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Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram slammed the Modi government and said PM’s Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) was designed to profit the insurance companies at the cost of the farmers.&nbsp;

''As we had cautioned, PM’s Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) 
was designed to profit the insurance companies at the cost of the farmers,'' Chidambaram tweeted.&nbsp;

Chidambaram claimed that the insurance companies made a profit of Rs 6460 crore in 2016-17.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
As we had cautioned, PM’s Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) 
was designed to profit the insurance companies at the cost of the farmers
— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/1062671758027841536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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''In 2016-17, insurance companies made a neat profit of Rs 6460 crore! Robbing the farmers to fatten the insurance companies,'' he said in another tweet.&nbsp;

He said that in 2017-18, insurance companies will make even more profit.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
In 2016-17, insurance companies made a neat profit of Rs 6460 crore! Robbing the farmers to fatten the insurance companies
— P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) <a href="https://twitter.com/PChidambaram_IN/status/1062671760699678728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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''In 2017-18, insurance companies are likely to make a profit of Rs 8000-9000 crore,'' he said in another tweet.&nbsp;

''Is there any wonder that 84 lakh farmers have withdrawn from the scheme? And the bulk of them belong to Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan that will vote shortly,'' he said in another tweet.

Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram slammed the Modi government and said PM’s Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) was designed to profit the insurance companies at the cost of the farmers.

Congress leader and former finance minister P Chidambaram slammed the Modi government and said PM’s Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) was designed to profit the insurance companies at the cost of the farmers. ''As we had cautioned, PM’s Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) was designed to profit the insurance companies at the cost of the farmers,'' Chidambaram tweeted. Chidambaram claimed that the insurance companies made a profit of Rs 6460 crore in 2016-17. As we had cautioned, PM’s Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance scheme) was designed to profit the insurance companies at the cost of the farmers — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) November 14, 2018 × ''In 2016-17, insurance companies made a neat profit of Rs 6460 crore! Robbing the farmers to fatten the insurance companies,'' he said in another tweet. He said that in 2017-18, insurance companies will make even more profit. In 2016-17, insurance companies made a neat profit of Rs 6460 crore! Robbing the farmers to fatten the insurance companies — P. Chidambaram (@PChidambaram_IN) November 14, 2018 × ''In 2017-18, insurance companies are likely to make a profit of Rs 8000-9000 crore,'' he said in another tweet. ''Is there any wonder that 84 lakh farmers have withdrawn from the scheme? And the bulk of them belong to Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan that will vote shortly,'' he said in another tweet.

Crop insurance scheme designed to profit insurance companies: Chidambaram

ISRO's heavy-lift rocket GSLV-MkIII-D2 Wednesday successfully injected into orbit the country's latest communication satellite GSAT-29 that is intended to meet the communication needs of people in remote areas in the North East and Jammu and Kashmir.

<ul>
	<li>At the end of a 27-hour-countdown which commenced at 2.50pm Tuesday, the rocket blasted off at 5.08 pm from the spaceport at Sriharikota, over 100 km from Chennai.</li>
	<li>According to ISRO, this is the country's heavy-lift rocket's second developmental flight, the first being (GSLV-MkIII-D1) on June 5, 2017 which launched the GSAT-19.</li>
	<li>The 3,423 kg GSAT-29 carries Ka and Ku band high throughput transponders which will provide communication services to remote places in the North East and Jammu and Kashmir under the Centre's Digital India programme, ISRO chief K Sivan said.</li>
	<li>ISRO scientists broke into cheers as the satellite was injected into a geosynchronous orbit, 16 minutes after lift-off.</li>
	<li>ISRO scientists had termed the launch crucial for the space agency as the rocket would be used for the ambitious Chandrayaan-2 and the country's manned space missions.</li>
	<li>The satellite would be placed in its final Geostationary Orbit using the onboard propulsion system and it may take a few days after separation from launcher to reach the orbital slot, ISRO said.</li>
	<li>The GSLV-MkIII-D2 is a three-stage launch vehicle with two solid strap-ons, a liquid core stage and a cryogenic upper stage.</li>
	<li>Compared to solid and liquid stages, the C25 cryogenic stage is more efficient as well as complex.</li>
	<li>According to ISRO, the GSAT-29 satellite is intended to serve as a test bed for several new technologies.</li>
	<li>It is specifically designed to cater to communication requirements of users from remote areas of the country.</li>
	<li>The mission life is about 10 years.</li>
	<li>GSLV-MkIII is the fifth generation launch vehicle developed by ISRO and is designed to place satellites of up to 4,000 kg in GTO.</li>
	<li>The launch vehicle is the 67th launch mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota and the thirty-third communication satellite built by ISRO for which this will be the fifth launch this year.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>(With PTI inputs)</li>
</ul>

ISRO's heavy-lift rocket GSLV-MkIII-D2 Wednesday successfully injected into orbit the country's latest communication satellite GSAT-29 that is intended to meet the communication needs of people in remote areas in the North East and Jammu and Kashmir.

ISRO's heavy-lift rocket GSLV-MkIII-D2 Wednesday successfully injected into orbit the country's latest communication satellite GSAT-29 that is intended to meet the communication needs of people in remote areas in the North East and Jammu and Kashmir. At the end of a 27-hour-countdown which commenced at 2.50pm Tuesday, the rocket blasted off at 5.08 pm from the spaceport at Sriharikota, over 100 km from Chennai. According to ISRO, this is the country's heavy-lift rocket's second developmental flight, the first being (GSLV-MkIII-D1) on June 5, 2017 which launched the GSAT-19. The 3,423 kg GSAT-29 carries Ka and Ku band high throughput transponders which will provide communication services to remote places in the North East and Jammu and Kashmir under the Centre's Digital India programme, ISRO chief K Sivan said. ISRO scientists broke into cheers as the satellite was injected into a geosynchronous orbit, 16 minutes after lift-off. ISRO scientists had termed the launch crucial for the space agency as the rocket would be used for the ambitious Chandrayaan-2 and the country's manned space missions. The satellite would be placed in its final Geostationary Orbit using the onboard propulsion system and it may take a few days after separation from launcher to reach the orbital slot, ISRO said. The GSLV-MkIII-D2 is a three-stage launch vehicle with two solid strap-ons, a liquid core stage and a cryogenic upper stage. Compared to solid and liquid stages, the C25 cryogenic stage is more efficient as well as complex. According to ISRO, the GSAT-29 satellite is intended to serve as a test bed for several new technologies. It is specifically designed to cater to communication requirements of users from remote areas of the country. The mission life is about 10 years. GSLV-MkIII is the fifth generation launch vehicle developed by ISRO and is designed to place satellites of up to 4,000 kg in GTO. The launch vehicle is the 67th launch mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota and the thirty-third communication satellite built by ISRO for which this will be the fifth launch this year. (With PTI inputs)

Everything you need to know about ISRO's heavy-lift rocket GSLV-MkIII-D2

A probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Wednesday.

Addressing a campaign rally here for the second phase of Assembly polls, Gandhi also claimed the NDA government bought the planes at Rs 1,600 crore a piece as against the Rs 526 crore for each aircraft fixed by the Congress-led UPA government.

Gandhi's comments came on a day the Supreme Court said a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain.

The apex court, which began its hearing on pleas seeking a court-monitored probe into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it would like to hear from an Air Force officer and not an official of the Defence Ministry.

"The CBI director (Alok Verma) initiated a probe in the Rafale deal. The prime minister removed him at 12 in the night. I am telling you, the day a probe will begin in Rafale deal, two names will surface: Anil Ambani and Narendra Modi," Gandhi told the gathering.

On former French president Francois Hollande's comments in French media that the Indian government had proposed Reliance Defence as partner for Dassault Aviation in the deal and that France did not have a choice, Gandhi said Modi named Ambani's company as Dassault's partner in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal.

The Modi government chose Ambani's "inexperienced" company over the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) which has a long experience in aerospace and defence sector, Gandhi said.

There was no reaction from the government or the BJP on the fresh charges, though they have previously rejected all allegations over the Rafale deal.

On demonetisation, Gandhi said the poor suffered due to the move and that no billionaire or "thieves with black money" had to queue up outside banks to exchange notes after the old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes were declared invalid by Modi on November 8, 2016.

Gandhi termed demonetisation as the "biggest scam" of the country.

"There has been no bigger scam than this (note ban). The truth will come out. It will be proved that Modi made the move to snatch money from the poor and put it in the pockets of thieves like Nirav Modi, Anil Ambani and Mehul Choksi," he said.

Terming the prime minister as corrupt, Gandhi accused him of not taking action against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh's son Abhishek, whose name he said figured in the Panama Papers.

Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics.

"We have old ties with you. Jawaharlal Nehruji, Indiraji, Rajivji, Soniaji had family ties with Chhattisgarh. It was a relationship of love and not politics," he said.

He accused the BJP-led state government of forcibly acquiring lands of farmers, adding the Congress, if elected to power, would not snatch land from peasants.

The Congress president also promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule.

The state was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals but its people have remained poor due to the policies of the BJP government, he said.

Lands of locals in the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries, he said. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned, he added.

Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11.&nbsp;

A probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Wednesday.

