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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to take stock of the situation caused by floods in the state.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi assured Rio of all possible assistance to the rain-battered state.

"Spoke to Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio and took stock of the situation in wake of floods in parts of the state. Assured all possible support to the state in rescue and relief operations. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Nagaland and pray for everyone's well being," he tweeted.

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Spoke to Nagaland CM <a href="https://twitter.com/Neiphiu_Rio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Neiphiu_Rio</a> and took stock of the situation in the wake of floods in parts of the state. Assured all possible support to the state in the rescue & relief operations. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Nagaland and pray for everyone's wellbeing.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1035883409116200960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As per reports, incessant rainfall in the last few weeks has flooded several areas of Nagaland.&nbsp

In the wake of this, the state government has reportedly sought an advance amount of Rs 100 crore from the Centre to restore connectivity in the region.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi assured Rio of all possible assistance to the rain-battered state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spoke to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to take stock of the situation caused by floods in the state. Furthermore, Prime Minister Modi assured Rio of all possible assistance to the rain-battered state. "Spoke to Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio and took stock of the situation in wake of floods in parts of the state. Assured all possible support to the state in rescue and relief operations. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Nagaland and pray for everyone's well being," he tweeted. Spoke to Nagaland CM @Neiphiu_Rio and took stock of the situation in the wake of floods in parts of the state. Assured all possible support to the state in the rescue & relief operations. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Nagaland and pray for everyone's wellbeing. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 1, 2018 × As per reports, incessant rainfall in the last few weeks has flooded several areas of Nagaland. In the wake of this, the state government has reportedly sought an advance amount of Rs 100 crore from the Centre to restore connectivity in the region.

Nagaland floods: PM Modi takes stock of situation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi <a href="wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-launches-post-payments-bank-in-bid-to-make-banking-more-accessible-162876">launched a payments bank on Saturday</a> to turn postmen into bankers so they can offer financial services to the poor in rural areas and boost digital transactions.

PM Modi has since 2014 sought to end what he has called "financial untouchability" by giving millions of people access to banking services in India, which the World Bank estimates has 190 million people without a bank account, second only to China.

The India Post Payments Bank will start operations with 650 branches. Accounts will be able to hold a maximum of 100,000 rupees in deposits and will offer limited services.

The government said it planned to link its 155,000 post offices to the new payments bank network by December 31 to offer basic bank account services, money transfers and bill payments.

"Using this initiative, we will take the bank to villages and to the poor," PM Modi said at the launch event in New Delhi, which was also attended by dozens of postal service employees who sat dressed in their khaki-coloured uniforms.

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Through India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) we will reach to every nook & corner of the country. Bank & banking services will be available at every person's doorstep: PM Narendra Modi at the launch of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) <a href="https://t.co/Ep5GJ8nRSo">pic.twitter.com/Ep5GJ8nRSo</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1035840098405892101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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More than 300,000 postmen will use smartphones and other digital devices to offer doorstep banking services in remote areas of the country.

While the Prime Minister addressed a gathering in Delhi, his ministers promoted the launch across the country.

The campaign to bring the masses into the financial system could help bolster economic growth and improve PM Modi's popularity among the poor ahead of next year's national election.

The bank is the latest government initiative to boost digital transactions and discourage cash dealings that it says enables tax evasion.

PM Modi has promoted digital payments since his decision in November 2016 to withdraw 500 and 1,000 rupee notes from circulation. Electronic transactions have soared since then, although the move briefly hurt economic growth.

Indians in May clocked transactions worth $52 billion using their 964 million credit and debit cards, nearly double the amount recorded in November 2016.

Monthly mobile-wallet payments have risen nearly fivefold to $2 billion during the period, data from the Reserve Bank of India showed.

The government said it planned to link its 155,000 post offices to the new payments bank network by December 31

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a payments bank on Saturday to turn postmen into bankers so they can offer financial services to the poor in rural areas and boost digital transactions. PM Modi has since 2014 sought to end what he has called "financial untouchability" by giving millions of people access to banking services in India, which the World Bank estimates has 190 million people without a bank account, second only to China. The India Post Payments Bank will start operations with 650 branches. Accounts will be able to hold a maximum of 100,000 rupees in deposits and will offer limited services. The government said it planned to link its 155,000 post offices to the new payments bank network by December 31 to offer basic bank account services, money transfers and bill payments. "Using this initiative, we will take the bank to villages and to the poor," PM Modi said at the launch event in New Delhi, which was also attended by dozens of postal service employees who sat dressed in their khaki-coloured uniforms. Through India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) we will reach to every nook & corner of the country. Bank & banking services will be available at every person's doorstep: PM Narendra Modi at the launch of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) pic.twitter.com/Ep5GJ8nRSo — ANI (@ANI) September 1, 2018 × More than 300,000 postmen will use smartphones and other digital devices to offer doorstep banking services in remote areas of the country. While the Prime Minister addressed a gathering in Delhi, his ministers promoted the launch across the country. The campaign to bring the masses into the financial system could help bolster economic growth and improve PM Modi's popularity among the poor ahead of next year's national election. The bank is the latest government initiative to boost digital transactions and discourage cash dealings that it says enables tax evasion. PM Modi has promoted digital payments since his decision in November 2016 to withdraw 500 and 1,000 rupee notes from circulation. Electronic transactions have soared since then, although the move briefly hurt economic growth. Indians in May clocked transactions worth $52 billion using their 964 million credit and debit cards, nearly double the amount recorded in November 2016. Monthly mobile-wallet payments have risen nearly fivefold to $2 billion during the period, data from the Reserve Bank of India showed.

We'll take banks to villages and turn postmen into bankers: PM Modi on new payments bank

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-halts-funding-to-un-agency-helping-palestinian-refugees-162800">US cuts funding to UN agency helping Palestinian refugees</a>

The United States on Friday halted all funding to a UN agency that helps Palestinian refugees in a decision further heightening tensions between the Palestinian leadership and the Trump administration.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-beats-sister-venus-to-progress-at-us-open-162812">Tennis: Serena crushes Venus in flat family US Open showdown</a>

Serena Williams crushed older sister Venus 6-1 6-2 in a shockingly subdued third round clash at the US&nbspOpen on Friday to stay on track for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/apple-self-driving-car-rear-ended-during-road-testing-162811">Apple self-driving car involved in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/apple-self-driving-car-rear-ended-during-road-testing-162811">minor</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/apple-self-driving-car-rear-ended-during-road-testing-162811"> crash</a>

An Apple Inc&nbspself-driving car was rear-ended while merging onto an expressway near the company's Silicon Valley headquarters this month, the company said in an accident report posted on Friday that confirmed the iPhone maker is still in the race to build autonomous vehicles.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/one-million-syrian-children-in-idlib-at-risk-if-assault-mounted-unicef-162806">One million Syrian children in Idlib at risk if assault mounted: UNICEF</a>

More than a million Syrian children are at risk in the event of a government military assault on the rebel-held province of Idlib, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said on Friday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-panic-over-trump-withdrawal-threat-wto-chief-162786">'No panic' over Trump's withdrawal threat: World Trade Organization chief&nbsp</a>

World Trade Organisation's Director General Roberto Azevedo on Friday maintained that there is no situation to panic over US President Donald&nbspTrump's withdrawal threat.

US cuts funding to UN agency helping Palestinian refugees The United States on Friday halted all funding to a UN agency that helps Palestinian refugees in a decision further heightening tensions between the Palestinian leadership and the Trump administration. Tennis: Serena crushes Venus in flat family US Open showdown Serena Williams crushed older sister Venus 6-1 6-2 in a shockingly subdued third round clash at the US&nbspOpen on Friday to stay on track for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title. Apple self-driving car involved in minor crash An Apple Inc&nbspself-driving car was rear-ended while merging onto an expressway near the company's Silicon Valley headquarters this month, the company said in an accident report posted on Friday that confirmed the iPhone maker is still in the race to build autonomous vehicles. One million Syrian children in Idlib at risk if assault mounted: UNICEF More than a million Syrian children are at risk in the event of a government military assault on the rebel-held province of Idlib, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said on Friday. 'No panic' over Trump's withdrawal threat: World Trade Organization chief World Trade Organisation's Director General Roberto Azevedo on Friday maintained that there is no situation to panic over US President Donald&nbspTrump's withdrawal threat.

News brief: Big stories of the day

BJP's Kurukshetra MP Raj Kumar Saini on Friday announced his new political party 'Loktantra Suraksha Party' and said it will contest the next parliamentary and state assembly elections.

Saini, known for his strong anti-Jat stand, announced that the outfit will be formally launched at a public rally in Panipat on Sunday.

He remained silent when asked why he does not resign from the BJP. He later said it was up to the BJP to take any decision it deems fit.

His decision did not come as a surprise as he had said earlier that he will form a separate party. He had also made it clear that he will not contest the next elections on a BJP ticket or that of any other party.

"We are working to bring a change in the political course where infringement of rights of socially marginalised will not be allowed," Saini, who has been projecting himself as a prominent OBC leader, said.

He said the backward classes had voted for the BJP in the previous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections hoping that it will work for their welfare.

"But they too failed to address our (OBCs) issues. Hence, it forced us to float this party," Saini said.

He also targeted the Congress and the INLD, accusing them of nepotism.

Saini alleged that the leaders of these two parties wanted to retain power within their families.

"During their tenures in the past several years, the Congress and the INLD did nothing to improve the condition of the farmers and socio-economically backward sections. They claim to be leaders of the oppressed classes, but our party will expose them," he said.

He also alleged that over the last seven decades, the OBCs, backward classes, the poor and farmers have been used as "vote bank" by various parties and now the time has come to stand up and ensure that they get justice.

Claiming that he was not against reservation for any community, Saini said he has been demanding that reservation should be given on the basis of population and all sections should be covered.

