government has no other option as Supreme Court has made it clear that the September 28 verdict has not been stayed, which means women in the 10-50 age group have the right to visit the Sabarimala temple," Vijayan told reporters. News reports however quoted Kerala Vijayan as wondering whether women could visit the temple on separate days from men. "This needs to be discussed," he said. The all-party meet was convened by Vijayan in the backdrop of state-wide protests by devotees after the Supreme Court ended an age-old ban on the entry of women in the 10-50 age group. The opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front and the BJP staged a walkout from the meeting convened two days ahead of the temple's opening on November 17 for the two-month long pilgrim season when lakhs of devotees are expected to throng the shrine. Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly Ramesh Chennithala accused the government of being adamant, while BJP state President PS Sreedharan Pillai said the meeting was a "waste of time". Both the BJP and the Congress have led the protests against the Supreme Court verdict. We must ensure that women during periods don't come to #SabarimalaTemple. Since SC order is there,Govt can't do anything directly legally. So,CM is saying you can take action not to allow women&advise them not to come: Pandalam erstwhile royal Shashi Verma after meeting Kerala CM pic.twitter.com/nXOsfgka0a — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2018 × Meanwhile, the erstwhile Pandalam Royal family, associated with the temple, told Vijayan that there was no change in its stand with regard to the rituals and traditions of the shrine and that it was against the entry of young women. (With inputs from PTI)

Sabarimala: Kerala govt wonders if women can visit temple on separate days from men

The Congress Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of compromising national interests on the Rafale issue, with party chief Rahul Gandhi alleging that the latest skeleton to tumble out of the "Rafale cupboard" is that there is no guarantee by the French government backing the deal.

Gandhi asked if the Rafale jet deal can be called a "Government to Government" contract with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying there is only a letter from the French government promising to be faithful.&nbsp;

"The latest skeleton to tumble out of the RAFALE cupboard: No Guarantee by the French Government backing the deal.&nbsp;BUT, our PM says there's a letter from the French promising to be faithful. That's enough to call this a Government to Government&nbsp;deal" he asked on Twitter, using the hashtag "BikGayaChowkidar".

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The latest skeleton to tumble out of the RAFALE cupboard: 
 
NO Guarantee by the French Govt. backing the deal. 
 
BUT, our PM says there’s a letter from the French promising to be faithful! That’s enough to call this a “Govt to Govt” deal?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BikGayaChowkidar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BikGayaChowkidar</a> <a href="https://t.co/Epw3J62JbV">pic.twitter.com/Epw3J62JbV</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1063008637331927040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The government told the Supreme Court on Wednesday that no "sovereign guarantee" was given by the French government on the deal for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets.

The French government has, however, given a "letter of comfort" to India which would be good enough "governmental guarantee", Attorney General K K Venugopal told the court.&nbsp;

Echoing his party president, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the only forum to investigate acts of omission, commission and corruption in the "biggest defence scam" of India is to have a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe.&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi has gone as far as to sabotage his own nation's interests in favour of his crony capitalist friends," he said at a press conference, alleging that the prime minister had waived the sovereign guarantee requirement in the deal.&nbsp;

The Congress Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of compromising national interests on the Rafale issue, with party chief Rahul Gandhi alleging that the latest skeleton to tumble out of the "Rafale cupboard" is that there is no guarantee by the French government backing the deal.

The Congress Thursday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of compromising national interests on the Rafale issue, with party chief Rahul Gandhi alleging that the latest skeleton to tumble out of the "Rafale cupboard" is that there is no guarantee by the French government backing the deal. Gandhi asked if the Rafale jet deal can be called a "Government to Government" contract with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying there is only a letter from the French government promising to be faithful. "The latest skeleton to tumble out of the RAFALE cupboard: No Guarantee by the French Government backing the deal. BUT, our PM says there's a letter from the French promising to be faithful. That's enough to call this a Government to Government deal" he asked on Twitter, using the hashtag "BikGayaChowkidar". The latest skeleton to tumble out of the RAFALE cupboard: NO Guarantee by the French Govt. backing the deal. BUT, our PM says there’s a letter from the French promising to be faithful! That’s enough to call this a “Govt to Govt” deal?#BikGayaChowkidar pic.twitter.com/Epw3J62JbV — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 15, 2018 × The government told the Supreme Court on Wednesday that no "sovereign guarantee" was given by the French government on the deal for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets. The French government has, however, given a "letter of comfort" to India which would be good enough "governmental guarantee", Attorney General K K Venugopal told the court. Echoing his party president, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the only forum to investigate acts of omission, commission and corruption in the "biggest defence scam" of India is to have a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) probe. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has gone as far as to sabotage his own nation's interests in favour of his crony capitalist friends," he said at a press conference, alleging that the prime minister had waived the sovereign guarantee requirement in the deal.

