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PepsiCo's India-born former CEO Indra Nooyi has said she would cause a third World War if she joins politics as she is "too outspoken".

Asia Society, a non-profit organisation that focuses on educating the world about Asia, honoured 62-year-old Nooyi Tuesday with the 'Game Changer of the Year Award' in New York in recognition of her business achievements, humanitarian record and advocacy for women and girls around the world.

Asked if she would like to join US President Donald Trump's Cabinet now that she has stepped down as Pepsi CEO, Nooyi said, "Me and politics don't mix at all. I am too outspoken, I am not diplomatic. I don't even know what diplomacy is. I would cause a third World War. Don't do it".

Nooyi stepped down on October 2 as PepsiCo's CEO, after 12 years at the helm of the global beverage giant. PepsiCo's Board of Directors had in August announced that they unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer.

Nooyi will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

After having worked 18 to 20 hours a day for the last 40 years, Nooyi said it was "liberating" to have a bit of free time.

"When I stepped down, I thought that it was going to be tough. For 40 years, I have done nothing but wake up at 4 am and figured out how to rush to work and work 18-20 hours a day," she said during the interaction.

Nooyi said a day after she stepped down, she realised that there was life beyond working.

"I am still a PepsiCo at heart but I am learning to step aside and realise that there is life beyond PepsiCo," she said.

Nooyi said she was looking forward to utilising her time writing and visiting as many countries as possible to talk about how to address issues of maintaining work-life balance.

She also plans to pursue several extra-curricular activities that she enjoyed but had to squeeze time for from her previous packed schedule. 
"I am told I need to go to sleep school to learn how to sleep...Learning how to sleep 6, 8 or 10 hours, play Tennis, I don't know how it's going to be but I know it is going to be fun," she said.

Nooyi, who has long advocated the need for finding solutions to help women strike a work-life balance, recalled her experience of how she incorporated the "Asian model" in her life to manage her career and bring up her daughters.

She also emphasised that this model needed to be "imported" to the west.

"I imported a quintessential Asian model to my life," she said.

Nooyi and her husband did not want to leave their kids with a day care worker and turned to their families in India for help, asking parents, in-laws, aunts and uncles, grandparents to stay with them in the US for 3 to 4 months to help supervise their children.

"We need to import that Asian model here. We need to have more multi-generational families living together. We need to have the older generation helping the young people supervise day-care facilities," she said.

Nooyi said there was a need to build communities where the older people and younger people can live together, enabling kids to learn the value of respect and wisdom.

"We need solutions to address the issue of work-life balance and co-opting the entire family is part of this solution," she said. 
Given that in the west the focus has been too much on the nuclear family, Nooyi said people have forgotten that the definition of family is much broader than the nuclear family.

"If we don't provide support system for families, I don't know how we are going to do it. Traditional Asian values need to be revived - the joint family, coming together of communities has to happen," she said.

The 2018 Asia Game Changer Awards were given to individuals and institutions who have broken barriers, defined courage, worked miracles, and in turn inspired their fellow citizens of the world.

Sharing lessons learnt through her experiences, Nooyi said that her mother's advice to "leave the crown in the garage" holds true. 
"Do not bring it in. If your husband wants to bring his crown in, that's just fine. That's crown. But don't take your crown in," she said, adding that some people may "hate" her for making such a remark.

"If you want to stay married, if you want to be a daughter, wife, mother, unfortunately the crown stays in the car. That is the unfortunate rule number one. Somebody has got to play the role of getting everybody together," she said.

Nooyi led a group of other revolutionary women as Asia Society's Game Changers, including the Afghan Girls Robotics Team who has made waves at international robotics competitions and Mira Rai, a record-shattering runner from a small village in Nepal, who is also an inspiration for millions of girls and young women.

Other recipients of this year's awards are the Thai rescuers who saved a dozen teenage soccer players in a flooded cave, the Japanese first responders who risked their lives following the tsunami and nuclear disaster at Fukushima.

Raed Saleh and the Syrian White Helmets, a global champion for "green cities" Wang Shi of China, Australia-based Iraqi pioneering surgeon who has brought new hope for amputees Munjed Al Muderis and the founders of Koolulam from Israel a musical phenomenon that aims to bridge the most difficult ethnic and religious divides are other recipents of the award.&nbsp;

PepsiCo's India-born former CEO Indra Nooyi has said she would cause a third World War if she joins politics as she is "too outspoken". Asia Society, a non-profit organisation that focuses on educating the world about Asia, honoured 62-year-old Nooyi Tuesday with the 'Game Changer of the Year Award' in New York in recognition of her business achievements, humanitarian record and advocacy for women and girls around the world.

PepsiCo's India-born former CEO Indra Nooyi has said she would cause a third World War if she joins politics as she is "too outspoken". Asia Society, a non-profit organisation that focuses on educating the world about Asia, honoured 62-year-old Nooyi Tuesday with the 'Game Changer of the Year Award' in New York in recognition of her business achievements, humanitarian record and advocacy for women and girls around the world. Asked if she would like to join US President Donald Trump's Cabinet now that she has stepped down as Pepsi CEO, Nooyi said, "Me and politics don't mix at all. I am too outspoken, I am not diplomatic. I don't even know what diplomacy is. I would cause a third World War. Don't do it". Nooyi stepped down on October 2 as PepsiCo's CEO, after 12 years at the helm of the global beverage giant. PepsiCo's Board of Directors had in August announced that they unanimously elected Ramon Laguarta, 54, to succeed Nooyi as Chief Executive Officer. Nooyi will remain Chairman until early 2019 to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. After having worked 18 to 20 hours a day for the last 40 years, Nooyi said it was "liberating" to have a bit of free time. "When I stepped down, I thought that it was going to be tough. For 40 years, I have done nothing but wake up at 4 am and figured out how to rush to work and work 18-20 hours a day," she said during the interaction. Nooyi said a day after she stepped down, she realised that there was life beyond working. "I am still a PepsiCo at heart but I am learning to step aside and realise that there is life beyond PepsiCo," she said. Nooyi said she was looking forward to utilising her time writing and visiting as many countries as possible to talk about how to address issues of maintaining work-life balance. She also plans to pursue several extra-curricular activities that she enjoyed but had to squeeze time for from her previous packed schedule. "I am told I need to go to sleep school to learn how to sleep...Learning how to sleep 6, 8 or 10 hours, play Tennis, I don't know how it's going to be but I know it is going to be fun," she said. Nooyi, who has long advocated the need for finding solutions to help women strike a work-life balance, recalled her experience of how she incorporated the "Asian model" in her life to manage her career and bring up her daughters. She also emphasised that this model needed to be "imported" to the west. "I imported a quintessential Asian model to my life," she said. Nooyi and her husband did not want to leave their kids with a day care worker and turned to their families in India for help, asking parents, in-laws, aunts and uncles, grandparents to stay with them in the US for 3 to 4 months to help supervise their children. "We need to import that Asian model here. We need to have more multi-generational families living together. We need to have the older generation helping the young people supervise day-care facilities," she said. Nooyi said there was a need to build communities where the older people and younger people can live together, enabling kids to learn the value of respect and wisdom. "We need solutions to address the issue of work-life balance and co-opting the entire family is part of this solution," she said. Given that in the west the focus has been too much on the nuclear family, Nooyi said people have forgotten that the definition of family is much broader than the nuclear family. "If we don't provide support system for families, I don't know how we are going to do it. Traditional Asian values need to be revived - the joint family, coming together of communities has to happen," she said. The 2018 Asia Game Changer Awards were given to individuals and institutions who have broken barriers, defined courage, worked miracles, and in turn inspired their fellow citizens of the world. Sharing lessons learnt through her experiences, Nooyi said that her mother's advice to "leave the crown in the garage" holds true. "Do not bring it in. If your husband wants to bring his crown in, that's just fine. That's crown. But don't take your crown in," she said, adding that some people may "hate" her for making such a remark. "If you want to stay married, if you want to be a daughter, wife, mother, unfortunately the crown stays in the car. That is the unfortunate rule number one. Somebody has got to play the role of getting everybody together," she said. Nooyi led a group of other revolutionary women as Asia Society's Game Changers, including the Afghan Girls Robotics Team who has made waves at international robotics competitions and Mira Rai, a record-shattering runner from a small village in Nepal, who is also an inspiration for millions of girls and young women. Other recipients of this year's awards are the Thai rescuers who saved a dozen teenage soccer players in a flooded cave, the Japanese first responders who risked their lives following the tsunami and nuclear disaster at Fukushima. Raed Saleh and the Syrian White Helmets, a global champion for "green cities" Wang Shi of China, Australia-based Iraqi pioneering surgeon who has brought new hope for amputees Munjed Al Muderis and the founders of Koolulam from Israel a musical phenomenon that aims to bridge the most difficult ethnic and religious divides are other recipents of the award.

Will cause third World War if I join politics: Indra Nooyi

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said.

The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded a turnout of 57 per cent till 12 am, the officials said, quoting information from district elections offices.

"Brisk polling is going on and there was no report of any untoward incidents reported from anywhere," the officials said.

Ramban district is leading the voter turnout chart with 62.9 per cent, out of 5533 electorate, exercising their franchise followed by Reasi (60.8 per cent of 10204 voters), Kathua (59.4 per cent of 54,622 voters), Doda (57.8 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (55.9 per cent of 8830 voters) and Udhampur (59.4 per cent of 35,519 voters), they said.

The polling will seal the fate of 881 candidates for 214 wards, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region.

Long queues were witnessed outside the polling stations across all the districts since this morning to select their local representatives.

The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent.&nbsp;

The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20.

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said.

An estimated 57 per cent of over 1.28 lakh electorate Wednesday cast their votes in the first six hours of polling in the second phase of the four-phased urban local bodies elections in the region, officials said. The voting covering six districts of Kishtwar, Doda, Ramban, Reasi, Udhampur and Kathua recorded a turnout of 57 per cent till 12 am, the officials said, quoting information from district elections offices. "Brisk polling is going on and there was no report of any untoward incidents reported from anywhere," the officials said. Ramban district is leading the voter turnout chart with 62.9 per cent, out of 5533 electorate, exercising their franchise followed by Reasi (60.8 per cent of 10204 voters), Kathua (59.4 per cent of 54,622 voters), Doda (57.8 per cent of 13396 voters), Kishtwar (55.9 per cent of 8830 voters) and Udhampur (59.4 per cent of 35,519 voters), they said. The polling will seal the fate of 881 candidates for 214 wards, while four candidates have been elected unopposed in this phase in Jammu region. Long queues were witnessed outside the polling stations across all the districts since this morning to select their local representatives. The first phase of the polling was held on October 8 after a gap of 13 years and registered a voter turnout of 56.6 per cent. The third phase of the polling is scheduled for October 13 followed by fourth and final phase on October 16. The counting of votes will be held on October 20.

J&K local polls: Jammu records 57% voting till 12am

Bhilai Steel Plant CEO, two senior officials, have been suspended after Tuesday's blast that claimed 11 lives, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, a team of four doctors from AIIMS was despatched on Wednesday by the Centre to treat the patients who suffered burn injuries in an explosion at the Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) in Chhattisgarh, officials said.

