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Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan announced Tuesday the UAE has offered Rs 700 crore towards&nbspKerala flood relief.

"Many have come forward to help Kerala. Besides the aid from various states, other nations have also been extending assistance to the flood-hit region. UAE has put forward a relief package and the Gulf nations have been helping us on all fronts," Vijayan said.

The chief minister added that the United Arab Emirates has pledged $100 million (nearly Rs 700 crore) for relief work and the crown prince of Abu Dhabi has spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Special train brings hundreds of stranded people to Kolkata

A train carrying hundreds of people stranded in the flood-ravaged Kerala reached Kolkata, a South Eastern Railway (SER) spokesman said today.

The passengers, mostly labourers from West Bengal, reached Howrah station late last night in the 21-coach special train from Thiruvananthapuram.

Two more trains, which left Ernakulam on Sunday evening, are scheduled to reach the city today, the spokesman Sanjay Ghosh said.&nbsp

Over one million people are now sheltered in 3,274 relief camps in Kerala, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Monday, even as rains that killed 373 people, have finally abated.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan announced Tuesday the UAE has offered Rs 700 crore towards&nbspKerala flood relief. "Many have come forward to help Kerala. Besides the aid from various states, other nations have also been extending assistance to the flood-hit region. UAE has put forward a relief package and the Gulf nations have been helping us on all fronts," Vijayan said. The chief minister added that the United Arab Emirates has pledged $100 million (nearly Rs 700 crore) for relief work and the crown prince of Abu Dhabi has spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Special train brings hundreds of stranded people to Kolkata A train carrying hundreds of people stranded in the flood-ravaged Kerala reached Kolkata, a South Eastern Railway (SER) spokesman said today. The passengers, mostly labourers from West Bengal, reached Howrah station late last night in the 21-coach special train from Thiruvananthapuram. Two more trains, which left Ernakulam on Sunday evening, are scheduled to reach the city today, the spokesman Sanjay Ghosh said.

Kerala floods: UAE to contribute Rs 700 crore for relief fund, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan

Fugitive diamond merchant&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/request-for-extradition-of-nirav-modi-sent-to-uk-government-mos-mea-vk-singh--156699">Nirav Modi </a>has been located in the United Kingdom, CBI officials confirmed on Monday. The Interpol had informed the Indian investigators' about his location on August 16, reports said.&nbsp;

The CBI has requested the UK authorities to detain Modi and has moved an extradition request, the officials added.

According to reports, the authorities in the UK have not provided Modi's address and city yet. They have also not confirmed if any action has been taken.&nbsp;

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-high-commission-in-london-initiates-nirav-modis-extradition-157106">government of India</a> had sent the extradition request for Nirav Modi to the UK authorities earlier this month.&nbsp;

As per reports, Nirav Modi had arrived in London earlier this year on an Indian passport. The UK government was informed about the revocation of his passport via a formal Note Verbale from the Indian authorities on February 19, following which the UK Home Office indicated that the businessman had already entered the UK on his travel document but there was no record of him exiting the country.

The Enforcement Directorate has been probing two cases of money laundering against Nirav Modi and Choksi under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI.&nbsp;

Last week, the Income Tax department had&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/3-tax-notices-issued-against-nirav-modi-revenue-department-158409">slapped three notices</a> under the foreign black money law against&nbsp; Nirav Modi who is involved in Rs&nbsp;14,000 crore PNB fraud case, for allegedly holding illegal assets abroad.

Nirav&nbsp;Modi, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, are accused in the&nbsp;Rs.&nbsp;13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud.

The special&nbsp;Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai have issued summons against the diamond jeweller&nbsp;and his uncle Mehul Choksi to appear before it&nbsp;or be declared fugitives.

Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi have been asked to appear before the court on September 26 and 27 respectively.

Nirav Modi, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, are accused in the Rs. 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud.

Fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi has been located in the United Kingdom, CBI officials confirmed on Monday. The Interpol had informed the Indian investigators' about his location on August 16, reports said. The CBI has requested the UK authorities to detain Modi and has moved an extradition request, the officials added. According to reports, the authorities in the UK have not provided Modi's address and city yet. They have also not confirmed if any action has been taken. The government of India had sent the extradition request for Nirav Modi to the UK authorities earlier this month. As per reports, Nirav Modi had arrived in London earlier this year on an Indian passport. The UK government was informed about the revocation of his passport via a formal Note Verbale from the Indian authorities on February 19, following which the UK Home Office indicated that the businessman had already entered the UK on his travel document but there was no record of him exiting the country. The Enforcement Directorate has been probing two cases of money laundering against Nirav Modi and Choksi under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI. Last week, the Income Tax department had slapped three notices under the foreign black money law against Nirav Modi who is involved in Rs 14,000 crore PNB fraud case, for allegedly holding illegal assets abroad. Nirav Modi, along with his uncle Mehul Choksi, are accused in the Rs. 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud. The special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) Court in Mumbai have issued summons against the diamond jeweller and his uncle Mehul Choksi to appear before it or be declared fugitives. Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi have been asked to appear before the court on September 26 and 27 respectively.

Nirav Modi in UK, CBI confirms; moves extradition request

A day after Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar tweeted to Trinamool MP Derek O'Brien about a "glaring error" in depicting legendary athlete Milkha Singh in West Bengal's school textbooks, the government denied publishing any such book for government schools.

On Sunday Akhtar had pointed out an error in textbooks which had shown a photo of him instead of 'flying Sikh'. He had urged the minister of School Education to recall and replace the textbooks.

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To the Minister of School Education, West Bengal. 
There is a glaring error with the image used in one of the school text books to depict Milkha Singh-ji. Could you please request the publisher to recall and replace this book? 
Sincerely. <a href="https://twitter.com/derekobrienmp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@derekobrienmp</a> <a href="https://t.co/RV2D3gV5bd">https://t.co/RV2D3gV5bd</a>
— Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarOutAkhtar/status/1031032329383305216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In his tweet, he had also tagged Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien.&nbsp

On Monday, TMC MP responded to his request and said that he has clarified with Education minister of state who is telling him that the textbooks aren't for government schools nor are published by the government.

"Trying to track the private publishing company. They ought to correct the mistake in future editions," Derek O'Brien said in the tweet.

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Thanks Farhan. Ref the wrong pic of Milkha Singh. Checked with Education Min of State. He tells me it isn’t a text book for government schools.Nor is it published by government. Trying to track the private publishing company. They ought to correct the mistake in future editions <a href="https://t.co/bV5gDU0jpr">https://t.co/bV5gDU0jpr</a>
— Derek O'Brien (@derekobrienmp) <a href="https://twitter.com/derekobrienmp/status/1031233158430187521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Farhan Akhtar too thanked the senior leader's response and said that he tagged him since he takes "education very seriously."

Farhan Akhtar had essayed the role of a legendary athlete in 2013's Bhaag Milkha Bhaag movie.&nbsp

Akhtar had received critical acclaim for his performance and bagged National Awards in two categories - Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Choreography.&nbsp

Milkha Singh was the first Indian to win an individual athletics gold medal at Commonwealth Games in 1958.

Farhan Akhtar had essayed the role of a legendary athlete in 2013's Bhaag Milkha Bhaag movie.

A day after Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar tweeted to Trinamool MP Derek O'Brien about a "glaring error" in depicting legendary athlete Milkha Singh in West Bengal's school textbooks, the government denied publishing any such book for government schools. On Sunday Akhtar had pointed out an error in textbooks which had shown a photo of him instead of 'flying Sikh'. He had urged the minister of School Education to recall and replace the textbooks. To the Minister of School Education, West Bengal. There is a glaring error with the image used in one of the school text books to depict Milkha Singh-ji. Could you please request the publisher to recall and replace this book? Sincerely. @derekobrienmp https://t.co/RV2D3gV5bd — Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) August 19, 2018 × In his tweet, he had also tagged Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien. On Monday, TMC MP responded to his request and said that he has clarified with Education minister of state who is telling him that the textbooks aren't for government schools nor are published by the government. "Trying to track the private publishing company. They ought to correct the mistake in future editions," Derek O'Brien said in the tweet. Thanks Farhan. Ref the wrong pic of Milkha Singh. Checked with Education Min of State. He tells me it isn’t a text book for government schools.Nor is it published by government. Trying to track the private publishing company. They ought to correct the mistake in future editions https://t.co/bV5gDU0jpr — Derek O'Brien (@derekobrienmp) August 19, 2018 × Farhan Akhtar too thanked the senior leader's response and said that he tagged him since he takes "education very seriously." Farhan Akhtar had essayed the role of a legendary athlete in 2013's Bhaag Milkha Bhaag movie. Akhtar had received critical acclaim for his performance and bagged National Awards in two categories - Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Choreography. Milkha Singh was the first Indian to win an individual athletics gold medal at Commonwealth Games in 1958.