BJP's Kurukshetra MP Raj Kumar Saini on Friday announced his new political party 'Loktantra Suraksha Party' and said it will contest the next parliamentary and state assembly elections.

BJP's Kurukshetra MP Raj Kumar Saini on Friday announced his new political party 'Loktantra Suraksha Party' and said it will contest the next parliamentary and state assembly elections. Saini, known for his strong anti-Jat stand, announced that the outfit will be formally launched at a public rally in Panipat on Sunday. He remained silent when asked why he does not resign from the BJP. He later said it was up to the BJP to take any decision it deems fit. His decision did not come as a surprise as he had said earlier that he will form a separate party. He had also made it clear that he will not contest the next elections on a BJP ticket or that of any other party. "We are working to bring a change in the political course where infringement of rights of socially marginalised will not be allowed," Saini, who has been projecting himself as a prominent OBC leader, said. He said the backward classes had voted for the BJP in the previous Lok Sabha and state assembly elections hoping that it will work for their welfare. "But they too failed to address our (OBCs) issues. Hence, it forced us to float this party," Saini said. He also targeted the Congress and the INLD, accusing them of nepotism. Saini alleged that the leaders of these two parties wanted to retain power within their families. "During their tenures in the past several years, the Congress and the INLD did nothing to improve the condition of the farmers and socio-economically backward sections. They claim to be leaders of the oppressed classes, but our party will expose them," he said. He also alleged that over the last seven decades, the OBCs, backward classes, the poor and farmers have been used as "vote bank" by various parties and now the time has come to stand up and ensure that they get justice. Claiming that he was not against reservation for any community, Saini said he has been demanding that reservation should be given on the basis of population and all sections should be covered.

BJP's Kurukshetra MP RK Saini announces new political party

The Congress on Friday asked why the government's top investigative agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), was not involved in probing the alleged plot to assassinate the prime minister in a "Rajiv Gandhi-type event to end Modi-raj".

Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said, "Does common sense tell that there is a possible assassination plot against the prime minister, which he condemned, but asked why the country's top probe agencies were not involved and it was left to the Pune Police to carry out investigations."

"I am gravely concerned about the security of the prime minister if you are leaving the matter like this to the Pune Police," he said.

"Nobody in the right mind should be supported who is trying to attack the Prime Minister of India. Do you think that an illusion of grandeur that the Pune Police is in-charge of investigation and the NIA is nowhere to be seen, CBI is nowhere to be seen?&nbsp;

"The biggest investigative agency of our country are not to be seen in the PM's part of assassination attempt and the Pune Police is in-charge. I find it absurd," he told reporters.

On being asked if the Congress wanted an NIA probe, Singhvi said one can imagine if the charge was credible and serious.

"The NIA, the Home Minister, the CBI, the RAW and the IB should be involved," he said.

He said the head of the government is involved as a possible target and "you are talking through the person who is having the press conference of the Pune Police".

Singhvi said he may not agree with poet-activist Varavara Rao on the way he writes or with rights activists Gautam Navlakha's views, but the true test of democracy is as Voltaire rightly said, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it".&nbsp;

Police on Friday claimed they have "conclusive proof" to link Left-wing activists arrested in June and this week to Maoists, saying one of them spoke of a "Rajiv Gandhi-type event to end Modi-raj".

An email between Rona Wilson, one of the arrested activists, and a Maoist leader, speaks of ending "Modi-raj" with a 'Rajiv Gandhi-type incident', Additional Director General (law and order) Parambir Singh told reporters in Mumbai.

The Pune Police had on August 28 raided the homes of prominent Left-wing activists in several states and arrested five of them - Varavara Rao in Hyderabad, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira in Mumbai, Sudha Bharadwaj in Faridabad and Gautam Navalakha in Delhi.&nbsp;

The Congress on Friday asked why the government's top investigative agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), was not involved in probing the alleged plot to assassinate the prime minister in a 'Rajiv Gandhi-type event to end Modi-raj'

The Congress on Friday asked why the government's top investigative agency, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), was not involved in probing the alleged plot to assassinate the prime minister in a "Rajiv Gandhi-type event to end Modi-raj". Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said, "Does common sense tell that there is a possible assassination plot against the prime minister, which he condemned, but asked why the country's top probe agencies were not involved and it was left to the Pune Police to carry out investigations." "I am gravely concerned about the security of the prime minister if you are leaving the matter like this to the Pune Police," he said. "Nobody in the right mind should be supported who is trying to attack the Prime Minister of India. Do you think that an illusion of grandeur that the Pune Police is in-charge of investigation and the NIA is nowhere to be seen, CBI is nowhere to be seen? "The biggest investigative agency of our country are not to be seen in the PM's part of assassination attempt and the Pune Police is in-charge. I find it absurd," he told reporters. On being asked if the Congress wanted an NIA probe, Singhvi said one can imagine if the charge was credible and serious. "The NIA, the Home Minister, the CBI, the RAW and the IB should be involved," he said. He said the head of the government is involved as a possible target and "you are talking through the person who is having the press conference of the Pune Police". Singhvi said he may not agree with poet-activist Varavara Rao on the way he writes or with rights activists Gautam Navlakha's views, but the true test of democracy is as Voltaire rightly said, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it". Police on Friday claimed they have "conclusive proof" to link Left-wing activists arrested in June and this week to Maoists, saying one of them spoke of a "Rajiv Gandhi-type event to end Modi-raj". An email between Rona Wilson, one of the arrested activists, and a Maoist leader, speaks of ending "Modi-raj" with a 'Rajiv Gandhi-type incident', Additional Director General (law and order) Parambir Singh told reporters in Mumbai. The Pune Police had on August 28 raided the homes of prominent Left-wing activists in several states and arrested five of them - Varavara Rao in Hyderabad, Vernon Gonsalves and Arun Ferreira in Mumbai, Sudha Bharadwaj in Faridabad and Gautam Navalakha in Delhi.

Congress asks why CBI, NIA not involved in probing alleged plot to assassinate Modi

The State Administrative Council (SAC) of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday announced that the municipal polls will be held from October 1 to 5, followed by the Panchayat elections in November.

The decision was taken after a meeting under the chairmanship of Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik.

The SAC took the decision that elections to the municipal bodies would be conducted in four phases between the aforementioned dates, while elections to the Panchayats would be conducted in eight phases between November 8 and December 4.

Keeping in mind the security concerns along with the operational and polling requirements, the Chief Electoral Officer was instructed by the council to adjust the schedules of the respective elections.

In an attempt to mitigate risks that might occur during the polls, the SAC also decided to give a month's extra remuneration and insurance cover to the staff involved in the conduct of the elections.

"Voter education will be given special focus. For this purpose, the government will launch a sustained campaign to sensitise the voters about the importance of these elections in the socio-economic development at the grassroots level," an official spokesperson of the State Administrative Council said.&nbsp

The State Administrative Council (SAC) of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday announced that the municipal polls will be held from October 1 to 5, followed by the Panchayat elections in November.

The State Administrative Council (SAC) of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday announced that the municipal polls will be held from October 1 to 5, followed by the Panchayat elections in November. The decision was taken after a meeting under the chairmanship of Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik. The SAC took the decision that elections to the municipal bodies would be conducted in four phases between the aforementioned dates, while elections to the Panchayats would be conducted in eight phases between November 8 and December 4. Keeping in mind the security concerns along with the operational and polling requirements, the Chief Electoral Officer was instructed by the council to adjust the schedules of the respective elections. In an attempt to mitigate risks that might occur during the polls, the SAC also decided to give a month's extra remuneration and insurance cover to the staff involved in the conduct of the elections. "Voter education will be given special focus. For this purpose, the government will launch a sustained campaign to sensitise the voters about the importance of these elections in the socio-economic development at the grassroots level," an official spokesperson of the State Administrative Council said.

Jammu and Kashmir municipal polls scheduled for October

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said one of the reasons of long delays in adjudication of cases in courts is the "culture of seeking adjournments as a norm" and judiciary is making efforts to curb the practice.

Highlighting the pendency of cases in various courts of the country, he said Indian legal system is marked by long delays and some of the reasons for it are infrastructure gaps and considerable vacancies, particularly in subordinate courts.

"India's judiciary is respected across the world as an upholder of justice for the defenceless. It is also true that our judges are overburdened by the sheer volume of cases. As a consequence, the Indian legal system is marked by long delays.

"There is a backlog of 3.3 crore cases in various courts of the country. Of these, 2.84 crore cases are in the subordinate courts. Another 43 lakh are in the High Courts and about 58,000 in the Supreme Court," the President said at the inaugural function of a conference being organised by the&nbsp;Supreme Court Advocates on Record Association (SCAORA).

"There is a culture of seeking adjournments as a norm rather than an exception. New thinking is gradually taking place on frequent adjournments. The judiciary is making sincere efforts to curb this practice," he said while expressing confidence that the entire legal fraternity will resolve not to seek adjournments except in absolutely unavoidable circumstances.

Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra released the e-journal of SCAORA and said it was the time that young lawyers, who are technically sound, should be allowed to argue in courts and old ones should leave the room for them.

Speaking on the topic 'Technology, Training and Infrastructure: Key to Speedy Justice' and 'The changing face of legal education in India', the CJI said technology enhances the quality of work by expediting routine cases where testimonies can be recorded technically and Indian courts are doing so.

He added that technological resources can aid in strengthening judicial database.

Attorney General K K Venugopal, who was also present at the event, requested the advocates not to go on strike saying they were in an honourable profession.

"It my genuine request to advocates, please do not go on strike. Its only for trade unions. We are not in a business, we are in an honourable profession," he added.

On Venugopal's suggestion given to the lawyers, the CJI said Attorney General is the leader of bar and once the leader has said something, treat it as a command.

Besides them, several Supreme Court judges, including Justices Ranjan Gogoi, Madan B Lokur and Kurian Joseph were also present.