A probe into the procurement of Rafale fighter jets from France would throw up names of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani, Congress president Rahul Gandhi said Wednesday. Addressing a campaign rally here for the second phase of Assembly polls, Gandhi also claimed the NDA government bought the planes at Rs 1,600 crore a piece as against the Rs 526 crore for each aircraft fixed by the Congress-led UPA government. Gandhi's comments came on a day the Supreme Court said a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain. The apex court, which began its hearing on pleas seeking a court-monitored probe into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it would like to hear from an Air Force officer and not an official of the Defence Ministry. "The CBI director (Alok Verma) initiated a probe in the Rafale deal. The prime minister removed him at 12 in the night. I am telling you, the day a probe will begin in Rafale deal, two names will surface: Anil Ambani and Narendra Modi," Gandhi told the gathering. On former French president Francois Hollande's comments in French media that the Indian government had proposed Reliance Defence as partner for Dassault Aviation in the deal and that France did not have a choice, Gandhi said Modi named Ambani's company as Dassault's partner in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale deal. The Modi government chose Ambani's "inexperienced" company over the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) which has a long experience in aerospace and defence sector, Gandhi said. There was no reaction from the government or the BJP on the fresh charges, though they have previously rejected all allegations over the Rafale deal. On demonetisation, Gandhi said the poor suffered due to the move and that no billionaire or "thieves with black money" had to queue up outside banks to exchange notes after the old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes were declared invalid by Modi on November 8, 2016. Gandhi termed demonetisation as the "biggest scam" of the country. "There has been no bigger scam than this (note ban). The truth will come out. It will be proved that Modi made the move to snatch money from the poor and put it in the pockets of thieves like Nirav Modi, Anil Ambani and Mehul Choksi," he said. Terming the prime minister as corrupt, Gandhi accused him of not taking action against Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh's son Abhishek, whose name he said figured in the Panama Papers. Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics. "We have old ties with you. Jawaharlal Nehruji, Indiraji, Rajivji, Soniaji had family ties with Chhattisgarh. It was a relationship of love and not politics," he said. He accused the BJP-led state government of forcibly acquiring lands of farmers, adding the Congress, if elected to power, would not snatch land from peasants. The Congress president also promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule. The state was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals but its people have remained poor due to the policies of the BJP government, he said. Lands of locals in the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries, he said. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned, he added. Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11.

Rafale probe will throw up names of Modi, Ambani: Rahul Gandhi

The Supreme Court-appointed EPCA lifted the ban on the entry of heavy vehicles into Delhi on Tuesday even as a thick haze engulfed the city with the air quality remaining in the "severe" category with the authorities saying that rains in some parts of the national capital has made the air heavier and increased pollution.

As the overall air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 411, which falls in the "severe" category, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) said heavy vehicles would now ply in the city on normal timings between 11 pm and 6 am.

According to official data, 21 areas in Delhi recorded 'severe' air quality and it was 'very poor' in 12 areas. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe".

Light rains in some parts of the national capital led a decline in temperatures. The maximum temperature was recorded at 29.4 degrees Celsius, a notch above normal, while the minimum temperature settled at 14.2 degrees Celsius, also a notch above the season's average, a meteorological department official said.

"After isolated showers in parts of Delhi, lots of moisture is introduced in the air to make it heavy and increased the holding capacity which increased the pollution level," the SAFAR said in a report.

It also said stubble burning incidents have reduced significantly and now the winds are not blowing from these areas so its impact on Delhi's air quality would be marginal.

A new study said that about 89 per cent of people in Delhi feel sickness or discomfort due to bad air quality as most of the people believe motor vehicles and tree cutting to be major sources of pollution.

EPCA chairperson Bhure Lal said the restriction imposed by it on heavy vehicles had been lifted.

On Monday, the EPCA allowed entry of only those vehicles into the city which were stranded for the previous four days at Delhi borders, anticipating the situation getting out of hand with the owners of over a 1,000 trucks getting "restive".

The EPCA had asserted on Monday that these stranded trucks would be exempt from paying toll or Environment Compensation Charge (ECC) from 11 pm on November 12 to 7 am on November 13. The body had said by relaxing the payment of toll-ECC, the trucks can move without any halt and this will reduce congestion and thereby pollution.

Over 2,200 vehicles were ordered to turn back from Delhi's borders during restriction on entry of heavy vehicles in the national capital from November 8 to November 12 in the wake of high pollution levels in the city, a senior traffic police official said.

The Supreme Court-appointed EPCA lifted the ban on the entry of heavy vehicles into Delhi on Tuesday even as a thick haze engulfed the city with the air quality remaining in the "severe" category with the authorities saying that rains in some parts of the national capital has made the air heavier and increased pollution.

The Supreme Court-appointed EPCA lifted the ban on the entry of heavy vehicles into Delhi on Tuesday even as a thick haze engulfed the city with the air quality remaining in the "severe" category with the authorities saying that rains in some parts of the national capital has made the air heavier and increased pollution. As the overall air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 411, which falls in the "severe" category, according to data by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) said heavy vehicles would now ply in the city on normal timings between 11 pm and 6 am. According to official data, 21 areas in Delhi recorded 'severe' air quality and it was 'very poor' in 12 areas. An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered "good", 51 and 100 "satisfactory", 101 and 200 "moderate", 201 and 300 "poor", 301 and 400 "very poor", and 401 and 500 "severe". Light rains in some parts of the national capital led a decline in temperatures. The maximum temperature was recorded at 29.4 degrees Celsius, a notch above normal, while the minimum temperature settled at 14.2 degrees Celsius, also a notch above the season's average, a meteorological department official said. "After isolated showers in parts of Delhi, lots of moisture is introduced in the air to make it heavy and increased the holding capacity which increased the pollution level," the SAFAR said in a report. It also said stubble burning incidents have reduced significantly and now the winds are not blowing from these areas so its impact on Delhi's air quality would be marginal. A new study said that about 89 per cent of people in Delhi feel sickness or discomfort due to bad air quality as most of the people believe motor vehicles and tree cutting to be major sources of pollution. EPCA chairperson Bhure Lal said the restriction imposed by it on heavy vehicles had been lifted. On Monday, the EPCA allowed entry of only those vehicles into the city which were stranded for the previous four days at Delhi borders, anticipating the situation getting out of hand with the owners of over a 1,000 trucks getting "restive". The EPCA had asserted on Monday that these stranded trucks would be exempt from paying toll or Environment Compensation Charge (ECC) from 11 pm on November 12 to 7 am on November 13. The body had said by relaxing the payment of toll-ECC, the trucks can move without any halt and this will reduce congestion and thereby pollution. Over 2,200 vehicles were ordered to turn back from Delhi's borders during restriction on entry of heavy vehicles in the national capital from November 8 to November 12 in the wake of high pollution levels in the city, a senior traffic police official said.

Delhi's air quality remains in severe category, EPCA lifts ban on heavy vehicles entry

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday accused Congress of "encouraging corruption, naxalism, terrorism and misrule" during its rule in the country.

Addressing a campaign rally for the second phase of Assembly polls in Raigarh, Adityanath said the second phase of polling is on November 20, which is a Tuesday - a day associated with Lord Hanuman. He appealed to the people to vote on the auspicious day and targeted Congress by saying, "Congress has done nothing except divide the society on the basis of caste, region, religion and language. Those who don't worship Lord Ram are worthless."

He also accused Congress of "insulting martyrdom" of security forces engaged in anti-Naxal operations by terming Maoists as "revolutionaries".

Without naming UP Congress chief Raj Babbar, Adityanath said, "A leader of UP Congress had termed naxals as revolutionaries which is an insult to the martyrdom of security forces fighting Maoists".

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP with a slogan of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas has launched public welfare schemes for the inclusive development of people belonging to all sections of society, he said.

During the Congress rule, mining and forest mafia, cattle trafficking and naxalism were "at an all-time high" in Chhattisgarh but the BJP government contained all theses ills,he said.

"Earlier, Rs 100 released from Delhi became Rs 10 on reaching people because the remaining Rs 90 was embezzled by dalals (middlemen) of Congress. But now it has changed and Rs 100 released by the Modi government remains Rs 100 when the amount reaches people through digital payment mode," he said.

Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan were considered as Bimaru states during the Congress rule, he said. "But now these states are considered among the developed states after BJP government came to power there," he said.

(With inputs from PTI)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday accused Congress of "encouraging corruption, naxalism, terrorism and misrule" during its rule in the country.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday accused Congress of "encouraging corruption, naxalism, terrorism and misrule" during its rule in the country. Addressing a campaign rally for the second phase of Assembly polls in Raigarh, Adityanath said the second phase of polling is on November 20, which is a Tuesday - a day associated with Lord Hanuman. He appealed to the people to vote on the auspicious day and targeted Congress by saying, "Congress has done nothing except divide the society on the basis of caste, region, religion and language. Those who don't worship Lord Ram are worthless." He also accused Congress of "insulting martyrdom" of security forces engaged in anti-Naxal operations by terming Maoists as "revolutionaries". Without naming UP Congress chief Raj Babbar, Adityanath said, "A leader of UP Congress had termed naxals as revolutionaries which is an insult to the martyrdom of security forces fighting Maoists". Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP with a slogan of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas has launched public welfare schemes for the inclusive development of people belonging to all sections of society, he said. During the Congress rule, mining and forest mafia, cattle trafficking and naxalism were "at an all-time high" in Chhattisgarh but the BJP government contained all theses ills,he said. "Earlier, Rs 100 released from Delhi became Rs 10 on reaching people because the remaining Rs 90 was embezzled by dalals (middlemen) of Congress. But now it has changed and Rs 100 released by the Modi government remains Rs 100 when the amount reaches people through digital payment mode," he said. Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan were considered as Bimaru states during the Congress rule, he said. "But now these states are considered among the developed states after BJP government came to power there," he said. (With inputs from PTI)

Those who don't worship Lord Ram are worthless: Yogi Adityanath in Chhattisgarh

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-to-launch-gsat-29-shortly-satellite-to-meet-communication-needs-of-remote-areas-177320">ISRO launches India's heaviest rocket, satellite on board will boost communication in Northeast, J&amp;K</a>

India's heaviest rocket the GSLV-MkIII-D2 blasted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Prades carrying the communication satellite GSAT-29 on board. The satellite will boost communications in remote areas.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the GSLV-MkIII stands 43.4 metres tall and weighs 640 tonnes.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-rajapaksa-deputies-say-he-will-stay-in-office-177314">Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa deputies say he will stay in office despite losing trust vote</a>

Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil.

Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office.