The blast claimed 11 lives, wounding 14 others. The plant is owned by the government's Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) in Chhattisgarh's Durg district.

Of the 14 injured people admitted to the burns unit of the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital in Bhilai, two succumbed Tuesday late night, a public relations officer of the Bhilai Steel Plant told PTI.

"The two had received over 80 per cent burns," he said, adding that a few other injured people were also in a critical condition.

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GM Safety T Pandiaraja, DGM of Energy Department Naveen Kumar suspended, while COO has been removed. New appointment will be done today itself: Union Minister Birender Singh after pipeline blast in Bhilai Steel Plant yesterday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chhattisgarh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chhattisgarh</a> <a href="https://t.co/2aXeVCPsOX">pic.twitter.com/2aXeVCPsOX</a>
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The explosion had taken place in the gas pipeline connected to the coke oven section of the plant during a maintenance job, the SAIL had said.

Of the nine people who died on Tuesday, six worked in the plant's energy management department, while three were employees of its fire brigade unit, the official said.&nbsp;

Two employees, who were critically injured in an explosion at the Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) in Chhattisgarh, succumbed to injuries at a hospital, taking the death toll in the blast to 11, an official said Wednesday.

Union Minister of State for Steel Vishnudeo Sai had said Tuesday that a four-member high-level committee was constituted by SAIL to probe the incident. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Bhilai Steel Plant CEO, two senior officials, have been suspended after Tuesday's blast that claimed 11 lives, news agency PTI reported. According to reports, a team of four doctors from AIIMS was despatched on Wednesday by the Centre to treat the patients who suffered burn injuries in an explosion at the Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) in Chhattisgarh, officials said.

Bhilai Steel Plant CEO, two senior officials, have been suspended after Tuesday's blast that claimed 11 lives, news agency PTI reported. According to reports, a team of four doctors from AIIMS was despatched on Wednesday by the Centre to treat the patients who suffered burn injuries in an explosion at the Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) in Chhattisgarh, officials said. The blast claimed 11 lives, wounding 14 others. The plant is owned by the government's Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) in Chhattisgarh's Durg district. Of the 14 injured people admitted to the burns unit of the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital in Bhilai, two succumbed Tuesday late night, a public relations officer of the Bhilai Steel Plant told PTI. "The two had received over 80 per cent burns," he said, adding that a few other injured people were also in a critical condition. GM Safety T Pandiaraja, DGM of Energy Department Naveen Kumar suspended, while COO has been removed. New appointment will be done today itself: Union Minister Birender Singh after pipeline blast in Bhilai Steel Plant yesterday. #Chhattisgarh pic.twitter.com/2aXeVCPsOX — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × The explosion had taken place in the gas pipeline connected to the coke oven section of the plant during a maintenance job, the SAIL had said. Of the nine people who died on Tuesday, six worked in the plant's energy management department, while three were employees of its fire brigade unit, the official said. Two employees, who were critically injured in an explosion at the Bhilai Steel Plant (BSP) in Chhattisgarh, succumbed to injuries at a hospital, taking the death toll in the blast to 11, an official said Wednesday. Union Minister of State for Steel Vishnudeo Sai had said Tuesday that a four-member high-level committee was constituted by SAIL to probe the incident. (With inputs from PTI)

Bhilai Steel Plant blast: CEO, 2 senior officials suspended 

Cyclone 'Titli' over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Wednesday and is moving towards the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast, triggering rainfall in several parts of Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

The cyclonic storm is likely to make a landfall between Gopalpur in Odisha and Kalingapatanam in Andhra Pradesh early Thursday morning at a wind speed of 145 kmph, it said.

"Titli moved with a speed of about 10 kmph and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and lay centred over west-central Bay of Bengal, about 370 km south-southeast of Gopalpur in Odisha," the IMD said in a bulletin.

It is very likely to intensify further into a very severe cyclonic storm during the next 18 hours. The storm is likely to move north-northwestwards and cross Odisha and adjoining north Andhra Pradesh coast between Gopalpur and Kalingapatnam around Thursday morning, it said.

Thereafter, it is likely to re-curve northeastward, move towards Gangetic West Bengal across Odisha and weaken gradually, said Director of the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, H R Biswas told PTI.

While some areas in coastal Odisha recorded rainfall Wednesday, the IMD has forecast "heavy to very heavy rainfall" at several places and "extremely heavy rainfall" at isolated areas till Thursday under the impact of the severe cyclonic storm.

The districts like Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Khurda, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak and Balasore are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall till Thursday, the IMD said.

It also forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall for Kandhamal, Boudh and Dhenkanal district from Thursday.

The IMD said rainfall would be accompanied by gale wind speed reaching 60-70 kmph and gusting to 80 kmph along and off Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh coasts.

The wind speed will gradually increase to 120-130 kmph and gusting to 145 kmph from Wednesday night along and off south Odisha coast and 70-80 kmph gusting to 95 kmph along and off north the Odisha coast, the IMD bulletin said.

The sea condition is very high over the west-central Bay of Bengal. It is very likely to be phenomenal over the west-central and the adjoining north Bay of Bengal and along and off the south Odisha coast till Thursday, it said.

Storm surge of height of about 1 metre above astronomical tide is very likely to inundate low lying areas of Ganjam, Khurda and Puri districts, it said. 
The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operations and shifting of coastal hutment dwellers to safe places. Fishermen along the Odisha coast, and central and north Bay of Bengal were advised not to venture into sea till Friday.

In view of the adverse weather conditions, it has advised hoisting of local warning signal LW-4 at all ports of Odisha.

The Odisha government was also cautioned about the possible floods in view of the heavy rainfall across the state.

The state government has already issued high alert in all districts, particularly those in the coastal region, to face the ensuing situation. The government geared up to face the situation setting a target of "zero casualty".

The district collectors have been asked to remain alert and make necessary arrangements to shift people living in low-lying areas, the officials said.

The state government has ordered closure of schools, colleges and anganwadi centres in Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri and Jagtsinghpur districts from Wednesday. 
Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said steps have been taken for shifting people in vulnerable and low-lying areas to multi-purpose shelters.

Around 300 motor boats have been arranged to assist in rescue operation as there is a likelihood of flood situation due to possibility of heavy rains till October 11.

All the 879 cyclone and flood shelters have also been kept in a state of preparedness, he said.

The state has put the districts on high alert and asked the authorities to evacuate those living in low-lying areas and in 'kutchha' houses along the coast. 
Chief Secretary A P Padhi said the cyclone was likely to make a landfall early on Thursday morning

"Zero casualty is part of the state government's disaster management policy. Stocking of food and shifting of people to cyclone shelters are also included in the policy," Padhi said.

Sethi said teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Orissa Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) along with Fire Service personnel have been sent to various districts.&nbsp;

Cyclone 'Titli' over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Wednesday and is moving towards the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast, triggering rainfall in several parts of Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

Cyclone 'Titli' over the Bay of Bengal intensified into a severe cyclonic storm Wednesday and is moving towards the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast, triggering rainfall in several parts of Odisha, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. The cyclonic storm is likely to make a landfall between Gopalpur in Odisha and Kalingapatanam in Andhra Pradesh early Thursday morning at a wind speed of 145 kmph, it said. "Titli moved with a speed of about 10 kmph and intensified into a severe cyclonic storm and lay centred over west-central Bay of Bengal, about 370 km south-southeast of Gopalpur in Odisha," the IMD said in a bulletin. It is very likely to intensify further into a very severe cyclonic storm during the next 18 hours. The storm is likely to move north-northwestwards and cross Odisha and adjoining north Andhra Pradesh coast between Gopalpur and Kalingapatnam around Thursday morning, it said. Thereafter, it is likely to re-curve northeastward, move towards Gangetic West Bengal across Odisha and weaken gradually, said Director of the Meteorological Centre in Bhubaneswar, H R Biswas told PTI. While some areas in coastal Odisha recorded rainfall Wednesday, the IMD has forecast "heavy to very heavy rainfall" at several places and "extremely heavy rainfall" at isolated areas till Thursday under the impact of the severe cyclonic storm. The districts like Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Khurda, Nayagarh, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak and Balasore are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall till Thursday, the IMD said. It also forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall for Kandhamal, Boudh and Dhenkanal district from Thursday. The IMD said rainfall would be accompanied by gale wind speed reaching 60-70 kmph and gusting to 80 kmph along and off Odisha and north Andhra Pradesh coasts. The wind speed will gradually increase to 120-130 kmph and gusting to 145 kmph from Wednesday night along and off south Odisha coast and 70-80 kmph gusting to 95 kmph along and off north the Odisha coast, the IMD bulletin said. The sea condition is very high over the west-central Bay of Bengal. It is very likely to be phenomenal over the west-central and the adjoining north Bay of Bengal and along and off the south Odisha coast till Thursday, it said. Storm surge of height of about 1 metre above astronomical tide is very likely to inundate low lying areas of Ganjam, Khurda and Puri districts, it said. The IMD advised total suspension of fishing operations and shifting of coastal hutment dwellers to safe places. Fishermen along the Odisha coast, and central and north Bay of Bengal were advised not to venture into sea till Friday. In view of the adverse weather conditions, it has advised hoisting of local warning signal LW-4 at all ports of Odisha. The Odisha government was also cautioned about the possible floods in view of the heavy rainfall across the state. The state government has already issued high alert in all districts, particularly those in the coastal region, to face the ensuing situation. The government geared up to face the situation setting a target of "zero casualty". The district collectors have been asked to remain alert and make necessary arrangements to shift people living in low-lying areas, the officials said. The state government has ordered closure of schools, colleges and anganwadi centres in Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri and Jagtsinghpur districts from Wednesday. Special Relief Commissioner (SRC) B P Sethi said steps have been taken for shifting people in vulnerable and low-lying areas to multi-purpose shelters. Around 300 motor boats have been arranged to assist in rescue operation as there is a likelihood of flood situation due to possibility of heavy rains till October 11. All the 879 cyclone and flood shelters have also been kept in a state of preparedness, he said. The state has put the districts on high alert and asked the authorities to evacuate those living in low-lying areas and in 'kutchha' houses along the coast. Chief Secretary A P Padhi said the cyclone was likely to make a landfall early on Thursday morning "Zero casualty is part of the state government's disaster management policy. Stocking of food and shifting of people to cyclone shelters are also included in the policy," Padhi said. Sethi said teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Orissa Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) along with Fire Service personnel have been sent to various districts.