Delivering his speech at the programme, Kovind, who once a member of SCAORA, said it was homecoming for him and the members of the association are the only ones entitled to act or plead before the Supreme Court on behalf of litigants.

He said in the past, governments and government agencies themselves were party to many cases of litigation but now efforts were being made to reduce the number.

"I must commend the government of India for making a sincere effort to reduce this number. Several remedial measures have been taken. Government has enhanced threshold for filing appeals in tax disputes in tribunals and courts," he said.

The President said technology can be a great enabler of justice and innovations like evening courts and family courts and the concerted effort made in delivery of speedy, fast-track judgements in cases of sexual crimes against women, are also noteworthy.

"On the path-way of the government's Digital India initiative, the Legal Information Management and Briefing System (or LIMBS) has been introduced as an online mechanism to monitor and streamline court cases, and to reduce the government's own litigation," he said.

The CJI said we must march with an eye of time and today is the time for technology as it is now getting connected with access to justice.

"A striking example which bears testimony to the efficient utilisation of technology is the establishment of e-committee of the Supreme Court way back in 2004 to work on computerisation of Indian judiciary.

"Employ technology for strengthening our administrative capacities to enhance our outreach to the consumers of justice and also to generate series of management reforms in handling pendencies and delays in courts," he said.

The CJI emphasised that infrastructure remains a primary concern as without it the commitment to justice for all cannot be realised.

He said there was a need to widen the network of courts to increase the geographical reach of common man, to provide basic facilities to litigants and required facilities for the lawyers.

"Judicial infrastructure includes infrastructure for the bar and the litigants which are the backbone of justice delivery system," he said, adding that justice delivery system is not an alien concept.

The CJI said infrastructural gaps shall not be allowed to multiply and should be addressed at the earliest opportunity before it leaves a deep scar on the administration of justice and it becomes too late to act wisely.

Venugopal also said nowadays young lawyers, after graduating, can be seen arguing confidently before courts and women advocates are equally competent and there are as many women lawyers as men.

Highlighting the pendency of cases in various courts of the country, he said Indian legal system is marked by long delays and some of the reasons for it are infrastructure gaps and considerable vacancies, particularly in subordinate courts.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said one of the reasons of long delays in adjudication of cases in courts is the "culture of seeking adjournments as a norm" and judiciary is making efforts to curb the practice. Highlighting the pendency of cases in various courts of the country, he said Indian legal system is marked by long delays and some of the reasons for it are infrastructure gaps and considerable vacancies, particularly in subordinate courts. "India's judiciary is respected across the world as an upholder of justice for the defenceless. It is also true that our judges are overburdened by the sheer volume of cases. As a consequence, the Indian legal system is marked by long delays. "There is a backlog of 3.3 crore cases in various courts of the country. Of these, 2.84 crore cases are in the subordinate courts. Another 43 lakh are in the High Courts and about 58,000 in the Supreme Court," the President said at the inaugural function of a conference being organised by the Supreme Court Advocates on Record Association (SCAORA). "There is a culture of seeking adjournments as a norm rather than an exception. New thinking is gradually taking place on frequent adjournments. The judiciary is making sincere efforts to curb this practice," he said while expressing confidence that the entire legal fraternity will resolve not to seek adjournments except in absolutely unavoidable circumstances. Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra released the e-journal of SCAORA and said it was the time that young lawyers, who are technically sound, should be allowed to argue in courts and old ones should leave the room for them. Speaking on the topic 'Technology, Training and Infrastructure: Key to Speedy Justice' and 'The changing face of legal education in India', the CJI said technology enhances the quality of work by expediting routine cases where testimonies can be recorded technically and Indian courts are doing so. He added that technological resources can aid in strengthening judicial database. Attorney General K K Venugopal, who was also present at the event, requested the advocates not to go on strike saying they were in an honourable profession. "It my genuine request to advocates, please do not go on strike. Its only for trade unions. We are not in a business, we are in an honourable profession," he added. On Venugopal's suggestion given to the lawyers, the CJI said Attorney General is the leader of bar and once the leader has said something, treat it as a command. Besides them, several Supreme Court judges, including Justices Ranjan Gogoi, Madan B Lokur and Kurian Joseph were also present. Delivering his speech at the programme, Kovind, who once a member of SCAORA, said it was homecoming for him and the members of the association are the only ones entitled to act or plead before the Supreme Court on behalf of litigants. He said in the past, governments and government agencies themselves were party to many cases of litigation but now efforts were being made to reduce the number. "I must commend the government of India for making a sincere effort to reduce this number. Several remedial measures have been taken. Government has enhanced threshold for filing appeals in tax disputes in tribunals and courts," he said. The President said technology can be a great enabler of justice and innovations like evening courts and family courts and the concerted effort made in delivery of speedy, fast-track judgements in cases of sexual crimes against women, are also noteworthy. "On the path-way of the government's Digital India initiative, the Legal Information Management and Briefing System (or LIMBS) has been introduced as an online mechanism to monitor and streamline court cases, and to reduce the government's own litigation," he said. The CJI said we must march with an eye of time and today is the time for technology as it is now getting connected with access to justice. "A striking example which bears testimony to the efficient utilisation of technology is the establishment of e-committee of the Supreme Court way back in 2004 to work on computerisation of Indian judiciary. "Employ technology for strengthening our administrative capacities to enhance our outreach to the consumers of justice and also to generate series of management reforms in handling pendencies and delays in courts," he said. The CJI emphasised that infrastructure remains a primary concern as without it the commitment to justice for all cannot be realised. He said there was a need to widen the network of courts to increase the geographical reach of common man, to provide basic facilities to litigants and required facilities for the lawyers. "Judicial infrastructure includes infrastructure for the bar and the litigants which are the backbone of justice delivery system," he said, adding that justice delivery system is not an alien concept. The CJI said infrastructural gaps shall not be allowed to multiply and should be addressed at the earliest opportunity before it leaves a deep scar on the administration of justice and it becomes too late to act wisely. Venugopal also said nowadays young lawyers, after graduating, can be seen arguing confidently before courts and women advocates are equally competent and there are as many women lawyers as men.

'Culture of adjournments' reason of long delays in cases: President Kovind

Justice Ranjan Gogoi is set to take over as the 46th Chief Justice of India on October 3.

According to reports, Gogoi was recommended for the top office by the current Chief Justice Dipak Misra.&nbsp

CJI Mishra will retire on October 2, Justice Gogoi will remain in office till November 17, 2019.

Sources had told WION that CJI Misra had sent Justice Ranjan Gogoi’s name to the law ministry as official confirmation for him to take over after Misra demits office.&nbsp

According to the convention, the outgoing CJI recommends the name of the second seniormost judge of the Supreme Court as his successor. There are no two ways about the fact that Justice Ranjan Gogoi is the second seniormost judge, and therefore due to be elevated to the post of CJI.&nbsp

There had earlier been rumours about the government introducing a bill to increase the retirement age of judges, but the speculation was put to rest by the law ministry.&nbsp

Sources had told WION that CJI Misra had sent Justice Ranjan Gogoi’s name to the law ministry as official confirmation.

Justice Ranjan Gogoi is set to take over as the 46th Chief Justice of India on October 3. According to reports, Gogoi was recommended for the top office by the current Chief Justice Dipak Misra. CJI Mishra will retire on October 2, Justice Gogoi will remain in office till November 17, 2019. Sources had told WION that CJI Misra had sent Justice Ranjan Gogoi’s name to the law ministry as official confirmation for him to take over after Misra demits office. According to the convention, the outgoing CJI recommends the name of the second seniormost judge of the Supreme Court as his successor. There are no two ways about the fact that Justice Ranjan Gogoi is the second seniormost judge, and therefore due to be elevated to the post of CJI. There had earlier been rumours about the government introducing a bill to increase the retirement age of judges, but the speculation was put to rest by the law ministry.

Ranjan Gogoi to succeed Justice Dipak Misra as next CJI

Three District Reserve Guard (DRG) Jawans were injured in an IED blast triggered allegedly by Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Saturday, police said.

The incident took place at around 12:30 pm in Rabdipara village under Phulbagdi police station area when a team of the DRG staff was out on an anti-Naxal operation, a senior police official told PTI over the phone.

When the patrolling team reached Rabdipara, around 500km from the state capital Raipur, ultras triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) that left three jawans injured, he said.

On being alerted about the incident, reinforcement was rushed to the blast spot and efforts were on evacuate the injured to Sukma town, the official said.

The DRG is a special anti-Naxal police force deployed in the insurgency-hit districts of the state.

The incident took place at around 12:30 pm in Rabdipara village under Phulbagdi police station area when a team of the DRG staff was out on an anti-Naxal operation, a senior police official told PTI over the phone.

Three District Reserve Guard (DRG) Jawans were injured in an IED blast triggered allegedly by Naxals in Chhattisgarh's Sukma district on Saturday, police said. The incident took place at around 12:30 pm in Rabdipara village under Phulbagdi police station area when a team of the DRG staff was out on an anti-Naxal operation, a senior police official told PTI over the phone. When the patrolling team reached Rabdipara, around 500km from the state capital Raipur, ultras triggered an improvised explosive device (IED) that left three jawans injured, he said. On being alerted about the incident, reinforcement was rushed to the blast spot and efforts were on evacuate the injured to Sukma town, the official said. The DRG is a special anti-Naxal police force deployed in the insurgency-hit districts of the state.

Three jawans injured in IED blast in Chhattisgarh

Union Minister KJ Alphons has announced that Indian diaspora residing in China's Shanghai has contributed Rs 32.13 lakh to the Chief Minister's distress relief fund for Kerala floods.

Alphons, who is on a China visit for the promotion of tourism, thanked the Indian community and the Consulate General of India in China for the humanitarian gesture.

He will hand over the cheques to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on his return from China.

As part of the fund mobilisation initiative, the cabinet has decided to seek financial aid from abroad through non-resident Keralites, from major cities in the country and also from educational institutions in the state.