It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-terror-attacks-finally-lead-back-to-single-source-modi-to-us-vp-mike-pence-177357">All terror attacks finally lead back to 'single source': Modi to US VP Mike Pence</a>

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.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-and-ranveer-singh-are-now-officially-married-reports-177328">Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are now married: Reports</a>

It's finally happened. Bollywood's favourite couple- Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh- are officially married. The couple tied the knot in a traditional Konkani ceremony on Wednesday morning at Lake Como, Italy.&nbsp;

According to media reports, the wedding began at 9 am in the morning. The ceremony was strictly a private one with only close friends and relatives in attendance. No mobile phones were allowed at the venue.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-supreme-court-reserves-judgement-on-petitions-seeking-court-monitored-probe-177339">Rafale deal: SC reserves judgement on petitions seeking court-monitored probe</a>

After a four-hour long hearing, the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

The government’s response to the Supreme Court — the court had asked for pricing and decision-making details of the deal — met with fiery questions from the petitioners. The petitioners alleged that the procurement of the 36 Rafale jets was announced first and negotiations held later, when it should have been the other way round.&nbsp;

Questions about the pricing of the jets dominated the day's discourse with the petitioners quizzing the Centre about having provided the details twice in parliament but not to them.

ISRO launches India's heaviest rocket, satellite on board will boost communication in Northeast, J&K India's heaviest rocket the GSLV-MkIII-D2 blasted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Prades carrying the communication satellite GSAT-29 on board.

ISRO launches India's heaviest rocket, satellite on board will boost communication in Northeast, J&K India's heaviest rocket the GSLV-MkIII-D2 blasted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Prades carrying the communication satellite GSAT-29 on board. The satellite will boost communications in remote areas. According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the GSLV-MkIII stands 43.4 metres tall and weighs 640 tonnes. Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa deputies say he will stay in office despite losing trust vote Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil. Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office. It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now. All terror attacks finally lead back to 'single source': Modi to US VP Mike Pence 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. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are now married: Reports It's finally happened. Bollywood's favourite couple- Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh- are officially married. The couple tied the knot in a traditional Konkani ceremony on Wednesday morning at Lake Como, Italy. According to media reports, the wedding began at 9 am in the morning. The ceremony was strictly a private one with only close friends and relatives in attendance. No mobile phones were allowed at the venue. Rafale deal: SC reserves judgement on petitions seeking court-monitored probe After a four-hour long hearing, the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal. The government’s response to the Supreme Court — the court had asked for pricing and decision-making details of the deal — met with fiery questions from the petitioners. The petitioners alleged that the procurement of the 36 Rafale jets was announced first and negotiations held later, when it should have been the other way round. Questions about the pricing of the jets dominated the day's discourse with the petitioners quizzing the Centre about having provided the details twice in parliament but not to them.

News brief: Big stories of the day

After a four-hour long hearing, the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-gave-rafale-contract-to-his-friend-rahul-gandhi-32416">Rafale deal</a>.&nbsp;

The government’s response to the Supreme Court — the court had asked for pricing and decision-making details of the deal — met with fiery questions from the petitioners. The petitioners alleged that the procurement of the 36 Rafale jets was announced first and negotiations held later, when it should have been the other way round.&nbsp;

Questions about the pricing of the jets dominated the day's discourse with the petitioners quizzing the Centre about having provided the details twice in parliament but not to them.

&nbsp;Advocate Sanjay Singh argued, “This document (centre’s response) is silent on whether a lot of steps involved in defence acquisitions were followed. The matter reached Defence Acquisition Council after the announcement of the deal by prime minister."&nbsp;

Senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan argued that apart from the issues of procedure, offset and pricing, there was a fourth issue — the intergovernment agreement between India and France.&nbsp;

According to Bhushan, the clauses governing an intergovernmental agreement have not been satisfied and crucial questions remain&nbsp;unanswered. For example, what happens if Dassault Aviation does not deliver?&nbsp;

Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court that the Indian government does not have a guarantee from the French government but it does have a letter of comfort.&nbsp;

Venugopal also added that India had fallen behind its rivals due to a shortage of fighter aircraft.&nbsp;

Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi meanwhile made it clear that the deal's pricing details would be debated if the court decided to put them out in the public domain.

After a four-hour long hearing, the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal.

After a four-hour long hearing, the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal. The government’s response to the Supreme Court — the court had asked for pricing and decision-making details of the deal — met with fiery questions from the petitioners. The petitioners alleged that the procurement of the 36 Rafale jets was announced first and negotiations held later, when it should have been the other way round. Questions about the pricing of the jets dominated the day's discourse with the petitioners quizzing the Centre about having provided the details twice in parliament but not to them. Advocate Sanjay Singh argued, “This document (centre’s response) is silent on whether a lot of steps involved in defence acquisitions were followed. The matter reached Defence Acquisition Council after the announcement of the deal by prime minister." Senior lawyer Prashant Bhushan argued that apart from the issues of procedure, offset and pricing, there was a fourth issue — the intergovernment agreement between India and France. According to Bhushan, the clauses governing an intergovernmental agreement have not been satisfied and crucial questions remain unanswered. For example, what happens if Dassault Aviation does not deliver? Attorney General KK Venugopal told the Supreme Court that the Indian government does not have a guarantee from the French government but it does have a letter of comfort. Venugopal also added that India had fallen behind its rivals due to a shortage of fighter aircraft. Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi meanwhile made it clear that the deal's pricing details would be debated if the court decided to put them out in the public domain.

Rafale deal: SC reserves judgement on petitions seeking court-monitored probe

DMK chief M K Stalin lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday, saying he did not like socialism, democracy and secularism and also took potshots at his foreign trips, describing him as the "non-resident prime minister".

Stalin, who has sharpened his attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led regime at the Centre ever since he took over the reigns of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in August, targeted the prime minister while addressing a wedding event here.

"Modi does not like socialism, democracy and secularism. His thoughts are about (industrialists) Adani and Ambani. We have heard about a non-resident Indian, but Modi is the non-resident prime minister," he said.

The DMK chief said he would have not been bothered about Modi's "84 foreign trips", had they "fetched results and brought honour for the nation".

However, it had only led to an expenditure running into crores of rupees, he said.

Accusing the ruling All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in Tamil Nadu of having an unquestioning attitude in respect of the Centre, "be it implementing NEET or imposition of Hindi", Stalin claimed that this was the reason for its government's continuation in power.

He, however, did not elaborate on how and in what manner Hindi was thrust upon Tamil Nadu.

Stalin also hit out at the AIADMK government, saying its thoughts hovered around "commission, collection and corruption", a pet slogan and summary of his slew of charges against the incumbent regime.

"The time has come to end all such things," he said and exhorted the DMK cadre to work for the party's victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha election and for the polls to 20 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu.

The DMK leader reiterated that he would not be surprised if the Assembly election and the Lok Sabha polls were held simultaneously.

His remark was an apparent indication to the question of longevity the AIADMK government faced in view of the disqualification of the 18 ruling party MLAs backing Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam leader T T V Dhinakaran.

The Madras High Court had recently upheld their disqualification and the debarred legislators had said they would not appeal against the verdict.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

DMK chief M K Stalin lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday, saying he did not like socialism, democracy and secularism and also took potshots at his foreign trips, describing him as the "non-resident prime minister".

DMK chief M K Stalin lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi Wednesday, saying he did not like socialism, democracy and secularism and also took potshots at his foreign trips, describing him as the "non-resident prime minister". Stalin, who has sharpened his attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party-led regime at the Centre ever since he took over the reigns of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in August, targeted the prime minister while addressing a wedding event here. "Modi does not like socialism, democracy and secularism. His thoughts are about (industrialists) Adani and Ambani. We have heard about a non-resident Indian, but Modi is the non-resident prime minister," he said. The DMK chief said he would have not been bothered about Modi's "84 foreign trips", had they "fetched results and brought honour for the nation". However, it had only led to an expenditure running into crores of rupees, he said. Accusing the ruling All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in Tamil Nadu of having an unquestioning attitude in respect of the Centre, "be it implementing NEET or imposition of Hindi", Stalin claimed that this was the reason for its government's continuation in power. He, however, did not elaborate on how and in what manner Hindi was thrust upon Tamil Nadu. Stalin also hit out at the AIADMK government, saying its thoughts hovered around "commission, collection and corruption", a pet slogan and summary of his slew of charges against the incumbent regime. "The time has come to end all such things," he said and exhorted the DMK cadre to work for the party's victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha election and for the polls to 20 Assembly constituencies in Tamil Nadu. The DMK leader reiterated that he would not be surprised if the Assembly election and the Lok Sabha polls were held simultaneously. His remark was an apparent indication to the question of longevity the AIADMK government faced in view of the disqualification of the 18 ruling party MLAs backing Amma Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam leader T T V Dhinakaran. The Madras High Court had recently upheld their disqualification and the debarred legislators had said they would not appeal against the verdict.

Modi is 'non-resident prime minister'; does not like socialism, democracy: MK Stalin

The NIA Wednesday filed a charge sheet against pro-Pakistani separatist and Dukhtaran-e-Millat head Aasiya Andrabi and two of her associates for allegedly "waging war" against the country using social media and other Internet platforms, officials said.

In a statement, the NIA's spokesman said Andrabi, Sofi Fehmeeda and Naheeda Nasreen were using various media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and TV channels including some in Pakistan to spread "insurrectionary imputations and hateful messages and speeches against India.&nbsp;

The Dukhtaran-E-Millat, which has been banned as a terrorist organisation, through Andrabi and others, openly advocates secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India and its merger with Pakistan through violent means.&nbsp;

The NIA Wednesday filed a charge sheet against pro-Pakistani separatist and Dukhtaran-e-Millat head Aasiya Andrabi and two of her associates for allegedly "waging war" against the country using social media and other Internet platforms, officials said.

The NIA Wednesday filed a charge sheet against pro-Pakistani separatist and Dukhtaran-e-Millat head Aasiya Andrabi and two of her associates for allegedly "waging war" against the country using social media and other Internet platforms, officials said. In a statement, the NIA's spokesman said Andrabi, Sofi Fehmeeda and Naheeda Nasreen were using various media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and TV channels including some in Pakistan to spread "insurrectionary imputations and hateful messages and speeches against India. The Dukhtaran-E-Millat, which has been banned as a terrorist organisation, through Andrabi and others, openly advocates secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India and its merger with Pakistan through violent means.

