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India is among the only 14 countries to have made significant advancement in efforts to eliminate child labour in 2017, an official US report said Saturday.

“In 2017, India made a significant advancement in efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child labour,” the US Department of Labor said in its annual ‘Child Labour and Forced Labour’ report.

It said the Findings on the ‘Worst Forms of Child Labour’, mandated by the Trade and Development Act of 2000, is the most comprehensive research product on the state of child labour worldwide.

This year, the report uses more stringent criteria to assess the efforts of 132 countries and territories to address child labour, the report added.

“Only 14 countries – including Colombia, Paraguay, and India – met the new criteria for “Significant Advancement”, which this year requires specific legal and policy labour standards to be met,” it said.

The Department of Labor said the Indian government ratified both ILO Convention 182 and Convention 138 and amended the Child Labor Act to prohibit children under the age of 18 years from working in hazardous occupations and processes.

The government also launched the ‘Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour’ to more effectively enforce child labour laws and implement the ‘National Child Labour Programme’.

In addition, the government released a new ‘National Plan of Action for Children’ that implements the ‘National Policy for Children’, which includes a focus on child labourers, trafficked children, and other vulnerable children, the report said.

“However, children in India engage in the worst forms of child labour, including in forced labour producing garments and quarrying stones,” the report rued, adding that children also perform dangerous tasks of producing bricks.

The Child Labour Act’s hazardous work prohibitions do not include all occupations in which children work in unsafe and unhealthy environments for long periods of time. Penalties for employing children are insufficient to deter violations, and the recruitment of children by non-state armed groups is not criminally prohibited, it said.

The report urges the Indian government to collect and publish national-level data on labour law enforcement, including funding, number of labour inspectors, number of violations found and the penalties imposed and collected for child labour law violations.

“Ensure that the types of hazardous work prohibited for children under age 18 are comprehensive, especially in the sectors in which children work in unsafe and unhealthy conditions for long periods of time such as in spinning mills, garment production, carpet making and domestic work,” it said.

“These reports represent one of the Department of Labor’s key contributions to the global effort to protect workers in the United States and around the world by defending the rights of all people to live free of child labour, forced labour, human trafficking, and modern slavery,” said US Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta.

Recent International Labor Organization estimates show there are still over 152 million child labourers – one in every ten children – and 25 million forced labourers worldwide, he said.

India is among the only 14 countries to have made significant advancement in efforts to eliminate child labour in 2017, an official US report said Saturday. “In 2017, India made a significant advancement in efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child labour,” the US Department of Labor said in its annual ‘Child Labour and Forced Labour’ report.

India is among the only 14 countries to have made significant advancement in efforts to eliminate child labour in 2017, an official US report said Saturday. “In 2017, India made a significant advancement in efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child labour,” the US Department of Labor said in its annual ‘Child Labour and Forced Labour’ report. It said the Findings on the ‘Worst Forms of Child Labour’, mandated by the Trade and Development Act of 2000, is the most comprehensive research product on the state of child labour worldwide. This year, the report uses more stringent criteria to assess the efforts of 132 countries and territories to address child labour, the report added. “Only 14 countries – including Colombia, Paraguay, and India – met the new criteria for “Significant Advancement”, which this year requires specific legal and policy labour standards to be met,” it said. The Department of Labor said the Indian government ratified both ILO Convention 182 and Convention 138 and amended the Child Labor Act to prohibit children under the age of 18 years from working in hazardous occupations and processes. The government also launched the ‘Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour’ to more effectively enforce child labour laws and implement the ‘National Child Labour Programme’. In addition, the government released a new ‘National Plan of Action for Children’ that implements the ‘National Policy for Children’, which includes a focus on child labourers, trafficked children, and other vulnerable children, the report said. “However, children in India engage in the worst forms of child labour, including in forced labour producing garments and quarrying stones,” the report rued, adding that children also perform dangerous tasks of producing bricks. The Child Labour Act’s hazardous work prohibitions do not include all occupations in which children work in unsafe and unhealthy environments for long periods of time. Penalties for employing children are insufficient to deter violations, and the recruitment of children by non-state armed groups is not criminally prohibited, it said. The report urges the Indian government to collect and publish national-level data on labour law enforcement, including funding, number of labour inspectors, number of violations found and the penalties imposed and collected for child labour law violations. “Ensure that the types of hazardous work prohibited for children under age 18 are comprehensive, especially in the sectors in which children work in unsafe and unhealthy conditions for long periods of time such as in spinning mills, garment production, carpet making and domestic work,” it said. “These reports represent one of the Department of Labor’s key contributions to the global effort to protect workers in the United States and around the world by defending the rights of all people to live free of child labour, forced labour, human trafficking, and modern slavery,” said US Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta. Recent International Labor Organization estimates show there are still over 152 million child labourers – one in every ten children – and 25 million forced labourers worldwide, he said.

India made significant advancement to eliminate child labour in 2017: US

Describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a symbol of honesty after Congress president Rahul Gandhi threw the "thief" barb at him, the BJP Saturday rejected former French president Francois Hollande's sensational claim on the Rafale deal, saying it does not know under what compulsion he said so.

Bharatiya Janata Party leader and Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad also said that Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of the fighter aircraft, and Reliance had entered into an agreement as early as 2012 when the Congress-led UPA was in power as he refuted the allegation that the Modi government had favoured the Anil Ambani-led company.&nbsp;

Ruling out Gandhi's demand for a joint parliamentary committee probe into the deal, he told a press conference that it cannot be done merely to satisfy the ego of "an arrogant and ill-informed leader repeating lies after lies".

Prasad also cited statements of the French government and Dassault in which they said Indian and French dispensations had no role in picking the offset partner of the private company, to brush aside the charge of corruption.

He sought to discredit the claim of Hollande, who had said that the Indian government has proposed Reliance as an offset partner, saying that French journalists have spoken about his "conflict of interests". It is none of our concern, he then added.

The BJP leader raked up a number of cases of alleged corruption involving the Gandhi family to launch a stinging attack on the Congress president, saying his family is the "source of corruption" in the country.

No prime minister of India has been spoken of in a manner Gandhi did about Modi, he said, terming his comments as "irresponsible and shameful" and that he had painted his face black with such remarks.

"We cannot expect anything better from Gandhi. He has no quality, no capability and whatever he is he owes to his family... Modi is a symbol of honesty and a global leader," Prasad said, claiming that doors for middlemen and power brokers have been shut under his government.

Gandhi told reporters that "what the ex-President of France is saying is that the Prime Minister of India is a 'thief'. That is what this (Hollande's) statement is saying".

He went to add: "And it is very important for the Prime Minister of India now to either accept Mr Hollande's statement and say Yes, it is the truth -- Mr

Narendra Modi gave the Rafale contract in Rs.30,000 crore to Mr Anil Ambani, or Mr Hollande is not telling the truth and here is the truth."

Prasad said the UPA government terminated negotiations with Dassault after a contract negotiation committee had chosen it as the lowest bidder in 2012 following years of process because the company did not pay it "bribe".

There was pressure on the company for "extraneous considerations", he said, adding that Modi decided to go ahead with the Rafale deal after coming to power in May 2014 as Indian Air Force needed fighter aircraft urgently and the entire exercise had been dragging on for several years.

He also alleged that Gandhi was "helping" Pakistan and had been playing into the hands of India's "enemies", by demanding that the government reveal full price details of the deal.

He said Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi are on bail in a case of corruption, a reference to the National Herald matter, and alleged that his family had taken bribe in the Bofors case.

The country cannot expect any better from a leader who kept quiet while his brother-in-law looted land, Prasad said, in a reference to cases involving Robert Vadra.

Prasad reiterated the government's claim the basic price of Rafale negotiated by it was nine per cent cheaper than what the UPA had agreed to while its fully weaponised version was 20 per cent cheaper.

In 2012, when Dassault signed the agreement with Reliance, the company was led by Mukesh Ambani. Anil Ambani is his younger brother.&nbsp; 
Whatever happened between the two brothers is their matter, Prasad said.&nbsp;

Describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a symbol of honesty after Congress president Rahul Gandhi threw the "thief" barb at him, the BJP Saturday rejected former French president Francois Hollande's sensational claim on the Rafale deal, saying it does not know under what compulsion he said so.

Describing Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a symbol of honesty after Congress president Rahul Gandhi threw the "thief" barb at him, the BJP Saturday rejected former French president Francois Hollande's sensational claim on the Rafale deal, saying it does not know under what compulsion he said so. Bharatiya Janata Party leader and Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad also said that Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of the fighter aircraft, and Reliance had entered into an agreement as early as 2012 when the Congress-led UPA was in power as he refuted the allegation that the Modi government had favoured the Anil Ambani-led company. Ruling out Gandhi's demand for a joint parliamentary committee probe into the deal, he told a press conference that it cannot be done merely to satisfy the ego of "an arrogant and ill-informed leader repeating lies after lies". Prasad also cited statements of the French government and Dassault in which they said Indian and French dispensations had no role in picking the offset partner of the private company, to brush aside the charge of corruption. He sought to discredit the claim of Hollande, who had said that the Indian government has proposed Reliance as an offset partner, saying that French journalists have spoken about his "conflict of interests". It is none of our concern, he then added. The BJP leader raked up a number of cases of alleged corruption involving the Gandhi family to launch a stinging attack on the Congress president, saying his family is the "source of corruption" in the country. No prime minister of India has been spoken of in a manner Gandhi did about Modi, he said, terming his comments as "irresponsible and shameful" and that he had painted his face black with such remarks. "We cannot expect anything better from Gandhi. He has no quality, no capability and whatever he is he owes to his family... Modi is a symbol of honesty and a global leader," Prasad said, claiming that doors for middlemen and power brokers have been shut under his government. Gandhi told reporters that "what the ex-President of France is saying is that the Prime Minister of India is a 'thief'. That is what this (Hollande's) statement is saying". He went to add: "And it is very important for the Prime Minister of India now to either accept Mr Hollande's statement and say Yes, it is the truth -- Mr Narendra Modi gave the Rafale contract in Rs.30,000 crore to Mr Anil Ambani, or Mr Hollande is not telling the truth and here is the truth." Prasad said the UPA government terminated negotiations with Dassault after a contract negotiation committee had chosen it as the lowest bidder in 2012 following years of process because the company did not pay it "bribe". There was pressure on the company for "extraneous considerations", he said, adding that Modi decided to go ahead with the Rafale deal after coming to power in May 2014 as Indian Air Force needed fighter aircraft urgently and the entire exercise had been dragging on for several years. He also alleged that Gandhi was "helping" Pakistan and had been playing into the hands of India's "enemies", by demanding that the government reveal full price details of the deal. He said Gandhi and his mother Sonia Gandhi are on bail in a case of corruption, a reference to the National Herald matter, and alleged that his family had taken bribe in the Bofors case. The country cannot expect any better from a leader who kept quiet while his brother-in-law looted land, Prasad said, in a reference to cases involving Robert Vadra. Prasad reiterated the government's claim the basic price of Rafale negotiated by it was nine per cent cheaper than what the UPA had agreed to while its fully weaponised version was 20 per cent cheaper. In 2012, when Dassault signed the agreement with Reliance, the company was led by Mukesh Ambani. Anil Ambani is his younger brother. Whatever happened between the two brothers is their matter, Prasad said.