Meanwhile, Kerala CM Vijayan hopes that central government will accept&nbsp;United Arab Emirates (UAE) aid of worth Rs 700 crore.

Alphons, who is on a China visit for the promotion of tourism, thanked the Indian community and the Consulate General of India in China for the humanitarian gesture.

Union Minister KJ Alphons has announced that Indian diaspora residing in China's Shanghai has contributed Rs 32.13 lakh to the Chief Minister's distress relief fund for Kerala floods. Alphons, who is on a China visit for the promotion of tourism, thanked the Indian community and the Consulate General of India in China for the humanitarian gesture. He will hand over the cheques to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on his return from China. As part of the fund mobilisation initiative, the cabinet has decided to seek financial aid from abroad through non-resident Keralites, from major cities in the country and also from educational institutions in the state. Meanwhile, Kerala CM Vijayan hopes that central government will accept United Arab Emirates (UAE) aid of worth Rs 700 crore.

Kerala floods: Indian diaspora in China's Shanghai contributes Rs 32 lakh

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will hold an informal meeting with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Foreign Ministers on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).&nbsp;

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is also expected to attend the meeting.

This is an informal meeting at the Foreign Ministers' level which takes place every year on the sidelines of UNGA. The External Affairs Minister attended the meeting last year and will attend this year as well.

The 73rd session of the UNGA is scheduled to open on September 18. The first day of the high-level General Debate will be on September 25, and will last for nine working days.&nbsp;

Last week, Pakistan signalled that Imran Khan may not be able to attend the meet in order to cut down government expenses.

Earlier on August 22, Khan expressed interest with regards to a meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi, stating that both the countries must engage in dialogue to resolve their differences.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

This is an informal meeting at the Foreign Ministers' level which takes place every year on the sidelines of UNGA.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will hold an informal meeting with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Foreign Ministers on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is also expected to attend the meeting. This is an informal meeting at the Foreign Ministers' level which takes place every year on the sidelines of UNGA. The External Affairs Minister attended the meeting last year and will attend this year as well. The 73rd session of the UNGA is scheduled to open on September 18. The first day of the high-level General Debate will be on September 25, and will last for nine working days. Last week, Pakistan signalled that Imran Khan may not be able to attend the meet in order to cut down government expenses. Earlier on August 22, Khan expressed interest with regards to a meeting between Swaraj and Qureshi, stating that both the countries must engage in dialogue to resolve their differences. (With inputs from ANI)

Sushma Swaraj to hold informal meeting with SAARC Foreign Ministers

Principal Economic Adviser in the Ministry of Finance, Sanjeev Sanyal said Saturday that the growth rate will be affected in next reading, but India would remain world's fastest-growing major economy, as he countered scepticism over GDP growth rate.

India's economy grew at 8.2 per cent in the April-June quarter of 2018-19 on the strong performance of manufacturing and agriculture sectors, increasing its lead over China to remain the world's fastest-growing major economy, according to government data released on Friday.

"The year-on-year growth rate will be affected by the rise in the base in the next reading, but will still be a very strong number and India will remain the world's fastest-growing major economy," Sanyal told PTI.

He was responding to a query about senior Congress leader P Chidambaram expressing scepticism over India's GDP growth prospects, saying it would "not be so favourable" in third and fourth quarters, despite the GDP growing at 8.2 per cent in the current fiscal's first quarter.

"Going forward, the base effect will not be so favourable. And when we reach Q3 and Q4, the rate of growth may decline and the annual growth rate may be more or less like last year's," Chidambaram had said on Twitter.

"Happy that the rate of growth has quickened, but look at the table once again. Q1 growth rate is based on the lowest base (5.6) in the last 8 quarters," he had tweeted.

Sanyal said the GDP growth rate of 8.2 per cent year-on-year for the first quarter of 2018-19 is an exceptionally strong growth performance, even after allowing for the base effect.

"The forecasts by almost all economists had already accounted for the dip in growth in the runup to GST introduction in July 2017," he said.

"Therefore, GDP growth rate of 8.2 per cent year-on-year for the first quarter of 2018-19 is an exceptionally strong growth performance, even after allowing for the base effect," Sanyal added.

Further countering Chidambaram's comments, former Infosys CFO and veteran IT investor M D Mohandas Pai said the base impact will be moderated by higher growth than estimated and growth will be higher than last year.

"Construction is doing well...Last year was not so good. Infrastructure spending will be up. Consumption is increasing due to an increase in income, low inflation, corporate Capex is going up.

So, the base impact will be moderated by higher growth than estimated. Growth will be higher than last year," he said.

Chidambaram is underestimating the growth, which is natural being in the opposition, Pai said.

India's economy grew at 8.2 per cent in the April-June quarter of 2018-19 on the strong performance of manufacturing and agriculture sectors, increasing its lead over China to remain the world's fastest-growing major economy.

Principal Economic Adviser in the Ministry of Finance, Sanjeev Sanyal said Saturday that the growth rate will be affected in next reading, but India would remain world's fastest-growing major economy, as he countered scepticism over GDP growth rate. India's economy grew at 8.2 per cent in the April-June quarter of 2018-19 on the strong performance of manufacturing and agriculture sectors, increasing its lead over China to remain the world's fastest-growing major economy, according to government data released on Friday. "The year-on-year growth rate will be affected by the rise in the base in the next reading, but will still be a very strong number and India will remain the world's fastest-growing major economy," Sanyal told PTI. He was responding to a query about senior Congress leader P Chidambaram expressing scepticism over India's GDP growth prospects, saying it would "not be so favourable" in third and fourth quarters, despite the GDP growing at 8.2 per cent in the current fiscal's first quarter. "Going forward, the base effect will not be so favourable. And when we reach Q3 and Q4, the rate of growth may decline and the annual growth rate may be more or less like last year's," Chidambaram had said on Twitter. "Happy that the rate of growth has quickened, but look at the table once again. Q1 growth rate is based on the lowest base (5.6) in the last 8 quarters," he had tweeted. Sanyal said the GDP growth rate of 8.2 per cent year-on-year for the first quarter of 2018-19 is an exceptionally strong growth performance, even after allowing for the base effect. "The forecasts by almost all economists had already accounted for the dip in growth in the runup to GST introduction in July 2017," he said. "Therefore, GDP growth rate of 8.2 per cent year-on-year for the first quarter of 2018-19 is an exceptionally strong growth performance, even after allowing for the base effect," Sanyal added. Further countering Chidambaram's comments, former Infosys CFO and veteran IT investor M D Mohandas Pai said the base impact will be moderated by higher growth than estimated and growth will be higher than last year. "Construction is doing well...Last year was not so good. Infrastructure spending will be up. Consumption is increasing due to an increase in income, low inflation, corporate Capex is going up. So, the base impact will be moderated by higher growth than estimated. Growth will be higher than last year," he said. Chidambaram is underestimating the growth, which is natural being in the opposition, Pai said.

India to remain fastest growing economy despite hits on growth rates: Ministry of Finance

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched India Post Payments Bank in Delhi with an aim to make banking more accessible and easily available across the country.&nbsp;

The project is described as the largest payments bank in the country by network size wherein all 1.55 lakh post offices will be linked to the service by December 31, 2018.

The Prime Minister, during the launch event, stated that the service will make banking services available to every nook and corner of the country.&nbsp;

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Through India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) we will reach to every nook & corner of the country. Bank & banking services will be available at every person's doorstep: PM Narendra Modi at the launch of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) <a href="https://t.co/Ep5GJ8nRSo">pic.twitter.com/Ep5GJ8nRSo</a>
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"Through India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), we will reach every nook and corner of the country. Bank and banking services will be available at every person's doorstep," PM Modi stated.&nbsp; 
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The Post Payment Bank service will be operational in 650 branches across the country and will have 3,250 access points in India.

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Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches India Post Payments Bank (IPPB). IPPB will have 650 branches and 3250 Access Points across the country. All the 1.55 lakh Post Offices in the country will be linked to the IPPB system by December 31. <a href="https://t.co/6HWvaJhMFt">pic.twitter.com/6HWvaJhMFt</a>
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The IPPB will leverage post offices across India, PM Modi further added.&nbsp;

He also shared that the government will take swift action against the 12 biggest defaulters who were given loans before 2014.

"I want to assure the country that none of these big loans was given by our government," PM Modi stated.&nbsp;

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Swift action is being taken against 12 biggest defaulters who were given loans before 2014. I want to assure the country that none of these big loans was given by our government: PM Narendra Modi at the launch <a href="https://t.co/HHMQIi4Rnz">pic.twitter.com/HHMQIi4Rnz</a>
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&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The project is described as the largest payments bank in the country by network size.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched India Post Payments Bank in Delhi with an aim to make banking more accessible and easily available across the country. The project is described as the largest payments bank in the country by network size wherein all 1.55 lakh post offices will be linked to the service by December 31, 2018. The Prime Minister, during the launch event, stated that the service will make banking services available to every nook and corner of the country. Through India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) we will reach to every nook & corner of the country. Bank & banking services will be available at every person's doorstep: PM Narendra Modi at the launch of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) pic.twitter.com/Ep5GJ8nRSo — ANI (@ANI) September 1, 2018 × "Through India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), we will reach every nook and corner of the country. Bank and banking services will be available at every person's doorstep," PM Modi stated. The Post Payment Bank service will be operational in 650 branches across the country and will have 3,250 access points in India. Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launches India Post Payments Bank (IPPB). IPPB will have 650 branches and 3250 Access Points across the country. All the 1.55 lakh Post Offices in the country will be linked to the IPPB system by December 31. pic.twitter.com/6HWvaJhMFt — ANI (@ANI) September 1, 2018 × The IPPB will leverage post offices across India, PM Modi further added. He also shared that the government will take swift action against the 12 biggest defaulters who were given loans before 2014. "I want to assure the country that none of these big loans was given by our government," PM Modi stated. Swift action is being taken against 12 biggest defaulters who were given loans before 2014. I want to assure the country that none of these big loans was given by our government: PM Narendra Modi at the launch pic.twitter.com/HHMQIi4Rnz — ANI (@ANI) September 1, 2018 ×

PM Modi launches Post Payments Bank in bid to make banking more accessible

A school bus overturned in Bhandarej village of Rajasthan, injuring at least 18 children.