NIA files charge sheet against Kashmiri separatist Aasiya Andrabi, 2 others

GSLV-MkIII rocket, which was successfully launched by ISRO from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday evening will pave the way for producing very <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-to-launch-gsat-29-shortly-satellite-to-meet-communication-needs-of-remote-areas-177320">advanced satellite</a> in future for ISRO, said ISRO Chairman K Sivan.&nbsp;

"(It is) This vehicle (GSLV-MkIII) is going to launch the Chandrayaan-II and also the manned mission'', he said.

GSLV-MkIII is the fifth generation launch vehicle developed by ISRO and is designed to place satellites of upto 4,000 kg in GTO.

GSAT-29 carries Ka and Ku band high throughput transponders intended to meet the communication requirements of users, including in the North East and in Jammu and Kashmir.

The ISRO chief said the launch was one of the "very important missions and a milestone" for India's space programme.

"This is GSLV-MkIII-D2 second developmental flight. The satellite will be useful in Jammu and Kashmir and North East region for providing connectivity under the Centre's Digital India programme", he said.

The satellite would be placed in its final Geostationary Orbit using the onboard propulsion system and it may take a few days after separation from the launcher to reach the orbital slot, ISRO said.

The launch vehicle is the 67th launch mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota and the 33 communication satellite built by ISRO for which this will be the fifth launch this year.

GSLV-MkIII rocket, which was successfully launched by ISRO from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday evening will pave the way for producing very advanced satellite in future for ISRO, said ISRO Chairman K Sivan.

GSLV-MkIII rocket, which was successfully launched by ISRO from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday evening will pave the way for producing very advanced satellite in future for ISRO, said ISRO Chairman K Sivan. "(It is) This vehicle (GSLV-MkIII) is going to launch the Chandrayaan-II and also the manned mission'', he said. GSLV-MkIII is the fifth generation launch vehicle developed by ISRO and is designed to place satellites of upto 4,000 kg in GTO. GSAT-29 carries Ka and Ku band high throughput transponders intended to meet the communication requirements of users, including in the North East and in Jammu and Kashmir. The ISRO chief said the launch was one of the "very important missions and a milestone" for India's space programme. "This is GSLV-MkIII-D2 second developmental flight. The satellite will be useful in Jammu and Kashmir and North East region for providing connectivity under the Centre's Digital India programme", he said. The satellite would be placed in its final Geostationary Orbit using the onboard propulsion system and it may take a few days after separation from the launcher to reach the orbital slot, ISRO said. The launch vehicle is the 67th launch mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota and the 33 communication satellite built by ISRO for which this will be the fifth launch this year.

ISRO Chairman K Sivan on why latest mission is crucial

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Wednesday promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule.

Addressing a rally for the second phase of polling in the state, Gandhi said it was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals.

"But, people have remained poor due to the policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government," he charged.

Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics.

He claimed that lands of locals in this part of the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned to the people.

"The Congress will install a people's government in the state which will empower farmers, small and medium businesses and provide employment to the youth," Gandhi said.

He said if the Congress came to power in the state, it would enforce the Land Acquisition Act and facilitate loan waiver for farmers, besides providing them bonus and Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops.

Accusing the Raman Singh government of being involved in graft, Gandhi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not uttered a word about corruption in Chhattisgarh. "People of the state have suffered because of this," he alleged.

"I do politics for the rights of poor, farmers and youth. I will not protect 10-15 industrialists at their cost," he said.

Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11. PTI T

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Wednesday promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Wednesday promised to install a "people's government" in Chhattisgarh and accused the ruling BJP of destroying the state in its 15-year rule. Addressing a rally for the second phase of polling in the state, Gandhi said it was among the richest in the country in terms of water, forest, mines and minerals. "But, people have remained poor due to the policies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government," he charged. Invoking his family ties with the state, the Congress chief said the relationship was of love and not politics. He claimed that lands of locals in this part of the tribal-dominated state were taken away to set up industries. But when the units were not set up, the lands were not returned to the people. "The Congress will install a people's government in the state which will empower farmers, small and medium businesses and provide employment to the youth," Gandhi said. He said if the Congress came to power in the state, it would enforce the Land Acquisition Act and facilitate loan waiver for farmers, besides providing them bonus and Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops. Accusing the Raman Singh government of being involved in graft, Gandhi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not uttered a word about corruption in Chhattisgarh. "People of the state have suffered because of this," he alleged. "I do politics for the rights of poor, farmers and youth. I will not protect 10-15 industrialists at their cost," he said. Polling for the second phase in 72 seats, out of the total 90-member Assembly, will take place on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11. PTI T

Rahul Gandhi promises 'people's government' in Chhattisgarh

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot on Wednesday declared that they both will contest the December 7 assembly election, firing up the race for the chief minister's post in the state where the party is seeking to wrest power from the BJP.

Gehlot and Pilot, however, dismissed suggestions that there was any infighting among the state leaders and asserted that they will unitedly take on the BJP.

The two leaders ended the speculation over whether they will contest the polls at a joint press conference here at the Congress headquarters, where the party announced the joining of BJP MP Harish Chandra Meena from Dausa in Rajasthan.

"We are all united in Rajasthan and the BJP is conspiring to spread false propaganda that the Congress is divided. I will contest the upcoming assembly election and Sachin Pilot and other senior leaders will also contest," Gehlot told reporters.

He was asked about the delay by the Congress in announcing candidates and reports that claimed that infighting among the top state leaders over the distribution of tickets was responsible for it. Filing of nomination papers in Rajasthan started on Monday and will continue till November 19.

Pilot also said that on party chief Rahul Gandhi's directions and Gehlot's request, he will contest the Assembly elections.

Pilot had last contested the Lok Sabha election from Ajmer in 2014, which he lost. He, however, did not contest the bye-election earlier this year.

Sources said the leadership race in Rajasthan will now intensify with both main contenders throwing their hat in the ring.

"There is no division in the party in the state and all the leaders are united in the bid to defeat the BJP with a thumping majority," Pilot said.

On the issue of the chief ministerial candidate, Gehlot said since independence the Congress has never declared its chief ministerial face in Rajasthan and the party is happy to carry on this tradition.

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot on Wednesday declared that they both will contest the December 7 assembly election, firing up the race for the chief minister's post in the state where the party is seeking to wrest power from the BJP.

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot and Rajasthan Congress chief Sachin Pilot on Wednesday declared that they both will contest the December 7 assembly election, firing up the race for the chief minister's post in the state where the party is seeking to wrest power from the BJP. Gehlot and Pilot, however, dismissed suggestions that there was any infighting among the state leaders and asserted that they will unitedly take on the BJP. The two leaders ended the speculation over whether they will contest the polls at a joint press conference here at the Congress headquarters, where the party announced the joining of BJP MP Harish Chandra Meena from Dausa in Rajasthan. "We are all united in Rajasthan and the BJP is conspiring to spread false propaganda that the Congress is divided. I will contest the upcoming assembly election and Sachin Pilot and other senior leaders will also contest," Gehlot told reporters. He was asked about the delay by the Congress in announcing candidates and reports that claimed that infighting among the top state leaders over the distribution of tickets was responsible for it. Filing of nomination papers in Rajasthan started on Monday and will continue till November 19. Pilot also said that on party chief Rahul Gandhi's directions and Gehlot's request, he will contest the Assembly elections. Pilot had last contested the Lok Sabha election from Ajmer in 2014, which he lost. He, however, did not contest the bye-election earlier this year. Sources said the leadership race in Rajasthan will now intensify with both main contenders throwing their hat in the ring. "There is no division in the party in the state and all the leaders are united in the bid to defeat the BJP with a thumping majority," Pilot said. On the issue of the chief ministerial candidate, Gehlot said since independence the Congress has never declared its chief ministerial face in Rajasthan and the party is happy to carry on this tradition.

Gehlot, Pilot to contest Rajasthan assembly polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on Wednesday for a two-day visit during which he will attend the East Asia Summit, an ASEAN-India informal meet, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summit and hold a meeting with US vice president Mike Pence.

Modi’s first engagement here would be to deliver the keynote address at the Singapore Fintech Summit, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a tweet. “The Prime Minister landed in Singapore a short while ago. He will be joining a series of programmes through the day, beginning with the keynote address at the Singapore Fintech Festival,” PMOIndia@PMOIndia said.

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The Prime Minister landed in Singapore a short while ago. He will be joining a series of programmes through the day, beginning with the keynote address at the Singapore Fintech Festival. <a href="https://t.co/tDICqJkvTX">pic.twitter.com/tDICqJkvTX</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1062472447507611648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Before leaving for Singapore, Modi said in New Delhi that his participation in the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits symbolised India’s “continued commitment” to strengthen its engagement with ASEAN members and with the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Modi also said he was confident that his visit to Singapore would impart fresh momentum to New Delhi’s growing partnership with ASEAN and East Asia Summit nations. The prime minister will have a number of high-profile multilateral and bilateral meetings with global leaders including US vice president Pence and Singapore premier Lee Hsein Loong.

Pence will participate in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi, the White House said Tuesday releasing the schedule of the Vice President Pence on the eve of the meeting.

The meeting is scheduled to take place 12.30pm local Singapore time, during which the two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral defence cooperation and a common vision for maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, the White House said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on Wednesday for a two-day visit during which he will attend the East Asia Summit, an ASEAN-India informal meet, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summit and hold a meeting with US vice president Mike Pence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on Wednesday for a two-day visit during which he will attend the East Asia Summit, an ASEAN-India informal meet, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summit and hold a meeting with US vice president Mike Pence. Modi’s first engagement here would be to deliver the keynote address at the Singapore Fintech Summit, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said in a tweet. “The Prime Minister landed in Singapore a short while ago. He will be joining a series of programmes through the day, beginning with the keynote address at the Singapore Fintech Festival,” PMOIndia@PMOIndia said. The Prime Minister landed in Singapore a short while ago. He will be joining a series of programmes through the day, beginning with the keynote address at the Singapore Fintech Festival. pic.twitter.com/tDICqJkvTX — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 13, 2018 × Before leaving for Singapore, Modi said in New Delhi that his participation in the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits symbolised India’s “continued commitment” to strengthen its engagement with ASEAN members and with the wider Indo-Pacific region. Modi also said he was confident that his visit to Singapore would impart fresh momentum to New Delhi’s growing partnership with ASEAN and East Asia Summit nations. The prime minister will have a number of high-profile multilateral and bilateral meetings with global leaders including US vice president Pence and Singapore premier Lee Hsein Loong. Pence will participate in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi, the White House said Tuesday releasing the schedule of the Vice President Pence on the eve of the meeting. The meeting is scheduled to take place 12.30pm local Singapore time, during which the two leaders are expected to discuss bilateral defence cooperation and a common vision for maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, the White House said.