Severe cyclonic storm 'Titli' to hit Odisha-Andhra Pradesh coast tomorrow at wind speed of 145 kmph

Congress President Rahul Gandhi will meet Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) employees in Bengaluru on October 13, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India on Wednesday asked the Central government for <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-supreme-court-asks-govt-for-details-of-decision-making-process-170590">details of the decision-making process in the Rafale deal</a>.&nbsp;

According to reports, the top court asked for the details in a sealed cover, while clarifying that it did not want information on the deal's pricing and technical details. &nbsp;

The opposition has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of corruption in the Rafale deal. &nbsp;

The opposition — led by Congress president Rahul Gandhi — says the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for every Rafale. The opposition has also accused the government of crony capitalism.&nbsp;

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Congress President Rahul Gandhi to meet HAL employees in Bengaluru on 13 October. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karnataka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karnataka</a> <a href="https://t.co/h4pcPQyFi8">pic.twitter.com/h4pcPQyFi8</a>
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The original Indian partner in the Rafale deal was the public sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd). But HAL was turfed out of the new deal, in favour of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence which has little to no experience in the defence and aerospace industries.&nbsp;

The government had earlier said it was Dassault which chose Reliance and they had nothing to do with it but Hollande, while on a trip to India, recently said it was the Indian government which had suggested Reliance's name.&nbsp;

The Supreme court was on Wednesday hearing various petitions against the Rafale deal. The petitions seek directions from the top court, including asking the Centre to reveal details of the Rafale deal and the comparative prices of the deals brokered by the UPA and the NDA governments.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Congress President Rahul Gandhi will meet Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) employees in Bengaluru on October 13, news agency ANI reported. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India on Wednesday asked the Central government for details of the decision-making process in the Rafale deal.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi will meet Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) employees in Bengaluru on October 13, news agency ANI reported. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of India on Wednesday asked the Central government for details of the decision-making process in the Rafale deal. According to reports, the top court asked for the details in a sealed cover, while clarifying that it did not want information on the deal's pricing and technical details. The opposition has accused the Narendra Modi-led government of corruption in the Rafale deal. The opposition — led by Congress president Rahul Gandhi — says the NDA government is paying three times as much as the UPA government had agreed to pay for every Rafale. The opposition has also accused the government of crony capitalism. Congress President Rahul Gandhi to meet HAL employees in Bengaluru on 13 October. #Karnataka pic.twitter.com/h4pcPQyFi8 — ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2018 × The original Indian partner in the Rafale deal was the public sector HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd). But HAL was turfed out of the new deal, in favour of Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence which has little to no experience in the defence and aerospace industries. The government had earlier said it was Dassault which chose Reliance and they had nothing to do with it but Hollande, while on a trip to India, recently said it was the Indian government which had suggested Reliance's name. The Supreme court was on Wednesday hearing various petitions against the Rafale deal. The petitions seek directions from the top court, including asking the Centre to reveal details of the Rafale deal and the comparative prices of the deals brokered by the UPA and the NDA governments. (With inputs from PTI)

Rafale deal: Rahul Gandhi to meet HAL employees on October 13

The Chinese embassy in New Delhi has issued a statement calling for both countries to "deepen their cooperation to fight trade protectionism".&nbsp;

The statement says practicing unilateral trade protectionism in the name of “national security” and “fair trade” will not only affect China’s economic development, but also undermine the external environment of India and hinder India’s booming economy".&nbsp;

The statement comes at a time when <a href="http://www.wionews.com/americas/imf-cuts-chinas-growth-rate-on-negative-effect-of-tariff-actions-170439">China and US are engaged in a full-blown trade </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/americas/imf-cuts-chinas-growth-rate-on-negative-effect-of-tariff-actions-170439">war</a>&nbsp;with both the economic giants imposing tariffs on each others products.&nbsp;

It is interesting to note that the statement was issued two days after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited China and met Jang Jiechi, member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

The statement from the Chinese embassy futher said that "facing unilateralism and bullying activities", China and India have greater reason to join "efforts to build a more just and reasonable international order". &nbsp;

India and China have been trying to engage with each other in a more positive manner of late and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jingping have met three times in the last few months — at the famous Wuhan informal summit, at the SCO meet, and finally the BRICS summit in Johannesburg.&nbsp;

They are likely to meet again on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina.&nbsp;

The two sides jointly published the “Qingdao Declaration” and the 10th BRICS Summit Johannesburg declaration, sending out a clear message against protectionism.&nbsp;

The Chinese embassy statement lashed out at the US.&nbsp;

Calling US Vice-President Mike Pence’s statements "groundless accusations", the statement said "US should view and understand China's development in a right way and immediately stop its misguided comments and actions which harm China’s core interest. China is unswervingly pressing ahead with comprehensively deepening reform and opening wider to the outside world."

"China has initiated an unprecedented effort to influence American public opinion, the 2018 elections, and the environment leading into the 2020 presidential elections," Pence had said. US President Donald Trump had said the same thing at the United Nations Security Council in September.&nbsp;

The Chinese embassy in New Delhi has issued a statement calling for both countries to "deepen their cooperation to fight trade protectionism". The statement says practicing unilateral trade protectionism in the name of “national security” and “fair trade” will not only affect China’s economic development, but also undermine the external environment of India and hinder India’s booming economy".

The Chinese embassy in New Delhi has issued a statement calling for both countries to "deepen their cooperation to fight trade protectionism". The statement says practicing unilateral trade protectionism in the name of “national security” and “fair trade” will not only affect China’s economic development, but also undermine the external environment of India and hinder India’s booming economy". The statement comes at a time when China and US are engaged in a full-blown trade war with both the economic giants imposing tariffs on each others products. It is interesting to note that the statement was issued two days after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visited China and met Jang Jiechi, member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The statement from the Chinese embassy futher said that "facing unilateralism and bullying activities", China and India have greater reason to join "efforts to build a more just and reasonable international order". India and China have been trying to engage with each other in a more positive manner of late and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jingping have met three times in the last few months — at the famous Wuhan informal summit, at the SCO meet, and finally the BRICS summit in Johannesburg. They are likely to meet again on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina. The two sides jointly published the “Qingdao Declaration” and the 10th BRICS Summit Johannesburg declaration, sending out a clear message against protectionism. The Chinese embassy statement lashed out at the US. Calling US Vice-President Mike Pence’s statements "groundless accusations", the statement said "US should view and understand China's development in a right way and immediately stop its misguided comments and actions which harm China’s core interest. China is unswervingly pressing ahead with comprehensively deepening reform and opening wider to the outside world." "China has initiated an unprecedented effort to influence American public opinion, the 2018 elections, and the environment leading into the 2020 presidential elections," Pence had said. US President Donald Trump had said the same thing at the United Nations Security Council in September.

India, China should build more 'reasonable international order': Chinese Embassy

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani Monday appealed to people not to engage in violence, even as a north Indian outfit claimed over 20,000 Hindi-speaking migrants fled the state in the last one week after a spate of attacks following a rape incident.

Rupani claimed that no untoward incident had taken place during the last 48 hours, while state Home Minister Pradeepsinh Jadeja said additional forces have been deployed in industrial areas for the security of migrants.

Since the alleged rape of a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district on September 28, six districts, most of them in north Gujarat, have seen sporadic incidents of violence against Hindi-speaking people, police had said.

The government said more than 400 people have been arrested in connection with the violence which started after a migrant worker from Bihar was nabbed in the rape case.

The exodus

Uttar Bharatiya Vikas Parishad president Mahesh Singh Kushwah claimed that over 20,000 people belonging to Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar had already fled Gujarat due to the prevailing situation.

"Over 20,000 migrants from these states have fled due to fear as Hindi-speaking people are being attacked in different parts of the state. All non-Gujaratis should not be seen as culprits for the misdeeds of one person," he said.

Rupani said the situation has been brought under control by police.

"We are committed to maintaining law and order, and people can call police in case of trouble. We will provide them security," Rupani said in Rajkot.

Minister of State for Home Jadeja, at a press conference Monday in Gandhinagar, said the Centre had been apprised of the steps taken by the Gujarat government to bring the situation under control. He said 431 people have been arrested and 56 FIRs registered in connection with the attacks on Hindi- speaking people.

Political blame-game

Without naming opposition Congress, Jadeja said efforts were underway to find out whether "it is a conspiracy by those who are out of power in Gujarat since the last 22 years".

"The attack on migrant workers is highly condemnable. The chief minister has instructed us to take all necessary steps to stop the attacks.&nbsp;

"I also appeal people not to be misled by those who are inciting people for their political gains," Jadeja said.

While police have arrested several members of the Thakor Sena in connection with the attacks and also mentioned the outfit's name in some of the FIRs, its president and Congress MLA Alpesh Thakor alleged that youth from the community were being falsely implicated.

Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Monday defended party MLA Alpesh Thakor after members of an outfit which he leads were arrested in connection with the attacks on Hindi-speaking migrants in Gujarat and alleged that the BJP government was trying to politicise the issue.

"Alpesh Thakor has clearly denied his role in these attacks on migrant workers," said Patel.

Meanwhile, a political dimension to the attacks was also injected with a leader of the JD(U), which is headed by Nitish Kumar, dashing off a two-page open letter to Congress president Rahul Gandhi, blaming his party for the violence against Biharis.

"You appointed your Gujarat MLA Alpesh Thakor as one of the national secretaries in-charge of Bihar and his outfit Gujarat Kshatriya Thakor Sena is driving out migrant Biharis," Neeraj Kumar, JD(U) MLC and spokesman, alleged.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the Gujarat chief minister told him that his government has ensured the safety of all and that are all welcome.

Rupani also informed there had not been any incident since the past three days and he has also appealed to people against paying any heed to rumours, Adityanath told reporters in Lucknow.

Adityanath said Gujarat is a peace-loving state and a model of development and that those do not want development spread rumours.

"Some North Indians living there had called me and I have told them also not to pay heed to the rumours.," he said.

50% migrant workers not reporting to work&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has urged Chief Minister Vijay Rupani to step in to restore peace in the state. GCCI president Jaimin Vasa claimed that 50 per cent of migrant labourers had stopped coming to work at factories in many industrial estates in Gujarat.

According to G K Patel, president of Dediasan industrial estate in Mehsana, around 1,000 migrant workers have gone back to their native states.

"There are around 400 factories in this estate. These factories employ around 2,000 migrant workers. Out of these, some 1,000 have left work and have gone back to their native places" claimed Patel.

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani Monday appealed to people not to engage in violence, even as a north Indian outfit claimed over 20,000 Hindi-speaking migrants fled the state in the last one week after a spate of attacks following a rape incident.