After receiving the accident news, villagers rushed to inform the police and also helped evacuate children from the bus.

The injured are being treated and are in severe conditions. No causalities have been reported so far.

After receiving the accident news, villagers rushed to inform the police and also helped evacuate children from the bus.

A school bus overturned in Bhandarej village of Rajasthan, injuring at least 18 children. After receiving the accident news, villagers rushed to inform the police and also helped evacuate children from the bus. The injured are being treated and are in severe conditions. No causalities have been reported so far.

At least 28 children injured after school bus overturns in Rajasthan

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday expressed hope of getting the offer of aid by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).&nbsp;

CM Vijayan, at an event in Trivandrum, noted that the Central government's stand of not accepting the aid -- worth Rs 700 crore -- from the UAE would not continue.

The minister further added that many other nations have also come forward to help flood-ravaged Kerala.

"So the state has to find resources to overcome the shortage of funds for taking up the rehabilitation and rebuilding exercise," Vijayan added.

Vijayan noted that the state government had also made a request for a special package to tide over the situation besides the compensation for the loss and damage caused in the devastating deluge.

Last week, Vijayan had stated that there was <a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-no-lack-of-clarity-on-uae-aid-kerala-cm-vijayan-maintains-hopes-centre-to-accept-offer-161356">no lack of clarity on UAE aid</a> for the flood-ravaged state.&nbsp;

He said NRI businessman MA Yusfuf Ali had informed him about the aid. The UAE aid was communicated to Ali when he had met the crown prince to convey Bakrid greetings, the Chief Minister noted.

"When I asked him whether it could be made public, he said there is no problem in it," Vijayan told media last Friday.

Vijayan said the issue whether or not to accept the aid was a matter to be decided by the Centre and that he expects the Modi-government to accept UAE's offer.&nbsp;

Officials in the UAE embassy in New Delhi said no specific amount for financial aid to flood-ravaged Kerala was finalised officially by the United Arab Emirates and there was no announcement on donation to the state.

UAE ambassador Ahmed Albannam, without mentioning financial aid, said his government only set up a national emergency committee to provide relief assistance to people affected by flash floods in Kerala.

The Modi government has made clear that it won't be accepting any foreign aid for flood-hit Kerala and would solely rely on domestic measures to deal with the situation and the state get back to recovery.&nbsp;

Nearly 400 people lost their lives in mammoth floods that lashed Kerala this monsoon season.

According to reports, over 10 lakh people were displaced and rendered homeless, taking shelter in over 5,000 relief camps set up across the state.&nbsp;

Last week, Vijayan had maintained that there was no lack of clarity on UAE aid for the flood-ravaged state.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday expressed hope of getting the offer of aid by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). CM Vijayan, at an event in Trivandrum, noted that the Central government's stand of not accepting the aid -- worth Rs 700 crore -- from the UAE would not continue. The minister further added that many other nations have also come forward to help flood-ravaged Kerala. "So the state has to find resources to overcome the shortage of funds for taking up the rehabilitation and rebuilding exercise," Vijayan added. Vijayan noted that the state government had also made a request for a special package to tide over the situation besides the compensation for the loss and damage caused in the devastating deluge. Last week, Vijayan had stated that there was no lack of clarity on UAE aid for the flood-ravaged state. He said NRI businessman MA Yusfuf Ali had informed him about the aid. The UAE aid was communicated to Ali when he had met the crown prince to convey Bakrid greetings, the Chief Minister noted. "When I asked him whether it could be made public, he said there is no problem in it," Vijayan told media last Friday. Vijayan said the issue whether or not to accept the aid was a matter to be decided by the Centre and that he expects the Modi-government to accept UAE's offer. Officials in the UAE embassy in New Delhi said no specific amount for financial aid to flood-ravaged Kerala was finalised officially by the United Arab Emirates and there was no announcement on donation to the state. UAE ambassador Ahmed Albannam, without mentioning financial aid, said his government only set up a national emergency committee to provide relief assistance to people affected by flash floods in Kerala. The Modi government has made clear that it won't be accepting any foreign aid for flood-hit Kerala and would solely rely on domestic measures to deal with the situation and the state get back to recovery. Nearly 400 people lost their lives in mammoth floods that lashed Kerala this monsoon season. According to reports, over 10 lakh people were displaced and rendered homeless, taking shelter in over 5,000 relief camps set up across the state.

Centre's stand of not accepting UAE aid will not continue: Kerala CM Vijayan 

A day after the&nbsp;Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team took Sachin Andure, the alleged main shooter in rationalist Narendra Dabholkar's killing case, to the crime spot in Maharashtra, the police today will produce him along with three others to the&nbsp;Pune session court.

Besides Andure, Amol Kale, Amit Degwekar and Rajesh Bangera will be produced before the court.

The CBI had arrested&nbsp;Sachin Praskasrao Andure&nbsp;on August 19.

Narendra Dabholkar, Maharashtra based rationalist was the founder of Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS).

He was shot dead by two bike-borne assailants while returning home from a morning walk on August 20, 2013.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amol Kale, Amit Degwekar, Rajesh Bangera, and Sachin Andure will be produced before the court in connection with the Narendra Dabholkar case today.

A day after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team took Sachin Andure, the alleged main shooter in rationalist Narendra Dabholkar's killing case, to the crime spot in Maharashtra, the police today will produce him along with three others to the Pune session court. Besides Andure, Amol Kale, Amit Degwekar and Rajesh Bangera will be produced before the court. The CBI had arrested Sachin Praskasrao Andure on August 19. Narendra Dabholkar, Maharashtra based rationalist was the founder of Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (MANS). He was shot dead by two bike-borne assailants while returning home from a morning walk on August 20, 2013. (With inputs from agencies)

Narendra Dabholkar case: Sachin Andure, four others to be produced in court today

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said special arrangement for upkeep of stray cows, dogs, monkeys and birds would be made at every Nagar Nigam of the state.

"Upkeep of stray cows, monkeys, dogs, birds has started in Lucknow and gradually the scheme would start in other Nagar Nigams," he said, after inaugurating and laying foundation stone for various schemes worth Rs 346.74 crore for development of Brijbhumi.

He also stressed the need to not releasing the cows on the street.

Speaking about developing Mathura, he said there would be no dearth of funds for the purpose.

He also said that special lighting arrangements made on the entry points of Mathura on the occasion of Janmashtami, would become an regular feature and gradually Ayodhya, Varanasi, Allahabad would have similar arrangements.

"We want to make Mathura, Ayodhya, Varanasi and Allahabad alluring in order to attract more pilgrims," he said.

He said solid waste management system now would be introduced in the city.

He also said arrangements would be made to prevent discharge of drains into Yamuna and the Union government would be urged to make the river pollution-free.

He said the UP Tirth Vikas Parishad has been constituted for the development of all the seven pilgrimage sites in the state.

"The Union government," Yogi said, "has sanctioned Rs 50 crore for the development of Govardhan under Prasad scheme."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

He also said arrangements would be made to prevent discharge of drains into Yamuna and the Union government would be urged to make the river pollution-free

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said special arrangement for upkeep of stray cows, dogs, monkeys and birds would be made at every Nagar Nigam of the state. "Upkeep of stray cows, monkeys, dogs, birds has started in Lucknow and gradually the scheme would start in other Nagar Nigams," he said, after inaugurating and laying foundation stone for various schemes worth Rs 346.74 crore for development of Brijbhumi. He also stressed the need to not releasing the cows on the street. Speaking about developing Mathura, he said there would be no dearth of funds for the purpose. He also said that special lighting arrangements made on the entry points of Mathura on the occasion of Janmashtami, would become an regular feature and gradually Ayodhya, Varanasi, Allahabad would have similar arrangements. "We want to make Mathura, Ayodhya, Varanasi and Allahabad alluring in order to attract more pilgrims," he said. He said solid waste management system now would be introduced in the city. He also said arrangements would be made to prevent discharge of drains into Yamuna and the Union government would be urged to make the river pollution-free. He said the UP Tirth Vikas Parishad has been constituted for the development of all the seven pilgrimage sites in the state. "The Union government," Yogi said, "has sanctioned Rs 50 crore for the development of Govardhan under Prasad scheme."

Special arrangement for stray animals at every municipal, says Yogi Adityanath

Union minister Ramdas Athawale on Friday said the BJP's number of seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls may go down by "30-40" seats but the NDA will still return to power.

He also said he was ready to act as a mediator between Patidar leader Hardik Patel and the BJP in Gujarat to resolve the issue of reservation. Patel is on an indefinite fast to press the demand for reservation for the Patidar community in education and government jobs.

"The BJP's tally may go down by 30-40 seats but the NDA will return to power," the Union minister of state for social justice and empowerment said.

Athawale warned that if the Patidar stir is not resolved in time it could cost the BJP two to three Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat in next year's elections.

"Since Patidars turned against the ruling party, the BJP lost around 15-20 seats in the last Gujarat elections. If the situation persists, the BJP may lose two-three Lok Sabha seats in 2019," he told reporters.

"I will try to talk to Hardik over phone to convince him. Only talks can resolve this issue. I am also ready to become a mediator between him and the BJP at the Centre. If he agrees, I will take him to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss this issue," Athawale said.

"I once told Hardik that he can get the desired results if he remains by the BJP's side. I told him that he will not get anything by joining hands with the Congress. I think he needs to talk to BJP leaders to resolve this issue," he added.