'No guarantee' by French govt is latest skeleton in Rafale cupboard: Rahul

Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-terror-attacks-finally-lead-back-to-single-source-modi-to-us-vp-mike-pence-177357">Narendra Modi</a> participated&nbsp;in the 16th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India Breakfast Summit,&nbsp;followed by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-arrives-in-singapore-for-rcep-summit-177173">13th East Asia Summit</a> in Singapore on Thursday.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders attend ASEAN-India Informal Breakfast Summit in Singapore. <a href="https://t.co/2N5XxMcP1l">pic.twitter.com/2N5XxMcP1l</a>
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"The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/putin-stresses-cooperation-against-terrorism-in-first-official-meeting-with-asean-leaders-177301">ASEAN meetings</a>, they are annual meetings and they are very integral part of our diplomatic calendar. It is where India engages with the ASEAN countries essentially because we have a very active Act East Policy, we have continued engagements with our Eastern neighbours," Vijay Thakur Singh, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary (East) had said at a media briefing on November 12.

The 13th East Asia Summit will be held in two segments on Thursday- the East Asia Lunch Retreat followed by the EAS in a plenary setting. Prime Minister Modi will emplane for India after the EAS'&nbsp;conclusion.

The EAS is a leaders-led forum in the Indo-Pacific region comprising all 10 ASEAN member states- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam- and its eight dialogue partners, India, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Russia.

This will be Prime Minister Modi's fifth engagement with EAS since the summit's inception in 2005.The leaders of the member nations are slated to discuss international development issues like ICT, Smart Cities, Maritime Cooperation, Education, Finance, Food Security, Environment and Energy at the EAS.

The Prime Minister became the first head of government to deliver the keynote address at Singapore Fintech Festival on November 14, where he shared India`s financial inclusion story that has transformed governance and delivery of public services.

He then launched the Application Programming Interface Exchange (APIX) with the Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore T&nbsp;Shanmugaratnam.

Prime Minister Modi also visited the India Pavilion at the Fintech festival, following which he met the Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong and exchanged views on cooperation in financial technology, enhanced connectivity, and regional economic integration.

"Prosperity through partnership. PM @narendramodi had a warm meeting with @VP of United States Michael Pence in #Singapore. Productive discussion on all aspects of global strategic partnership based on growing convergence of interests on regional and global issues," Raveesh Kumar, MEA's Spokesperson had tweeted after Prime Minister Modi met with US Vice President Mike Pence.

During a day full of diplomatic engagements, Prime Minister Modi further met with Scott Morrison, the Prime Minister of Australia and Prayut Chan-o-cha, the Prime Minister of Thailand in separate meetings to discuss areas in inter-country relations.

Prime Minister Modi also attended the second Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit.

"Shaping the agenda for regional cooperation. PM @narendramodi attended the 2nd #RCEP Summit in Singapore with 16 member states. PM reiterated that India was committed to an early conclusion of high quality comprehensive and balanced regional economic partnership agreement," Kumar tweeted on Wednesday.

Lastly, Prime Minister Modi attended the gala dinner hosted by Loong, before calling it a day in Singapore.