PM Narendra Modi arrives in Singapore for RCEP Summit

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Wednesday said his government has not indulged in "hate politics" or misused power against mining baron G Janardhana Reddy arrested in connection with a multi-crore ponzi scam case.

Reddy, a former Karnataka minister, had alleged "political conspiracy" against him.

"Developments are taking place in the court with regard to this case. Neither I nor my government or officials have indulged in hate politics or misused (power) in this issue. I'm saying this very clearly," Kumaraswamy told reporters here.

After remaining elusive Since November 7, Reddy had appeared before the Central Crime Branch (CCB) of the city police, which had arrested him Sunday after marathon questioning.

A Metropolitan Magistrate court had subsequently remanded him to judicial custody till November 24.

The CCB had launched a hunt for Reddy last week in connection with a transaction of crores of rupees, allegedly linked to a ponzi scheme.

It was on the lookout for Reddy and his close aide, Ali Khan, who had allegedly struck a Rs 20-crore deal with Syed Ahmed Fareed of Ambidant Marketing Pvt Ltd, a company accused of involvement in the ponzi scheme, to bail him out from the Enforcement Directorate investigation.&nbsp;

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Wednesday said his government has not indulged in "hate politics" or misused power against mining baron G Janardhana Reddy arrested in connection with a multi-crore ponzi scam case.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy Wednesday said his government has not indulged in "hate politics" or misused power against mining baron G Janardhana Reddy arrested in connection with a multi-crore ponzi scam case. Reddy, a former Karnataka minister, had alleged "political conspiracy" against him. "Developments are taking place in the court with regard to this case. Neither I nor my government or officials have indulged in hate politics or misused (power) in this issue. I'm saying this very clearly," Kumaraswamy told reporters here. After remaining elusive Since November 7, Reddy had appeared before the Central Crime Branch (CCB) of the city police, which had arrested him Sunday after marathon questioning. A Metropolitan Magistrate court had subsequently remanded him to judicial custody till November 24. The CCB had launched a hunt for Reddy last week in connection with a transaction of crores of rupees, allegedly linked to a ponzi scheme. It was on the lookout for Reddy and his close aide, Ali Khan, who had allegedly struck a Rs 20-crore deal with Syed Ahmed Fareed of Ambidant Marketing Pvt Ltd, a company accused of involvement in the ponzi scheme, to bail him out from the Enforcement Directorate investigation.

Didn't misuse power against mining baron Janardhana Reddy: CM Kumaraswamy

In a setback to Rajasthan's ruling BJP ahead of the December 7 Assembly elections, the party's Nagaur MLA Habibur Rahman on Wednesday returned to the Congress after a decade.

Rahman joined the Congress at the party's office in Jaipur in presence of Ajmer MP Raghu Sharma and other leaders, the same day BJP's Dausa MP Harish Chandra Meena joined the grand old party in New Delhi.

Rahman was initially a member of the Congress and was a state minister between 2001 and 2003 during the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government. He joined the BJP in 2008 after he was denied a ticket by the Congress.&nbsp;

He won the 2008 and the 2013 Assembly elections as BJP candidate. But when the BJP denied him poll ticket this time and gave a nomination to Mohan Ram Choudhary from Nagaur, Rahman left the ruling party.

"I have returned home today. There is no condition for joining the party," he said at a press conference.

On whether he will contest the Assembly elections, Rahman rhetorically asked, "Who does not want to contest elections?"

However, Congress MP Raghu Sharma said the party will release its list of candidates for the Rajasthan polls only after the final approval of party president Rahul Gandhi.

Meanwhile, slamming Harish Chandra Meena for joining the Congress, BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Kirori Meena termed the former "an opportunist" and claimed that this would not have any impact of the saffron party's performance in the state election.

"There will be no impact. People know who is an opportunist and opportunists can go anywhere," Kirori Meena said.

Hitting back, Congress' Raghu Sharma said, "Kirori Meena's wife Golma Devi was a minister in the previous Congress government. He contested the 2013 assembly polls as the candidate of National People's party and then joined the BJP. He became Rajya Sabha MP and now his wife was given ticket by BJP in its first list. He is the finest example of an opportunist."

Harish Chandra Meena joined the Congress in the national capital in presence of former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, the party's state unit chief Sachin Pilot and AICC's state in-charge Avinash Pande.

A former IPS officer, who headed state police during the Ashok Gehlot government, Harish Chandra Meena had joined the BJP in March 2014 ahead of the Lok Sabha polls and was pitted against his brother Namonarain who was then a Union minister.

He had won the Dausa seat by defeating his nearest rival Kirori Lal Meena, who was then a candidate of National People's Party by a margin of 45,404 votes while Namonarain Meena had stood third.

In a setback to Rajasthan's ruling BJP ahead of the December 7 Assembly elections, the party's Nagaur MLA Habibur Rahman on Wednesday returned to the Congress after a decade.

In a setback to Rajasthan's ruling BJP ahead of the December 7 Assembly elections, the party's Nagaur MLA Habibur Rahman on Wednesday returned to the Congress after a decade. Rahman joined the Congress at the party's office in Jaipur in presence of Ajmer MP Raghu Sharma and other leaders, the same day BJP's Dausa MP Harish Chandra Meena joined the grand old party in New Delhi. Rahman was initially a member of the Congress and was a state minister between 2001 and 2003 during the Ashok Gehlot-led Congress government. He joined the BJP in 2008 after he was denied a ticket by the Congress. He won the 2008 and the 2013 Assembly elections as BJP candidate. But when the BJP denied him poll ticket this time and gave a nomination to Mohan Ram Choudhary from Nagaur, Rahman left the ruling party. "I have returned home today. There is no condition for joining the party," he said at a press conference. On whether he will contest the Assembly elections, Rahman rhetorically asked, "Who does not want to contest elections?" However, Congress MP Raghu Sharma said the party will release its list of candidates for the Rajasthan polls only after the final approval of party president Rahul Gandhi. Meanwhile, slamming Harish Chandra Meena for joining the Congress, BJP leader and Rajya Sabha MP Kirori Meena termed the former "an opportunist" and claimed that this would not have any impact of the saffron party's performance in the state election. "There will be no impact. People know who is an opportunist and opportunists can go anywhere," Kirori Meena said. Hitting back, Congress' Raghu Sharma said, "Kirori Meena's wife Golma Devi was a minister in the previous Congress government. He contested the 2013 assembly polls as the candidate of National People's party and then joined the BJP. He became Rajya Sabha MP and now his wife was given ticket by BJP in its first list. He is the finest example of an opportunist." Harish Chandra Meena joined the Congress in the national capital in presence of former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot, the party's state unit chief Sachin Pilot and AICC's state in-charge Avinash Pande. A former IPS officer, who headed state police during the Ashok Gehlot government, Harish Chandra Meena had joined the BJP in March 2014 ahead of the Lok Sabha polls and was pitted against his brother Namonarain who was then a Union minister. He had won the Dausa seat by defeating his nearest rival Kirori Lal Meena, who was then a candidate of National People's Party by a margin of 45,404 votes while Namonarain Meena had stood third.

Rajasthan BJP MLA Habibur Rahman joins Congress

The Supreme Court said Wednesday that a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale fighter jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain.

The apex court, which began its hearing Wednesday on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-supreme-court-reserves-judgement-on-petitions-seeking-court-monitored-probe-177339">pleas seeking a court-monitored probe</a> into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it was dealing with the requirements of the Air Force and would like to hear from an Air Force officer and "not the official of the Defence Ministry".

"The decision we need to take is whether to bring the fact on pricing in public domain or not," a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said.

The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, told Attorney General K K Venugopal that there is no question of any debate on pricing without making the facts public.&nbsp;

The bench clarified that any discussion on price will be considered if it thinks the issue should enter the public domain.

The top court also sought the assistance of an Air Force officer on the issue.&nbsp;

"We are dealing with the requirements of the Air Force and would like to ask an Air Force officer on Rafale jets. We want to hear from an Air force officer and not the official of the Defence Ministry on the issue," the bench said when the attorney general began his arguments on behalf of the Centre in the pre-lunch session.

In his arguments, Venugopal defended the secrecy clause relating to the pricing of the Rafale jets, saying adversaries may get an advantage if the entire details are disclosed. 
Refusing to divulge details on the pricing aspect, he said he would not be able to assist the court further on the pricing issue.&nbsp;

"I decided not to peruse it myself as in a case of any leak, my office would be held responsible," Venugopal said.

The bench then told him there is no question of any debate on pricing without making the facts public.&nbsp;

Venugopal said these matters are for experts to deal with. "We have been saying that even Parliament has not been told about the complete cost of the jets," he said.

At the exchange rate of November 2016, the cost of a bare fighter jet was Rs 670 crore, he said.

India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of Indian Air Force equipment. The estimated cost of the deal is Rs 58,000 crore.

The Rafale fighter is a twin-engine Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) manufactured by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation.

Venugopal said the earlier jets were not intended to be loaded with the requisite weapons system and the government had reservations as it did not want to violate the Inter Government Agreement (IGA) and the secrecy clause.&nbsp;

The hearing saw Venugopal opposing advocate Prashant Bhushan who wanted to submit information on the secrecy clause of the Rafale agreement.&nbsp;

"Secrecy agreement has to be secret and how is he producing it in court?" Venugopal asked when Bhushan raised the issue.&nbsp;

Bhushan, appearing on behalf of himself and former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie, alleged that the government was hiding behind the secrecy clause and had not disclosed the price of the fighter jets.&nbsp;

The CJI told Bhushan, "We are giving you full hearing. Use this opportunity carefully and cite only those things which are necessary."