Book depicting Farhan Akhtar as Milkha Singh not published by West Bengal government: Derek O'Brien

The Supreme Court today took note of the July 20 lynching incident in Rajasthan's Alwar district after it had issued a slew of directions on dealing with cow vigilantism and asked the state government to file its response about the action taken in the case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra asked the Principal Secretary of the Home department of the state government to file an affidavit giving details of the action taken in the lynching case.

Rakbar Khan (28) was allegedly beaten by cow vigilantes in Alwar district's Ramgarh area on July 20 when was leading two cows from Ladpura village to his home to Haryana.

The bench was hearing a contempt plea filed by Tushar Gandhi and Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala seeking contempt action against the Rajasthan government in the mob lynching case at Alwar.

They alleged that incidents of mob lynching and vigilantism were taking place despite the apex court verdict in this regard.

The Supreme Court had on July 17 said "horrendous acts of mobocracy" cannot be allowed to overrun the law of the land and asked Parliament to consider enacting a new law to sternly deal with mob lynching and cow vigilantism, warning that such incidents may rise like a "Typhon-like monster" across the country.

The court had also issued a slew of directions to the government to provide "preventive, remedial and punitive measures" to deal with offences like mob violence and cow vigilantism.

The apex court today asked all other state governments to file compliance report on steps taken by September 7.

The court has now posted the matter for further hearing on August 30.&nbsp

A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra asked the Principal Secretary of the Home department of the state government to file an affidavit giving details of the action taken in the lynching case.

The Supreme Court today took note of the July 20 lynching incident in Rajasthan's Alwar district after it had issued a slew of directions on dealing with cow vigilantism and asked the state government to file its response about the action taken in the case. A bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra asked the Principal Secretary of the Home department of the state government to file an affidavit giving details of the action taken in the lynching case. Rakbar Khan (28) was allegedly beaten by cow vigilantes in Alwar district's Ramgarh area on July 20 when was leading two cows from Ladpura village to his home to Haryana. The bench was hearing a contempt plea filed by Tushar Gandhi and Congress leader Tehseen Poonawala seeking contempt action against the Rajasthan government in the mob lynching case at Alwar. They alleged that incidents of mob lynching and vigilantism were taking place despite the apex court verdict in this regard. The Supreme Court had on July 17 said "horrendous acts of mobocracy" cannot be allowed to overrun the law of the land and asked Parliament to consider enacting a new law to sternly deal with mob lynching and cow vigilantism, warning that such incidents may rise like a "Typhon-like monster" across the country. The court had also issued a slew of directions to the government to provide "preventive, remedial and punitive measures" to deal with offences like mob violence and cow vigilantism. The apex court today asked all other state governments to file compliance report on steps taken by September 7. The court has now posted the matter for further hearing on August 30.

SC seeks Rajasthan's reply on contempt plea in lynching case

A Delhi court today allowed Congress leader Shashi Tharoor to travel to Geneva to express condolences to the family of former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan and also to seek international aid for Kerala which is reeling under unprecedented floods.

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal allowed Tharoor to travel today after his counsel said the politician worked under Annan for ten years and he was his mentor at the United Nations.

Annan died on Saturday last.

Senior advocate Vikas Pahwa and advocate Gaurav Gupta, appearing for Tharoor, also told the court that the politician was going to seek international assistance through the United Nations for the victims of Kerala flood.

The Thiruvananthapuram MP is on regular bail in a case relating to his wife Sunanda Pushkar's death almost four years ago in a luxury hotel here.

"I am allowing the application. Inform the investigating officer about your schedule," the judge said.

The counsel said that Tharoor is scheduled to leave this evening and he will return tomorrow.

Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel, as the official bungalow of Shashi Tharoor was being renovated at that time.&nbsp

Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal allowed Tharoor to travel today after his counsel said the politician worked under Annan for ten years and he was his mentor at the United Nations.