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani Monday appealed to people not to engage in violence, even as a north Indian outfit claimed over 20,000 Hindi-speaking migrants fled the state in the last one week after a spate of attacks following a rape incident. Rupani claimed that no untoward incident had taken place during the last 48 hours, while state Home Minister Pradeepsinh Jadeja said additional forces have been deployed in industrial areas for the security of migrants. Since the alleged rape of a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district on September 28, six districts, most of them in north Gujarat, have seen sporadic incidents of violence against Hindi-speaking people, police had said. The government said more than 400 people have been arrested in connection with the violence which started after a migrant worker from Bihar was nabbed in the rape case. The exodus Uttar Bharatiya Vikas Parishad president Mahesh Singh Kushwah claimed that over 20,000 people belonging to Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Bihar had already fled Gujarat due to the prevailing situation. "Over 20,000 migrants from these states have fled due to fear as Hindi-speaking people are being attacked in different parts of the state. All non-Gujaratis should not be seen as culprits for the misdeeds of one person," he said. Rupani said the situation has been brought under control by police. "We are committed to maintaining law and order, and people can call police in case of trouble. We will provide them security," Rupani said in Rajkot. Minister of State for Home Jadeja, at a press conference Monday in Gandhinagar, said the Centre had been apprised of the steps taken by the Gujarat government to bring the situation under control. He said 431 people have been arrested and 56 FIRs registered in connection with the attacks on Hindi- speaking people. Political blame-game Without naming opposition Congress, Jadeja said efforts were underway to find out whether "it is a conspiracy by those who are out of power in Gujarat since the last 22 years". "The attack on migrant workers is highly condemnable. The chief minister has instructed us to take all necessary steps to stop the attacks. "I also appeal people not to be misled by those who are inciting people for their political gains," Jadeja said. While police have arrested several members of the Thakor Sena in connection with the attacks and also mentioned the outfit's name in some of the FIRs, its president and Congress MLA Alpesh Thakor alleged that youth from the community were being falsely implicated. Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel on Monday defended party MLA Alpesh Thakor after members of an outfit which he leads were arrested in connection with the attacks on Hindi-speaking migrants in Gujarat and alleged that the BJP government was trying to politicise the issue. "Alpesh Thakor has clearly denied his role in these attacks on migrant workers," said Patel. Meanwhile, a political dimension to the attacks was also injected with a leader of the JD(U), which is headed by Nitish Kumar, dashing off a two-page open letter to Congress president Rahul Gandhi, blaming his party for the violence against Biharis. "You appointed your Gujarat MLA Alpesh Thakor as one of the national secretaries in-charge of Bihar and his outfit Gujarat Kshatriya Thakor Sena is driving out migrant Biharis," Neeraj Kumar, JD(U) MLC and spokesman, alleged. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the Gujarat chief minister told him that his government has ensured the safety of all and that are all welcome. Rupani also informed there had not been any incident since the past three days and he has also appealed to people against paying any heed to rumours, Adityanath told reporters in Lucknow. Adityanath said Gujarat is a peace-loving state and a model of development and that those do not want development spread rumours. "Some North Indians living there had called me and I have told them also not to pay heed to the rumours.," he said. 50% migrant workers not reporting to work Meanwhile, the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has urged Chief Minister Vijay Rupani to step in to restore peace in the state. GCCI president Jaimin Vasa claimed that 50 per cent of migrant labourers had stopped coming to work at factories in many industrial estates in Gujarat. According to G K Patel, president of Dediasan industrial estate in Mehsana, around 1,000 migrant workers have gone back to their native states. "There are around 400 factories in this estate. These factories employ around 2,000 migrant workers. Out of these, some 1,000 have left work and have gone back to their native places" claimed Patel.

Attacks on outsiders: Gujarat factories say 50% migrant staff not reporting to work

The Supreme Court bench, headed by newly-appointed CJI Ranjan Gogoi, on Tuesday, refused urgent hearing on a review petition challenging the top court's verdict on the Sabarimala temple issue, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, the apex court noted, "review petitions to come up for hearing in due course."

National Ayyappa Devotee association on Monday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-verdict-national-ayyappa-devotee-association-challenges-scs-order-files-review-petition-170172">filed a review petition in the Supreme Court</a> challenging its verdict to allow entry of women into the Ayyappa temple in Kerala, news agency ANI reported.

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Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing on a review petition filed against the verdict allowing entry of women of all ages in Kerala's Sabarimala temple. Supreme Court says, 'review petitions to come up for hearing in due course.' <a href="https://t.co/PuHTc2abkh">pic.twitter.com/PuHTc2abkh</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049531972480114688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The plea, filed by Shylaja Vijayan, president of National Ayyappa Devotees Association, said the September 28 judgment which had allowed entry of women of all ages in the hill-top shrine is "absolutely untenable and irrational, if not perverse".

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Supreme Court verdict over women's entry in Kerala's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SabarimalaTemple?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SabarimalaTemple</a>: National Ayyappa Devotee association files a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging the earlier verdict of the Court.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049170626546556928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Women of menstruating age, ageing 10 and 50, were barred from entering the Sabarimala Temple by its officials, who argued that the temple deity, Lord Ayyappa, had taken a vow of celibacy.

On September 28, a five-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra ruled that banning women's entry into the temple is gender discrimination and violates the rights of Hindu women.

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RSS is trying to create a law and order situation in the state taking advantage of this verdict. Government is bound to implement the Supreme Court verdict: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on Sabarimala Temple verdict <a href="https://t.co/XCGvvj1szX">pic.twitter.com/XCGvvj1szX</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049200041452290050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday stated that "the RSS is trying to create a law and order situation in the state taking advantage of this verdict. Government is bound to implement the Supreme Court verdict: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on Sabarimala Temple verdict."

The Supreme Court bench, headed by newly-appointed CJI Ranjan Gogoi, on Tuesday, refused urgent hearing on a review petition challenging the top court's verdict on the Sabarimala temple issue, news agency ANI reported.

The Supreme Court bench, headed by newly-appointed CJI Ranjan Gogoi, on Tuesday, refused urgent hearing on a review petition challenging the top court's verdict on the Sabarimala temple issue, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the apex court noted, "review petitions to come up for hearing in due course." National Ayyappa Devotee association on Monday filed a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging its verdict to allow entry of women into the Ayyappa temple in Kerala, news agency ANI reported. Supreme Court refuses urgent hearing on a review petition filed against the verdict allowing entry of women of all ages in Kerala's Sabarimala temple. Supreme Court says, 'review petitions to come up for hearing in due course.' pic.twitter.com/PuHTc2abkh — ANI (@ANI) October 9, 2018 × The plea, filed by Shylaja Vijayan, president of National Ayyappa Devotees Association, said the September 28 judgment which had allowed entry of women of all ages in the hill-top shrine is "absolutely untenable and irrational, if not perverse". Supreme Court verdict over women's entry in Kerala's #SabarimalaTemple: National Ayyappa Devotee association files a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging the earlier verdict of the Court. — ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2018 × Women of menstruating age, ageing 10 and 50, were barred from entering the Sabarimala Temple by its officials, who argued that the temple deity, Lord Ayyappa, had taken a vow of celibacy. On September 28, a five-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra ruled that banning women's entry into the temple is gender discrimination and violates the rights of Hindu women. RSS is trying to create a law and order situation in the state taking advantage of this verdict. Government is bound to implement the Supreme Court verdict: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on Sabarimala Temple verdict pic.twitter.com/XCGvvj1szX — ANI (@ANI) October 8, 2018 × Meanwhile, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday stated that "the RSS is trying to create a law and order situation in the state taking advantage of this verdict. Government is bound to implement the Supreme Court verdict: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan on Sabarimala Temple verdict."

Supreme Court refuses to hear plea challenging Sabarimala verdict

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) said today Cyclone Titli was gaining strength in Bay of Bengal as the Odisha government braced for the situation promising "zero casualties".

Odisha has&nbsp;asked people in low-lying areas to evacuate. The cyclone is likely to intensify into a severe storm during the next 24 hours in West Bengal, the Met department warned.&nbsp;

The IMD has forecast wind speed to be 100 to 110 kmph with gusts upto 125 kmph. The IMD&nbsp;also mentioned that the Cyclone Titli will further intensify into a severe cyclonic storm on Wednesday.

"Zero casualty is part of the state government's disaster management policy. Stocking of food and shifting of people to cyclone shelters are also included in the policy," Chief Secretary A P Padhi said.

The Meteorological department has sounded a red alert in Odisha forecasting "heavy to very heavy rainfall" to "extremely heavy rainfall" in the state.

The Odisha government has declared schools and colleges to be closed from Wednesday in Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri and Jagtsinghpur.

The storm is likely to cross Odisha and adjoining north Andhra Pradesh coasts between Gopalpur and Kalingapatnam around morning of October 11. The cyclone is likely to make landfall in Odisha early on Thursday morning.

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) said today Cyclone Titli was gaining strength in Bay of Bengal as the Odisha government braced for the situation promising "zero casualties".

India's Meteorological Department(IMD) said today Cyclone Titli was gaining strength in Bay of Bengal as the Odisha government braced for the situation promising "zero casualties". Odisha has asked people in low-lying areas to evacuate. The cyclone is likely to intensify into a severe storm during the next 24 hours in West Bengal, the Met department warned. The IMD has forecast wind speed to be 100 to 110 kmph with gusts upto 125 kmph. The IMD also mentioned that the Cyclone Titli will further intensify into a severe cyclonic storm on Wednesday. "Zero casualty is part of the state government's disaster management policy. Stocking of food and shifting of people to cyclone shelters are also included in the policy," Chief Secretary A P Padhi said. The Meteorological department has sounded a red alert in Odisha forecasting "heavy to very heavy rainfall" to "extremely heavy rainfall" in the state. The Odisha government has declared schools and colleges to be closed from Wednesday in Gajapati, Ganjam, Puri and Jagtsinghpur. The storm is likely to cross Odisha and adjoining north Andhra Pradesh coasts between Gopalpur and Kalingapatnam around morning of October 11. The cyclone is likely to make landfall in Odisha early on Thursday morning.

Meteorological department sounds red alert in Odisha over Cyclone Titli

Me Too movement gathers pace in India

Speaking on the issue of the alleged attacks on people hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that he was informed by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani that no such incident has taken place in three past three days and that people are spreading rumours in this regard.

He told ANI, "Gujarat Chief Minister has clearly told me that no such incident has taken place in last three days. People who are envious of development in Gujarat are spreading such rumours. Effective steps have been taken by the Gujarat government."

Non-Gujaratis, especially those hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were allegedly attacked recently after a native of Bihar was arrested for allegedly raping a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district recently.

Meanwhile, Rupani appealed to people to maintain peace in the state and said, "The situation is under control in Gujarat. I appeal to people to maintain peace and brotherhood. The culprit of the rape case was arrested within 24 hours. We will ensure severe punishment for the culprit."

Speaking on the matter, Deputy Superintendent of Police of Vadodara, Haresh Mewada said, "Labourers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar working in Param Industries and one another company were attacked after a message got viral, which said 'because of migrant workers, state people do not get work. So, make them move out of the state'."

He further said that 13 people have been arrested in this regard. "On the basis of an FIR filed by the injured, a case has been registered. Four juvenile accused has been detained while 13 accused have been arrested."

Speaking on the issue of the alleged attacks on people hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that he was informed by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani that no such incident has taken place in three past three days and that people are spreading rumours in this regard.