Bhushan said the price per aircraft was 155 million Euros and was now 270 million Euros. This shows that there was hike of 40 per cent in its price, the advocate said.

He said the CBI was bound to register an FIR in this case.&nbsp;

The lawyer alleged that there was a conspiracy with French company Dassault, which granted the offset right to Reliance Defence.

He said Reliance had no competence in executing the offset contract.&nbsp; 
Bhushan said they filed the petition after the CBI did not register the FIR under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

He also quoted former French president Fran?ois Hollande and other Dassault officials to impute criminal motives in granting the offset contract to Reliance.

The activist-lawyer submitted that the NDA government had "short circuited" the acquisition process by taking the IGA route.

He said there was no sovereign guarantee from the French government in the deal and argued that the Union Law ministry initially flagged the issue and later gave in to the proposal of entering into an IGA.

Six foreign companies had applied and two firms were shortlisted during the earlier process, Bhushan said.

Later, the deal went to Dassault and state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd was part of it. Suddenly, however, a statement was issued which said there will be no technology transfer, and only 36 jets would be procured, the lawyer told the court.

Bhushan submitted that nobody knows about the alleged change in the deal done by the prime minister. Even the defence minister was not aware about the change, he said. 
Advocates M L Sharma, Vineet Dhanda and AAP MP Sanjay Singh, also advanced their arguments.&nbsp;

Reliance in previous statements has said the Indian government, French government, Dassault and Reliance have clarified on multiple occasions there was no offset contract for Rs 30,000 crore to Reliance as alleged by the Congress.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court said Wednesday that a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale fighter jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain.

The Supreme Court said Wednesday that a discussion on the pricing of the Rafale fighter jets can only take place if the facts of the deal are allowed to come into the public domain. The apex court, which began its hearing Wednesday on pleas seeking a court-monitored probe into the procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets from France, also said it was dealing with the requirements of the Air Force and would like to hear from an Air Force officer and "not the official of the Defence Ministry". "The decision we need to take is whether to bring the fact on pricing in public domain or not," a bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, told Attorney General K K Venugopal that there is no question of any debate on pricing without making the facts public. The bench clarified that any discussion on price will be considered if it thinks the issue should enter the public domain. The top court also sought the assistance of an Air Force officer on the issue. "We are dealing with the requirements of the Air Force and would like to ask an Air Force officer on Rafale jets. We want to hear from an Air force officer and not the official of the Defence Ministry on the issue," the bench said when the attorney general began his arguments on behalf of the Centre in the pre-lunch session. In his arguments, Venugopal defended the secrecy clause relating to the pricing of the Rafale jets, saying adversaries may get an advantage if the entire details are disclosed. Refusing to divulge details on the pricing aspect, he said he would not be able to assist the court further on the pricing issue. "I decided not to peruse it myself as in a case of any leak, my office would be held responsible," Venugopal said. The bench then told him there is no question of any debate on pricing without making the facts public. Venugopal said these matters are for experts to deal with. "We have been saying that even Parliament has not been told about the complete cost of the jets," he said. At the exchange rate of November 2016, the cost of a bare fighter jet was Rs 670 crore, he said. India signed an agreement with France for the purchase of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft in a fly-away condition as part of the upgrading process of Indian Air Force equipment. The estimated cost of the deal is Rs 58,000 crore. The Rafale fighter is a twin-engine Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) manufactured by French aerospace company Dassault Aviation. Venugopal said the earlier jets were not intended to be loaded with the requisite weapons system and the government had reservations as it did not want to violate the Inter Government Agreement (IGA) and the secrecy clause. The hearing saw Venugopal opposing advocate Prashant Bhushan who wanted to submit information on the secrecy clause of the Rafale agreement. "Secrecy agreement has to be secret and how is he producing it in court?" Venugopal asked when Bhushan raised the issue. Bhushan, appearing on behalf of himself and former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha and Arun Shourie, alleged that the government was hiding behind the secrecy clause and had not disclosed the price of the fighter jets. The CJI told Bhushan, "We are giving you full hearing. Use this opportunity carefully and cite only those things which are necessary." Bhushan said the price per aircraft was 155 million Euros and was now 270 million Euros. This shows that there was hike of 40 per cent in its price, the advocate said. He said the CBI was bound to register an FIR in this case. The lawyer alleged that there was a conspiracy with French company Dassault, which granted the offset right to Reliance Defence. He said Reliance had no competence in executing the offset contract. Bhushan said they filed the petition after the CBI did not register the FIR under the Prevention of Corruption Act. He also quoted former French president Fran?ois Hollande and other Dassault officials to impute criminal motives in granting the offset contract to Reliance. The activist-lawyer submitted that the NDA government had "short circuited" the acquisition process by taking the IGA route. He said there was no sovereign guarantee from the French government in the deal and argued that the Union Law ministry initially flagged the issue and later gave in to the proposal of entering into an IGA. Six foreign companies had applied and two firms were shortlisted during the earlier process, Bhushan said. Later, the deal went to Dassault and state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd was part of it. Suddenly, however, a statement was issued which said there will be no technology transfer, and only 36 jets would be procured, the lawyer told the court. Bhushan submitted that nobody knows about the alleged change in the deal done by the prime minister. Even the defence minister was not aware about the change, he said. Advocates M L Sharma, Vineet Dhanda and AAP MP Sanjay Singh, also advanced their arguments. Reliance in previous statements has said the Indian government, French government, Dassault and Reliance have clarified on multiple occasions there was no offset contract for Rs 30,000 crore to Reliance as alleged by the Congress.

Want to hear from Air Force officer, not Defence Ministry official: SC on Rafale deal

Former Pakistan cricket team captain Shahid Afridi on Wednesday asked <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-support-for-idea-of-independent-kashmir-pakistan-pm-23586">India and Pakistan to leave Kashmir </a>for the sake of humanity and let it be independent.

While addressing students at British Parliament, Afridi said that Pakistan should not be demanding Kashmir as it has not been able to handle its own four provinces.

The 38 year-old all-rounder stressed that people were dying in Kashmir and it was painful to see that happen.

"Pakistan doesn't need Kashmir; it is not able to even handle the four provinces it has," said Afridi.

"Let Kashmir become a country. The people dying there should not die; humanity should stay alive. It pains to see people die there," he added.&nbsp;

It is not the first time that Afridi has commented on the Kashmir issue. Earlier this year too, he had tweeted on the matter saying, "appalling and worrisome situation ongoing in Kashmir," and urged the UN to intervene.

Former Pakistan cricket team captain Shahid Afridi on Wednesday asked India and Pakistan to leave Kashmir for the sake of humanity and let it be independent. While addressing students at British Parliament, Afridi said that Pakistan should not be demanding Kashmir as it has not been able to handle its own four provinces.

Former Pakistan cricket team captain Shahid Afridi on Wednesday asked India and Pakistan to leave Kashmir for the sake of humanity and let it be independent. While addressing students at British Parliament, Afridi said that Pakistan should not be demanding Kashmir as it has not been able to handle its own four provinces. The 38 year-old all-rounder stressed that people were dying in Kashmir and it was painful to see that happen. "Pakistan doesn't need Kashmir; it is not able to even handle the four provinces it has," said Afridi. "Let Kashmir become a country. The people dying there should not die; humanity should stay alive. It pains to see people die there," he added. It is not the first time that Afridi has commented on the Kashmir issue. Earlier this year too, he had tweeted on the matter saying, "appalling and worrisome situation ongoing in Kashmir," and urged the UN to intervene.

Pakistan doesn't need Kashmir, it can't handle its own four provinces: Shahid Afridi

The government and the Reserve Bank of India seem to be veering around to an agreeable solution with respect to relaxation of the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework and the easing of lending norms for the MSME sector ahead of the RBI board meeting on November 19, sources said.

If not in this board meeting, sources said, the issue of relaxation of PCA framework which the finance ministry has been pitching for would be reached in the next few weeks.

As a result of the relaxation, some banks may come out of the PCA framework by the end of the current fiscal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513">rift</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-governor-urjit-patel-may-consider-resigning-after-rift-with-government-report-174513"> with government</a>

Of the 21 state-owned banks, 11 are under the PCA framework. These are Allahabad Bank, United Bank of India, Corporation Bank, IDBI Bank, UCO Bank, Bank of India, Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce, Dena Bank and Bank of Maharashtra.

The PCA framework kicks in when banks breach any of the three key regulatory trigger points namely capital to risk weighted assets ratio, Net non-performing assets (NPA) and return on assets (RoA).&nbsp;

The RBI is also likely to agree to easing of lending norms for the MSME sector including strict rating criteria to improve credit flow to this sector, sources said.

Besides, the central bank is expected to consider special dispensation for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) sector and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) which have been facing liquidity issues.&nbsp;

The government feels that the MSME sector which employs about 12 crore people plays a critical role in the economy, and the sector hit by demonetisation and implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) needs support.

However, the central bank has been averse to government demand for special dispensations for MSME and NBFC sectors as it consider them vulnerable.

Last week, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said there is a need to minimise NPAs in order to maintain the strength of the banking system and enable it to help the economy grow.

It is only a strong banking system that will be able to improve credit in those sectors which really need credit, the Finance Minister had said, adding, "The MSME sector needs credit, several other players in the market need credit. NBFCs today need credit because a large part of lending is done by them."&nbsp;

There are reports of growing tensions between the RBI and the government, with the Finance Ministry initiating discussion under the never-used-before Section 7 of the RBI Act which empowers the government to issue directions to the RBI Governor.

RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya had in a speech last month talked about the independence of the central bank, arguing that any compromise could be "potentially catastrophic" for the economy.&nbsp;

The government and the Reserve Bank of India seem to be veering around to an agreeable solution with respect to relaxation of the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework and the easing of lending norms for the MSME sector ahead of the RBI board meeting on November 19, sources said.