A Delhi court today allowed Congress leader Shashi Tharoor to travel to Geneva to express condolences to the family of former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan and also to seek international aid for Kerala which is reeling under unprecedented floods. Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Samar Vishal allowed Tharoor to travel today after his counsel said the politician worked under Annan for ten years and he was his mentor at the United Nations. Annan died on Saturday last. Senior advocate Vikas Pahwa and advocate Gaurav Gupta, appearing for Tharoor, also told the court that the politician was going to seek international assistance through the United Nations for the victims of Kerala flood. The Thiruvananthapuram MP is on regular bail in a case relating to his wife Sunanda Pushkar's death almost four years ago in a luxury hotel here. "I am allowing the application. Inform the investigating officer about your schedule," the judge said. The counsel said that Tharoor is scheduled to leave this evening and he will return tomorrow. Pushkar was found dead in a suite of a luxury hotel in the city on the night of January 17, 2014. The couple was staying in the hotel, as the official bungalow of Shashi Tharoor was being renovated at that time.

Court allows Tharoor to travel to Geneva

Two men, who had claimed responsibility for attack on JNU student leader Umar Khalid, have been detained, police said today.

Darwesh Shahpur and Naveen Dalal are currently being interrogated, they added.

A team of the Delhi Police's Special Cell had visited the village of Sikh revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha where the two had said they would surrender on August 17 but they did not turn up.

In a video uploaded on Facebook on August 15, they claimed the attack on Khalid was supposed to be an "Independence Day gift" to the citizens.

The police are verifying the authenticity of the video and trying to trace the IP address from where it was uploaded.

"We respect our Constitution. But there is no provision in our Constitution to punish mad dogs. By mad dogs, we mean the JNU gang that is making the country weaker and their number is increasing. Our elders in Haryana have taught us that such people should be taught a lesson," Shahpur had said in the video message.

They also requested the police to not trouble anyone and said they would surrender at the village of the Sikh revolutionary.

Khalid was attacked on August 13 when he was on his way to take part in an event at the Constitution Club here. He, however, escaped unhurt.

On Tuesday, the Delhi Police handed over the case to its Special Cell, which incidentally is already probing a sedition case against Khalid and two other JNU students.

The police had also said that they were not "intimated" about Monday's event attended by Khalid.

A police officer, privy to the probe, said the police had seized the weapon used in the crime and preliminary forensic examination suggested that the pistol had jammed when it was used against Khalid.

He said they were yet to ascertain whether shots were fired as no empty cartridges were found at the spot.

A case of attempt to murder was registered by the police in the incident.&nbsp

A team of the Delhi Police's Special Cell had visited the village of Sikh revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha where the two had said they would surrender on August 17 but they did not turn up.

Two men, who had claimed responsibility for attack on JNU student leader Umar Khalid, have been detained, police said today. Darwesh Shahpur and Naveen Dalal are currently being interrogated, they added. A team of the Delhi Police's Special Cell had visited the village of Sikh revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha where the two had said they would surrender on August 17 but they did not turn up. In a video uploaded on Facebook on August 15, they claimed the attack on Khalid was supposed to be an "Independence Day gift" to the citizens. The police are verifying the authenticity of the video and trying to trace the IP address from where it was uploaded. "We respect our Constitution. But there is no provision in our Constitution to punish mad dogs. By mad dogs, we mean the JNU gang that is making the country weaker and their number is increasing. Our elders in Haryana have taught us that such people should be taught a lesson," Shahpur had said in the video message. They also requested the police to not trouble anyone and said they would surrender at the village of the Sikh revolutionary. Khalid was attacked on August 13 when he was on his way to take part in an event at the Constitution Club here. He, however, escaped unhurt. On Tuesday, the Delhi Police handed over the case to its Special Cell, which incidentally is already probing a sedition case against Khalid and two other JNU students. The police had also said that they were not "intimated" about Monday's event attended by Khalid. A police officer, privy to the probe, said the police had seized the weapon used in the crime and preliminary forensic examination suggested that the pistol had jammed when it was used against Khalid. He said they were yet to ascertain whether shots were fired as no empty cartridges were found at the spot. A case of attempt to murder was registered by the police in the incident.