India and ASEAN celebrated 25 years of their engagement in 2017, which culminated in the India-ASEAN Commemorative Summit on January 25th this year. The summit was followed by the participation of all ASEAN leaders in India's Republic Day celebrations as chief guests. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 16th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India Breakfast Summit, followed by the 13th East Asia Summit in Singapore on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 16th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India Breakfast Summit, followed by the 13th East Asia Summit in Singapore on Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders attend ASEAN-India Informal Breakfast Summit in Singapore. pic.twitter.com/2N5XxMcP1l — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2018 × "The ASEAN meetings, they are annual meetings and they are very integral part of our diplomatic calendar. It is where India engages with the ASEAN countries essentially because we have a very active Act East Policy, we have continued engagements with our Eastern neighbours," Vijay Thakur Singh, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Secretary (East) had said at a media briefing on November 12. The 13th East Asia Summit will be held in two segments on Thursday- the East Asia Lunch Retreat followed by the EAS in a plenary setting. Prime Minister Modi will emplane for India after the EAS' conclusion. The EAS is a leaders-led forum in the Indo-Pacific region comprising all 10 ASEAN member states- Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam- and its eight dialogue partners, India, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Russia. This will be Prime Minister Modi's fifth engagement with EAS since the summit's inception in 2005.The leaders of the member nations are slated to discuss international development issues like ICT, Smart Cities, Maritime Cooperation, Education, Finance, Food Security, Environment and Energy at the EAS. The Prime Minister became the first head of government to deliver the keynote address at Singapore Fintech Festival on November 14, where he shared India`s financial inclusion story that has transformed governance and delivery of public services. He then launched the Application Programming Interface Exchange (APIX) with the Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore T Shanmugaratnam. Prime Minister Modi also visited the India Pavilion at the Fintech festival, following which he met the Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong and exchanged views on cooperation in financial technology, enhanced connectivity, and regional economic integration. "Prosperity through partnership. PM @narendramodi had a warm meeting with @VP of United States Michael Pence in #Singapore. Productive discussion on all aspects of global strategic partnership based on growing convergence of interests on regional and global issues," Raveesh Kumar, MEA's Spokesperson had tweeted after Prime Minister Modi met with US Vice President Mike Pence. During a day full of diplomatic engagements, Prime Minister Modi further met with Scott Morrison, the Prime Minister of Australia and Prayut Chan-o-cha, the Prime Minister of Thailand in separate meetings to discuss areas in inter-country relations. Prime Minister Modi also attended the second Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit. "Shaping the agenda for regional cooperation. PM @narendramodi attended the 2nd #RCEP Summit in Singapore with 16 member states. PM reiterated that India was committed to an early conclusion of high quality comprehensive and balanced regional economic partnership agreement," Kumar tweeted on Wednesday. Lastly, Prime Minister Modi attended the gala dinner hosted by Loong, before calling it a day in Singapore. India and ASEAN celebrated 25 years of their engagement in 2017, which culminated in the India-ASEAN Commemorative Summit on January 25th this year. The summit was followed by the participation of all ASEAN leaders in India's Republic Day celebrations as chief guests.

PM Modi to attend ASEAN and East Asia summits today

From welcoming Quad to Hanoi's stance on joint India-Vietnam patrol in south china sea, Vietnam's envoy to Delhi Pham Sanh Chau spoke to spoke to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal after the 13th East Asia Summit in Singapore.&nbsp;

Interestingly, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind will be in Vietnam between November 18 and 21 and will be addressing the national assembly of &nbsp;Vietnam. Chinese President Xi Jinping is the only foreign leader who has addressed the national assembly before.&nbsp;

WION: How do characterise India Vietnam ties?

Pham Sanh Chau: Vietnam and India relations growing strength to strength. Very pleased to serve my country at this crucial moment when our relations have gone so far in past few years. Especially, the relationship has become a comprehensive strategic partnership. It's developing in all areas including defence and security, commerce, science, culture.

WION: What is your view on Quad?&nbsp;

Pham Sanh Chau: We are following the situation closely and the latest developments in the region. Not only in the South China Sea but also the evolving security architecture in the region. We welcome all initiatives that contribute to the maintenance of peace, stability, freedom of navigation and freedom of overflight in the region including the South China Sea. We also adhere to our traditional principal of all disputes need to be addressed by peaceful means including diplomatic channels. We are against any threat of use of force&nbsp;

WION: Are in favour of Joint India-Vietnam patrol in south china sea?

Pham Sanh Chau: As I mentioned we extend our cooperation to India in many areas including coastal guard joint exercise. So, we welcome all initiatives for peace and security.&nbsp;

WION: Any update on BrahMos?&nbsp;

Pham Sanh Chau: The strategic relationships between India and Vietnam includes the maintenance and purchase of equipment if both sides deemed necessary. To my information, there is an ongoing discussion between relevant companies in India and Vietnam on that matter. At this stage, no final deal has been reached.

WION: Indian President Kovind is going to visit your country from November 18 for three days. A number of high-level visits have been ongoing. Your PM and president are scheduled to visit India this year. How will the visit strengthen the relationship between the two countries?

Pham Sanh Chau: Your President will address the national assembly and he will be the first Indian dignitary to do so. He will be second head of state in the world to do so which means our relations have grown since we established contact 46 years ago. Vietnam wants to treat the Indian president as a special guest in order to express our sincere gratitude to Indian leaders and friends for their support to our country during the national struggle and national independence and reunification

WION: How do you see India ASEAN ties. Indian PM was in S\singapore for an informal meet. How can ties help in economics?