BJP rejects Hollande's claim, says it doesn't know what was his compulsion

Ahead of the Assembly polls in Rajasthan, former Union minister Jaswant Singh's son and BJP MLA Manvendra Singh Saturday said he has quit the party, news agency PTI reported.

Singh&nbsp;announced the decision at a press conference after addressing a rally at Pachpadra in his Barmer constituency.

He said he was yet to take a decision on whether to join the Congress or not.

At the rally, he indicated that joining the Bharatiya Janata Party was a "big mistake".

''Kamal ka phool, badi bhool,'' he said.

When contacted by PTI after the public meeting, dubbed swabhiman or self-respect rally, he said, I am no longer in BJP.

Earlier, the MLA referred to the denial of a party ticket to his father Jaswant Singh in the 2014 Lok Sabha election.

Ahead of the Assembly polls in Rajasthan, former Union minister Jaswant Singh's son and BJP MLA Manvendra Singh Saturday said he has quit the party, news agency PTI reported.

Ahead of the Assembly polls in Rajasthan, former Union minister Jaswant Singh's son and BJP MLA Manvendra Singh Saturday said he has quit the party, news agency PTI reported. Singh announced the decision at a press conference after addressing a rally at Pachpadra in his Barmer constituency. He said he was yet to take a decision on whether to join the Congress or not. At the rally, he indicated that joining the Bharatiya Janata Party was a "big mistake". ''Kamal ka phool, badi bhool,'' he said. When contacted by PTI after the public meeting, dubbed swabhiman or self-respect rally, he said, I am no longer in BJP. Earlier, the MLA referred to the denial of a party ticket to his father Jaswant Singh in the 2014 Lok Sabha election.

Rajasthan: Jaswant Singh's son Manvendra Singh quits BJP ahead of polls  

The Government of Pakistan on Friday reacted to India's move to call off the meeting between the Foreign Ministers of both the countries. Pakistan government stated that India's reason to cancel the meeting was 'unconvincing'.

India on Friday called off the meeting between Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that was supposed to take place in New York, United States later this month on the sidelines of annual UN General Assembly (UNGA) session.&nbsp;

The move came after the bodies of three Jammu and Kashmir cops were found in the region on Friday. The soldiers were allegedly abducted and killed by a Pakistan-backed terrorist organisation. India also stated that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/true-face-imran-khan-revealed-says-mea-after-calling-talks-pak-167000">true face of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been revealed</a> in the wake of the brutal killings.&nbsp;

''Since yesterday's announcement of the meeting of foreign ministers of India and Pakistan, two deeply disturbing developments took place. Latest brutal killings of our security personnel by Pakistan entities and the recent release of series of 20 postal stamps by Pakistan glorifying terrorists,'' Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Friday.

Pakistan government rejected India's claim stating that India had announced the bilateral talks much ahead of the "disturbing developments." It described India's comments on Pak PM Imran Khan, "against all norms of civilised discourse and diplomatic communication."

"The reasons cited by the Indian side for the decision to cancel the Foreign Ministers' meeting, within 24 hours of its public confirmation, are entirely unconvincing," read an official statement.

"Firstly, the alleged killing of BSF soldier took place two days prior to the Indian announcement of its agreement to hold the bilateral meeting," the statement read.

"When the allegations of Pakistan's involvement first appeared, the Pakistan Rangers clearly conveyed to BSF through official channels that Pakistan had nothing to do with it. Pakistan Rangers also extended help in efforts to locate the soldier's body. These facts were known to the Indian authorities and a part of the Indian media also reported that Pakistan had refuted its involvement. Yet, this motivated and malicious propaganda continued. Pakistan takes this opportunity to categorically reject these allegations once again. Our authorities would be prepared to conduct a joint investigation to establish the truth," it said.

Reiterating the significance of dialogue, the Pak government stated that it "has always desired peaceful and good-neighbourly relations with India, on the basis of sovereign equality, mutual respect, and mutual benefit. In our view, dialogue and diplomacy are the only constructive way forward for the two countries to address mutual concerns, rebuild trust, resolve longstanding disputes, and establish durable peace in South Asia. For its part, Pakistan will persist in its quest for peace and development. But, as we have consistently emphasised, our approach will continue to be guided by the aforementioned principles and the dictates of national dignity."

Friday's incident angered India after which the government decided to call off the upcoming meeting with Pakistan.

In a letter to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had sought a meeting between foreign ministers Sushma Swaraj and Shah Mehmood Qureshi on the sidelines of the UNGA.&nbsp;

The Indian government had said that the two leaders will meet at a mutually convenient date and time. But, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar made it clear that "the coming meeting was not a resumption of the dialogue process".

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The Government of Pakistan on Friday reacted to India's move to call off the meeting between the Foreign Ministers of both the countries. Pakistan government stated that India's reason to cancel the meeting was 'unconvincing'.

The Government of Pakistan on Friday reacted to India's move to call off the meeting between the Foreign Ministers of both the countries. Pakistan government stated that India's reason to cancel the meeting was 'unconvincing'. India on Friday called off the meeting between Union Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj and Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi that was supposed to take place in New York, United States later this month on the sidelines of annual UN General Assembly (UNGA) session. The move came after the bodies of three Jammu and Kashmir cops were found in the region on Friday. The soldiers were allegedly abducted and killed by a Pakistan-backed terrorist organisation. India also stated that the true face of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has been revealed in the wake of the brutal killings. ''Since yesterday's announcement of the meeting of foreign ministers of India and Pakistan, two deeply disturbing developments took place. Latest brutal killings of our security personnel by Pakistan entities and the recent release of series of 20 postal stamps by Pakistan glorifying terrorists,'' Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Friday. Pakistan government rejected India's claim stating that India had announced the bilateral talks much ahead of the "disturbing developments." It described India's comments on Pak PM Imran Khan, "against all norms of civilised discourse and diplomatic communication." "The reasons cited by the Indian side for the decision to cancel the Foreign Ministers' meeting, within 24 hours of its public confirmation, are entirely unconvincing," read an official statement. "Firstly, the alleged killing of BSF soldier took place two days prior to the Indian announcement of its agreement to hold the bilateral meeting," the statement read. "When the allegations of Pakistan's involvement first appeared, the Pakistan Rangers clearly conveyed to BSF through official channels that Pakistan had nothing to do with it. Pakistan Rangers also extended help in efforts to locate the soldier's body. These facts were known to the Indian authorities and a part of the Indian media also reported that Pakistan had refuted its involvement. Yet, this motivated and malicious propaganda continued. Pakistan takes this opportunity to categorically reject these allegations once again. Our authorities would be prepared to conduct a joint investigation to establish the truth," it said. Reiterating the significance of dialogue, the Pak government stated that it "has always desired peaceful and good-neighbourly relations with India, on the basis of sovereign equality, mutual respect, and mutual benefit. In our view, dialogue and diplomacy are the only constructive way forward for the two countries to address mutual concerns, rebuild trust, resolve longstanding disputes, and establish durable peace in South Asia. For its part, Pakistan will persist in its quest for peace and development. But, as we have consistently emphasised, our approach will continue to be guided by the aforementioned principles and the dictates of national dignity." Friday's incident angered India after which the government decided to call off the upcoming meeting with Pakistan. In a letter to his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had sought a meeting between foreign ministers Sushma Swaraj and Shah Mehmood Qureshi on the sidelines of the UNGA. The Indian government had said that the two leaders will meet at a mutually convenient date and time. But, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar made it clear that "the coming meeting was not a resumption of the dialogue process". (With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan calls India's reasons to cancel foreign ministers' meeting 'unconvincing'

Former French president Francois Hollande said that France did not choose to partner with Indian businessman Anil Ambani's company in "any way" and added that only Dassault can comment on the Rafale fighter jet deal.

Asked whether India had put pressure on Reliance and Dassault to work together, Hollande said he was unaware and "only Dassault can comment on this", French news agency AFP reported.

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FLASH: From Agency AFP, when asked whether India had put pressure on Reliance and Dassault to work together, Ex France President Hollande said he was unaware and "only Dassault can comment on this". <a href="https://t.co/YEb8eaD7Gw">pic.twitter.com/YEb8eaD7Gw</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043485418249838592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Hollande was responding to a question by the French news agency on the sidelines of an event in Canada on Friday.

"That is why, moreover, this group (Reliance) did not have to give me any thanks for anything," the former French president added.

In an interview to a media house that appeared on Friday, Hollande had said that Dassault Aviation was given no choice but to partner with Anil&nbsp; 
Ambani-led Reliance Defence for the offset clause in the Rafale deal.

In an article published by French journal Mediapart, Hollande to a question about who selected Reliance as a partner and why, said it was the Indian government that proposed Reliance's name and Dassault had no choice but to take the company given to it.

"We did not have a say in that. The Indian government proposed this service group, and Dassault negotiated with Ambani. We did not have a choice, we took the interlocutor we were given," said Hollande. The interview was published in French and excerpts of Hollande's interview were tweeted by&nbsp; 
French newspaper LeMonde's journalist Julien Boissou.

His reported statement contradicts Indian government's claim that the agreement between Dassault and Reliance was a commercial pact between two private parties and the government had nothing to do with it.

Former French president Francois Hollande said that France did not choose to partner with Indian businessman Anil Ambani's company in "any way" and added that only Dassault can comment on the Rafale fighter jet deal.

Former French president Francois Hollande said that France did not choose to partner with Indian businessman Anil Ambani's company in "any way" and added that only Dassault can comment on the Rafale fighter jet deal. Asked whether India had put pressure on Reliance and Dassault to work together, Hollande said he was unaware and "only Dassault can comment on this", French news agency AFP reported. FLASH: From Agency AFP, when asked whether India had put pressure on Reliance and Dassault to work together, Ex France President Hollande said he was unaware and "only Dassault can comment on this". pic.twitter.com/YEb8eaD7Gw — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × Hollande was responding to a question by the French news agency on the sidelines of an event in Canada on Friday. "That is why, moreover, this group (Reliance) did not have to give me any thanks for anything," the former French president added. In an interview to a media house that appeared on Friday, Hollande had said that Dassault Aviation was given no choice but to partner with Anil Ambani-led Reliance Defence for the offset clause in the Rafale deal. In an article published by French journal Mediapart, Hollande to a question about who selected Reliance as a partner and why, said it was the Indian government that proposed Reliance's name and Dassault had no choice but to take the company given to it. "We did not have a say in that. The Indian government proposed this service group, and Dassault negotiated with Ambani. We did not have a choice, we took the interlocutor we were given," said Hollande. The interview was published in French and excerpts of Hollande's interview were tweeted by French newspaper LeMonde's journalist Julien Boissou. His reported statement contradicts Indian government's claim that the agreement between Dassault and Reliance was a commercial pact between two private parties and the government had nothing to do with it.

France 'did not choose Reliance in any way': Hollande

The Bombay High Court on Friday allowed a 33-year-old woman from Nashik to end her 30-week pregnancy.

The woman had told the court that the medical reports of the foetus showed that it had developed schizencephaly — morbid condition incompatible with normal life often resulting in complete disability.