2 men detained for attack on Umar Khalid: Police

As the first commercial flight landed at INS Garuda Kochi Naval air station,&nbsp;the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the intensity of rainfall in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rescue-operations-by-indian-air-force-continue-tonnes-of-relief-material-dropped-160271">Kerala</a> will reduce from today&nbsp;for the next four to five days.

<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-steps-up-rescue-relief-efforts-in-flood-hit-kerala-160263">Also Read:&nbsp;Indian Navy steps up rescue, relief efforts in flood-hit Kerala</a>

Kerala is not expected to receive heavy rainfall from August 20, Mritunjay Mohapatra, IMD Additional Director General said. Mohapatra added that the southern state received 170 per cent more rainfall than normal from August 1 to August 17.

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Kochi: Passengers are at INS Garuda Kochi Naval Air Station as commercial flights service begins at the station due to flooding of Cochin International Airport. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/Q0af48nzVz">pic.twitter.com/Q0af48nzVz</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031415162249601029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the water discharge from Idukki, Idamalayar, Peringalkuthu&nbsp;and Sabarigir dams have been reduced. The state government on Sunday withdrew red alert for the districts of Ernakulam and Idukki.

Alliance Air's first flight from Bengaluru landed at the Garuda Kochi Naval Base on Monday. The 70-seater passenger plane will fly between Bengaluru and Kochi Naval Base, Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu tweeted on Sunday.

On Sunday, an Alliance Air,&nbsp;a subsidiary of the state-run carrier Air India, landed at the Kochi naval base carrying a team of officers from the aviation regulator DGCA, the Airports Authority of India and other flight safety officers to test whether the base could be used for commercial flight landings.

Commodore RR Iyer hailed the operation and said: "It's a historic day as the airport is back into civil operations. Substantial work done to ensure all facilities are available and support is given for aircraft to operate. We've segregated parking bays so that unhindered operations take place," as quoted by ANI.&nbsp;

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It's a historic day as the airport is back into civil operations.Substantial work done to ensure all facilities are available&support is given for aircraft to operate. We've segregated parking bays so that unhindered operations take place: Commodore RR Iyer, CO, INS Garuda <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kochi?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kochi</a> <a href="https://t.co/dcZvLvF8YF">pic.twitter.com/dcZvLvF8YF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031410197409849344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The NDMA also said more than 33,000 people have been rescued by different agencies from the flood-affected areas of the state. Over 6.33 lakh people are currently staying in relief camps, it added.

"Rainfall will further decrease during the next five days. Heavy rain at one or two places in Idukki, Konnur and Kozhikode districts likely on Sunday. No heavy rain from tomorrow for the next four days," PTI quoted NDMA as saying.

Thirteen more people died on Sunday in the flood-hit state, increasing the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-more-heavy-rains-likely-in-state-as-death-toll-reaches-370-rescue-operations-still-underway-160135">death toll to 370</a>.

Kerala has so far received 2346.6 mm rains against the normal of 1649.5 mm, according to IMD.

High-range Idukki recorded the highest excess rainfall (92 per cent above normal) followed by Palakkad (72 per cent above normal). Around 22,000 people were rescued on Sunday&nbsp;alone in the operations launched by the defence personnel, national and state disaster response forces, fishermen and local people.

These two districts had reported several deaths and massive destructions due to flooding and landslides.

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The discharge from the Idukki, Idamalayar, Peringalkuthu, and Sabarigir dams have been reduced, and the state government Sunday withdrew the red alert for the districts of Ernakulam and Idukki.