Speaking on the issue of the alleged attacks on people hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that he was informed by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani that no such incident has taken place in three past three days and that people are spreading rumours in this regard. He told ANI, "Gujarat Chief Minister has clearly told me that no such incident has taken place in last three days. People who are envious of development in Gujarat are spreading such rumours. Effective steps have been taken by the Gujarat government." Non-Gujaratis, especially those hailing from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were allegedly attacked recently after a native of Bihar was arrested for allegedly raping a 14-month-old girl in Sabarkantha district recently. Meanwhile, Rupani appealed to people to maintain peace in the state and said, "The situation is under control in Gujarat. I appeal to people to maintain peace and brotherhood. The culprit of the rape case was arrested within 24 hours. We will ensure severe punishment for the culprit." Speaking on the matter, Deputy Superintendent of Police of Vadodara, Haresh Mewada said, "Labourers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar working in Param Industries and one another company were attacked after a message got viral, which said 'because of migrant workers, state people do not get work. So, make them move out of the state'." He further said that 13 people have been arrested in this regard. "On the basis of an FIR filed by the injured, a case has been registered. Four juvenile accused has been detained while 13 accused have been arrested."

No attack on UP, Bihar people: Rupani assures Adityanath

Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan said that despite the sanctions imposed by the United States, Indian companies have made nominations to purchase oil from Iran.

Delivering the opening remarks at the inaugural conference of The Energy Forum here on Monday, Pradhan said: "Two days ago, two of our companies made nominations to purchase Iranian oil in November. We do not know if we will get a waiver (from US sanctions) or not. Isn't it new diplomatic power and recognition of the new leadership of India?"

Stressing on the need to lower carbon footprint and enhance self-sufficiency in terms of energy, Pradhan noted that the Centre is focusing on achieving a significant reduction in the import of carbon molecules.

"Energy is an important component for any economy. India, being the third largest energy consumer in the world, imports nearly 300MMT of carbon molecules every year. Our challenge is to lower this import volume, enhance self-sufficiency and lower our carbon footprints," he said.

Emphasising on the Centre's efforts to expand India's gas-pipeline network, he added, "We aim to expand India's gas-pipeline network to nearly more than half of the country and are pushing to establish India as a gas-based economy, with domestic as well as foreign investments and also enhancing exploration and production activities to augment our own hydrocarbon production capacities."

Asserting that 'when the bottom of the pyramid is transformed, the characteristic of the country is transformed'&nbsp;he underlined the positive impact of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana on the lives of women.

"I interacted with a large number of beneficiaries of Ujjawala Yojana a few days back. All of them unanimously said that previously they had to spend around Rs. 1000 to 1200 to purchase wood, coal and other items for cooking. Today, they buy gas cylinders at a maximum cost of Rs 900, out of which Rs 400-450 is returned in the form of subsidy, and hence, the effective expenditure is only about Rs 500. They also said that many of their eye issues were resolved because of the same and they were getting more time to rest now."

The conference aims at analysing the global energy industry and overcoming challenges to address India's energy security. Other significant issues such as import reduction, sustainability, and reduction of CO2 footprints were also tabled for discussion at the conference.&nbsp;

Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan said that despite the sanctions imposed by the United States, Indian companies have made nominations to purchase oil from Iran.

Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan said that despite the sanctions imposed by the United States, Indian companies have made nominations to purchase oil from Iran. Delivering the opening remarks at the inaugural conference of The Energy Forum here on Monday, Pradhan said: "Two days ago, two of our companies made nominations to purchase Iranian oil in November. We do not know if we will get a waiver (from US sanctions) or not. Isn't it new diplomatic power and recognition of the new leadership of India?" Stressing on the need to lower carbon footprint and enhance self-sufficiency in terms of energy, Pradhan noted that the Centre is focusing on achieving a significant reduction in the import of carbon molecules. "Energy is an important component for any economy. India, being the third largest energy consumer in the world, imports nearly 300MMT of carbon molecules every year. Our challenge is to lower this import volume, enhance self-sufficiency and lower our carbon footprints," he said. Emphasising on the Centre's efforts to expand India's gas-pipeline network, he added, "We aim to expand India's gas-pipeline network to nearly more than half of the country and are pushing to establish India as a gas-based economy, with domestic as well as foreign investments and also enhancing exploration and production activities to augment our own hydrocarbon production capacities." Asserting that 'when the bottom of the pyramid is transformed, the characteristic of the country is transformed' he underlined the positive impact of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana on the lives of women. "I interacted with a large number of beneficiaries of Ujjawala Yojana a few days back. All of them unanimously said that previously they had to spend around Rs. 1000 to 1200 to purchase wood, coal and other items for cooking. Today, they buy gas cylinders at a maximum cost of Rs 900, out of which Rs 400-450 is returned in the form of subsidy, and hence, the effective expenditure is only about Rs 500. They also said that many of their eye issues were resolved because of the same and they were getting more time to rest now." The conference aims at analysing the global energy industry and overcoming challenges to address India's energy security. Other significant issues such as import reduction, sustainability, and reduction of CO2 footprints were also tabled for discussion at the conference.

Recognition of new leadership of India: Pradhan on India buying oil from Iran

A total of 200 talukas in the state of Maharashtra have been identified as scarcity-like conditions, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters after chairing an emergency ministerial meeting on the issue, Fadnavis said that the state ministers were apprised of the prevailing conditions and were also asked to submit a report to him on this issue.

"The main focus is how to tackle the drought-hit talukas in the state. One of the main reasons behind the drought is the low rainfall which has been recorded just 77 per cent, less than the average-mark in the state. We are following the drought manual given by the Centre and that has helped us in planning everything well in advance," he said.

The Chief Minister further said that a Central team will soon be visiting to these talukas to review the situation.

"Be it water-scarcity issues or crop damages, I have instructed the ministers to make a detailed plan after they visit the drought-hit talukas.&nbsp;

This not only helps in understanding the situation but allows to counter-check. Above all, we are well prepared to control the situation that has come before us," Fadnavis added.&nbsp;

A total of 200 talukas in the state of Maharashtra have been identified as scarcity-like conditions, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters after chairing an emergency ministerial meeting on the issue, Fadnavis said that the state ministers were apprised of the prevailing conditions and were also asked to submit a report to him on this issue.

A total of 200 talukas in the state of Maharashtra have been identified as scarcity-like conditions, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters after chairing an emergency ministerial meeting on the issue, Fadnavis said that the state ministers were apprised of the prevailing conditions and were also asked to submit a report to him on this issue. "The main focus is how to tackle the drought-hit talukas in the state. One of the main reasons behind the drought is the low rainfall which has been recorded just 77 per cent, less than the average-mark in the state. We are following the drought manual given by the Centre and that has helped us in planning everything well in advance," he said. The Chief Minister further said that a Central team will soon be visiting to these talukas to review the situation. "Be it water-scarcity issues or crop damages, I have instructed the ministers to make a detailed plan after they visit the drought-hit talukas. This not only helps in understanding the situation but allows to counter-check. Above all, we are well prepared to control the situation that has come before us," Fadnavis added.

200 talukas facing drought-like conditions: Maharashtra CM Fadnavis

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will leave for France on Wednesday night on a three-day visit, which comes in the backdrop of a huge controversy over the procurement of 36 Rafale jets from French aerospace major Dassault Aviation.

Officials sources said Sitharaman will hold wide-ranging talks with her French counterpart Florence Parly on ways to deepen strategic cooperation between the two countries and also deliberate on major regional and global issues of mutual interests.

Sitharaman, who will hold with Party the first edition of defence dialogue, will leave for Paris late Wednesday night and conclude her visit on Saturday, they said.

The sources said besides exploring ways to boost bilateral defence cooperation, Sitharaman will also take stock of progress in the supply of 36 Rafale jets by Dassault to the Indian Air Force under Rs 58,000-crore deal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the procurement of a batch of 36 Rafale jets after talks with the then French President Francois Hollande on April 10, 2015 in Paris. The final deal was sealed on September 23, 2016.

The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the deal, saying the government was procuring each aircraft at a cost of over Rs 1,670 crore as against Rs 526 crore finalised by the UPA government when it was negotiating the deal.

The Congress has also been targeting the government over the selection of Reliance Defence as an offset partner for Dassault. The government has vehemently rejected the allegations and asserted that it did not have any role in the selection of Reliance Defence.

Last month, Hollande was quoted by French publication 'Mediapart' as saying that France was given "no choice" on the selection of the Indian partner for Dassault and the Indian government proposed the name of Reliance to partner with the French aerospace giant.

The former French president's comments triggered a massive political row.

Sources said Sitharaman will discuss with Party ways to expand Indo-French maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

The two ministers are also likely to deliberate on joint production of military platforms and weapons by the two countries.

French President Emmanuel Macron had visited India in March during which the two countries decided to expand strategic ties and deepen counter-terror cooperation.

The two sides also inked a strategic pact providing for the use of each other's military facilities including opening naval bases to warships.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Macron also decided to create an annual defence dialogue at the ministerial level to explore ways to further deepen defence and strategic ties.

Sitharaman and Parly will hold the first edition of the defence dialogue.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will leave for France on Wednesday night on a three-day visit, which comes in the backdrop of a huge controversy over the procurement of 36 Rafale jets from French aerospace major Dassault Aviation.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will leave for France on Wednesday night on a three-day visit, which comes in the backdrop of a huge controversy over the procurement of 36 Rafale jets from French aerospace major Dassault Aviation. Officials sources said Sitharaman will hold wide-ranging talks with her French counterpart Florence Parly on ways to deepen strategic cooperation between the two countries and also deliberate on major regional and global issues of mutual interests. Sitharaman, who will hold with Party the first edition of defence dialogue, will leave for Paris late Wednesday night and conclude her visit on Saturday, they said. The sources said besides exploring ways to boost bilateral defence cooperation, Sitharaman will also take stock of progress in the supply of 36 Rafale jets by Dassault to the Indian Air Force under Rs 58,000-crore deal. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the procurement of a batch of 36 Rafale jets after talks with the then French President Francois Hollande on April 10, 2015 in Paris. The final deal was sealed on September 23, 2016. The Congress has been alleging massive irregularities in the deal, saying the government was procuring each aircraft at a cost of over Rs 1,670 crore as against Rs 526 crore finalised by the UPA government when it was negotiating the deal. The Congress has also been targeting the government over the selection of Reliance Defence as an offset partner for Dassault. The government has vehemently rejected the allegations and asserted that it did not have any role in the selection of Reliance Defence. Last month, Hollande was quoted by French publication 'Mediapart' as saying that France was given "no choice" on the selection of the Indian partner for Dassault and the Indian government proposed the name of Reliance to partner with the French aerospace giant. The former French president's comments triggered a massive political row. Sources said Sitharaman will discuss with Party ways to expand Indo-French maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. The two ministers are also likely to deliberate on joint production of military platforms and weapons by the two countries. French President Emmanuel Macron had visited India in March during which the two countries decided to expand strategic ties and deepen counter-terror cooperation. The two sides also inked a strategic pact providing for the use of each other's military facilities including opening naval bases to warships. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Macron also decided to create an annual defence dialogue at the ministerial level to explore ways to further deepen defence and strategic ties. Sitharaman and Parly will hold the first edition of the defence dialogue.

Defence minister Sitharaman set to leave for France over procurement of 36 Rafale jets

Army Commanders'&nbsp;Conference is being organised from October 09 to October 15, in New Delhi to discuss a number of operations, including logistics among others.

The last Army Commanders'&nbsp;Conference was held in April 2018. A large number of issues ranging from operational challenges, administrative issues, logistics to human resource related issues will be discussed during the conference which will last for seven days.