Speaking about quotas, Athawale said all communities falling in the general category, like Patidars in Gujarat, Marathas in Maharashtra and Jats in Haryana, should be granted reservation.

"Since there is a cap of 50 per cent (on reservations), Parliament needs to first amend the Constitution to allow an additional quota of 25 per cent. We can exclude those who earn over Rs 8 lakh. I even suggested this to the prime minister in a meeting of NDA allies," he said.

Replying to a question on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid dispute, the Union minister claimed that the site once housed a Buddhist temple.

"You will find Buddhist-era statues if you excavate. There was a Buddhist temple there. Then Hindus built a temple which was destroyed by Mughals to build a mosque," he said.&nbsp;

He also said he was ready to act as a mediator between Patidar leader Hardik Patel and the BJP in Gujarat to resolve the issue of reservation. Patel is on an indefinite fast to press the demand for reservation for the Patidar community in education and government jobs.

Union minister Ramdas Athawale on Friday said the BJP's number of seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls may go down by "30-40" seats but the NDA will still return to power. He also said he was ready to act as a mediator between Patidar leader Hardik Patel and the BJP in Gujarat to resolve the issue of reservation. Patel is on an indefinite fast to press the demand for reservation for the Patidar community in education and government jobs. "The BJP's tally may go down by 30-40 seats but the NDA will return to power," the Union minister of state for social justice and empowerment said. Athawale warned that if the Patidar stir is not resolved in time it could cost the BJP two to three Lok Sabha seats in Gujarat in next year's elections. "Since Patidars turned against the ruling party, the BJP lost around 15-20 seats in the last Gujarat elections. If the situation persists, the BJP may lose two-three Lok Sabha seats in 2019," he told reporters. "I will try to talk to Hardik over phone to convince him. Only talks can resolve this issue. I am also ready to become a mediator between him and the BJP at the Centre. If he agrees, I will take him to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss this issue," Athawale said. "I once told Hardik that he can get the desired results if he remains by the BJP's side. I told him that he will not get anything by joining hands with the Congress. I think he needs to talk to BJP leaders to resolve this issue," he added. Speaking about quotas, Athawale said all communities falling in the general category, like Patidars in Gujarat, Marathas in Maharashtra and Jats in Haryana, should be granted reservation. "Since there is a cap of 50 per cent (on reservations), Parliament needs to first amend the Constitution to allow an additional quota of 25 per cent. We can exclude those who earn over Rs 8 lakh. I even suggested this to the prime minister in a meeting of NDA allies," he said. Replying to a question on the Ayodhya Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid dispute, the Union minister claimed that the site once housed a Buddhist temple. "You will find Buddhist-era statues if you excavate. There was a Buddhist temple there. Then Hindus built a temple which was destroyed by Mughals to build a mosque," he said.

BJP may lose 30-40 seats in LS polls but NDA will return to power: Ramdas Athawale

An Indian citizen, who was the CEO of two information technology companies in the US, has been arrested in connection with a multi-year visa-fraud scheme involving forged and fraudulent documents to get visas such as H1B for over 200 foreign workers.

Pradyumna Kumar Samal, 49, was taken into custody as he arrived from an international flight at Seattle airport.

The criminal complaint describing the visa-fraud scheme was filed under seal in April 2018, soon after Samal fled the United States while the investigation was ongoing. He remained out of the country until this week when he was arrested by law enforcement.

The criminal complaint describes how two companies incorporated by Samal in 2010 and 2011 in Washington state engaged in a scheme sometimes referred to as a "bench-and-switch" scheme, to exploit foreign-national workers, compete unlawfully in the market, and defraud the US government.

According to the investigation that began in 2015, Samal served as the Chief Executive Officer of 'Divensi' and 'Azimetry' in Bellevue, near Seattle. Both companies were in the business of providing information-technology workers, such as Software Development Engineers, to major corporate clients.

The complaint alleges that Samal submitted and directed his employees to submit, forged and false application materials to the United States government, making it appear as if two corporate clients already had agreed to use several foreign-national employees named in the applications. However, neither client had agreed to do so.

The forged documents included forged letters and fraudulent statements of work, which appeared as if they had been signed by senior executives at the two clients. After the US Citizenship and Immigration Services relied on the false representations and approved the work visa applications, Samal's companies benched the foreign nationals, leaving those foreign nationals unpaid unless they were able to place those employees at actual end clients.

Nearly 200 workers may have been brought in under the phony applications. The employees were forced to pay Samal's companies a partially-refundable "security deposit" of as much as USD 5,000 for the visa filings, regardless of whether they were assigned to any projects that provided them with income.

Visa Fraud is punishable by up to ten years in prison and a USD 250,000 fine.

Pradyumna Kumar Samal, 49, was taken into custody as he arrived from an international flight at Seattle airport.

An Indian citizen, who was the CEO of two information technology companies in the US, has been arrested in connection with a multi-year visa-fraud scheme involving forged and fraudulent documents to get visas such as H1B for over 200 foreign workers. Pradyumna Kumar Samal, 49, was taken into custody as he arrived from an international flight at Seattle airport. The criminal complaint describing the visa-fraud scheme was filed under seal in April 2018, soon after Samal fled the United States while the investigation was ongoing. He remained out of the country until this week when he was arrested by law enforcement. The criminal complaint describes how two companies incorporated by Samal in 2010 and 2011 in Washington state engaged in a scheme sometimes referred to as a "bench-and-switch" scheme, to exploit foreign-national workers, compete unlawfully in the market, and defraud the US government. According to the investigation that began in 2015, Samal served as the Chief Executive Officer of 'Divensi' and 'Azimetry' in Bellevue, near Seattle. Both companies were in the business of providing information-technology workers, such as Software Development Engineers, to major corporate clients. The complaint alleges that Samal submitted and directed his employees to submit, forged and false application materials to the United States government, making it appear as if two corporate clients already had agreed to use several foreign-national employees named in the applications. However, neither client had agreed to do so. The forged documents included forged letters and fraudulent statements of work, which appeared as if they had been signed by senior executives at the two clients. After the US Citizenship and Immigration Services relied on the false representations and approved the work visa applications, Samal's companies benched the foreign nationals, leaving those foreign nationals unpaid unless they were able to place those employees at actual end clients. Nearly 200 workers may have been brought in under the phony applications. The employees were forced to pay Samal's companies a partially-refundable "security deposit" of as much as USD 5,000 for the visa filings, regardless of whether they were assigned to any projects that provided them with income. Visa Fraud is punishable by up to ten years in prison and a USD 250,000 fine.

Indian CEO arrested in US on visa fraud charges

The implementation of rule of law in a nation depends on the quality of legal education in a country, Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra said Saturday.

Justice Misra, while delivering his inaugural speech at the 10th Law Teachers' Day award function in Delhi, said law schools are the hatcheries supplying legal professionals who act as sentinels for the implementation of rule of law.

He also said legal education is a science which inculcates in law students a sense of maturity and understanding of the society and moulds them to emerge as protectors of citizenry liberties.

The CJI inaugurated the symposium on 'Role of legal education on nation building' in the event organised by Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) and Menon Institute of Legal Advocacy Training (MILAT) in Delhi.

"The implementation of rule of law in a nation depends on the quality of legal education in a country. Law schools are the hatcheries which supply quintessential legal professionals who act as sentinels for the implementation of rule of law and contribute tremendously towards the development of the nation.&nbsp

"Legal education is a science which imparts to law students not only the knowledge of certain legal provisions but it also inculcates a sense of maturity and understanding of the society which shapes and moulds them to emerge as protectors of citizenry liberties," Justice Misra said.

He appreciated the functioning of National Law Universities and said the institution has turned out to be the most successful exercise for enhancing the quality of legal education in the country.&nbsp

"The introduction of five year law course has made legal education quite coveted in India. It has become imperative for law schools to take in account the changes taking place across the world as well as the contemporary issues in the society.&nbsp

"Law schools must focus on developing amongst its students critical reflectiveness of the social, moral and political outlooks embedded in law," Justice Misra said.

The CJI said it was the duty of all stakeholders to enhance the legal education by registering the importance of law schools and lauded Professor N R Madhava Menon, saying he has been influenced by the octogenarian in a subconscious way and his passion towards the discipline of law should be inculcated by everyone.

Prof Menon said the law schools were a neglected lot.

He said even though there are 23 national law universities across the country and India need to do more for the legal education.

This year, the prestigious SILF-MILAT Prof N R Madhava Menon Best Law Teacher Award was bagged by Prof R Venkata Rao of the National Law School of India University, Bangalore.

The CJI inaugurated the symposium on 'Role of legal education on nation building' in the event organised by Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) and Menon Institute of Legal Advocacy Training (MILAT) in Delhi.

The implementation of rule of law in a nation depends on the quality of legal education in a country, Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra said Saturday. Justice Misra, while delivering his inaugural speech at the 10th Law Teachers' Day award function in Delhi, said law schools are the hatcheries supplying legal professionals who act as sentinels for the implementation of rule of law. He also said legal education is a science which inculcates in law students a sense of maturity and understanding of the society and moulds them to emerge as protectors of citizenry liberties. The CJI inaugurated the symposium on 'Role of legal education on nation building' in the event organised by Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) and Menon Institute of Legal Advocacy Training (MILAT) in Delhi. "The implementation of rule of law in a nation depends on the quality of legal education in a country. Law schools are the hatcheries which supply quintessential legal professionals who act as sentinels for the implementation of rule of law and contribute tremendously towards the development of the nation. "Legal education is a science which imparts to law students not only the knowledge of certain legal provisions but it also inculcates a sense of maturity and understanding of the society which shapes and moulds them to emerge as protectors of citizenry liberties," Justice Misra said. He appreciated the functioning of National Law Universities and said the institution has turned out to be the most successful exercise for enhancing the quality of legal education in the country. "The introduction of five year law course has made legal education quite coveted in India. It has become imperative for law schools to take in account the changes taking place across the world as well as the contemporary issues in the society. "Law schools must focus on developing amongst its students critical reflectiveness of the social, moral and political outlooks embedded in law," Justice Misra said. The CJI said it was the duty of all stakeholders to enhance the legal education by registering the importance of law schools and lauded Professor N R Madhava Menon, saying he has been influenced by the octogenarian in a subconscious way and his passion towards the discipline of law should be inculcated by everyone. Prof Menon said the law schools were a neglected lot. He said even though there are 23 national law universities across the country and India need to do more for the legal education. This year, the prestigious SILF-MILAT Prof N R Madhava Menon Best Law Teacher Award was bagged by Prof R Venkata Rao of the National Law School of India University, Bangalore.