A woman from Nashik had approached the Bombay High Court seeking permission to terminate her 30-week pregnancy, saying that a test has revealed that the foetus has a rare developmental birth defect.

The 33-year-old woman had a five-year-old son diagnosed with Down Syndrome. She and her husband had approached the High Court saying that they are already caring for a child with an intellectual disability, and forcing them to continue with the pregnancy would cause them physical and emotional trauma.

In their plea, filed through advocate Kuldeep Nikam last week, they said another child with special needs would be a financial burden since the woman is a homemaker and the man runs a small business.

The doctors of JJ hospital examined the woman and approved abortion at this stage due to a birth defect of the foetus.

The division bench of the court, comprising Justice AS Gadkari and Justice AS Oka said, "As there is a substantial risk of physical abnormalities to the fetus, it is necessary to terminate the pregnancy of the petitioner."

Advocate Kuldeep Nikam, the woman's lawyer, told the court that his client should be allowed to undergo the abortion in a private clinic in Nashik, as the doctors there are well aware of her case history. This, too, was approved by the court.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

The Bombay High Court on Friday allowed a 33-year-old woman from Nashik to end her 30-week pregnancy. The woman had told the court that the medical reports of the foetus showed that it had developed schizencephaly — morbid condition incompatible with normal life often resulting in complete disability.

The Bombay High Court on Friday allowed a 33-year-old woman from Nashik to end her 30-week pregnancy. The woman had told the court that the medical reports of the foetus showed that it had developed schizencephaly — morbid condition incompatible with normal life often resulting in complete disability. A woman from Nashik had approached the Bombay High Court seeking permission to terminate her 30-week pregnancy, saying that a test has revealed that the foetus has a rare developmental birth defect. The 33-year-old woman had a five-year-old son diagnosed with Down Syndrome. She and her husband had approached the High Court saying that they are already caring for a child with an intellectual disability, and forcing them to continue with the pregnancy would cause them physical and emotional trauma. In their plea, filed through advocate Kuldeep Nikam last week, they said another child with special needs would be a financial burden since the woman is a homemaker and the man runs a small business. The doctors of JJ hospital examined the woman and approved abortion at this stage due to a birth defect of the foetus. The division bench of the court, comprising Justice AS Gadkari and Justice AS Oka said, "As there is a substantial risk of physical abnormalities to the fetus, it is necessary to terminate the pregnancy of the petitioner." Advocate Kuldeep Nikam, the woman's lawyer, told the court that his client should be allowed to undergo the abortion in a private clinic in Nashik, as the doctors there are well aware of her case history. This, too, was approved by the court. (With inputs from ANI)

Bombay high court allows Nashik woman to terminate 30-week pregnancy

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-slams-indias-arrogant-and-negative-response-his-call-resumption-peace">Imran Khan slams India's 'arrogant' and 'negative' response to his call for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-slams-indias-arrogant-and-negative-response-his-call-resumption-peace">resumption</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-slams-indias-arrogant-and-negative-response-his-call-resumption-peace"> of peace dialogue</a>

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday slammed India for calling off the meeting between the foreign ministers of the two nations, which was scheduled to be held in New York later this month. Khan tweeted he was disappointed at the ''arrogant'' and ''negative'' response from India to his call for the resumption of the peace dialogue.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-playing-hands-pakistan-ravi-shankar-prasad-167130">Rahul Gandhi is playing into the hands of Pakistan: Ravi Shankar Prasad</a>

Hours after Rahul Gandhi mounted a fresh attack on Narendra Modi and called the prime minister a 'thief for the alleged corruption in the Rafale deal, BJP hit back at the Congress president and described his comments as ''deplorable''.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-asks-pm-speak-former-french-presidents-allegations-167116">Rahul Gandhi asks PM to speak up on former French president's allegations</a>

A day after former French president &nbsp;Francois Hollande dropped a bombshell by telling a French journal that the Indian government proposed Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as the India partner for the 36 Rafale jet deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify if what the Hollande is saying is true or false.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-25-including-12-revolutionary-guards-attack-iran-military-parade-167119">Gunmen kill 25, including 12 Revolutionary Guards, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-25-including-12-revolutionary-guards-attack-iran-military-parade-167119">in</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-25-including-12-revolutionary-guards-attack-iran-military-parade-167119"> </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-25-including-12-revolutionary-guards-attack-iran-military-parade-167119">attack</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-25-including-12-revolutionary-guards-attack-iran-military-parade-167119"> on Iran military parade </a>

Gunmen fired on a military parade in southwestern Iran on Saturday, killing 25 people, half of them members of the Revolutionary Guards, state news agencies reported, in one of the worst attacks ever on the elite force.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-group-claims-responsibility-iran-parade-attack-167131">Islamic State group claims responsibility for Iran parade attack​​​​​​</a>

Islamic State group has claimed the responsibility of&nbsp;Iran army parade attack&nbsp;which claimed the lives of 24 people on Saturday.

Imran Khan slams India's 'arrogant' and 'negative' response to his call for resumption of peace dialogue Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday slammed India for calling off the meeting between the foreign ministers of the two nations, which was scheduled to be held in New York later this month.

Imran Khan slams India's 'arrogant' and 'negative' response to his call for resumption of peace dialogue Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday slammed India for calling off the meeting between the foreign ministers of the two nations, which was scheduled to be held in New York later this month. Khan tweeted he was disappointed at the ''arrogant'' and ''negative'' response from India to his call for the resumption of the peace dialogue. Rahul Gandhi is playing into the hands of Pakistan: Ravi Shankar Prasad Hours after Rahul Gandhi mounted a fresh attack on Narendra Modi and called the prime minister a 'thief for the alleged corruption in the Rafale deal, BJP hit back at the Congress president and described his comments as ''deplorable''. Rahul Gandhi asks PM to speak up on former French president's allegations A day after former French president Francois Hollande dropped a bombshell by telling a French journal that the Indian government proposed Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as the India partner for the 36 Rafale jet deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify if what the Hollande is saying is true or false. Gunmen kill 25, including 12 Revolutionary Guards, in attack on Iran military parade Gunmen fired on a military parade in southwestern Iran on Saturday, killing 25 people, half of them members of the Revolutionary Guards, state news agencies reported, in one of the worst attacks ever on the elite force. Islamic State group claims responsibility for Iran parade attack Islamic State group has claimed the responsibility of Iran army parade attack which claimed the lives of 24 people on Saturday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

A day after former French president &nbsp;Francois Hollande dropped a bombshell by telling a French journal that the Indian government proposed Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as the India partner for the 36 Rafale jet deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify if what the Hollande is saying is true or false.&nbsp;

Addressing media persons in Delhi on Saturday, Rahul Gandhi said for the first time, a former French President called Indian PM a thief.&nbsp;

Calling Modi corrupt, Rahul Gandhi said ' desh ka chowkidaar ' chor hai' which roughly translates into India's guard is thief. Modi often boasts that he is the guard of the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

''We're absolutely convinced that the Prime Minister of India is corrupt. This question is now clearly settled in the mind of the Indian people that 'desh ka chowkidaar' chor hai,'' Congress president said.&nbsp;

Gandhi also took a swipe at the former defence minister Manohar Parrikar.&nbsp;

The former Defence Minister (Manohar Parrikar) said that when the contract was changed, he didn't know about it. He was buying fish in the markets of Goa, he said.

The Prime Minister should clarify if what the ex-French President is saying is true or false: Congress President Rahul Gandhi

A day after former French president Francois Hollande dropped a bombshell by telling a French journal that the Indian government proposed Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as the India partner for the 36 Rafale jet deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify if what the Hollande is saying is true or false.

A day after former French president Francois Hollande dropped a bombshell by telling a French journal that the Indian government proposed Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence as the India partner for the 36 Rafale jet deal, Congress president Rahul Gandhi asked the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify if what the Hollande is saying is true or false. Addressing media persons in Delhi on Saturday, Rahul Gandhi said for the first time, a former French President called Indian PM a thief. Calling Modi corrupt, Rahul Gandhi said ' desh ka chowkidaar ' chor hai' which roughly translates into India's guard is thief. Modi often boasts that he is the guard of the nation. ''We're absolutely convinced that the Prime Minister of India is corrupt. This question is now clearly settled in the mind of the Indian people that 'desh ka chowkidaar' chor hai,'' Congress president said. Gandhi also took a swipe at the former defence minister Manohar Parrikar. The former Defence Minister (Manohar Parrikar) said that when the contract was changed, he didn't know about it. He was buying fish in the markets of Goa, he said. The Prime Minister should clarify if what the ex-French President is saying is true or false: Congress President Rahul Gandhi

Rahul Gandhi asks PM to speak up on former French president's allegations

Hours after Rahul Gandhi mounted a fresh attack on Narendra Modi and called the prime minister a 'thief for the alleged corruption in the Rafale deal, BJP hit back at the Congress president and described his comments as ''deplorable''.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Never before in the history of independent India, has a party president used such words for a prime minister, &nbsp;Prasad said and added that Congress president was playing into the hands of Pakistan and China.

''It's my charge with the full sense of responsibility, Rahul is playing into the hands of enemies of India like Pakistan by insisting upon disclosure of all weapon system,'' Prasad said.

''We can't expect anything else from Rahul Gandhi. He has no quality or ability. He's there due to his family, said &nbsp;Union Law Minister.&nbsp;

Describing Congress president's statement ''irresponsible'' and ''baseless'', Prasad said Rahul Gandhi concocts lies and repeats it.&nbsp;

Earlier Ministry of Defence once again reiterated that the Government of India had no role in the selection of Indian Offset partner which is a commercial decision of the Original Equipment Manufacturer.&nbsp;

Unnecessary controversies are being created following reports regarding a statement purportedly made by former French President, Francois Hollande, concerning the selection of Reliance Defence as the Offset partner by Dassault, manufacturers of Rafale aircraft, Ministry of Defence said in a statement.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Hours after Rahul Gandhi mounted a fresh attack on Narendra Modi and called the prime minister a 'thief for the alleged corruption in the Rafale deal, BJP hit back at the Congress president and described his comments as ''deplorable''.

Hours after Rahul Gandhi mounted a fresh attack on Narendra Modi and called the prime minister a 'thief for the alleged corruption in the Rafale deal, BJP hit back at the Congress president and described his comments as ''deplorable''. Never before in the history of independent India, has a party president used such words for a prime minister, Prasad said and added that Congress president was playing into the hands of Pakistan and China. ''It's my charge with the full sense of responsibility, Rahul is playing into the hands of enemies of India like Pakistan by insisting upon disclosure of all weapon system,'' Prasad said. ''We can't expect anything else from Rahul Gandhi. He has no quality or ability. He's there due to his family, said Union Law Minister. Describing Congress president's statement ''irresponsible'' and ''baseless'', Prasad said Rahul Gandhi concocts lies and repeats it. Earlier Ministry of Defence once again reiterated that the Government of India had no role in the selection of Indian Offset partner which is a commercial decision of the Original Equipment Manufacturer. Unnecessary controversies are being created following reports regarding a statement purportedly made by former French President, Francois Hollande, concerning the selection of Reliance Defence as the Offset partner by Dassault, manufacturers of Rafale aircraft, Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

Rahul Gandhi is playing into the hands of Pakistan: Ravi Shankar Prasad

The BJP has called a 12-hour shutdown in West Bengal on September 26 to protest the killing of two students in a clash with police in North Dinajpur district in the state.