As part of the conclave, commanders and directorates at Army Headquarters will in a collegiate deliberate on important studies that have been ordered to meet future operational challenges.

There are four studies examining the operational and optimization issues of Army and the headquarters as well as of human resources management aspects, a statement said.

The aim of these studies is to improve the teeth to tail ratio, with the purpose of strengthening the structures within the Army, to make it combat ready for the future.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on September 23 had said that the Indian Army was fit to fight wars.

Speaking to ANI, General Rawat had said, "We have got an organisation which helped us fight the previous wars. If we are looking at future wars, they will necessitate imbibing technology, technologies of all kinds.

Therefore, we have to reorganise ourselves to ensure that technologies and the weaponry and the man behind the weapon are integrated. But it is more important to imbibe the technology and for doing so, you have to carry out some changes in the organisation and you have to ensure that your men understand the need for technology, only then can you move forward."

Army Commanders' Conference is being organised from October 09 to October 15, in New Delhi to discuss a number of operations, including logistics among others. The last Army Commanders' Conference was held in April 2018.

Army Commanders' Conference is being organised from October 09 to October 15, in New Delhi to discuss a number of operations, including logistics among others. The last Army Commanders' Conference was held in April 2018. A large number of issues ranging from operational challenges, administrative issues, logistics to human resource related issues will be discussed during the conference which will last for seven days. As part of the conclave, commanders and directorates at Army Headquarters will in a collegiate deliberate on important studies that have been ordered to meet future operational challenges. There are four studies examining the operational and optimization issues of Army and the headquarters as well as of human resources management aspects, a statement said. The aim of these studies is to improve the teeth to tail ratio, with the purpose of strengthening the structures within the Army, to make it combat ready for the future. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat on September 23 had said that the Indian Army was fit to fight wars. Speaking to ANI, General Rawat had said, "We have got an organisation which helped us fight the previous wars. If we are looking at future wars, they will necessitate imbibing technology, technologies of all kinds. Therefore, we have to reorganise ourselves to ensure that technologies and the weaponry and the man behind the weapon are integrated. But it is more important to imbibe the technology and for doing so, you have to carry out some changes in the organisation and you have to ensure that your men understand the need for technology, only then can you move forward."

Army Commanders' Conference to begin in Delhi from today

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/full-blown-us-china-trade-war-will-slow-global-growth-by-less-than-1-imf-170313">Full-blown US-China trade war will slow global growth by less than 1%: IMF</a>

An all-out trade war would slow the growth of the global economy, but not stop its expansion, with the United States and China also escaping a recession, according to forecasts published Tuesday by the International Monetary Fund.

In its latest World Economic Outlook report, the IMF conducted a series of calculations of the impact from the trade tariffs that the administration of US President Donald Trump has already implemented and has threatened to impose, as well as reprisals from China and other nations.

Yet, even in its worst-case scenario, the IMF found that the disruption won't kill off growth and drag the global economy into recession.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/alphabet-to-shut-google-social-site-after-user-data-exposed-170306">Google+ to shut down after data of at least 500,000 users exposed</a>

Alphabet Inc's Google will shut down the consumer version of its failed social network Google+ and tighten its data sharing policies after announcing on Monday that private profile data of at least 500,000 users may have been exposed to hundreds of external developers.

The issue was discovered and patched in March as part of a review of how Google shares data with other applications, Google said in a blog post. No developer exploited the vulnerability or misused data, the review found.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kavanaugh-seeks-new-tone-after-supreme-court-fight-trump-apologises-for-process-170304">Trump apologises to Kavanaugh, says he is innocent of sexual assault charges</a>

US Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh sought to put a bruising confirmation battle behind him on Monday at a White House ceremony in which President Donald Trump declared him innocent of sexual misconduct and apologised for the heated process.

"On behalf of our nation, I want to apologise to Brett and the entire Kavanaugh family for the terrible pain and suffering you have been forced to endure," Trump said at the start of a ceremonial swearing-in in the East Room of the White House.

"Those who step forward to serve our country deserve a fair and dignified evaluation, not a campaign of political and personal destruction based on lies and deception," he said.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/jeremy-lalrinnunga-claims-indias-first-youth-olympics-gold-170318">Jeremy Lalrinnunga wins India's first Youth Olympics gold</a>

Weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga notched up India's maiden gold medal at the Youth Olympics, claiming the top honours in the men's 62 kg category here.&nbsp;

The 15-year-old from Aizwal, who is also a world youth silver-medallist, lifted a total of 274 kg (124 kg +150 kg) to finish on top in the Argentine capital on Monday night.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-likes-taylor-swifts-music-about-25-less-after-she-endorses-democrats-170321">Trump says he likes Taylor Swift's music 'about 25% less' after she endorses Democrats</a>

US President Donald Trump has said he likes Taylor Swift's music "about 25 per cent less" after the pop superstar endorsed the Democrats running for office in Tennessee in the upcoming US midterm elections.&nbsp;Tennessee is Swift's home state.&nbsp;

Swift backed Phil Bredesen and Jim Cooper, who are running for the Senate and the House of Representatives. She also launched a fierce attack on Bredesen's opponent, the Republican Marsha Blackburn, who currently serves in the House.

Swift made her comments on Sunday on Instagram.&nbsp;

Full-blown US-China trade war will slow global growth by less than 1%: IMF An all-out trade war would slow the growth of the global economy, but not stop its expansion, with the United States and China also escaping a recession, according to forecasts published Tuesday by the International Monetary Fund.

Full-blown US-China trade war will slow global growth by less than 1%: IMF An all-out trade war would slow the growth of the global economy, but not stop its expansion, with the United States and China also escaping a recession, according to forecasts published Tuesday by the International Monetary Fund. In its latest World Economic Outlook report, the IMF conducted a series of calculations of the impact from the trade tariffs that the administration of US President Donald Trump has already implemented and has threatened to impose, as well as reprisals from China and other nations. Yet, even in its worst-case scenario, the IMF found that the disruption won't kill off growth and drag the global economy into recession. Google+ to shut down after data of at least 500,000 users exposed Alphabet Inc's Google will shut down the consumer version of its failed social network Google+ and tighten its data sharing policies after announcing on Monday that private profile data of at least 500,000 users may have been exposed to hundreds of external developers. The issue was discovered and patched in March as part of a review of how Google shares data with other applications, Google said in a blog post. No developer exploited the vulnerability or misused data, the review found. Trump apologises to Kavanaugh, says he is innocent of sexual assault charges US Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh sought to put a bruising confirmation battle behind him on Monday at a White House ceremony in which President Donald Trump declared him innocent of sexual misconduct and apologised for the heated process. "On behalf of our nation, I want to apologise to Brett and the entire Kavanaugh family for the terrible pain and suffering you have been forced to endure," Trump said at the start of a ceremonial swearing-in in the East Room of the White House. "Those who step forward to serve our country deserve a fair and dignified evaluation, not a campaign of political and personal destruction based on lies and deception," he said. Jeremy Lalrinnunga wins India's first Youth Olympics gold Weightlifter Jeremy Lalrinnunga notched up India's maiden gold medal at the Youth Olympics, claiming the top honours in the men's 62 kg category here. The 15-year-old from Aizwal, who is also a world youth silver-medallist, lifted a total of 274 kg (124 kg +150 kg) to finish on top in the Argentine capital on Monday night. Trump says he likes Taylor Swift's music 'about 25% less' after she endorses Democrats US President Donald Trump has said he likes Taylor Swift's music "about 25 per cent less" after the pop superstar endorsed the Democrats running for office in Tennessee in the upcoming US midterm elections. Tennessee is Swift's home state. Swift backed Phil Bredesen and Jim Cooper, who are running for the Senate and the House of Representatives. She also launched a fierce attack on Bredesen's opponent, the Republican Marsha Blackburn, who currently serves in the House. Swift made her comments on Sunday on Instagram.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) plans to set up 'Aadhaar Seva Kendras', similar to the concept of Passport Seva Kendras, covering 53 cities across India, official sources said.

The proposed Aadhaar centres, to be set up at an estimated project cost of Rs&nbsp;300-400 crore, are meant to facilitate enrollment and updation.

They will operate in addition to the 30,000 centres which are run by banks, post offices and in government premises (offering similar Aadhaar services).

The Aadhaar Seva Kendras will provide people the facility to book prior appointment for enrollment and updation, officials said adding that each metro will have four such centres while other cities will have two centres each.

The centres will be operational by April 2019.

It is estimated that as many as 4 lakh people update their Aadhaar details (address, photo, mobile number amongst others) every day, while the number of enrollments stands at about one lakh. 
&nbsp;

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) plans to set up 'Aadhaar Seva Kendras', similar to the concept of Passport Seva Kendras, covering 53 cities across India, official sources said.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) plans to set up 'Aadhaar Seva Kendras', similar to the concept of Passport Seva Kendras, covering 53 cities across India, official sources said. The proposed Aadhaar centres, to be set up at an estimated project cost of Rs 300-400 crore, are meant to facilitate enrollment and updation. They will operate in addition to the 30,000 centres which are run by banks, post offices and in government premises (offering similar Aadhaar services). The Aadhaar Seva Kendras will provide people the facility to book prior appointment for enrollment and updation, officials said adding that each metro will have four such centres while other cities will have two centres each. The centres will be operational by April 2019. It is estimated that as many as 4 lakh people update their Aadhaar details (address, photo, mobile number amongst others) every day, while the number of enrollments stands at about one lakh.

UIDAI plans to open Aadhar Seva Kendras in 53 cities

Fresh snowfall in J&K

The Supreme Court today sent three Amrapali real estate Group Directors - Anil Kumar Sharma, Shov Priya and Ajay Kumar - in police custody after it&nbsp;found the company hadn't submitted documents meant for forensic audit.

India's top court warned the Amrapali that they could no longer play "hide and seek". "You are not complying with the Apex Court's earlier order as far as the forensic audits are concerned," the court said.

The Supreme Court said the company was asked on September 26 to handover all documents within 24 hours.

"You are playing with the dignity of this court," the bench observed and told the directors that "you are deliberately attempting not to comply with the apex court's orders."

The court said the three directors will remain in police custody till each and every document relating to accounts of all 46 group companies were handed over to forensic auditors appointed by it. The court had earlier directed all details inculuding bank accounts and balance sheets of all 46 companies, including Jotindra Steel, since 2008 be handed over forensic auditors.&nbsp;

Last month, the Supreme Court had appointed state-run NBCC to develop stalled projects of Amrapali.

The top court had directed the opening of an escrow account in the apex court in which the amount received after the sale of properties would be deposited and disbursed to the National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd (NBCC) to start construction.

The court had observed that Rs 1,590 crore could be generated from the sale of unsold inventory and had said “Dharmendra Singh Rathore, officer of the DRT is entrusted with the sale of properties mentioned in the list of commercial properties”.

The court had also directed Amrapali chairman and Managing Director Anil Kumar Sharma to withdraw his affidavit giving details of assets and why properties worth Rs 847.88 crore had come to Rs 67 crore in a span of four years.