The government and the Reserve Bank of India seem to be veering around to an agreeable solution with respect to relaxation of the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework and the easing of lending norms for the MSME sector ahead of the RBI board meeting on November 19, sources said. If not in this board meeting, sources said, the issue of relaxation of PCA framework which the finance ministry has been pitching for would be reached in the next few weeks. As a result of the relaxation, some banks may come out of the PCA framework by the end of the current fiscal. Also read: RBI Governor Urjit Patel may consider resigning after rift with government Of the 21 state-owned banks, 11 are under the PCA framework. These are Allahabad Bank, United Bank of India, Corporation Bank, IDBI Bank, UCO Bank, Bank of India, Central Bank of India, Indian Overseas Bank, Oriental Bank of Commerce, Dena Bank and Bank of Maharashtra. The PCA framework kicks in when banks breach any of the three key regulatory trigger points namely capital to risk weighted assets ratio, Net non-performing assets (NPA) and return on assets (RoA). The RBI is also likely to agree to easing of lending norms for the MSME sector including strict rating criteria to improve credit flow to this sector, sources said. Besides, the central bank is expected to consider special dispensation for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) sector and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) which have been facing liquidity issues. The government feels that the MSME sector which employs about 12 crore people plays a critical role in the economy, and the sector hit by demonetisation and implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) needs support. However, the central bank has been averse to government demand for special dispensations for MSME and NBFC sectors as it consider them vulnerable. Last week, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said there is a need to minimise NPAs in order to maintain the strength of the banking system and enable it to help the economy grow. It is only a strong banking system that will be able to improve credit in those sectors which really need credit, the Finance Minister had said, adding, "The MSME sector needs credit, several other players in the market need credit. NBFCs today need credit because a large part of lending is done by them." There are reports of growing tensions between the RBI and the government, with the Finance Ministry initiating discussion under the never-used-before Section 7 of the RBI Act which empowers the government to issue directions to the RBI Governor. RBI Deputy Governor Viral Acharya had in a speech last month talked about the independence of the central bank, arguing that any compromise could be "potentially catastrophic" for the economy.

RBI, govt trying to reach common ground on key issues: Sources

Five security personnel returning from election duty and a civilian were injured when Maoists blew up a truck with an IED in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Wednesday, a senior police official said.

Four personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF) and one of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) were among those injured, he said.

The incident took place around 9 am at Bijapur Ghati in the district, located around 450 km from state capital Raipur, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told.

After completing their duty in the first phase polling on Monday, the BSF personnel, along with the local police, left in a convoy from Modakpal to Dhamtari district for deployment for the second phase of polling on November 20, he said.

When they reached Bijapur Ghati, Maoists blew up the truck leading the convoy with an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden beneath the road, he said.

Assistant sub-inspector Naresh Singh (44), and constables Alok Singh (30), Narayan Singh (29) and Bhagwan Singh (45) of the BSF's 414th battalion, DRG constable Wasam Ganpat (43), and truck driver Mitram Ravte (40) suffered injuries in the blast, Garg said.

Following the explosion, an exchange of fire broke out between the security men and the ultras. After a brief encounter, the rebels fled the spot, he said.

Reinforcement was rushed to the spot and the injured were initially shifted to a local hospital and later airlifted to Raipur for further treatment, the SP said.

A search operation was underway in the region to trace the ultras, he added.

On Monday, polling was held amid tight security in 18 constituencies in eight Naxal-affected districts of the state.

The rest 72 seats will go to polls on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11.&nbsp;

Five security personnel returning from election duty and a civilian were injured when Maoists blew up a truck with an IED in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Wednesday, a senior police official said.

Five security personnel returning from election duty and a civilian were injured when Maoists blew up a truck with an IED in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district on Wednesday, a senior police official said. Four personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF) and one of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) were among those injured, he said. The incident took place around 9 am at Bijapur Ghati in the district, located around 450 km from state capital Raipur, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told. After completing their duty in the first phase polling on Monday, the BSF personnel, along with the local police, left in a convoy from Modakpal to Dhamtari district for deployment for the second phase of polling on November 20, he said. When they reached Bijapur Ghati, Maoists blew up the truck leading the convoy with an improvised explosive device (IED) hidden beneath the road, he said. Assistant sub-inspector Naresh Singh (44), and constables Alok Singh (30), Narayan Singh (29) and Bhagwan Singh (45) of the BSF's 414th battalion, DRG constable Wasam Ganpat (43), and truck driver Mitram Ravte (40) suffered injuries in the blast, Garg said. Following the explosion, an exchange of fire broke out between the security men and the ultras. After a brief encounter, the rebels fled the spot, he said. Reinforcement was rushed to the spot and the injured were initially shifted to a local hospital and later airlifted to Raipur for further treatment, the SP said. A search operation was underway in the region to trace the ultras, he added. On Monday, polling was held amid tight security in 18 constituencies in eight Naxal-affected districts of the state. The rest 72 seats will go to polls on November 20 and the counting of votes will be held on December 11.

6 injured as Maoists blow up truck ferrying security men after poll duty in Chhattisgarh

Differences on how to "treat" the Congress in electoral politics has once again kept the two Left parties -- the CPI(M) and CPI -- apart in the December 7 Assembly polls in Telangana.

The CPI is sailing with the Congress-led alliance, which also comprises the Telugu Desam Party, headed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and the Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS). 
 
The CPI(M) is leading the Bahujan Left Front (BLF), comprising 28 social groups and political parties.

The CPI(M) Telangana unit Secretary Tammineni Veerabhadram told PTI Wednesday that the BLF is mulling to field its candidates in all the 119 assembly segments. It has already announced 70 nominees.

Veerabhadram, a former Lok Sabha member, termed CPI's move to have an electoral pact with the Congress as "wrong".

"We (CPI-M) have allied with the Congress and TDP for 30 years. Our experience was very bad. Our national party has already decided not to ally with the Congress at any cost", he said.

Veerabhadram said CPI-M's main target was to defeat the BJP, for which it wanted to mobilise "all secular votes. But in the name of that, we don't want to align with the Congress electorally".

According to him, since the formation of Telangana in 2014, these issues were discussed in the Left Coordination committee.

But "CPI's argument is that the TRS (the ruling party in Telangana) is very dangerous, and to defeat TRS, they are aligning with the Congress. We (CPI-M and CPI) differed".

He said the two parties basically differed on how to "treat" the Congress in electoral politics.

CPI National General Secretary Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy said the CPI(M) formed a front which his party did not agree to.

"Together with other parties, we (CPI) wanted to defeat BJP and TRS. But the Left alone cannot defeat. We feel that's the number one task in the present situation in the politics of the state (to defeat the BJP and TRS)", Reddy told PTI.

"They (CPI-M) are not ready to agree. So we separated from them", he said.

On the CPI(M) request to the CPI to review its decision to align with the Congress, Reddy said there no question of going back now.

In the 2014 Telangana elections, the Congress had an alliance with the CPI, while the CPI-M contested separately, fielding 39 candidates and supporting the TRS in the remaining constituencies.

Veerabhadram accused the TRS regime of being "autocratic" and said its tenure was marked by "failure" to honour its electoral promises, while "people's aspirations were brutally suppressed".

"TRS has to go. But in the name of that, welcoming the Congress is not good for Telangana", he said, pitching for "alternative policies and alternative developmental model".

&nbsp;

Differences on how to "treat" the Congress in electoral politics has once again kept the two Left parties -- the CPI(M) and CPI -- apart in the December 7 Assembly polls in Telangana.

Differences on how to "treat" the Congress in electoral politics has once again kept the two Left parties -- the CPI(M) and CPI -- apart in the December 7 Assembly polls in Telangana. The CPI is sailing with the Congress-led alliance, which also comprises the Telugu Desam Party, headed by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and the Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS). The CPI(M) is leading the Bahujan Left Front (BLF), comprising 28 social groups and political parties. The CPI(M) Telangana unit Secretary Tammineni Veerabhadram told PTI Wednesday that the BLF is mulling to field its candidates in all the 119 assembly segments. It has already announced 70 nominees. Veerabhadram, a former Lok Sabha member, termed CPI's move to have an electoral pact with the Congress as "wrong". "We (CPI-M) have allied with the Congress and TDP for 30 years. Our experience was very bad. Our national party has already decided not to ally with the Congress at any cost", he said. Veerabhadram said CPI-M's main target was to defeat the BJP, for which it wanted to mobilise "all secular votes. But in the name of that, we don't want to align with the Congress electorally". According to him, since the formation of Telangana in 2014, these issues were discussed in the Left Coordination committee. But "CPI's argument is that the TRS (the ruling party in Telangana) is very dangerous, and to defeat TRS, they are aligning with the Congress. We (CPI-M and CPI) differed". He said the two parties basically differed on how to "treat" the Congress in electoral politics. CPI National General Secretary Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy said the CPI(M) formed a front which his party did not agree to. "Together with other parties, we (CPI) wanted to defeat BJP and TRS. But the Left alone cannot defeat. We feel that's the number one task in the present situation in the politics of the state (to defeat the BJP and TRS)", Reddy told PTI. "They (CPI-M) are not ready to agree. So we separated from them", he said. On the CPI(M) request to the CPI to review its decision to align with the Congress, Reddy said there no question of going back now. In the 2014 Telangana elections, the Congress had an alliance with the CPI, while the CPI-M contested separately, fielding 39 candidates and supporting the TRS in the remaining constituencies. Veerabhadram accused the TRS regime of being "autocratic" and said its tenure was marked by "failure" to honour its electoral promises, while "people's aspirations were brutally suppressed". "TRS has to go. But in the name of that, welcoming the Congress is not good for Telangana", he said, pitching for "alternative policies and alternative developmental model".

Congress' 'treatment' keeps CPM, CPI apart in Telangana polls

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday accused Congress of "encouraging corruption, Naxalism, terrorism and misrule" during its rule in the country.

Addressing a campaign rally for the second phase of Assembly polls in Raigarh, Adityanath also accused Congress of "insulting martyrdom" of security forces engaged in anti-Naxal operations by terming Maoists as "revolutionaries".

"Congress has done nothing except divide the society on the basis of caste, region, religion and language, he said.

During its 55-year rule in the country, Congress always encouraged poverty, misrule, terrorism, Naxalism and corruption, he said.