Announcing the shutdown, senior BJP leaders Mukul Roy and Pratap Banerjee accused the state government of failing to control the situation in Islampur, where the clash occurred on Thursday at Daribhit High School.

The villagers of Daribhit had claimed that the students were hit by bullets fired by police. However, the police had denied its involvement, even as the district superintendent of police had conceded that the two had died of bullet injuries.

Pratap Banerjee said, "We have decided to call a 12-hour shutdown in the state against the killing two people in police firing in Islampur area."

The people of Islampur and the entire state are "fed up with the misrule of TMC in Bengal" and the shutdown will be "an expression of people's anger against the anti-people government", he said here.

SP Sumnit Kumar had said members of the mob were carrying bombs and arms, and 14 policemen were injured in the clash.

Seven people, including some BJP supporters, were detained in connection with the incident which took place when the students and locals stopped three newly recruited Urdu teachers from entering the school with police help on Thursday.

The students had said they needed science and english teachers and not Urdu teachers, and demanded that all vacant teaching posts in the school be filled.

The BJP had observed a 12-hour shutdown in North Dinajpur district on Friday over the incident.&nbsp;

The BJP has called a 12-hour shutdown in West Bengal on September 26 to protest the killing of two students in a clash with police in North Dinajpur district in the state.

The BJP has called a 12-hour shutdown in West Bengal on September 26 to protest the killing of two students in a clash with police in North Dinajpur district in the state. Announcing the shutdown, senior BJP leaders Mukul Roy and Pratap Banerjee accused the state government of failing to control the situation in Islampur, where the clash occurred on Thursday at Daribhit High School. The villagers of Daribhit had claimed that the students were hit by bullets fired by police. However, the police had denied its involvement, even as the district superintendent of police had conceded that the two had died of bullet injuries. Pratap Banerjee said, "We have decided to call a 12-hour shutdown in the state against the killing two people in police firing in Islampur area." The people of Islampur and the entire state are "fed up with the misrule of TMC in Bengal" and the shutdown will be "an expression of people's anger against the anti-people government", he said here. SP Sumnit Kumar had said members of the mob were carrying bombs and arms, and 14 policemen were injured in the clash. Seven people, including some BJP supporters, were detained in connection with the incident which took place when the students and locals stopped three newly recruited Urdu teachers from entering the school with police help on Thursday. The students had said they needed science and english teachers and not Urdu teachers, and demanded that all vacant teaching posts in the school be filled. The BJP had observed a 12-hour shutdown in North Dinajpur district on Friday over the incident.

Islampur clash: BJP calls for 12-hour shutdown in West Bengal

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres will arrive in India on October 1 for a three-day official visit.

The visit coincides with the beginning of events to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India's Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2019. In 2007, the General Assembly designated 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence.

During his visit, Guterres will formally open the new UN House in New Delhi on October 1. The following morning, the Secretary-General will participate in the closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention.

He is also scheduled to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, before giving an address at the India Habitat Centre on Global Affairs on the theme "Global challenges, global solutions" on October 2. The same evening, Guterres will take part in the General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance.

On October 3, the Secretary-General will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. In the afternoon, he will visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Guterres will return to New York on October 4.&nbsp;

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres will arrive in India on October 1 for a three-day official visit. The visit coincides with the beginning of events to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India's Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2019.

The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres will arrive in India on October 1 for a three-day official visit. The visit coincides with the beginning of events to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of India's Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2019. In 2007, the General Assembly designated 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence. During his visit, Guterres will formally open the new UN House in New Delhi on October 1. The following morning, the Secretary-General will participate in the closing session of the Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention. He is also scheduled to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan, before giving an address at the India Habitat Centre on Global Affairs on the theme "Global challenges, global solutions" on October 2. The same evening, Guterres will take part in the General Assembly of the International Solar Alliance. On October 3, the Secretary-General will meet with President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. In the afternoon, he will visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Guterres will return to New York on October 4.

UN Secretary-General Guterres to visit India in October

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asserted that the state government has so far provided houses to 11 lakh poor families in rural areas under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).

Interacting with media, Adityanath said, "Uttar Pradesh has scored first place in the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and I am happy to inform that in rural areas, we have been successful in providing houses to 11 lakh poor families ."

He further said that the scheme has benefited over four lakh families in urban areas in the state.

Launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government, PMAY aims to provide affordable housing to the poor with a target of building 20 million affordable houses by March 31, 2022.&nbsp;

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asserted that the state government has so far provided houses to 11 lakh poor families in rural areas under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asserted that the state government has so far provided houses to 11 lakh poor families in rural areas under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). Interacting with media, Adityanath said, "Uttar Pradesh has scored first place in the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and I am happy to inform that in rural areas, we have been successful in providing houses to 11 lakh poor families ." He further said that the scheme has benefited over four lakh families in urban areas in the state. Launched in 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government, PMAY aims to provide affordable housing to the poor with a target of building 20 million affordable houses by March 31, 2022.

11 lakh rural poor families got houses under PMAY: Adityanath

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday virtually kicked off the election campaign for the BJP in Chhattisgarh by saying that people of the state are mature enough to elect a stable government.

At a public rally here, he said the only objective of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Chhattisgarh were the welfare of the poor and the common people.

"Despite allegations, rumours and misinformation, people of Chhattisgarh have been giving stable governments," he said.

Modi said Chhattisgarh had been known for violence by Naxals, explosion and bloodshed, and the BJP government has overcome all these challenges.

"Chhattisgarh has created its own place among the states which are on the path of development," he said.

The prime minister said the central government will ensure that power connection is given to every home across the country under the Saubhgya Yojana.

Modi also said Chhattisgarh has changed the perception that smaller states suffer from political instability.&nbsp;

The state Assembly elections in Chhattisgarh are likely to take place by the end of this year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday virtually kicked off the election campaign for the BJP in Chhattisgarh by saying that people of the state are mature enough to elect a stable government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday virtually kicked off the election campaign for the BJP in Chhattisgarh by saying that people of the state are mature enough to elect a stable government. At a public rally here, he said the only objective of the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Chhattisgarh were the welfare of the poor and the common people. "Despite allegations, rumours and misinformation, people of Chhattisgarh have been giving stable governments," he said. Modi said Chhattisgarh had been known for violence by Naxals, explosion and bloodshed, and the BJP government has overcome all these challenges. "Chhattisgarh has created its own place among the states which are on the path of development," he said. The prime minister said the central government will ensure that power connection is given to every home across the country under the Saubhgya Yojana. Modi also said Chhattisgarh has changed the perception that smaller states suffer from political instability. The state Assembly elections in Chhattisgarh are likely to take place by the end of this year.

People of Chhattisgarh mature enough to elect stable govt: PM Modi 

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday alleged that institutions such as the Supreme Court and the Election Commission were being "systematically captured" by the RSS and said India cannot be run on one single idea.

There is a feeling among the people that one ideology is being imposed upon them, Gandhi said at an interaction with academicians here.

"(RSS chief) Mohan Bhagwat in his earlier speeches has said: 'We are going to organise the nation'. Who is he to organise the nation? The nation will organise itself. In next couple of months, their fantasy will be smashed," he asserted.

During the interaction with eminent academicians from across the country at the Siri Fort, Gandhi said there are two visions of India and the Congress' vision is that India constitutes of people who live in it.

The only way to understand India is talk to its people, he said.

Gandhi alleged that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's vision of India is that of a "golden bird" which it views as a product.

The product has to be monetised and utilised, and they will decide who will do this, the Congress chief said.

"What we are fighting is the attempted capture of this 'golden bird' by the RSS. They have understood very clearly that electoral battle for them, they can win it once, but they can't repeatedly win it.

"They have understood that. So, now what they are doing is that they are saying elections will come and elections will go, let us capture all of India's institutions and let us capture the golden bird with a bypass surgery," he said.

The educational institutions, the Supreme Court and the Election Commission of India, all these are "systematically being captured", Gandhi alleged.

Citing an example, he alleged, "When Mr (Narendra) Modi came to power, a person from Gujarat was chosen to head the SPG. In a short time, he left the position. He told me that he refused a list of SPG officers handpicked by the RSS, and that is why he was sent home."

Gandhi claimed that the reason behind this attack on institutions was that there were monetary benefits for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

"For me, it is impossible to lead India, without having a conversation with India. The idea is, I should be a reflection of what is in your heart," he said.

Gandhi told the professors that he knows that they were feeling under pressure and feeling that an ideology was being imposed on them.

"You feel that one syllabus has now suddenly become acceptable to every single institution in India and I want you to understand and realise that you are not alone when you are fighting this battle, this sense, this feeling that you are getting is not only in your heart, it is in the heart of every single Indian person, it is in the heart of the farmers, it is in the heart of the labourers, it is in the heart of small and medium business," Gandhi said.

A country of over a billion people cannot possibly be run on one single idea and the fact that people are allowed to express is the strength of the country, Gandhi said.

"Look at 3,000 years of India's history, we are going to win, we are not going to lose," Gandhi asserted.

Attacking the government over its education policy, Gandhi said government institutions should be given precedence over private institutions and the government should put money to strengthen them.

"There has to be space for private institutions, but the guiding light, the foundation, the superstructure has to be the public education system," he said.

"The quality private institutions must look towards government institutions and say look that is an IIT that is something we aspire to, it shouldn't be the other way round," he said, adding that the government has to put money into the system.

He also recalled that former US president Barack Obama had said the real competition for America was from the engineers, doctors and lawyers coming out of India. This was praise for the teachers of India, Gandhi said.

The Congress chief asserted that when it comes to the Indian education system, two things are non-negotiable -- teachers should be able to express and they should be given a vision for their own future.