Pham Sanh Chau: Vietnam is pleased to be the coordinator for ASEAN and India over past three years. With the support and efforts of Vietnam, we have been able to make the 10 head of ASEAN leaders present at the republic day parade earlier this year. We continue to push for stronger cooperation between India and Vietnam because we believe that cooperation will serve for the interest of the region and each and every ASEAN members.

From welcoming Quad to Hanoi's stance on joint India-Vietnam patrol in south china sea, Vietnam's envoy to Delhi Pham Sanh Chau spoke to spoke to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal after the 13th East Asia Summit in Singapore.

From welcoming Quad to Hanoi's stance on joint India-Vietnam patrol in south china sea, Vietnam's envoy to Delhi Pham Sanh Chau spoke to spoke to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal after the 13th East Asia Summit in Singapore. Interestingly, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind will be in Vietnam between November 18 and 21 and will be addressing the national assembly of Vietnam. Chinese President Xi Jinping is the only foreign leader who has addressed the national assembly before. WION: How do characterise India Vietnam ties? Pham Sanh Chau: Vietnam and India relations growing strength to strength. Very pleased to serve my country at this crucial moment when our relations have gone so far in past few years. Especially, the relationship has become a comprehensive strategic partnership. It's developing in all areas including defence and security, commerce, science, culture. WION: What is your view on Quad? Pham Sanh Chau: We are following the situation closely and the latest developments in the region. Not only in the South China Sea but also the evolving security architecture in the region. We welcome all initiatives that contribute to the maintenance of peace, stability, freedom of navigation and freedom of overflight in the region including the South China Sea. We also adhere to our traditional principal of all disputes need to be addressed by peaceful means including diplomatic channels. We are against any threat of use of force WION: Are in favour of Joint India-Vietnam patrol in south china sea? Pham Sanh Chau: As I mentioned we extend our cooperation to India in many areas including coastal guard joint exercise. So, we welcome all initiatives for peace and security. WION: Any update on BrahMos? Pham Sanh Chau: The strategic relationships between India and Vietnam includes the maintenance and purchase of equipment if both sides deemed necessary. To my information, there is an ongoing discussion between relevant companies in India and Vietnam on that matter. At this stage, no final deal has been reached. WION: Indian President Kovind is going to visit your country from November 18 for three days. A number of high-level visits have been ongoing. Your PM and president are scheduled to visit India this year. How will the visit strengthen the relationship between the two countries? Pham Sanh Chau: Your President will address the national assembly and he will be the first Indian dignitary to do so. He will be second head of state in the world to do so which means our relations have grown since we established contact 46 years ago. Vietnam wants to treat the Indian president as a special guest in order to express our sincere gratitude to Indian leaders and friends for their support to our country during the national struggle and national independence and reunification WION: How do you see India ASEAN ties. Indian PM was in S\singapore for an informal meet. How can ties help in economics? Pham Sanh Chau: Vietnam is pleased to be the coordinator for ASEAN and India over past three years. With the support and efforts of Vietnam, we have been able to make the 10 head of ASEAN leaders present at the republic day parade earlier this year. We continue to push for stronger cooperation between India and Vietnam because we believe that cooperation will serve for the interest of the region and each and every ASEAN members.

Welcome all initiatives that contribute to peace: Vietnam's India envoy on Quad

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/petrol-diesel-prices-dip-further-for-6th-straight-day-176957">fuel prices continued to decline</a> on Thursday with price&nbsp;of petrol reaching Rs 77.28 per litre in Delhi,&nbsp;0.15 paise lower from Wednesday.

In Mumbai, petrol is being sold at Rs 82.20 per litre after a decrease of 0.14 paise.

Meanwhile, diesel is available at Rs 72.09 per litre in national capital, 0.12 paise lower than Wednesday&nbsp;while in Mumbai,&nbsp;diesel is being retailed at Rs 75.53 per litre following a decrease of 0.11 paise. &nbsp;

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Petrol and diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> today are Rs 77.28 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.15) and Rs 72.09 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.10), respectively. Petrol and diesel prices in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> are Rs 82.80 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.14) and Rs 75.53 (decrease by Rs 0.11), respectively. <a href="https://t.co/32YaYizUCK">pic.twitter.com/32YaYizUCK</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1062869637933776901?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rupee-bonds-surge-on-lower-oil-prices-rbi-bond-buy-announcement-177227">fuel prices</a> in the country have witnessed a relentless hike since the past few months in the country, burning a hole in the commuter's pocket.

In a bid to ease the crunch caused by soaring fuel prices, finance minister Arun Jaitley on October 2 announced a reduction of Rs 2.50 per litre on both petrol and diesel prices.