Implementation of rule of law depends on quality of legal education, says CJI

The Supreme Court on Friday sought responses from the Centre, six state governments and the BJP on a plea which has alleged that they have violated the apex court's directions on the issuance of public advertisements.

Besides the Centre and the BJP, the apex court issued notices to the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Chattishgarh and Telangana on a plea filed by an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Delhi.

Except for Telangana, the other five states are ruled by the BJP.

A bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked them to file their responses within four weeks on the plea by Sanjeev Jha, an MLA from Burari constituency here.

The petitioner has alleged that the Centre, BJP and these states have issued public advertisements in violation of the apex court's directions given earlier.

He has sought a direction from the top court that a committee constituted on this issue by the Centre should be asked to take cognizance of these alleged violations and initiate appropriate proceedings against them.

On May 13, 2015 the apex court had passed a slew of directions including the order asking Centre to constitute a three-member committee "consisting of persons with unimpeachable neutrality and impartiality" to regulate the issue of public advertisements.

However, on March 18, 2016, the apex court modified its order and said the pictures of Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, Governors and State Ministers can appear in government advertisements.

That verdict came on pleas by Centre and states including the then poll-bound West Bengal and Tamil Nadu which had sought a review of the Supreme Court judgment barring publication of leaders' photos in advertisements except those of the President, Prime Minister and the Chief Justice of India, saying it infringed on fundamental rights and federal structure.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing NGO Common Cause which had filed the original PIL on review petitions filed by the States, had told the bench that certain state governments were violating the apex court's orders.&nbsp

Besides the Centre and the BJP, the apex court issued notices to the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Chattishgarh and Telangana on a plea filed by an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Delhi.

The Supreme Court on Friday sought responses from the Centre, six state governments and the BJP on a plea which has alleged that they have violated the apex court's directions on the issuance of public advertisements. Besides the Centre and the BJP, the apex court issued notices to the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Chattishgarh and Telangana on a plea filed by an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Delhi. Except for Telangana, the other five states are ruled by the BJP. A bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi asked them to file their responses within four weeks on the plea by Sanjeev Jha, an MLA from Burari constituency here. The petitioner has alleged that the Centre, BJP and these states have issued public advertisements in violation of the apex court's directions given earlier. He has sought a direction from the top court that a committee constituted on this issue by the Centre should be asked to take cognizance of these alleged violations and initiate appropriate proceedings against them. On May 13, 2015 the apex court had passed a slew of directions including the order asking Centre to constitute a three-member committee "consisting of persons with unimpeachable neutrality and impartiality" to regulate the issue of public advertisements. However, on March 18, 2016, the apex court modified its order and said the pictures of Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, Governors and State Ministers can appear in government advertisements. That verdict came on pleas by Centre and states including the then poll-bound West Bengal and Tamil Nadu which had sought a review of the Supreme Court judgment barring publication of leaders' photos in advertisements except those of the President, Prime Minister and the Chief Justice of India, saying it infringed on fundamental rights and federal structure. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, representing NGO Common Cause which had filed the original PIL on review petitions filed by the States, had told the bench that certain state governments were violating the apex court's orders.

SC notice to Centre, BJP, six states on violation of public advertisement guidelines

A Delhi court today granted bail to RJD supremo Lalu Prasad's wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav in an Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) scam case.

Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj also issued a production warrant against Prasad in the case. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The court granted bail to Rabri and Tejashwi Yadav on a personal bond of Rs one lakh and one surety of the like amount.

The next date of hearing has been set as October six

Earlier the court had summoned and asked the Lalu family and others in the case to appear before the court today in the case related to alleged irregularities in granting operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm.

Lalu did not appear before the court today as he is in a Jharkhand jail in another case.

The CBI, which had on April 16 filed the charge sheet in the case, had said there were enough evidence against Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi and others.

The CBI had earlier informed the court that sanction has been procured from authorities concerned to prosecute Additional Member of Railway Board B K Agarwal, who was then the group general manager of the IRCTC.

Besides Lalu Prasad and his family members, former Union minister Prem Chand Gupta and his wife Sarla Gupta, Agarwal, then managing director of IRCTC PK Goyal and then IRCTC director Rakesh Saxena were also named in the charge sheet.

The other names in the charge sheet include then group general managers of IRCTC V K Asthana and R K Goyal, and Vijay Kochhar, Vinay Kochhar, both directors of Sujata Hotels and owners of Chanakya Hotel.

Delight Marketing Company, now known as Lara Projects, and Sujata Hotels Private Limited have also been named as accused companies in the charge sheet.

The CBI had registered a case in July last year and carried out searches at 12 locations in Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and Gurgaon in connection with the case.

The charges in the case include criminal conspiracy (120-B), cheating (420) under IPC and corruption, the central probe agency had said.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Former Bihar CM Rabri Devi & RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav arrive at Patiala House court, to appear in connection with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) scam case. <a href="https://t.co/eBFFH6xzxZ">pic.twitter.com/eBFFH6xzxZ</a>
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The court granted bail to Rabri and Tejashwi Yadav on a personal bond of Rs one lakh and one surety of the like amount

A Delhi court today granted bail to RJD supremo Lalu Prasad's wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav in an Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) scam case. Special Judge Arun Bhardwaj also issued a production warrant against Prasad in the case. The court granted bail to Rabri and Tejashwi Yadav on a personal bond of Rs one lakh and one surety of the like amount. The next date of hearing has been set as October six Earlier the court had summoned and asked the Lalu family and others in the case to appear before the court today in the case related to alleged irregularities in granting operational contract of two IRCTC hotels to a private firm. Lalu did not appear before the court today as he is in a Jharkhand jail in another case. The CBI, which had on April 16 filed the charge sheet in the case, had said there were enough evidence against Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi and others. The CBI had earlier informed the court that sanction has been procured from authorities concerned to prosecute Additional Member of Railway Board B K Agarwal, who was then the group general manager of the IRCTC. Besides Lalu Prasad and his family members, former Union minister Prem Chand Gupta and his wife Sarla Gupta, Agarwal, then managing director of IRCTC PK Goyal and then IRCTC director Rakesh Saxena were also named in the charge sheet. The other names in the charge sheet include then group general managers of IRCTC V K Asthana and R K Goyal, and Vijay Kochhar, Vinay Kochhar, both directors of Sujata Hotels and owners of Chanakya Hotel. Delight Marketing Company, now known as Lara Projects, and Sujata Hotels Private Limited have also been named as accused companies in the charge sheet. The CBI had registered a case in July last year and carried out searches at 12 locations in Patna, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar and Gurgaon in connection with the case. The charges in the case include criminal conspiracy (120-B), cheating (420) under IPC and corruption, the central probe agency had said. Delhi: Former Bihar CM Rabri Devi & RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav arrive at Patiala House court, to appear in connection with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) scam case. pic.twitter.com/eBFFH6xzxZ — ANI (@ANI) August 31, 2018 ×

IRCTC scam case: Delhi court grants bail to Lalu's wife Rabri, son Tejashwi Yadav

Men are strictly banned at Femapalooza, a comedy show for Indian women where the punchlines range from breasts and bras to equal pay and censorship.

India's women-only comedy night is laughter uncensored

In a move to enhance US engagement with India on critical diplomatic and security priorities, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Defense James Mattis will hold talks with their Indian counterparts Sushma Swaraj and Nirmala Sitharaman in September, news agency ANI reported.

According to reports, the talks, that will be held in New Delhi on September 6, have been described by Washington as a 'major opportunity' to boost India-US strategic partnership.&nbsp;

"India's central role in our National Security Strategy is enshrined in the President's National Security Strategy as well as the administration's South Asia and Indo-Pacific strategies," a US official told reporters during a conference call.

"We expect progress and further deepening of ties between our two militaries and creating a framework for greater information sharing and interoperability. We are also eager to expand defence trade, which is estimated to reach 18 billion by 2019 from essentially zero in 2008," he added

On agenda

The meeting is expected to address a number of issues wherein measures will be discussed to build on the recent momentum in India-US defence relations and chalk out the future plan.

Other areas of dialogue may include discussions on facilitating US-India intelligence sharing, counterterrorism cooperation and addressing the difference in opinion both the countries have over Iran sanctions.&nbsp;

"We have been discussing regularly with India issues related to both Iran and CAATSA and are looking, as with other partners, to identify ways to cooperate to support our policy goals with regard to both those issues."

US President Donald Trump previously had emphasised the willingness to foster maritime domain awareness and defence innovation with India.&nbsp;

Boosting economic ties with India would also find a key spot in the discussions.&nbsp;

"We are looking at potentially collaborating with some of our defence innovation efforts in the United States, our Defense Innovation Unit for example, and discuss proposals to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. So those would be just an example of some of the proposals that we are going to discuss at the meeting," the senior administration official added.

"The United States and India expanded bilateral trade by 12 billion last year, reaching 126 billion in 2017. We want to continue to grow the trade relationship to our mutual benefit, but to ensure the trade is fair and reciprocal. It is no surprise that tariff and non-tariff barriers have been the subject of longstanding concern, and the US Government is working with the Government of India to address market access challenges," added the official.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Other areas of dialogue may include discussions on US-India intelligence sharing, boosting Indo-US military ties.