Gandhi said the Congress was commencing its work in drafting a manifesto and invited teachers to form a delegation and come forward with their demands.&nbsp;

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday alleged that institutions such as the Supreme Court and the Election Commission were being "systematically captured" by the RSS and said India cannot be run on one single idea.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday alleged that institutions such as the Supreme Court and the Election Commission were being "systematically captured" by the RSS and said India cannot be run on one single idea. There is a feeling among the people that one ideology is being imposed upon them, Gandhi said at an interaction with academicians here. "(RSS chief) Mohan Bhagwat in his earlier speeches has said: 'We are going to organise the nation'. Who is he to organise the nation? The nation will organise itself. In next couple of months, their fantasy will be smashed," he asserted. During the interaction with eminent academicians from across the country at the Siri Fort, Gandhi said there are two visions of India and the Congress' vision is that India constitutes of people who live in it. The only way to understand India is talk to its people, he said. Gandhi alleged that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's vision of India is that of a "golden bird" which it views as a product. The product has to be monetised and utilised, and they will decide who will do this, the Congress chief said. "What we are fighting is the attempted capture of this 'golden bird' by the RSS. They have understood very clearly that electoral battle for them, they can win it once, but they can't repeatedly win it. "They have understood that. So, now what they are doing is that they are saying elections will come and elections will go, let us capture all of India's institutions and let us capture the golden bird with a bypass surgery," he said. The educational institutions, the Supreme Court and the Election Commission of India, all these are "systematically being captured", Gandhi alleged. Citing an example, he alleged, "When Mr (Narendra) Modi came to power, a person from Gujarat was chosen to head the SPG. In a short time, he left the position. He told me that he refused a list of SPG officers handpicked by the RSS, and that is why he was sent home." Gandhi claimed that the reason behind this attack on institutions was that there were monetary benefits for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). "For me, it is impossible to lead India, without having a conversation with India. The idea is, I should be a reflection of what is in your heart," he said. Gandhi told the professors that he knows that they were feeling under pressure and feeling that an ideology was being imposed on them. "You feel that one syllabus has now suddenly become acceptable to every single institution in India and I want you to understand and realise that you are not alone when you are fighting this battle, this sense, this feeling that you are getting is not only in your heart, it is in the heart of every single Indian person, it is in the heart of the farmers, it is in the heart of the labourers, it is in the heart of small and medium business," Gandhi said. A country of over a billion people cannot possibly be run on one single idea and the fact that people are allowed to express is the strength of the country, Gandhi said. "Look at 3,000 years of India's history, we are going to win, we are not going to lose," Gandhi asserted. Attacking the government over its education policy, Gandhi said government institutions should be given precedence over private institutions and the government should put money to strengthen them. "There has to be space for private institutions, but the guiding light, the foundation, the superstructure has to be the public education system," he said. "The quality private institutions must look towards government institutions and say look that is an IIT that is something we aspire to, it shouldn't be the other way round," he said, adding that the government has to put money into the system. He also recalled that former US president Barack Obama had said the real competition for America was from the engineers, doctors and lawyers coming out of India. This was praise for the teachers of India, Gandhi said. The Congress chief asserted that when it comes to the Indian education system, two things are non-negotiable -- teachers should be able to express and they should be given a vision for their own future. Gandhi said the Congress was commencing its work in drafting a manifesto and invited teachers to form a delegation and come forward with their demands.

Institutions like SC, EC being 'systematically captured' by RSS: Rahul Gandhi

The Tamil Nadu government Saturday asserted that the Sterlite Industries' plant in Tuticorin would not be re-opened as its policy decision to seal the Vedanta Ltd unit was in line with people's sentiments.

This comes on a day when a three-member panel appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and led by former Meghalaya High Court Chief Justice Tarun Agrawal, is slated to visit the copper smelter plant in the southern district.

"Our stand is that once it is closed, it is closed. A policy decision was taken by the government and based on that the plant was sealed.They (Vedanta) have moved the NGT against the sealing and a panel was formed. We have moved the Supreme Court saying not even that panel is required," Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar told reporters here.

Jayakumar said the local people were against the plant, and therefore the government took a decision to seal it "in line with the sentiments of the people of Tuticorin."

"Once closed, it is closed. There is no chance of re-opening it by the government," he asserted.

The Tamil Nadu government had ordered permanent closure of the copper smelter plant on environment grounds in the wake of protests by locals.

The locals held protests demanding the closure of the Sterlite factory for 99 days and the agitation turned violent on May 22 on its 100th day leading to 13 agitators being killed in police firing.

The state government had last Tuesday urged the Central Pollution Control Board to postpone today's visit of the expert committee to the closed Sterlite Industries, citing pendency of its appeal in the SC against the NGT order setting up the panel.

In its communication to CPCB, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) referred to pending cases in the Supreme Court against the NGT order on setting up the panel.

Earlier, the state government had also rejected the Centre's report on groundwater contamination in Tuticorin in the backdrop of the Sterlite controversy, saying it was "absolutely vague" and seemed to support the Vedanta unit which was "totally unwarranted."

It had said the state "strongly feels that the report is motivated and has been prepared only to prejudice the Tamil Nadu government and the TNPCB cases in various judicial fora."

To a query, Jayakumar rejected archrival DMK's contention that the ruling AIADMK's September 25 protest against Congress and DMK on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue was a bid to divert attention from corruption charges faced by the ruling dispensation.

The AIADMK has announced state-wide public meetings on September 25 seeking 'trial' of DMK and Congress for "war crimes" against Tamils in the 2009 Sri Lankan civil conflict.

Jayakumar said the meetings were not an attempt at diverting attention from anything "as we have nothing to hide."

"Certain truths have to be told to the people at the right time," he said. 
The old political issue has been revived by the AIADMK in the backdrop of the recent remarks of former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa that the Indian government helped his country during the final war against the&nbsp; 
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009.

Rajapaksa was at the helm when the nearly 30-year-old ethnic strife in Sri Lanka ended in 2009 with the defeat of the LTTE while the DMK was part of the Congress-led UPA that ruled India then.

The AIADMK had on September 19 adopted a resolution at a meeting here alleging DMK and Congress were responsible for the killings of thousands of Tamils during the war.

"Now that Rajapaksa has openly admitted to all secrets, the DMK-Congress coalition government aiding the killings of 1.5 lakh Tamils and rapes of thousands of Tamil women should be treated as war crimes and those involved should be made war criminals and given punishment," it had said.

Jayakumar sought to know why the DMK had not warned Congress of withdrawing support seeking ceasefire then, and said had this been done, "the 1.5 lakh lives would have been saved."

The Tamil Nadu government Saturday asserted that the Sterlite Industries' plant in Tuticorin would not be re-opened as its policy decision to seal the Vedanta Ltd unit was in line with people's sentiments.

The Tamil Nadu government Saturday asserted that the Sterlite Industries' plant in Tuticorin would not be re-opened as its policy decision to seal the Vedanta Ltd unit was in line with people's sentiments. This comes on a day when a three-member panel appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and led by former Meghalaya High Court Chief Justice Tarun Agrawal, is slated to visit the copper smelter plant in the southern district. "Our stand is that once it is closed, it is closed. A policy decision was taken by the government and based on that the plant was sealed.They (Vedanta) have moved the NGT against the sealing and a panel was formed. We have moved the Supreme Court saying not even that panel is required," Fisheries Minister D Jayakumar told reporters here. Jayakumar said the local people were against the plant, and therefore the government took a decision to seal it "in line with the sentiments of the people of Tuticorin." "Once closed, it is closed. There is no chance of re-opening it by the government," he asserted. The Tamil Nadu government had ordered permanent closure of the copper smelter plant on environment grounds in the wake of protests by locals. The locals held protests demanding the closure of the Sterlite factory for 99 days and the agitation turned violent on May 22 on its 100th day leading to 13 agitators being killed in police firing. The state government had last Tuesday urged the Central Pollution Control Board to postpone today's visit of the expert committee to the closed Sterlite Industries, citing pendency of its appeal in the SC against the NGT order setting up the panel. In its communication to CPCB, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) referred to pending cases in the Supreme Court against the NGT order on setting up the panel. Earlier, the state government had also rejected the Centre's report on groundwater contamination in Tuticorin in the backdrop of the Sterlite controversy, saying it was "absolutely vague" and seemed to support the Vedanta unit which was "totally unwarranted." It had said the state "strongly feels that the report is motivated and has been prepared only to prejudice the Tamil Nadu government and the TNPCB cases in various judicial fora." To a query, Jayakumar rejected archrival DMK's contention that the ruling AIADMK's September 25 protest against Congress and DMK on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue was a bid to divert attention from corruption charges faced by the ruling dispensation. The AIADMK has announced state-wide public meetings on September 25 seeking 'trial' of DMK and Congress for "war crimes" against Tamils in the 2009 Sri Lankan civil conflict. Jayakumar said the meetings were not an attempt at diverting attention from anything "as we have nothing to hide." "Certain truths have to be told to the people at the right time," he said. The old political issue has been revived by the AIADMK in the backdrop of the recent remarks of former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa that the Indian government helped his country during the final war against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in 2009. Rajapaksa was at the helm when the nearly 30-year-old ethnic strife in Sri Lanka ended in 2009 with the defeat of the LTTE while the DMK was part of the Congress-led UPA that ruled India then. The AIADMK had on September 19 adopted a resolution at a meeting here alleging DMK and Congress were responsible for the killings of thousands of Tamils during the war. "Now that Rajapaksa has openly admitted to all secrets, the DMK-Congress coalition government aiding the killings of 1.5 lakh Tamils and rapes of thousands of Tamil women should be treated as war crimes and those involved should be made war criminals and given punishment," it had said. Jayakumar sought to know why the DMK had not warned Congress of withdrawing support seeking ceasefire then, and said had this been done, "the 1.5 lakh lives would have been saved."

Sterlite plant in Tuticorin would not be re-opened: Tamil Nadu govt

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday Bangladeshi migrants are like termites and each one of them will be struck off the electoral roll.

Referring to the draft National Register of Citizens recently published in Assam, he said, The BJP government brought NRC and prima facie identified nearly 40 lakh illegal immigrants.

The BJP government will pick out each and every infiltrator, he said. ''BJP sarkaar ek-ek ghuspaithiye ko chun-chun kar matdata suchi se hatane ka kaam karegi.''

Shah was speaking at a public meeting in Sawai Madhopur district's Gangapur before heading for another event in Kota.

The Bharatiya Janata Party chief was in Rajasthan earlier this month as well as his party and the Congress gear up for the Assembly elections by the year-end.

The BJP government in Rajasthan is like the unshakeable 'Angad ka Paon', he said referring to a character in Ramayana whose foot even Ravana could not move.

The Congress cannot do any good for the country as that party has neither a leader nor a policy, he said.

Calling Rahul Gandhi Rahul Baba, Shah said while he is demanding an account of the work done by the BJP, the people want him to tell them what the four generations of his own family have done.

He said Rajasthan was a `Bimaru' state during the Congress rule but Chief Minister Vasundhra Raje had worked to bring in progress.

He said both the central and the state governments had initiated development projects.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday Bangladeshi migrants are like termites and each one of them will be struck off the electoral roll. Referring to the draft National Register of Citizens recently published in Assam, he said, The BJP government brought NRC and prima facie identified nearly 40 lakh illegal immigrants.

BJP president Amit Shah said Saturday Bangladeshi migrants are like termites and each one of them will be struck off the electoral roll. Referring to the draft National Register of Citizens recently published in Assam, he said, The BJP government brought NRC and prima facie identified nearly 40 lakh illegal immigrants. The BJP government will pick out each and every infiltrator, he said. ''BJP sarkaar ek-ek ghuspaithiye ko chun-chun kar matdata suchi se hatane ka kaam karegi.'' Shah was speaking at a public meeting in Sawai Madhopur district's Gangapur before heading for another event in Kota. The Bharatiya Janata Party chief was in Rajasthan earlier this month as well as his party and the Congress gear up for the Assembly elections by the year-end. The BJP government in Rajasthan is like the unshakeable 'Angad ka Paon', he said referring to a character in Ramayana whose foot even Ravana could not move. The Congress cannot do any good for the country as that party has neither a leader nor a policy, he said. Calling Rahul Gandhi Rahul Baba, Shah said while he is demanding an account of the work done by the BJP, the people want him to tell them what the four generations of his own family have done. He said Rajasthan was a `Bimaru' state during the Congress rule but Chief Minister Vasundhra Raje had worked to bring in progress. He said both the central and the state governments had initiated development projects.