The Supreme Court today sent three Amrapali real estate Group Directors - Anil Kumar Sharma, Shov Priya and Ajay Kumar - in police custody after it found the company hadn't submitted documents meant for forensic audit.

The Supreme Court today sent three Amrapali real estate Group Directors - Anil Kumar Sharma, Shov Priya and Ajay Kumar - in police custody after it found the company hadn't submitted documents meant for forensic audit. India's top court warned the Amrapali that they could no longer play "hide and seek". "You are not complying with the Apex Court's earlier order as far as the forensic audits are concerned," the court said. The Supreme Court said the company was asked on September 26 to handover all documents within 24 hours. "You are playing with the dignity of this court," the bench observed and told the directors that "you are deliberately attempting not to comply with the apex court's orders." The court said the three directors will remain in police custody till each and every document relating to accounts of all 46 group companies were handed over to forensic auditors appointed by it. The court had earlier directed all details inculuding bank accounts and balance sheets of all 46 companies, including Jotindra Steel, since 2008 be handed over forensic auditors. Last month, the Supreme Court had appointed state-run NBCC to develop stalled projects of Amrapali. The top court had directed the opening of an escrow account in the apex court in which the amount received after the sale of properties would be deposited and disbursed to the National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd (NBCC) to start construction. The court had observed that Rs 1,590 crore could be generated from the sale of unsold inventory and had said “Dharmendra Singh Rathore, officer of the DRT is entrusted with the sale of properties mentioned in the list of commercial properties”. The court had also directed Amrapali chairman and Managing Director Anil Kumar Sharma to withdraw his affidavit giving details of assets and why properties worth Rs 847.88 crore had come to Rs 67 crore in a span of four years.

Supreme Court sends Amrapali directors to police custody

A day after the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) sought a comprehensive report from the Health Ministry on the outbreak of Zika virus, Union Health Minister JP Nadda told reporters that the situation is under control and there is no "need to panic".

"Our surveillance is very robust, all such cases get detected. We've standard protocols. ICMR, National Centre for Disease Control and DGHS are monitoring this. I assure people that everything is under control. There's no need to panic," Nadda stated.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Veenu Gupta on Tuesday confirmed a total 29 positive cases of Zika virus, including three pregnant women.

As one of those affected in Jaipur hailed from Bihar and visited his Siwan home recently, the eastern state has issued advisories to all its 38 districts to keep a close watch on people showing symptoms similar to Zika virus infection, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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Our surveillance is very robust, all such cases get detected. We've standard protocols. ICMR, National Centre for Disease Control &amp; DGHS are monitoring this. I assure people that everything is under control. There's no need to panic: Union Minister JP Nadda on cases of Zika virus <a href="https://t.co/r0j49ofj0e">pic.twitter.com/r0j49ofj0e</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049549093222211584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"The PMO has sought a comprehensive report on the Zika virus outbreak in Jaipur," a senior Health Ministry official said.

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There are a total of 29 positive cases so far: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Veenu Gupta, on cases of Zika virus in the state <a href="https://t.co/9LxIFoarg8">pic.twitter.com/9LxIFoarg8</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049568275074637824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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All suspected cases in the defined area of Jaipur and mosquito samples from this area are being tested. Additional testing kits are provided to viral research and diagnostic laboratories.

The state government has been supplied with information, education and communication (IEC) material prepared to create awareness about Zika virus and its prevention strategies.

All pregnant mothers in the area are being monitored and extensive surveillance and vector-control measures are being taken up in the area as per protocol by the state government, the official said.&nbsp;

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150-200 teams are conducting a combing op. 26,000 houses have been surveyed. All cases of fever have been listed. If there is a need to collect samples, we're collecting that on a large scale: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajasthan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajasthan</a> Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Veenu Gupta, on cases of Zika virus <a href="https://t.co/FAhQlDwBtn">pic.twitter.com/FAhQlDwBtn</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049567323521208320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Zika virus disease is an emerging disease currently being reported by 86 countries worldwide.

Symptoms of Zika virus disease are similar to other viral infections such as dengue and include fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache.

In India, the first outbreak was reported in Ahmedabad in January and February 2017 and the second outbreak in July 2017 from Krishnagiri District in Tamil Nadu. Both these outbreaks were successfully contained through intensive surveillance and vector management, the ministry said.

A day after the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) sought a comprehensive report from the Health Ministry on the outbreak of Zika virus, Union Health Minister JP Nadda told reporters that the situation is under control and there is no "need to panic".

A day after the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) sought a comprehensive report from the Health Ministry on the outbreak of Zika virus, Union Health Minister JP Nadda told reporters that the situation is under control and there is no "need to panic". "Our surveillance is very robust, all such cases get detected. We've standard protocols. ICMR, National Centre for Disease Control and DGHS are monitoring this. I assure people that everything is under control. There's no need to panic," Nadda stated. Rajasthan Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Veenu Gupta on Tuesday confirmed a total 29 positive cases of Zika virus, including three pregnant women. As one of those affected in Jaipur hailed from Bihar and visited his Siwan home recently, the eastern state has issued advisories to all its 38 districts to keep a close watch on people showing symptoms similar to Zika virus infection, news agency PTI reported. Our surveillance is very robust, all such cases get detected. We've standard protocols. ICMR, National Centre for Disease Control & DGHS are monitoring this. I assure people that everything is under control. There's no need to panic: Union Minister JP Nadda on cases of Zika virus pic.twitter.com/r0j49ofj0e — ANI (@ANI) October 9, 2018 × "The PMO has sought a comprehensive report on the Zika virus outbreak in Jaipur," a senior Health Ministry official said. There are a total of 29 positive cases so far: #Rajasthan Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Veenu Gupta, on cases of Zika virus in the state pic.twitter.com/9LxIFoarg8 — ANI (@ANI) October 9, 2018 × All suspected cases in the defined area of Jaipur and mosquito samples from this area are being tested. Additional testing kits are provided to viral research and diagnostic laboratories. The state government has been supplied with information, education and communication (IEC) material prepared to create awareness about Zika virus and its prevention strategies. All pregnant mothers in the area are being monitored and extensive surveillance and vector-control measures are being taken up in the area as per protocol by the state government, the official said. 150-200 teams are conducting a combing op. 26,000 houses have been surveyed. All cases of fever have been listed. If there is a need to collect samples, we're collecting that on a large scale: #Rajasthan Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Veenu Gupta, on cases of Zika virus pic.twitter.com/FAhQlDwBtn — ANI (@ANI) October 9, 2018 × Zika virus disease is an emerging disease currently being reported by 86 countries worldwide. Symptoms of Zika virus disease are similar to other viral infections such as dengue and include fever, skin rashes, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise, and headache. In India, the first outbreak was reported in Ahmedabad in January and February 2017 and the second outbreak in July 2017 from Krishnagiri District in Tamil Nadu. Both these outbreaks were successfully contained through intensive surveillance and vector management, the ministry said.

29 test positive for Zika virus in Jaipur, Health Minister Nadda says 'no need to panic'

The Delhi High Court Tuesday dismissed a plea seeking cancellation of Shashi Tharoor's anticipatory bail granted by a trial court in the Sunanda Pushkar death case.

A bench of Justice R K Gauba dismissed the plea filed by lawyer Deepak Anand challenging the Congress MP's move to bypass a magisterial court and directly approach a sessions court for anticipatory bail in the death case of his wife Sunanda Pushkar.

On September 25, the Delhi Police had partly supported the plea where the Delhi Police Standing Counsel (Criminal) Rahul Mehra informed the high court that Tharoor ought to have first gone to the magisterial court that had summoned him as an accused, to seek bail.

Delhi Police had also filed a status report in the matter.

Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel, as the official bungalow of Shashi Tharoor was being renovated at that time.&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court Tuesday dismissed a plea seeking cancellation of Shashi Tharoor's anticipatory bail granted by a trial court in the Sunanda Pushkar death case.

The Delhi High Court Tuesday dismissed a plea seeking cancellation of Shashi Tharoor's anticipatory bail granted by a trial court in the Sunanda Pushkar death case. A bench of Justice R K Gauba dismissed the plea filed by lawyer Deepak Anand challenging the Congress MP's move to bypass a magisterial court and directly approach a sessions court for anticipatory bail in the death case of his wife Sunanda Pushkar. On September 25, the Delhi Police had partly supported the plea where the Delhi Police Standing Counsel (Criminal) Rahul Mehra informed the high court that Tharoor ought to have first gone to the magisterial court that had summoned him as an accused, to seek bail. Delhi Police had also filed a status report in the matter. Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel, as the official bungalow of Shashi Tharoor was being renovated at that time.

HC dismisses plea challenging cancellation of Shashi Tharoor's bail plea in Pushkar death case

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi for improving sanitation in the country through the Swachh Bharat mission, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates said now is the time to build on the success of the movement.

"The leadership of Narendra Modi and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of Swachh Bharat," Gates tweeted.

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The leadership of <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of <a href="https://twitter.com/swachhbharat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@swachhbharat</a>. <a href="https://t.co/HKXapJxQ3x">https://t.co/HKXapJxQ3x</a>
— Bill Gates (@BillGates) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillGates/status/1049522138065981441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time when Gates has praised Prime Minister Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party-led central government for the efforts made towards improving sanitation process in India.

Earlier, Gates who co-chairs the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, had congratulated the Indian government for the efforts made in reducing malnutrition and sanitation-related woes in India.

The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched in October 2014 by Prime Minister Modi. Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, over eight crore toilets have been built across India and over five lakh villages have been made open defecation free.

Under the mission, the Prime Minister launched the `Swachhata Hi Seva` movement on September 15 with an aim to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi`s dream of a Clean India.

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi for improving sanitation in the country through the Swachh Bharat mission, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates said now is the time to build on the success of the movement.

Lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi for improving sanitation in the country through the Swachh Bharat mission, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates said now is the time to build on the success of the movement. "The leadership of Narendra Modi and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of Swachh Bharat," Gates tweeted. The leadership of @narendramodi and the Indian government has played an important role in improving sanitation. Now is the time to build on the success of @swachhbharat. https://t.co/HKXapJxQ3x — Bill Gates (@BillGates) October 9, 2018 × This is not the first time when Gates has praised Prime Minister Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party-led central government for the efforts made towards improving sanitation process in India. Earlier, Gates who co-chairs the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, had congratulated the Indian government for the efforts made in reducing malnutrition and sanitation-related woes in India. The Swachh Bharat Mission was launched in October 2014 by Prime Minister Modi. Since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, over eight crore toilets have been built across India and over five lakh villages have been made open defecation free. Under the mission, the Prime Minister launched the `Swachhata Hi Seva` movement on September 15 with an aim to fulfill Mahatma Gandhi`s dream of a Clean India.

Now is the time to build on Swachh Bharat's success: Bill Gates

A blast at the Bhilai Steel Plant in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday has killed at least nine people, and wounded over 14.&nbsp;

The company said an "incident" had taken place at the factory but had no details on the number of casualties.