Petrol price has been cut by more than Rs 5.35 per litre and diesel by Rs 3.71 in the last 30 days in Mumbai.

As per the daily dynamic pricing regime, domestic fuel prices depend on international fuel prices on a 15-day average, besides the value of the rupee.

The downward revision also comes on the back of multiple factors such as lower international crude oil cost and a recovery in the rupee against the US dollar.

Global oil prices recorded 12 straight days of losses on Tuesday and the steepest one-day loss in more than three years to recover by one per cent on Thursday. Brent crude settled up 65 cents, or 1 per cent, at $66.12 a barrel, after hitting a session high of $67.63.

US crude futures rose 56 cents, or 1.01 per cent, to settle at $56.25 a barrel, after sliding for 12 straight sessions to the lowest since November 2017. Last month, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asia-stocks-shaken-by-plunge-in-crude-oil-growth-worries-177178">crude prices</a> had reached over $80 a barrel but have since cooled to below $70 a barrel. 
&nbsp;

The fuel prices continued to decline on Thursday with price of petrol reaching Rs 77.28 per litre in Delhi, 0.15 paise lower from Wednesday. In Mumbai, petrol is being sold at Rs 82.

The fuel prices continued to decline on Thursday with price of petrol reaching Rs 77.28 per litre in Delhi, 0.15 paise lower from Wednesday. In Mumbai, petrol is being sold at Rs 82.20 per litre after a decrease of 0.14 paise. Meanwhile, diesel is available at Rs 72.09 per litre in national capital, 0.12 paise lower than Wednesday while in Mumbai, diesel is being retailed at Rs 75.53 per litre following a decrease of 0.11 paise. Petrol and diesel prices in #Delhi today are Rs 77.28 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.15) and Rs 72.09 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.10), respectively. Petrol and diesel prices in #Mumbai are Rs 82.80 per litre (decrease by Rs 0.14) and Rs 75.53 (decrease by Rs 0.11), respectively. pic.twitter.com/32YaYizUCK — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2018 × The fuel prices in the country have witnessed a relentless hike since the past few months in the country, burning a hole in the commuter's pocket. In a bid to ease the crunch caused by soaring fuel prices, finance minister Arun Jaitley on October 2 announced a reduction of Rs 2.50 per litre on both petrol and diesel prices. Petrol price has been cut by more than Rs 5.35 per litre and diesel by Rs 3.71 in the last 30 days in Mumbai. As per the daily dynamic pricing regime, domestic fuel prices depend on international fuel prices on a 15-day average, besides the value of the rupee. The downward revision also comes on the back of multiple factors such as lower international crude oil cost and a recovery in the rupee against the US dollar. Global oil prices recorded 12 straight days of losses on Tuesday and the steepest one-day loss in more than three years to recover by one per cent on Thursday. Brent crude settled up 65 cents, or 1 per cent, at $66.12 a barrel, after hitting a session high of $67.63. US crude futures rose 56 cents, or 1.01 per cent, to settle at $56.25 a barrel, after sliding for 12 straight sessions to the lowest since November 2017. Last month, crude prices had reached over $80 a barrel but have since cooled to below $70 a barrel.

Fuel prices drop in Delhi, Mumbai as global prices continue downward spiral

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/theresa-may-says-no-brexit-is-an-alternative-to-draft-deal-177526">UK PM May says 'no Brexit' is alternative to draft deal after 4 ministers quit</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May told British MPs Thursday that they faced the possibility of Britain exiting the EU with no deal or no Brexit at all if they failed to back her draft agreement with Brussels.

"We can choose to leave with no deal, we can risk no Brexit at all or we can choose to unite and support the best deal that can be negotiated," May told parliament, to cheers from some lawmakers when she mentioned the possibility of no Brexit.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-saudi-arabia-says-crown-prince-salman-was-not-involved-5-others-face-death-penalty-for-the-murder-177533">Khashoggi killing: Saudi Arabia says Crown Prince Salman was not involved, 5 others face </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-saudi-arabia-says-crown-prince-salman-was-not-involved-5-others-face-death-penalty-for-the-murder-177533">death</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/khashoggi-killing-saudi-arabia-says-crown-prince-salman-was-not-involved-5-others-face-death-penalty-for-the-murder-177533"> penalty</a>

Five Saudi officials face the death penalty for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi who was dismembered inside the kingdom's Istanbul consulate, but Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was not involved, the prosecutor said Thursday.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-double-murder-after-killing-3-accused-went-to-police-station-confessed-177525">Delhi double murder: After killing, 3 accused went to </a><a class="gr-progress" href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-double-murder-after-killing-3-accused-went-to-police-station-confessed-177525">police</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-double-murder-after-killing-3-accused-went-to-police-station-confessed-177525"> station &amp; confessed</a>