Bangladeshi migrants are 'termites' will be removed from voters' list: Amit Shah

A court in Pala on Saturday rejected a bail application filed by Bishop Franco Mulakkal, arrested over allegations of repeatedly raping and sexually assaulting a nun, and sent him to two-day police custody.

The Bishop was brought to the magistrate court around 1.15 pm amid tight security. His lawyers moved the application, submitting that the clergyman was arrested after a three-day-long interrogation by the probe team.

Opposing the plea, the police said his three-day custody was required to complete the investigation in the case.

Recording the submissions, the magistrate granted two-day custody of the bishop to police, till 2.30 pm on Monday.

Earlier, the bishop was discharged from the Government Medical College Hospital here, where he was admitted on Friday night following complaints of chest pain.

The 54-year-old clergyman had complained of pain in his chest while being taken to Kottayam Police club from the Crime Branch office at Thrippunithura in Ernakulam district Friday night.

He was under observation in the cardiology section of the hospital for over six hours after his blood pressure shot up, official sources said.

Police took him to the court in Pala from police club here.

In her complaint to the Kottayam Police in June, the nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions.

The nun said that she had to approach the police as the church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints against the clergyman.

However, the bishop has denied the charges.

A court in Pala on Saturday rejected a bail application filed by Bishop Franco Mulakkal, arrested over allegations of repeatedly raping and sexually assaulting a nun, and sent him to two-day police custody.

A court in Pala on Saturday rejected a bail application filed by Bishop Franco Mulakkal, arrested over allegations of repeatedly raping and sexually assaulting a nun, and sent him to two-day police custody. The Bishop was brought to the magistrate court around 1.15 pm amid tight security. His lawyers moved the application, submitting that the clergyman was arrested after a three-day-long interrogation by the probe team. Opposing the plea, the police said his three-day custody was required to complete the investigation in the case. Recording the submissions, the magistrate granted two-day custody of the bishop to police, till 2.30 pm on Monday. Earlier, the bishop was discharged from the Government Medical College Hospital here, where he was admitted on Friday night following complaints of chest pain. The 54-year-old clergyman had complained of pain in his chest while being taken to Kottayam Police club from the Crime Branch office at Thrippunithura in Ernakulam district Friday night. He was under observation in the cardiology section of the hospital for over six hours after his blood pressure shot up, official sources said. Police took him to the court in Pala from police club here. In her complaint to the Kottayam Police in June, the nun had alleged that Bishop Mulakkal raped her at a guest house in Kuravilangad in May 2014 and later sexually exploited her on several occasions. The nun said that she had to approach the police as the church authorities did not act on her repeated complaints against the clergyman. However, the bishop has denied the charges.

Kerala nun rape case: Bishop Franco Mulakkal's bail plea rejected, sent to 2-day police custody

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, on Saturday, tried to dispel the controversy surrounding the India-France Rafale jet deal.

Former French president, François Hollande in an interview to a media house on Friday, contradicted Indian government's claim that the agreement between Dassault and Reliance was a commercial pact between two private parties and the government had nothing to do with it.

Making his first comment on the issue since Hollande's claims, Home Minister Singh told ANI, "It makes no sense to create a controversy over the Rafale issue. On the said utterance of former President of France, the Defence Ministry has already issued a statement and has stated that they are verifying it. It is my understanding that all accusations are completely baseless, were always so and will remain baseless".

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Making his first comment since former French president, François Hollande's claims, Home Minister Rajnath Singh tried to dispel the controversy surrounding the India-France Rafale jet deal 
 
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On Friday, in an article published by French journal, Mediapart, Hollande, said that Dassault Aviation was given no choice but to partner with Anil Ambani-led Reliance Defence for the offset clause in the Rafale fighter jet deal.

Responding to the interview, Defence Ministry spokesperson tweeted, "The report referring to former French President Mr Hollande's statement that GoI insisted upon a particular firm as offset partner for the Dassault Aviation in Rafale is being verified. It is reiterated that neither GoI nor French Govt had any say in the commercial decision."

Later in the night, confirming India's stand on the offsets agreement between Dassault Aviation and Reliance Group, the former, in a statement, reiterated that Reliance Group was chosen in compliance with the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016 regulations.

It was after his talks with then-President Hollande on April 10, 2015, in Paris that Prime Minister Modi had announced the jet deal.

The claim by the former French president has given fresh ammunition to the Congress party, which has been mounting an attack on the government, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Modi.

Launching a blistering attack on Modi, senior Congress leader, Mallikarjun Kharge, told ANI, "It's my personal demand that he (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is not suitable for the post and therefore he should immediately resign &amp; appoint any cabinet minister as Prime Minister. He is morally not suitable for the post now."

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, on Saturday, tried to dispel the controversy surrounding the India-France Rafale jet deal. Former French president, François Hollande in an interview to a media house on Friday, contradicted Indian government's claim that the agreement between Dassault and Reliance was a commercial pact between two private parties and the government had nothing to do with it.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, on Saturday, tried to dispel the controversy surrounding the India-France Rafale jet deal. Former French president, François Hollande in an interview to a media house on Friday, contradicted Indian government's claim that the agreement between Dassault and Reliance was a commercial pact between two private parties and the government had nothing to do with it. Making his first comment on the issue since Hollande's claims, Home Minister Singh told ANI, "It makes no sense to create a controversy over the Rafale issue. On the said utterance of former President of France, the Defence Ministry has already issued a statement and has stated that they are verifying it. It is my understanding that all accusations are completely baseless, were always so and will remain baseless". Making his first comment since former French president, François Hollande's claims, Home Minister Rajnath Singh tried to dispel the controversy surrounding the India-France Rafale jet deal Read @ANI story | https://t.co/xw74EClTwo pic.twitter.com/curoG2mr2i — ANI Digital (@ani_digital) September 22, 2018 × On Friday, in an article published by French journal, Mediapart, Hollande, said that Dassault Aviation was given no choice but to partner with Anil Ambani-led Reliance Defence for the offset clause in the Rafale fighter jet deal. Responding to the interview, Defence Ministry spokesperson tweeted, "The report referring to former French President Mr Hollande's statement that GoI insisted upon a particular firm as offset partner for the Dassault Aviation in Rafale is being verified. It is reiterated that neither GoI nor French Govt had any say in the commercial decision." Later in the night, confirming India's stand on the offsets agreement between Dassault Aviation and Reliance Group, the former, in a statement, reiterated that Reliance Group was chosen in compliance with the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016 regulations. It was after his talks with then-President Hollande on April 10, 2015, in Paris that Prime Minister Modi had announced the jet deal. The claim by the former French president has given fresh ammunition to the Congress party, which has been mounting an attack on the government, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Modi. Launching a blistering attack on Modi, senior Congress leader, Mallikarjun Kharge, told ANI, "It's my personal demand that he (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is not suitable for the post and therefore he should immediately resign & appoint any cabinet minister as Prime Minister. He is morally not suitable for the post now."

Rafale Deal Row: Accusations baseless, says Rajnath after Hollande's claim

Dressed in Gongchas -- a heavy coat-like traditional Ladakhi attire -- 299 women danced together making it to the Guinness World Records and marked the end of the Naropa Festival Thursday.

The women, aged between 18 and 60 years, wore Peraks -- turquoise headgears -- and performed the Shondol to Ladakhi music at the Hemis Monastery in the Himalayas. Shondol is a traditional dance performed for the king on special occasions.&nbsp;

Speaking after the world record attempt, Swapnil Dangarikar, official adjudicator, Guinness World Records, declared the dance performance as the "Largest Ladakhi Dance".

"They (dancers) have made a record with 299 successful participants. This is a new Guinness World Record title... With this I declare that all of you are officially amazing," Dangarikar said.

The last of the five-day festival also witnessed Tsering Ladol being honoured with the Himalayan Hero award. Ladol was the first Ladakhi girl to scale Mount Everest in 2005.

The award was conferred to Master Sonam Lundup, for his dedication in the field of education and Olthang Nimoo, for his contribution in the field of art, and posthumously to Late Padma Shri Tsering Wangdus.

The festival, which started on September 16, celebrated the life and teachings of Buddhist scholar-saint Naropa with traditional dance and musical performances.&nbsp;

With visitors from the Himalayan region of Tibet and as far as Bhutan, the five-day festival also witnessed the unfurling of the 85-feet Thangka -- a Tibetan-Buddhist painting on a cloth depicting a deity or a mandala -- which the monastery touted as "the largest silk embroidered brocade of Buddha" in India.

One of the members of the organising committee said at the closing ceremony that the festival is a platform "for all to come together and to encourage our people and artists".

"It is a platform to showcase the rich and divine heritage of the Himalayan region. People here can meet and interact with the followers of the Drupka lineage from India, Tibet, and other parts of the world.&nbsp;

"It is also a platform to exchange the teachings of the Buddha dharama and to learn the culture of Ladakh," he added.

Celebrated every 12th year of the Tibetan calendar, the Naropa festival, also known as the 'Kumbh Mela of the Himalayas', was last organised in 2016 as a "special case".

This year's edition of the festival also saw the formal inauguration of the Naropa Fellowship programme for post-graduate candidates to "encourage and shape the next generation of leaders in policy and entrepreneurship".&nbsp;

The celebrations this year also included lessons of Naropa, prayers and religious performances by monks and nuns, traditional archery competition, performances by local artistes and a fashion show.

Each evening, the festival witnessed performances by Bollywood artistes including Kailash Kher, Papon, Sonu Nigam and Aditi Singh Sharma.

Dressed in Gongchas -- a heavy coat-like traditional Ladakhi attire -- 299 women danced together making it to the Guinness World Records and marked the end of the Naropa Festival Thursday.

Dressed in Gongchas -- a heavy coat-like traditional Ladakhi attire -- 299 women danced together making it to the Guinness World Records and marked the end of the Naropa Festival Thursday. The women, aged between 18 and 60 years, wore Peraks -- turquoise headgears -- and performed the Shondol to Ladakhi music at the Hemis Monastery in the Himalayas. Shondol is a traditional dance performed for the king on special occasions. Speaking after the world record attempt, Swapnil Dangarikar, official adjudicator, Guinness World Records, declared the dance performance as the "Largest Ladakhi Dance". "They (dancers) have made a record with 299 successful participants. This is a new Guinness World Record title... With this I declare that all of you are officially amazing," Dangarikar said. The last of the five-day festival also witnessed Tsering Ladol being honoured with the Himalayan Hero award. Ladol was the first Ladakhi girl to scale Mount Everest in 2005. The award was conferred to Master Sonam Lundup, for his dedication in the field of education and Olthang Nimoo, for his contribution in the field of art, and posthumously to Late Padma Shri Tsering Wangdus. The festival, which started on September 16, celebrated the life and teachings of Buddhist scholar-saint Naropa with traditional dance and musical performances. With visitors from the Himalayan region of Tibet and as far as Bhutan, the five-day festival also witnessed the unfurling of the 85-feet Thangka -- a Tibetan-Buddhist painting on a cloth depicting a deity or a mandala -- which the monastery touted as "the largest silk embroidered brocade of Buddha" in India. One of the members of the organising committee said at the closing ceremony that the festival is a platform "for all to come together and to encourage our people and artists". "It is a platform to showcase the rich and divine heritage of the Himalayan region. People here can meet and interact with the followers of the Drupka lineage from India, Tibet, and other parts of the world. "It is also a platform to exchange the teachings of the Buddha dharama and to learn the culture of Ladakh," he added. Celebrated every 12th year of the Tibetan calendar, the Naropa festival, also known as the 'Kumbh Mela of the Himalayas', was last organised in 2016 as a "special case". This year's edition of the festival also saw the formal inauguration of the Naropa Fellowship programme for post-graduate candidates to "encourage and shape the next generation of leaders in policy and entrepreneurship". The celebrations this year also included lessons of Naropa, prayers and religious performances by monks and nuns, traditional archery competition, performances by local artistes and a fashion show. Each evening, the festival witnessed performances by Bollywood artistes including Kailash Kher, Papon, Sonu Nigam and Aditi Singh Sharma.