News reports said a gas pipeline had burst. And it is thought the death toll could rise.&nbsp;

"It is not clear how many more could have died, we are recovering more bodies. It is very difficult to say how many more have died, as some bodies are charred," a police official, who declined to be named because he was not authorised to speak to media, told Reuters.

Reuters reported that Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) shares, the PSU owns the plant and is India's biggest steel maker, fell as much as 4.2 per cent to a near one-year low on the news.

Bhilai Steel Plant is India's sole producer and supplier of rails for Indian Railways, and a major producer of a large variety of wide and heavy steel plates and structural steel, according to the company's website.

The plant has an&nbsp;annual steel production capacity of 3.153 million tonnes, with products including wire rods, according to SAIL.

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Chhattisgarh: Visuals from outside a hospital in Bhilai; 6 people have died and 14 injured in a gas pipeline blast in Bhilai Steel Plant. <a href="https://t.co/aQGFNr3LIg">pic.twitter.com/aQGFNr3LIg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1049574671182520320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

A blast at the Bhilai Steel Plant in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday has killed at least nine people, and wounded over 14. The company said an "incident" had taken place at the factory but had no details on the number of casualties.

A blast at the Bhilai Steel Plant in Chhattisgarh on Tuesday has killed at least nine people, and wounded over 14. The company said an "incident" had taken place at the factory but had no details on the number of casualties. News reports said a gas pipeline had burst. And it is thought the death toll could rise. "It is not clear how many more could have died, we are recovering more bodies. It is very difficult to say how many more have died, as some bodies are charred," a police official, who declined to be named because he was not authorised to speak to media, told Reuters. Reuters reported that Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL) shares, the PSU owns the plant and is India's biggest steel maker, fell as much as 4.2 per cent to a near one-year low on the news. Bhilai Steel Plant is India's sole producer and supplier of rails for Indian Railways, and a major producer of a large variety of wide and heavy steel plates and structural steel, according to the company's website. The plant has an annual steel production capacity of 3.153 million tonnes, with products including wire rods, according to SAIL. Chhattisgarh: Visuals from outside a hospital in Bhilai; 6 people have died and 14 injured in a gas pipeline blast in Bhilai Steel Plant. pic.twitter.com/aQGFNr3LIg — ANI (@ANI) October 9, 2018 × (With inputs from Reuters)

Chhattisgarh: Nine dead, 14 injured in blast at Bhilai Steel Plant

Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily said Tuesday the BSP and the Samajwadi Party would be part of the grand alliance of opposition parties against the BJP-led NDA in the next year's Lok Sabha polls.

He also claimed the Congress will win at least four of the five states where assembly elections will be held over the next two months.

The former union minister's statement followed Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav's comment last week that his party would not wait for the Congress to decide on an alliance for the Madhya Pradesh elections any longer, hinting that he could go for a tie-up with Mayawati's BSP.

The SP's snub to the Congress came days after Mayawati ruled out a poll pact with the main opposition party for assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Speaking to PTI, Moily said the proposed grand alliance was meant for Lok Sabha elections and not the state assemblies.

In state elections, parties have their own compulsions, he said.

"Our main ambition is to see that in parliamentary elections the opposition is united and we are likely to achieve that target," Moily said, exuding confidence that both the BSP and SP would be constituents of the grand alliance for the Lok Sabha polls.

Moily, a former Karnataka chief minister, claimed that votes would get polarised between the Congress and the BJP in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh assembly elections.

Moily said the Congress would win the Rajasthan elections and have an edge over the BJP in Madhya Pradesh.

"In Chhattisgarh, it's 50:50. There, it (the result) depends on our (poll) management...Selection of candidates," he said. "We are going to win in Mizoram," he asserted.

Moily also claimed that the Congress would bag Telangana in alliance with the TDP, CPI and other opposition parties.

"Chances are that out of the five states going to polls--Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram and Telangana--the Congress is going to win at least four," he said.

On the prime ministerial candidate of the grand alliance, he said the issue might not arise because no party in the proposed grouping would insist on that.

"Ultimately, we will have to fight on the issue that we should defeat BJP and communal forces, that's the only issue. Leadership... Who should become prime minister, will be taken up at an appropriate time. That should not block the opposition unity," Moily said.

Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily said Tuesday the BSP and the Samajwadi Party would be part of the grand alliance of opposition parties against the BJP-led NDA in the next year's Lok Sabha polls.

Senior Congress leader M Veerappa Moily said Tuesday the BSP and the Samajwadi Party would be part of the grand alliance of opposition parties against the BJP-led NDA in the next year's Lok Sabha polls. He also claimed the Congress will win at least four of the five states where assembly elections will be held over the next two months. The former union minister's statement followed Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav's comment last week that his party would not wait for the Congress to decide on an alliance for the Madhya Pradesh elections any longer, hinting that he could go for a tie-up with Mayawati's BSP. The SP's snub to the Congress came days after Mayawati ruled out a poll pact with the main opposition party for assembly elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Speaking to PTI, Moily said the proposed grand alliance was meant for Lok Sabha elections and not the state assemblies. In state elections, parties have their own compulsions, he said. "Our main ambition is to see that in parliamentary elections the opposition is united and we are likely to achieve that target," Moily said, exuding confidence that both the BSP and SP would be constituents of the grand alliance for the Lok Sabha polls. Moily, a former Karnataka chief minister, claimed that votes would get polarised between the Congress and the BJP in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh assembly elections. Moily said the Congress would win the Rajasthan elections and have an edge over the BJP in Madhya Pradesh. "In Chhattisgarh, it's 50:50. There, it (the result) depends on our (poll) management...Selection of candidates," he said. "We are going to win in Mizoram," he asserted. Moily also claimed that the Congress would bag Telangana in alliance with the TDP, CPI and other opposition parties. "Chances are that out of the five states going to polls--Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Mizoram and Telangana--the Congress is going to win at least four," he said. On the prime ministerial candidate of the grand alliance, he said the issue might not arise because no party in the proposed grouping would insist on that. "Ultimately, we will have to fight on the issue that we should defeat BJP and communal forces, that's the only issue. Leadership... Who should become prime minister, will be taken up at an appropriate time. That should not block the opposition unity," Moily said.

Akhilesh Yadav, Mayawati will be in grand alliance for Lok Sabha poll: Congress leader Moily

A man was arrested in Tripura's Dhalai district for allegedly making derogatory remarks against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in social media, a police officer said Tuesday.

A West Bengal Police team arrested Tushar Sharma of Kulai area in Dhalai district on October 6 for the alleged derogatory remarks against Banerjee, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Ambassa, Asish Das Gupta said

Sharma was produced before the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) of Ambassa.

The West Bengal Police sought his transit remand. However, the CJM rejected the request of the West Bengal Police as the arrested person was sick and ordered for his admission in a hospital.

The CJM ordered that the accused be produced before it on Wednesday.

A West Bengal Police team camping in Tripura said it will again appeal for the transit remand of Sharma in the court on Wednesday.&nbsp;

A man was arrested in Tripura's Dhalai district for allegedly making derogatory remarks against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in social media, a police officer said Tuesday.

A man was arrested in Tripura's Dhalai district for allegedly making derogatory remarks against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in social media, a police officer said Tuesday. A West Bengal Police team arrested Tushar Sharma of Kulai area in Dhalai district on October 6 for the alleged derogatory remarks against Banerjee, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), Ambassa, Asish Das Gupta said Sharma was produced before the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) of Ambassa. The West Bengal Police sought his transit remand. However, the CJM rejected the request of the West Bengal Police as the arrested person was sick and ordered for his admission in a hospital. The CJM ordered that the accused be produced before it on Wednesday. A West Bengal Police team camping in Tripura said it will again appeal for the transit remand of Sharma in the court on Wednesday.

Man arrested for derogatory remarks against Mamata Banerjee

Taking his attack against Prime Minister Narendra Modi to poll-bound Rajasthan, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax, which he referred to as Gabbar Singh Tax, had destroyed India's economy.&nbsp;

Addressing a rally in Dholpur's Mania area, Gandhi said the prime minister had declared during elections that he wanted to be a 'chowkidar' but never clarified who he wanted to guard. The Congress president alleged that he benefited 15-20 industrialists of the country instead of farmers.

According to Gandhi, the former UPA government led by his party had waived farmers' loans worth Rs. 70,000 crore. But bad debt worth Rs. 3.5 lakh crore was written off by the present government and the prime minister did not help farmers with even a one rupee waiver, he alleged.&nbsp;

Gandhi, who is on a two-day visit to the state, named several industrialists, including Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi, Lalit Modi and Anil Ambani, and said the PM benefited them but did not take care of farmers and youths.

Gandhi claimed the government had destroyed the country's economy with decisions like demonetisation and GST.&nbsp;

Modi, he said, benefited his industrialist friend in Rafale deal and did not speak a single word when he raised the matter in Parliament.&nbsp;

The Congress president said the Centre and state governments worked against people, small-scale business, farmers, women and youths.&nbsp;

The former UPA government introduced several schemes and programmes for the poor, including MGNREGA. Moreover, the former Ashok Gehlot government in Rajasthan had brought free medicines schemes but the BJP governments had weakened them and worked against the people, Gandhi said.

The Congress chief, who is holding a 150 km roadshow in eastern Rajasthan, will visit Bikaner Wednesday.&nbsp;

Elections in Rajasthan will be held on December 7.&nbsp;

Taking his attack against Prime Minister Narendra Modi to poll-bound Rajasthan, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax, which he referred to as Gabbar Singh Tax, had destroyed India's economy.

Taking his attack against Prime Minister Narendra Modi to poll-bound Rajasthan, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Tuesday said demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax, which he referred to as Gabbar Singh Tax, had destroyed India's economy. Addressing a rally in Dholpur's Mania area, Gandhi said the prime minister had declared during elections that he wanted to be a 'chowkidar' but never clarified who he wanted to guard. The Congress president alleged that he benefited 15-20 industrialists of the country instead of farmers. According to Gandhi, the former UPA government led by his party had waived farmers' loans worth Rs. 70,000 crore. But bad debt worth Rs. 3.5 lakh crore was written off by the present government and the prime minister did not help farmers with even a one rupee waiver, he alleged. Gandhi, who is on a two-day visit to the state, named several industrialists, including Nirav Modi, Mehul Choksi, Lalit Modi and Anil Ambani, and said the PM benefited them but did not take care of farmers and youths. Gandhi claimed the government had destroyed the country's economy with decisions like demonetisation and GST. Modi, he said, benefited his industrialist friend in Rafale deal and did not speak a single word when he raised the matter in Parliament. The Congress president said the Centre and state governments worked against people, small-scale business, farmers, women and youths. The former UPA government introduced several schemes and programmes for the poor, including MGNREGA. Moreover, the former Ashok Gehlot government in Rajasthan had brought free medicines schemes but the BJP governments had weakened them and worked against the people, Gandhi said. The Congress chief, who is holding a 150 km roadshow in eastern Rajasthan, will visit Bikaner Wednesday. Elections in Rajasthan will be held on December 7.

Demonetisation and GST destroyed economy: Rahul Gandhi

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