Without naming UP Congress chief Raj Babbar, Adityanath said, "a leader of UP Congress had termed Naxals as revolutionaries which is an insult to the martyrdom of security forces fighting Maoists".

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP with a slogan of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas has launched public welfare schemes for the inclusive development of people belonging to all sections of society, he said.

During the Congress rule, mining and forest mafia, cattle trafficking and Naxalism were "at an all-time high" in Chhattisgarh but the BJP government contained all these ills, he said.

"Earlier, Rs 100 released from Delhi became Rs 10 on reaching people because the remaining Rs 90 was embezzled by dalals (middlemen ) of Congress. But now it has changed and Rs 100 released by the Modi government remains Rs 100 when the amount reaches people through digital payment mode," he said.

Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan were considered as Bimaru states during the Congress rule, he said. Now, these states are considered among the developed states after BJP government came to power there, he said.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday accused Congress of "encouraging corruption, Naxalism, terrorism and misrule" during its rule in the country.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Wednesday accused Congress of "encouraging corruption, Naxalism, terrorism and misrule" during its rule in the country. Addressing a campaign rally for the second phase of Assembly polls in Raigarh, Adityanath also accused Congress of "insulting martyrdom" of security forces engaged in anti-Naxal operations by terming Maoists as "revolutionaries". "Congress has done nothing except divide the society on the basis of caste, region, religion and language, he said. During its 55-year rule in the country, Congress always encouraged poverty, misrule, terrorism, Naxalism and corruption, he said. Without naming UP Congress chief Raj Babbar, Adityanath said, "a leader of UP Congress had termed Naxals as revolutionaries which is an insult to the martyrdom of security forces fighting Maoists". Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP with a slogan of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas has launched public welfare schemes for the inclusive development of people belonging to all sections of society, he said. During the Congress rule, mining and forest mafia, cattle trafficking and Naxalism were "at an all-time high" in Chhattisgarh but the BJP government contained all these ills, he said. "Earlier, Rs 100 released from Delhi became Rs 10 on reaching people because the remaining Rs 90 was embezzled by dalals (middlemen ) of Congress. But now it has changed and Rs 100 released by the Modi government remains Rs 100 when the amount reaches people through digital payment mode," he said. Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan were considered as Bimaru states during the Congress rule, he said. Now, these states are considered among the developed states after BJP government came to power there, he said.

Congress encouraged corruption, Naxalism: Yogi Adityanath

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the GSLV Mark III rocket carrying the GSAT-29 communication satellite at 5:08 pm (IST) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Marking ISRO's fifth launch for the current year, the communication satellite carries high throughput communication transponders in the Ka and Ku bands which can expand high-speed data transfer in the remote areas of India.

The satellite launch is the second test flight for the GSLV Mark III rocket, which is also ISRO's heaviest rocket.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Update #4<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ISROMissions?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ISROMissions</a> 
The filling of fuel (UH25) and oxidiser (N2O4) in L110 stage has been completed for today's 17:08 (IST) launch of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GSLVMkIIID2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GSLVMkIIID2</a> carrying <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GSAT29?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GSAT29</a> from SDSC SHAR Sriharikota. Watch this space for all updates.<a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/QCINRlY7iP">pic.twitter.com/QCINRlY7iP</a>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1062575000278822917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The rocket is capable of introducing four-tonne class satellites into a geostationary transfer orbit.&nbsp;

With an operational life of over ten years, the satellite weighs 3,423 kg during lift-off.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the GSLV Mark III rocket carrying the GSAT-29 communication satellite at 5:08 pm (IST) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota on Wednesday.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the GSLV Mark III rocket carrying the GSAT-29 communication satellite at 5:08 pm (IST) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota on Wednesday. Marking ISRO's fifth launch for the current year, the communication satellite carries high throughput communication transponders in the Ka and Ku bands which can expand high-speed data transfer in the remote areas of India. The satellite launch is the second test flight for the GSLV Mark III rocket, which is also ISRO's heaviest rocket. Update #4#ISROMissions The filling of fuel (UH25) and oxidiser (N2O4) in L110 stage has been completed for today's 17:08 (IST) launch of #GSLVMkIIID2 carrying #GSAT29 from SDSC SHAR Sriharikota. Watch this space for all updates.@PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/QCINRlY7iP — ISRO (@isro) November 14, 2018 × The rocket is capable of introducing four-tonne class satellites into a geostationary transfer orbit. With an operational life of over ten years, the satellite weighs 3,423 kg during lift-off.

ISRO to launch GSAT-29 communication satellite today

Drunk Irish woman abuses Air India crew

Dassault CEO Eric Trappier responds to Rahul Gandhi on Dassault-Reliance joint venture

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and minister in Rajasthan government, Surendra Goyal, submitted his resignation from the party on Monday, a day after he was denied the ticket to contest the state assembly poll.

The BJP released its first list of 131 candidates on Sunday, following a Central Election Committee meeting, wherein Goyal was confirmed to have been replaced by Avinash Gehlot for Jaitaran constituency.

Goyal, a five-time MLA from the seat, submitted his resignation letter to the state unit party president Madanlal Saini. He was the state's Water Resources Minister.

The BJP has fielded 25 new faces and 85 sitting MLAs for the ensuing assembly polls. Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje will contest from Jhalrapatan assembly constituency from where she has been contesting since 2003.

The assembly polls in the state will take place on December 7 in a single phase for all 200 seats, which are at stake in the state. The counting of votes will take place on December 11. The BJP had won 163 of the 200 assembly seats in the last Assembly polls.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and minister in Rajasthan government, Surendra Goyal, submitted his resignation from the party on Monday, a day after he was denied the ticket to contest the state assembly poll.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and minister in Rajasthan government, Surendra Goyal, submitted his resignation from the party on Monday, a day after he was denied the ticket to contest the state assembly poll. The BJP released its first list of 131 candidates on Sunday, following a Central Election Committee meeting, wherein Goyal was confirmed to have been replaced by Avinash Gehlot for Jaitaran constituency. Goyal, a five-time MLA from the seat, submitted his resignation letter to the state unit party president Madanlal Saini. He was the state's Water Resources Minister. The BJP has fielded 25 new faces and 85 sitting MLAs for the ensuing assembly polls. Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje will contest from Jhalrapatan assembly constituency from where she has been contesting since 2003. The assembly polls in the state will take place on December 7 in a single phase for all 200 seats, which are at stake in the state. The counting of votes will take place on December 11. The BJP had won 163 of the 200 assembly seats in the last Assembly polls.

Denied ticket, Rajasthan BJP leader Surendra Goyal quits party

With the Telangana Assembly elections less than a month away, many Congress party workers are not satisfied with the way the tickets are being distributed.

The disgruntled leaders and their supporters staged a protest at the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) headquarters at Gandhi Bhawan in Hyderabad, climbing up trees and urging the party high command to give tickets for their leaders who have worked hard for the party. They are also demanding to give tickets to some parachute candidates.

Some Congress leaders and party workers from 'Vaderula' community have been protesting in front of the party's office for the last a few days, demanding the ticket for Jai Ramulu from Patancheru constituency.

There are a few other Congress leaders from Malkajgiri constituency, who have been on a hunger strike for the last three days demanding the ticket for Sridhar. Faced with increasing pressure, the Congress has deferred the announcement of the list of candidates for the ensuing polls.

Till now, the Congress has announced 74 candidates.

The Congress has allotted 14 seats to Telugu Desam Party (TDP), eight to Telangana Jana Samithi (TJS) and three to Communist Party of India (CPI). The final candidate list for 119 constituencies with alliance partners will be announced in next few days.

TPCC spokesperson Gudur Narayan said, "From one seat, only one person will get the ticket. Ability to win the election is the only criteria for giving tickets. In some cases, the party has to give seats to the alliance partners. As a result, some leaders are agitations. Many of them were called to Delhi and were counselled not to accept the party decision."

"However, each and every competent leader will get some responsibility once the government is formed. It is very sad that some people, who have really worked hard, have been deprived of a chance to contest the polls. These leaders will be taken care of in a big way," he said.

The election to the 119-member assembly of Telangana is scheduled to be held on December 7. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

With the Telangana Assembly elections less than a month away, many Congress party workers are not satisfied with the way the tickets are being distributed. The disgruntled leaders and their supporters staged a protest at the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) headquarters at Gandhi Bhawan in Hyderabad, climbing up trees and urging the party high command to give tickets for their leaders who have worked hard for the party.

With the Telangana Assembly elections less than a month away, many Congress party workers are not satisfied with the way the tickets are being distributed. The disgruntled leaders and their supporters staged a protest at the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) headquarters at Gandhi Bhawan in Hyderabad, climbing up trees and urging the party high command to give tickets for their leaders who have worked hard for the party. They are also demanding to give tickets to some parachute candidates. Some Congress leaders and party workers from 'Vaderula' community have been protesting in front of the party's office for the last a few days, demanding the ticket for Jai Ramulu from Patancheru constituency. There are a few other Congress leaders from Malkajgiri constituency, who have been on a hunger strike for the last three days demanding the ticket for Sridhar. Faced with increasing pressure, the Congress has deferred the announcement of the list of candidates for the ensuing polls. Till now, the Congress has announced 74 candidates. The Congress has allotted 14 seats to Telugu Desam Party (TDP), eight to Telangana Jana Samithi (TJS) and three to Communist Party of India (CPI). The final candidate list for 119 constituencies with alliance partners will be announced in next few days. TPCC spokesperson Gudur Narayan said, "From one seat, only one person will get the ticket. Ability to win the election is the only criteria for giving tickets. In some cases, the party has to give seats to the alliance partners. As a result, some leaders are agitations. Many of them were called to Delhi and were counselled not to accept the party decision." "However, each and every competent leader will get some responsibility once the government is formed. It is very sad that some people, who have really worked hard, have been deprived of a chance to contest the polls. These leaders will be taken care of in a big way," he said. The election to the 119-member assembly of Telangana is scheduled to be held on December 7. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

Congress defers candidate list for Telangana polls as party workers stage protest over ticket distribution

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