Naropa festival concludes with Guinness World Record in Ladakhi dance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday visited Odisha and laid the foundation stone of Talcher Fertiliser Plant in Talcher, news agency ANI reported. He also addressed a rally here during which he lashed out at the previous UPA government for the closure of industries during its rule.

"UPA regime failed to revive closed industries," PM Modi noted.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister said that the NDA government revived industries for the development of the nation.&nbsp;

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Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays foundation stone of Talcher Fertiliser Plant in Talcher <a href="https://t.co/LjQ43NPsyV">pic.twitter.com/LjQ43NPsyV</a>
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After laying the foundation stone of the Talcher fertiliser plant, the Prime Minister stated that the "work on fertiliser plants picked up speed" with the BJP assuming power.

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When BJP govt came to power in the centre, the work on fertiliser plants picked up speed. I ensure you that the construction of Talcher Fertiliser Plant will be completed in 36 months &amp; I'll again come here to inaugurate it: PM Modi at a public rally in Talcher. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ja70Uqg42j">pic.twitter.com/Ja70Uqg42j</a>
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"I ensure you that the construction of Talcher Fertiliser Plant will be completed in 36 months and I'll again come here to inaugurate it," PM Modi addressed the rally at Talcher. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the Rs 13,000 crore-project to revive the Talcher fertiliser plant will for the first time see coal being converted into gas for use as the feedstock and for producing neem-coated urea.

"Our aim is to take India to new heights of growth," he said.

Talcher fertiliser project of the Fertilizer Corporation of India was shut in 2002 by the then BJP-led NDA government as frequent power restrictions, obsolete and mismatch of technology made the plant economically unviable.

The government in August 2011 decided to revive the plant.

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Three days ago, the central govt took a decision that was needed since decades. The decision was on Triple Talaq. No one was ready to even talk about it due to the fear of losing votes. Now, it has been declared illegal: PM Narendra Modi at a public rally in Talcher. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha</a> <a href="https://t.co/UpIKzuPuZK">pic.twitter.com/UpIKzuPuZK</a>
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The Prime Minister, on the sidelines of the Talcher event, asked Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to link the people of the state with the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. The scheme provides Rs 5 lakh health insurance to the people.

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You have broken all records of previous rallies. This huge crowd portrays the sentiments of the people of Odisha: PM Modi at a public rally in Talcher. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha</a> <a href="https://t.co/fK8gDEJuGq">pic.twitter.com/fK8gDEJuGq</a>
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"I urge Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik to link people of the state with Ayushman Bharat scheme to be launched on Sunday," he said.

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&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday visited Odisha and laid the foundation stone of Talcher Fertiliser Plant in Talcher, news agency ANI reported. He also addressed a rally here during which he lashed out at the previous UPA government for the closure of industries during its rule.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday visited Odisha and laid the foundation stone of Talcher Fertiliser Plant in Talcher, news agency ANI reported. He also addressed a rally here during which he lashed out at the previous UPA government for the closure of industries during its rule. "UPA regime failed to revive closed industries," PM Modi noted. The Prime Minister said that the NDA government revived industries for the development of the nation. Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays foundation stone of Talcher Fertiliser Plant in Talcher pic.twitter.com/LjQ43NPsyV — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × After laying the foundation stone of the Talcher fertiliser plant, the Prime Minister stated that the "work on fertiliser plants picked up speed" with the BJP assuming power. When BJP govt came to power in the centre, the work on fertiliser plants picked up speed. I ensure you that the construction of Talcher Fertiliser Plant will be completed in 36 months & I'll again come here to inaugurate it: PM Modi at a public rally in Talcher. #Odisha pic.twitter.com/Ja70Uqg42j — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × "I ensure you that the construction of Talcher Fertiliser Plant will be completed in 36 months and I'll again come here to inaugurate it," PM Modi addressed the rally at Talcher. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the Rs 13,000 crore-project to revive the Talcher fertiliser plant will for the first time see coal being converted into gas for use as the feedstock and for producing neem-coated urea. "Our aim is to take India to new heights of growth," he said. Talcher fertiliser project of the Fertilizer Corporation of India was shut in 2002 by the then BJP-led NDA government as frequent power restrictions, obsolete and mismatch of technology made the plant economically unviable. The government in August 2011 decided to revive the plant. Three days ago, the central govt took a decision that was needed since decades. The decision was on Triple Talaq. No one was ready to even talk about it due to the fear of losing votes. Now, it has been declared illegal: PM Narendra Modi at a public rally in Talcher. #Odisha pic.twitter.com/UpIKzuPuZK — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × The Prime Minister, on the sidelines of the Talcher event, asked Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to link the people of the state with the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme. The scheme provides Rs 5 lakh health insurance to the people. You have broken all records of previous rallies. This huge crowd portrays the sentiments of the people of Odisha: PM Modi at a public rally in Talcher. #Odisha pic.twitter.com/fK8gDEJuGq — ANI (@ANI) September 22, 2018 × "I urge Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik to link people of the state with Ayushman Bharat scheme to be launched on Sunday," he said. ×

UPA regime failed to revive closed industries: PM Modi in Odisha

Delhi's air quality turned 'good' Saturday, for the second time this year due to persistent monsoon that washed away pollutants from the air, according to authorities.

The overall Air Quality Index of New Delhi was recorded at 48 which falls under the "good" category, as per the data of the Central Pollution Control Board.

The improvement in air quality is due to incessant rains that have washed away pollutants from the air, a CPCB official said.

An AQI in the range of 0-50 is considered 'Good', 51-100 'Satisfactory', 101-200 'Moderate', 201-300 'Poor', 301-400 'Very Poor' and 401-500 'Severe'.

The PM10 level (presence of particles with a diameter less than 10mm) was recorded as 'good' at 46 in Delhi-NCR and Delhi.&nbsp;

The PM2.5 level (presence of particles with a diameter less than 2.5 mm) was 23 in Delhi-NCR and 22 in Delhi on Friday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board data.

This is the second time this year that the quality of air fell in the 'good' category.

Earlier on July 28, the onset of monsoon in Delhi had cleansed the air, bringing it in the 'good' category.

Delhi's air quality turned 'good' Saturday, for the second time this year due to persistent monsoon that washed away pollutants from the air, according to authorities.

Delhi's air quality turned 'good' Saturday, for the second time this year due to persistent monsoon that washed away pollutants from the air, according to authorities. The overall Air Quality Index of New Delhi was recorded at 48 which falls under the "good" category, as per the data of the Central Pollution Control Board. The improvement in air quality is due to incessant rains that have washed away pollutants from the air, a CPCB official said. An AQI in the range of 0-50 is considered 'Good', 51-100 'Satisfactory', 101-200 'Moderate', 201-300 'Poor', 301-400 'Very Poor' and 401-500 'Severe'. The PM10 level (presence of particles with a diameter less than 10mm) was recorded as 'good' at 46 in Delhi-NCR and Delhi. The PM2.5 level (presence of particles with a diameter less than 2.5 mm) was 23 in Delhi-NCR and 22 in Delhi on Friday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board data. This is the second time this year that the quality of air fell in the 'good' category. Earlier on July 28, the onset of monsoon in Delhi had cleansed the air, bringing it in the 'good' category.

Delhi's air quality turns 'good' for second time this year: CPCB data

Upping the ante on the Rafale issue, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani jointly carried out a “surgical strike” on the defense forces.&nbsp;

His renewed attack on Modi came a day after a French media report quoted former French president Francois Hollande as purportedly saying that the Indian government proposed Ambani’s Reliance Defence as the partner for Dassault Aviation in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale jet fighter deal and France did not have a choice.

“The PM and Anil Ambani jointly carried out … SURGICAL STRIKE on the Indian Defence forces. Modi Ji, you dishonored the blood of our martyred soldiers. Shame on you. You betrayed India’s soul (sic),” Gandhi tweeted.

Modi had announced the procurement of a batch of 36 Rafale jets after holding talks with then French President Hollande on April 10, 2015, in Paris.

The opposition party has been accusing the government of choosing Reliance Defence over state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd to benefit the private firm though it did not have any experience in the aerospace sector.

Upping the ante on the Rafale issue, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani jointly carried out a “surgical strike” on the defense forces.

Upping the ante on the Rafale issue, Congress president Rahul Gandhi Saturday alleged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anil Ambani jointly carried out a “surgical strike” on the defense forces. His renewed attack on Modi came a day after a French media report quoted former French president Francois Hollande as purportedly saying that the Indian government proposed Ambani’s Reliance Defence as the partner for Dassault Aviation in the Rs 58,000 crore Rafale jet fighter deal and France did not have a choice. “The PM and Anil Ambani jointly carried out … SURGICAL STRIKE on the Indian Defence forces. Modi Ji, you dishonored the blood of our martyred soldiers. Shame on you. You betrayed India’s soul (sic),” Gandhi tweeted. Modi had announced the procurement of a batch of 36 Rafale jets after holding talks with then French President Hollande on April 10, 2015, in Paris. The opposition party has been accusing the government of choosing Reliance Defence over state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd to benefit the private firm though it did not have any experience in the aerospace sector.

PM Modi, Anil Ambani jointly carried out surgical strike on defence forces: Rahul Gandhi

Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh said Saturday that former French president Francois Hollande’s remarks on the Rafale aircraft deal have proved it was a “big scam”.&nbsp;

The Rajya Sabha MP’s remark on the purchase of 36 fighter jets from France came a day after Hollande was quoted by the French media as purportedly saying that the Indian government proposed Anil Ambani-led Reliance Defence as the partner for Dassault Aviation in the Rs 58,000-crore deal and France did not have a choice.

The report in ‘Mediapart’, a French-language publication, quoted Hollande as saying, “It was the Indian government that proposed this service group, and Dassault which negotiated with Ambani. We had no choice, we took the interlocutor who was given to us.”

Addressing a press conference in Nagpur, Singh said, “The statement made by former French president Francois Hollande on the Rafale deal is shocking and it proves that the Rafale deal is a big scam.”

“The Modi government should tell why the offset contract was given to Reliance Defence. Hollande’s statement proves that the Modi government favoured Reliance Defence in getting the offset contract,” he said.

Under India’s offset policy, foreign defence entities are mandated to spend at least 30 per cent of the total contract value in India through procurement of components or setting up of research and development facilities.

According to Singh, a joint statement issued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hollande in 2015 has come to the fore now and it showed that there was no change in the technology of the aircraft in the new deal. “It is the same technology as was finalised during UPA-II,” he said.