Fashion designer Mala Lakhani and her domestic help Bahadhur were murdered late Wednesday night in Delhi's Vasant Kunj.&nbsp;

Three men have been arrested for the murder. Police said the men murdered Lakhani and Bahadur and robbed valuables from her home.&nbsp;

"Lakhani had set up a workshop in her house for cutting and tailoring. Accused Rahul was working as a tailor master there. He along with his associates Rahmat and Wasim made a plan to murder. They stole valuables from the house," Delhi Police told ANI.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agree-on-importance-of-maintaining-peace-along-border-177542">India, China agree on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agree-on-importance-of-maintaining-peace-along-border-177542">importance</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agree-on-importance-of-maintaining-peace-along-border-177542"> of maintaining peace along </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-agree-on-importance-of-maintaining-peace-along-border-177542">border</a>

A year after the Doklam standoff, top defence officials of India and China have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace in the border areas while implementing the consensus reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/france-is-us-ally-not-vassal-state-macron-hits-back-at-trump-177519">France is US ally, not vassal state: Macron hits back at Trump</a>

President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday told Donald Trump that France was the United States' ally and not a vassal state after the US president attacked him in a series of tweets that demonstrated how much their relationship had soured.

UK PM May says 'no Brexit' is alternative to draft deal after 4 ministers quit Prime Minister Theresa May told British MPs Thursday that they faced the possibility of Britain exiting the EU with no deal or no Brexit at all if they failed to back her draft agreement with Brussels.

UK PM May says 'no Brexit' is alternative to draft deal after 4 ministers quit Prime Minister Theresa May told British MPs Thursday that they faced the possibility of Britain exiting the EU with no deal or no Brexit at all if they failed to back her draft agreement with Brussels. "We can choose to leave with no deal, we can risk no Brexit at all or we can choose to unite and support the best deal that can be negotiated," May told parliament, to cheers from some lawmakers when she mentioned the possibility of no Brexit. Khashoggi killing: Saudi Arabia says Crown Prince Salman was not involved, 5 others face death penalty Five Saudi officials face the death penalty for the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi who was dismembered inside the kingdom's Istanbul consulate, but Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was not involved, the prosecutor said Thursday. Delhi double murder: After killing, 3 accused went to police station & confessed Fashion designer Mala Lakhani and her domestic help Bahadhur were murdered late Wednesday night in Delhi's Vasant Kunj. Three men have been arrested for the murder. Police said the men murdered Lakhani and Bahadur and robbed valuables from her home. "Lakhani had set up a workshop in her house for cutting and tailoring. Accused Rahul was working as a tailor master there. He along with his associates Rahmat and Wasim made a plan to murder. They stole valuables from the house," Delhi Police told ANI. India, China agree on importance of maintaining peace along border A year after the Doklam standoff, top defence officials of India and China have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace in the border areas while implementing the consensus reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan. France is US ally, not vassal state: Macron hits back at Trump President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday told Donald Trump that France was the United States' ally and not a vassal state after the US president attacked him in a series of tweets that demonstrated how much their relationship had soured.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday told US Vice President Mike Pence that all the traces and all the leads in the global terror attacks ultimately leads to a "single source and single place of origin", in an apparent reference to Pakistan.

Modi, who held talks with Pence on a wide range of bilateral and global issues of mutual interests on the sidelines of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-pitches-india-as-favourite-investment-destination-at-fintech-festival-in-singapore-177215">East Asia Summit</a> here, also expressed concern over the participation of terrorists in the elections in Pakistan.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said there was some discussion on the issue of terrorism. Pence referred to the upcoming 10th anniversary of the deadly Mumbai terror attack on November 26 and hailed cooperation between the two sides on counter terrorism, Gokhale said.

Some 166 people were killed in the attack carried out by Pakistan-based 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists. Nine of the attackers were killed by police while lone survivor Ajmal Kasab was caught and hanged after handed down death sentence by an Indian court. 
Modi thanked Pence for his words and reminded him that in one way or another all the traces and all the leads in the global terror attacks ultimately leads to a "single source and single place of origin", without naming any country or organisation.

He was apparently referring to Pakistan.&nbsp;

A number of terrorist attacks across the world have been carried out by people of Pakistani origin. On December 2, 2015, 14 people were killed in a mass shooting by a Pakistani origin married couple in San Bernardino, California.