In a move to enhance US engagement with India on critical diplomatic and security priorities, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Defense James Mattis will hold talks with their Indian counterparts Sushma Swaraj and Nirmala Sitharaman in September, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the talks, that will be held in New Delhi on September 6, have been described by Washington as a 'major opportunity' to boost India-US strategic partnership. "India's central role in our National Security Strategy is enshrined in the President's National Security Strategy as well as the administration's South Asia and Indo-Pacific strategies," a US official told reporters during a conference call. "We expect progress and further deepening of ties between our two militaries and creating a framework for greater information sharing and interoperability. We are also eager to expand defence trade, which is estimated to reach 18 billion by 2019 from essentially zero in 2008," he added On agenda The meeting is expected to address a number of issues wherein measures will be discussed to build on the recent momentum in India-US defence relations and chalk out the future plan. Other areas of dialogue may include discussions on facilitating US-India intelligence sharing, counterterrorism cooperation and addressing the difference in opinion both the countries have over Iran sanctions. "We have been discussing regularly with India issues related to both Iran and CAATSA and are looking, as with other partners, to identify ways to cooperate to support our policy goals with regard to both those issues." US President Donald Trump previously had emphasised the willingness to foster maritime domain awareness and defence innovation with India. Boosting economic ties with India would also find a key spot in the discussions. "We are looking at potentially collaborating with some of our defence innovation efforts in the United States, our Defense Innovation Unit for example, and discuss proposals to enhance bilateral defence cooperation. So those would be just an example of some of the proposals that we are going to discuss at the meeting," the senior administration official added. "The United States and India expanded bilateral trade by 12 billion last year, reaching 126 billion in 2017. We want to continue to grow the trade relationship to our mutual benefit, but to ensure the trade is fair and reciprocal. It is no surprise that tariff and non-tariff barriers have been the subject of longstanding concern, and the US Government is working with the Government of India to address market access challenges," added the official. (With inputs from ANI)

India-US 2+2 dialogue ‘major opportunity’ to boost military ties, strategic partnership: US

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday attacked the Central government over the Rafale deal and called it "globalised corruption".

Gandhi, on Thursday, asked what was the "deal" between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Anil Ambani. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley retorted accusing the Congress chief of resorting to falsehood.

"Globalised corruption. This #Rafale aircraft really does fly far and fast! It's also going to drop some big bunker buster bombs in the next couple of weeks," Gandhi tweeted on Friday before leaving for his Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

"Modi Ji please tell Anil, there is a big problem in France," Gandhi stated.&nbsp;

The Congress president had also accused PM Modi of "lying" over the Rafale fighter jet contract.&nbsp;

Gandhi had previously pressed for a JPC probe at a press conference, saying that the country wants to know about the "deal between PM Modi and industrialist Anil Ambani".

Meanwhile, Anil Ambani has denied all charges levelled against him by the Congress and its chief Rahul Gandhi.&nbsp;

Ambani has also accused the Opposition&nbsp;of making "false statements".&nbsp;

In a letter to Rahul Gandhi, Ambani had reportedly explained the deal and slapped defamation notices on a number of Congress leaders urging them not to make "false" statements.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Congress president had also accused the PM Modi of "lying" on the Rafale fighter jet contract.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday attacked the Central government over the Rafale deal and called it "globalised corruption". Gandhi, on Thursday, asked what was the "deal" between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Anil Ambani. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley retorted accusing the Congress chief of resorting to falsehood. "Globalised corruption. This #Rafale aircraft really does fly far and fast! It's also going to drop some big bunker buster bombs in the next couple of weeks," Gandhi tweeted on Friday before leaving for his Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. "Modi Ji please tell Anil, there is a big problem in France," Gandhi stated. The Congress president had also accused PM Modi of "lying" over the Rafale fighter jet contract. Gandhi had previously pressed for a JPC probe at a press conference, saying that the country wants to know about the "deal between PM Modi and industrialist Anil Ambani". Meanwhile, Anil Ambani has denied all charges levelled against him by the Congress and its chief Rahul Gandhi. Ambani has also accused the Opposition of making "false statements". In a letter to Rahul Gandhi, Ambani had reportedly explained the deal and slapped defamation notices on a number of Congress leaders urging them not to make "false" statements. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi rakes up Rafale deal row, calls it 'globalised corruption' 

Armed with fresh ammunition in the ongoing Rafale deal spate with the Modi government, Congress party president on Friday launched yet another salvo at the ruling dispensation.

Quoting a news report, Congress president in a fresh attack on Modi government tweeted &nbsp;''This #Rafale aircraft really does fly far and fast! It's also going to drop some big bunker buster bombs in the next couple of weeks.''&nbsp;

According to the newspaper report, two days before then French President Francois Hollande came to New Delhi as the Republic Day chief guest in January 2016 and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for delivering 36 Rafale aircraft, Anil Ambani’s Reliance Entertainment entered into a deal to produce a film with Hollande’s partner and actor Julie Gayet.

Later that year, Ambani’s Reliance Defence became part of the offset programme of the Rs 59,000-crore Rafale deal through Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd (DRAL), in which it holds a 51 per cent stake. Dassault Aviation, the French manufacturer of Rafale, holds 49 per cent stake in DRAL.

Describing the deal a ''globalised corruption'', Gandhi added ''Modi Ji please tell Anil, there is a big problem in France.''

Earlier Gandhi described the Rafale deal a ''great Indian robbery'' and asked the ruling party's opinion to set up a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) with a 24-hour deadline. &nbsp;&nbsp;

''Mr Jaitley, thanks for bringing the nation’s attention back to the GREAT #RAFALE ROBBERY! How about a Joint Parliamentary Committee to sort it out? Problem is, your Supreme Leader is protecting his friend, so this may be inconvenient. Do check & revert in 24 hrs. We’re waiting!,'' Rahul Gandhi tweeted.&nbsp;

Responding to Rahul's charges, finance minister Arun Jaitley countered the former with 5 questions.

In his counter-offensive, Jaitley said that issue on Rafale raised is based on complete falsehood. It is expected from national political parties and its responsible leaders to keep themselves informed of the basic facts before they enter a public discourse on defence transactions.

The Congress, especially its president Rahul Gandhi, has been relentlessly attacking the Narendra Modi government over the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

The Congress says it is a scam and that the current government is paying more for the Rafale fighter jets than the original deal put together by the earlier UPA government. That Congress is implying kickbacks.&nbsp;

The Congress has also accused the Modi government of crony capitalism in making Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence Ltd the Indian partner in the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

The original Indian partner had been Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) but it was suddenly replaced by Reliance Defence.&nbsp;

Reliance Defence has no prior experience in the aerospace industry.&nbsp;

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Globalised corruption. This <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> aircraft really does fly far and fast! It's also going to drop some big bunker buster bombs in the next couple of weeks. 
 
Modi Ji please tell Anil, there is a big problem in France. <a href="https://t.co/tvL7HMBPFN">https://t.co/tvL7HMBPFN</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1035378911327256576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Describing the deal a ''globalised corruption'', Gandhi added ''Modi Ji please tell Anil, there is a big problem in France.''

Armed with fresh ammunition in the ongoing Rafale deal spate with the Modi government, Congress party president on Friday launched yet another salvo at the ruling dispensation. Quoting a news report, Congress president in a fresh attack on Modi government tweeted ''This #Rafale aircraft really does fly far and fast! It's also going to drop some big bunker buster bombs in the next couple of weeks.'' According to the newspaper report, two days before then French President Francois Hollande came to New Delhi as the Republic Day chief guest in January 2016 and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for delivering 36 Rafale aircraft, Anil Ambani’s Reliance Entertainment entered into a deal to produce a film with Hollande’s partner and actor Julie Gayet. Later that year, Ambani’s Reliance Defence became part of the offset programme of the Rs 59,000-crore Rafale deal through Dassault Reliance Aerospace Ltd (DRAL), in which it holds a 51 per cent stake. Dassault Aviation, the French manufacturer of Rafale, holds 49 per cent stake in DRAL. Describing the deal a ''globalised corruption'', Gandhi added ''Modi Ji please tell Anil, there is a big problem in France.'' Earlier Gandhi described the Rafale deal a ''great Indian robbery'' and asked the ruling party's opinion to set up a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) with a 24-hour deadline. ''Mr Jaitley, thanks for bringing the nation’s attention back to the GREAT #RAFALE ROBBERY! How about a Joint Parliamentary Committee to sort it out? Problem is, your Supreme Leader is protecting his friend, so this may be inconvenient. Do check & revert in 24 hrs. We’re waiting!,'' Rahul Gandhi tweeted. Responding to Rahul's charges, finance minister Arun Jaitley countered the former with 5 questions. In his counter-offensive, Jaitley said that issue on Rafale raised is based on complete falsehood. It is expected from national political parties and its responsible leaders to keep themselves informed of the basic facts before they enter a public discourse on defence transactions. The Congress, especially its president Rahul Gandhi, has been relentlessly attacking the Narendra Modi government over the Rafale deal. The Congress says it is a scam and that the current government is paying more for the Rafale fighter jets than the original deal put together by the earlier UPA government. That Congress is implying kickbacks. The Congress has also accused the Modi government of crony capitalism in making Anil Ambani's Reliance Defence Ltd the Indian partner in the Rafale deal. The original Indian partner had been Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) but it was suddenly replaced by Reliance Defence. Reliance Defence has no prior experience in the aerospace industry. Globalised corruption. This #Rafale aircraft really does fly far and fast! It's also going to drop some big bunker buster bombs in the next couple of weeks. Modi Ji please tell Anil, there is a big problem in France. https://t.co/tvL7HMBPFN — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 31, 2018 ×

‘Globalised corruption. Modiji please tell Anil, there’s a big problem in France’: Rahul Gandhi on Rafale deal  

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