He said the government should reveal why the cost of Rs 540 crore per aircraft went up to Rs 1,670 crore and the offset contract was given to Reliance Defence, formed 12 days before the announcement of the Rafale deal.

“The country suffered losses to the tune of Rs 36,000 crore…about Rs 1,000 per aircraft. It is the biggest scam in defence deal that the country has ever seen,” Singh said. He alleged that the statement made by Hollande proved that the Modi government proposed Reliance Defence for the offset partner, dropped Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and thus favoured Reliance.

“The PM should clarify on this aspect. The defence minister should resign and an investigation should be launched to find who got the Rs 36,000 crore… A JPC probe should be initiated,” Singh demanded.

The AAP leader also said that his party will contest upcoming elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, and on 80 to 100 seats in next Lok Sabha polls.

Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh said Saturday that former French president Francois Hollande’s remarks on the Rafale aircraft deal have proved it was a “big scam”.

Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh said Saturday that former French president Francois Hollande’s remarks on the Rafale aircraft deal have proved it was a “big scam”. The Rajya Sabha MP’s remark on the purchase of 36 fighter jets from France came a day after Hollande was quoted by the French media as purportedly saying that the Indian government proposed Anil Ambani-led Reliance Defence as the partner for Dassault Aviation in the Rs 58,000-crore deal and France did not have a choice. The report in ‘Mediapart’, a French-language publication, quoted Hollande as saying, “It was the Indian government that proposed this service group, and Dassault which negotiated with Ambani. We had no choice, we took the interlocutor who was given to us.” Addressing a press conference in Nagpur, Singh said, “The statement made by former French president Francois Hollande on the Rafale deal is shocking and it proves that the Rafale deal is a big scam.” “The Modi government should tell why the offset contract was given to Reliance Defence. Hollande’s statement proves that the Modi government favoured Reliance Defence in getting the offset contract,” he said. Under India’s offset policy, foreign defence entities are mandated to spend at least 30 per cent of the total contract value in India through procurement of components or setting up of research and development facilities. According to Singh, a joint statement issued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hollande in 2015 has come to the fore now and it showed that there was no change in the technology of the aircraft in the new deal. “It is the same technology as was finalised during UPA-II,” he said. He said the government should reveal why the cost of Rs 540 crore per aircraft went up to Rs 1,670 crore and the offset contract was given to Reliance Defence, formed 12 days before the announcement of the Rafale deal. “The country suffered losses to the tune of Rs 36,000 crore…about Rs 1,000 per aircraft. It is the biggest scam in defence deal that the country has ever seen,” Singh said. He alleged that the statement made by Hollande proved that the Modi government proposed Reliance Defence for the offset partner, dropped Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and thus favoured Reliance. “The PM should clarify on this aspect. The defence minister should resign and an investigation should be launched to find who got the Rs 36,000 crore… A JPC probe should be initiated,” Singh demanded. The AAP leader also said that his party will contest upcoming elections in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, and on 80 to 100 seats in next Lok Sabha polls.

Francois Hollande’s remarks prove Rafale a big scam: AAP leader Sanjay Singh

Ten people, including four women, died and three others were injured after a vehicle veered off a road in Himachal Pradesh's Shimla district Saturday, a police official said.

The accident happened at Snail, three kilometres from Kuddu on Tiyuni Road.

The three injured, including a child, have been admitted to Rohru hospital, Shimla Superintendent of Police Omapati Jamwal said.

A police team led by Jubbal Station House Officer and Swara police post-in-charge is at the accident site, he added. 
 
More details awaited.

Ten people, including four women, died and three others were injured after a vehicle veered off a road in Himachal Pradesh's Shimla district Saturday, a police official said.

Ten people, including four women, died and three others were injured after a vehicle veered off a road in Himachal Pradesh's Shimla district Saturday, a police official said. The accident happened at Snail, three kilometres from Kuddu on Tiyuni Road. The three injured, including a child, have been admitted to Rohru hospital, Shimla Superintendent of Police Omapati Jamwal said. A police team led by Jubbal Station House Officer and Swara police post-in-charge is at the accident site, he added. More details awaited.

Himachal Pradesh: 10 killed, 3 injured after jeep fell into gorge in Shimla

Two militants have been killed in an ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists that started yesterday in the forest area in Sumlar of Bandipora in Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, the operation is underway.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> on Bandipora encounter: Two terrorists have been killed in the encounter. Operations are underway. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1042979382267011077?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, three Special Police Officers (SPOs) and one police personnel went missing in South Kashmir's Shopian, they were later found dead today.&nbsp;

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Three policemen who were kidnapped by terrorists in south Kashmir's Shopian, found dead <a href="https://t.co/egG7h10ozy">pic.twitter.com/egG7h10ozy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043002839209918464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In another encounter, between police and criminals in Harduaganj's Mahua village in Aligarh district, two criminals were killed on Saturday.&nbsp;

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Jammu &amp; Kashmir: Search operation underway in Shopian, after bodies of three policemen who were kidnapped by terrorists yesterday, were found earlier today. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) <a href="https://t.co/2qzt8HHQ5C">pic.twitter.com/2qzt8HHQ5C</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043029145330937856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Two militants have been killed in an ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists that started yesterday in the forest area in Sumlar of Bandipora in Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported.

Two militants have been killed in an ongoing encounter between security forces and terrorists that started yesterday in the forest area in Sumlar of Bandipora in Jammu and Kashmir, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the operation is underway. #UPDATE on Bandipora encounter: Two terrorists have been killed in the encounter. Operations are underway. #JammuAndKashmir — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2018 × Meanwhile, three Special Police Officers (SPOs) and one police personnel went missing in South Kashmir's Shopian, they were later found dead today. Jammu & Kashmir: Three policemen who were kidnapped by terrorists in south Kashmir's Shopian, found dead pic.twitter.com/egG7h10ozy — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2018 × In another encounter, between police and criminals in Harduaganj's Mahua village in Aligarh district, two criminals were killed on Saturday. Jammu & Kashmir: Search operation underway in Shopian, after bodies of three policemen who were kidnapped by terrorists yesterday, were found earlier today. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/2qzt8HHQ5C — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2018 ×

J&K: Two militants killed in ongoing encounter in Bandipora 

Odisha is facing the brunt of cyclone storm Daye and is likely to get no respite from the same for the next twelve hours, the MeT department stated on Friday.&nbsp;

Daye will continue to move west-northwestwards and is expected to gradually weaken into depression during the next 12 hours, news agency ANI reported. &nbsp;

The weather department expects rain, thundershowers at most places in Odisha during next 24 hours. State of the sea will be rough over Odisha coasts for the coming 12 hours.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Parts of Malkangiri town in Odisha have been flooded following heavy rainfall caused due to cyclonic storm <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Daye?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Daye</a>. <a href="https://t.co/4uroc3kEtW">pic.twitter.com/4uroc3kEtW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043015209843998720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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According to reports, various parts in Odisha, including Malkangiri town, have been flooded following heavy rainfall caused due to the cyclonic storm.

Two shutters of upper Kolab dam in Koraput have also been opened today following a rise in the water level.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Odisha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Odisha</a>: Cyclonic storm 'Daye' will continue to move west-northwestwards&amp;weaken gradually into depression during next 12 hrs. Rain/thundershowers very likely to occur at most places during next 24 hrs. State of the sea will be rough over Odisha coasts during next 12 hrs.
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043015497216712706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"A storm surge of about 0.5 meters, above the astronomical tides, is likely to inundate the low lying area of districts of Gajapati, Ganjam, Khurda, Puri of Odisha in the next 3 hours. The fishermen have been advised not to venture into northwest Bay of Bengal and along the coast during next 24 hours," ANI reported.&nbsp;

"People from low lying areas were evacuated last night and kept at shelters. No one has been injured or is dead. Malkangiri has received very heavy rainfall in last 24 hours, two villages and colonies affected, landslides in Chitrakonda area," Bishnu Pada Sethi, Special Relief Commissioner, Odisha said on Monday.&nbsp;

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Except for Malkangiri, the situation is normal in all other districts. The water level in all major rivers is below the danger level. CM has sanctioned gratuitous relief of Rs 60 a day per person&amp;Rs 45/per day for children below 12 for seven days: Spl Relief Commissioner, Odisha <a href="https://t.co/LwM74n7F4Z">pic.twitter.com/LwM74n7F4Z</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1043020096950554625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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He also stated that except Malkangiri, the situation is normal in all other districts. The water level in all major rivers is below the danger level. The Chief Minister has sanctioned gratuitous relief of Rs 60 a day per person and Rs 45/per day for children below 12 years for seven days.&nbsp;

Odisha is facing the brunt of cyclone storm Daye and is likely to get no respite from the same for the next twelve hours, the MeT department stated on Friday. Daye will continue to move west-northwestwards and is expected to gradually weaken into depression during the next 12 hours, news agency ANI reported.

Odisha is facing the brunt of cyclone storm Daye and is likely to get no respite from the same for the next twelve hours, the MeT department stated on Friday. Daye will continue to move west-northwestwards and is expected to gradually weaken into depression during the next 12 hours, news agency ANI reported. The weather department expects rain, thundershowers at most places in Odisha during next 24 hours. State of the sea will be rough over Odisha coasts for the coming 12 hours. #WATCH: Parts of Malkangiri town in Odisha have been flooded following heavy rainfall caused due to cyclonic storm #Daye. pic.twitter.com/4uroc3kEtW — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2018 × According to reports, various parts in Odisha, including Malkangiri town, have been flooded following heavy rainfall caused due to the cyclonic storm. Two shutters of upper Kolab dam in Koraput have also been opened today following a rise in the water level. #Odisha: Cyclonic storm 'Daye' will continue to move west-northwestwards&weaken gradually into depression during next 12 hrs. Rain/thundershowers very likely to occur at most places during next 24 hrs. State of the sea will be rough over Odisha coasts during next 12 hrs. — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2018 × "A storm surge of about 0.5 meters, above the astronomical tides, is likely to inundate the low lying area of districts of Gajapati, Ganjam, Khurda, Puri of Odisha in the next 3 hours. The fishermen have been advised not to venture into northwest Bay of Bengal and along the coast during next 24 hours," ANI reported. "People from low lying areas were evacuated last night and kept at shelters. No one has been injured or is dead. Malkangiri has received very heavy rainfall in last 24 hours, two villages and colonies affected, landslides in Chitrakonda area," Bishnu Pada Sethi, Special Relief Commissioner, Odisha said on Monday. Except for Malkangiri, the situation is normal in all other districts. The water level in all major rivers is below the danger level. CM has sanctioned gratuitous relief of Rs 60 a day per person&Rs 45/per day for children below 12 for seven days: Spl Relief Commissioner, Odisha pic.twitter.com/LwM74n7F4Z — ANI (@ANI) September 21, 2018 × He also stated that except Malkangiri, the situation is normal in all other districts. The water level in all major rivers is below the danger level. The Chief Minister has sanctioned gratuitous relief of Rs 60 a day per person and Rs 45/per day for children below 12 years for seven days.

Cyclone 'Daye' lashes Odisha, 2 shutters of upper Kolab dam opened after rise in water level

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