A Pakistani-origin man was among three knife-wielding militants responsible for carrying out the brutal terror attack in London that killed seven people and injured 49 in June 2017.

Prime Minister Modi also expressed concern over the Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's party contesting the July 25 elections in Pakistan.

"He (Modi) did point out that the mainstreaming of people involved in the Mumbai attacks in a political process which has taken place in the recent elections in Pakistan should be a matter of serious concern not just to the two countries - India and US - but to international community," Gokhale said.

Some of the dreaded Pakistani militant leaders, accused of spreading religious hatred and instigating sectarian violence, were among hundreds of candidates in the July 25 elections.

Hafiz Saeed-led banned Jamat-ud Dawah, a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group, had fielded its candidates from the platform of little known political entity Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT).

Another extremist outfit Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ), which was banned in Pakistan till early this year, had also fielded dozens of candidates including those who are on Pakistan's terrorism watch list.

"There was some good understanding of the areas of how we move forward in building cooperation on counter terrorism and both countries recognised that this is a challenge which we have to fight together and to fight along with the rest of the international community," Gokhale said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday told US Vice President Mike Pence that all the traces and all the leads in the global terror attacks ultimately leads to a "single source and single place of origin", in an apparent reference to Pakistan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday told US Vice President Mike Pence that all the traces and all the leads in the global terror attacks ultimately leads to a "single source and single place of origin", in an apparent reference to Pakistan. Modi, who held talks with Pence on a wide range of bilateral and global issues of mutual interests on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit here, also expressed concern over the participation of terrorists in the elections in Pakistan. Briefing reporters after the meeting, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said there was some discussion on the issue of terrorism. Pence referred to the upcoming 10th anniversary of the deadly Mumbai terror attack on November 26 and hailed cooperation between the two sides on counter terrorism, Gokhale said. Some 166 people were killed in the attack carried out by Pakistan-based 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists. Nine of the attackers were killed by police while lone survivor Ajmal Kasab was caught and hanged after handed down death sentence by an Indian court. Modi thanked Pence for his words and reminded him that in one way or another all the traces and all the leads in the global terror attacks ultimately leads to a "single source and single place of origin", without naming any country or organisation. He was apparently referring to Pakistan. A number of terrorist attacks across the world have been carried out by people of Pakistani origin. On December 2, 2015, 14 people were killed in a mass shooting by a Pakistani origin married couple in San Bernardino, California. A Pakistani-origin man was among three knife-wielding militants responsible for carrying out the brutal terror attack in London that killed seven people and injured 49 in June 2017. Prime Minister Modi also expressed concern over the Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed's party contesting the July 25 elections in Pakistan. "He (Modi) did point out that the mainstreaming of people involved in the Mumbai attacks in a political process which has taken place in the recent elections in Pakistan should be a matter of serious concern not just to the two countries - India and US - but to international community," Gokhale said. Some of the dreaded Pakistani militant leaders, accused of spreading religious hatred and instigating sectarian violence, were among hundreds of candidates in the July 25 elections. Hafiz Saeed-led banned Jamat-ud Dawah, a front for the Lashkar-e-Taiba terror group, had fielded its candidates from the platform of little known political entity Allaha-u-Akbar Tehreek (AAT). Another extremist outfit Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ), which was banned in Pakistan till early this year, had also fielded dozens of candidates including those who are on Pakistan's terrorism watch list. "There was some good understanding of the areas of how we move forward in building cooperation on counter terrorism and both countries recognised that this is a challenge which we have to fight together and to fight along with the rest of the international community," Gokhale said.

All terror attacks finally lead back to 'single source': Modi to Mike Pence

A year after the Doklam standoff, top defence officials of India and China have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace in the border areas while implementing the consensus reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan.&nbsp;

The ninth annual defence and security dialogue on November 13 was held over a year after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/doklam-was-a-setback-china-keen-on-teaching-india-a-lesson-19300">the 73-day military standoff</a> in the Sikkim sector.

The talks were held between the two defence delegations headed by Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and China's Deputy Chief of Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission Lt General Shao Yuanming, a press release by the Indian Embassy here said on Thursday.

Asked about the outcome of the defence and security dialogue, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said the two sides have exchanged ideas on the management of border affairs and upholding peace and tranquillity.

"We believe the two sides will try to follow the consensus between the two leaders to ensure peace and tranquillity at our border areas and ensure stability of our bilateral ties," she said.&nbsp;

At the talks, both sides agreed on enhancing defence exchanges and interactions at different levels between the two militaries, the press release said.

After the talks, Mitra called on Chinese State Councillor and Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday, the release said.

Mitra was accompanied by senior officials of the ministry of defence and Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.

The annual dialogue did not take place last year following the tense standoff between the two militaries at Doklam, which was triggered by the Chinese PLA's plan to build a road close to the narrow Chicken's Neck corridor connecting India's northeastern states in an area also claimed by Bhutan besides China.

The standoff ended when Chinese troops stopped the road construction after which both countries stepped up efforts to normalise relations leading to the informal summit between Modi and Xi at Wuhan in April this year.

The defence dialogue was also held ahead of the 21st round of border talks between the Special Representatives of the two countries in the Chinese city of Dujiangyan on November 23-24.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi are the designated Special Representatives for the border talks.

Besides efforts to work out a solution to resolve the dispute on the border spanning 3,488 kms, the border talks also focussed on discussions on other aspects of India-China relations.

The two militaries are due to hold the annual 'Hand-in-Hand' drills next month in China after gap of one year.

During the dialogue, both sides also agreed on specific defence exchanges for 2019. 
"Both sides agreed to enhance exchanges and interactions through reciprocal high-level visits between the two ministries of defence as well as between military commands, joint training exercises, mutual visits by defence personnel including mid-level and cadet officers were also agreed upon," the Indian Embassy release said.

They reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas, implementing the consensus reached between Modi and Xi and specific additional confidence building measures at the operational level, it said.

The two nations also had an exchange of views on regional and global issues. 
"Both sides underlined the importance of this dialogue as an important mechanism between the two countries for consultations on defence and security matters. They emphasised the need to further strengthen military-to-military ties in order to strengthen political and strategic mutual trust between the two countries," it said.

Both sides agreed to hold the next round of the dialogue at a mutually convenient time in India in 2019.&nbsp; 
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A year after the Doklam standoff, top defence officials of India and China have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace in the border areas while implementing the consensus reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan.

A year after the Doklam standoff, top defence officials of India and China have agreed on the importance of maintaining peace in the border areas while implementing the consensus reached between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Wuhan. The ninth annual defence and security dialogue on November 13 was held over a year after the 73-day military standoff in the Sikkim sector. The talks were held between the two defence delegations headed by Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra and China's Deputy Chief of Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission Lt General Shao Yuanming, a press release by the Indian Embassy here said on Thursday. Asked about the outcome of the defence and security dialogue, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said the two sides have exchanged ideas on the management of border affairs and upholding peace and tranquillity. "We believe the two sides will try to follow the consensus between the two leaders to ensure peace and tranquillity at our border areas and ensure stability of our bilateral ties," she said. At the talks, both sides agreed on enhancing defence exchanges and interactions at different levels between the two militaries, the press release said. After the talks, Mitra called on Chinese State Councillor and Defence Minister General Wei Fenghe on Wednesday, the release said. Mitra was accompanied by senior officials of the ministry of defence and Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. The annual dialogue did not take place last year following the tense standoff between the two militaries at Doklam, which was triggered by the Chinese PLA's plan to build a road close to the narrow Chicken's Neck corridor connecting India's northeastern states in an area also claimed by Bhutan besides China. The standoff ended when Chinese troops stopped the road construction after which both countries stepped up efforts to normalise relations leading to the informal summit between Modi and Xi at Wuhan in April this year. The defence dialogue was also held ahead of the 21st round of border talks between the Special Representatives of the two countries in the Chinese city of Dujiangyan on November 23-24. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi are the designated Special Representatives for the border talks. Besides efforts to work out a solution to resolve the dispute on the border spanning 3,488 kms, the border talks also focussed on discussions on other aspects of India-China relations. The two militaries are due to hold the annual 'Hand-in-Hand' drills next month in China after gap of one year. During the dialogue, both sides also agreed on specific defence exchanges for 2019. "Both sides agreed to enhance exchanges and interactions through reciprocal high-level visits between the two ministries of defence as well as between military commands, joint training exercises, mutual visits by defence personnel including mid-level and cadet officers were also agreed upon," the Indian Embassy release said. They reiterated the importance of maintaining peace and tranquillity in the border areas, implementing the consensus reached between Modi and Xi and specific additional confidence building measures at the operational level, it said. The two nations also had an exchange of views on regional and global issues. "Both sides underlined the importance of this dialogue as an important mechanism between the two countries for consultations on defence and security matters. They emphasised the need to further strengthen military-to-military ties in order to strengthen political and strategic mutual trust between the two countries," it said. Both sides agreed to hold the next round of the dialogue at a mutually convenient time in India in 2019.

India, China agree on importance of maintaining peace along border

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