As the first commercial flight landed at INS Garuda Kochi Naval air station, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the intensity of rainfall in Kerala will reduce from today for the next four to five days. Also Read: Indian Navy steps up rescue, relief efforts in flood-hit Kerala Kerala is not expected to receive heavy rainfall from August 20, Mritunjay Mohapatra, IMD Additional Director General said. Mohapatra added that the southern state received 170 per cent more rainfall than normal from August 1 to August 17. Kochi: Passengers are at INS Garuda Kochi Naval Air Station as commercial flights service begins at the station due to flooding of Cochin International Airport. #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/Q0af48nzVz — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × Meanwhile, the water discharge from Idukki, Idamalayar, Peringalkuthu and Sabarigir dams have been reduced. The state government on Sunday withdrew red alert for the districts of Ernakulam and Idukki. Alliance Air's first flight from Bengaluru landed at the Garuda Kochi Naval Base on Monday. The 70-seater passenger plane will fly between Bengaluru and Kochi Naval Base, Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu tweeted on Sunday. On Sunday, an Alliance Air, a subsidiary of the state-run carrier Air India, landed at the Kochi naval base carrying a team of officers from the aviation regulator DGCA, the Airports Authority of India and other flight safety officers to test whether the base could be used for commercial flight landings. Commodore RR Iyer hailed the operation and said: "It's a historic day as the airport is back into civil operations. Substantial work done to ensure all facilities are available and support is given for aircraft to operate. We've segregated parking bays so that unhindered operations take place," as quoted by ANI. It's a historic day as the airport is back into civil operations.Substantial work done to ensure all facilities are available&support is given for aircraft to operate. We've segregated parking bays so that unhindered operations take place: Commodore RR Iyer, CO, INS Garuda #Kochi pic.twitter.com/dcZvLvF8YF — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × The NDMA also said more than 33,000 people have been rescued by different agencies from the flood-affected areas of the state. Over 6.33 lakh people are currently staying in relief camps, it added. "Rainfall will further decrease during the next five days. Heavy rain at one or two places in Idukki, Konnur and Kozhikode districts likely on Sunday. No heavy rain from tomorrow for the next four days," PTI quoted NDMA as saying. Thirteen more people died on Sunday in the flood-hit state, increasing the death toll to 370. Kerala has so far received 2346.6 mm rains against the normal of 1649.5 mm, according to IMD. High-range Idukki recorded the highest excess rainfall (92 per cent above normal) followed by Palakkad (72 per cent above normal). Around 22,000 people were rescued on Sunday alone in the operations launched by the defence personnel, national and state disaster response forces, fishermen and local people. These two districts had reported several deaths and massive destructions due to flooding and landslides.

Watch: Rain abates in Kerala as first commercial flight lands in Kochi naval air base

Authorities stepped up their efforts to rescue hundreds of stranded Chengannur residents in the flood-stricken southwestern state of Kerala.

Authorities rescue hundreds of stranded flood victims in flood-hit Kerala

As the first commercial flight landed at INS Garuda Kochi Naval air station, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the intensity of rainfall in Kerala will reduce from today for the next four to five days.

Rain abates in Kerala as first commercial flight lands in Kochi naval air base

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang described former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as an "outstanding politician".

Keqiang noted that Vajpayee was a leader who made a significant contribution to the development of the Sino-Indian relations.

He added that he was deeply "saddened to learn the passing away of AB Vajpayee, former Prime Minister of India," read Keqiang's letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The translated version of Keqiang's letter to PM Modi was tweeted by the Indian Embassy.&nbsp;

"On behalf of the Chinese government and its people, I would like to extend my deep condolences and express my sincere sympathy to the bereaved family," he said.

"Vajpayee was an outstanding politician who devoted his life for national and social development and had earned widespread respect among the Indian people," the Chinese premier added.

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In his letter, Keqiang described the importance of China-India relations and stated that his country would like to work together with India to push forward bilateral ties.

Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, during his tenure, had visited China in the year 2003, the same year the two countries set up the Special Representatives mechanism to resolve the boundary dispute.

Keqiang added that under Vajpayee's rule Indo-China ties made great strides.&nbsp;

Former PM and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee breathed his last on August 16 at Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Science. He was 93.

According to the official statement released by AIIMS, Vajpayee passed away at 5.05pm. He was cremated with full state honours at Smriti Sthal in Delhi on August 17.&nbsp;

The translated version of Li's letter to PM Modi was tweeted by the Indian Embassy.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang described former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as an "outstanding politician". Keqiang noted that Vajpayee was a leader who made a significant contribution to the development of the Sino-Indian relations. He added that he was deeply "saddened to learn the passing away of AB Vajpayee, former Prime Minister of India," read Keqiang's letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The translated version of Keqiang's letter to PM Modi was tweeted by the Indian Embassy. "On behalf of the Chinese government and its people, I would like to extend my deep condolences and express my sincere sympathy to the bereaved family," he said. "Vajpayee was an outstanding politician who devoted his life for national and social development and had earned widespread respect among the Indian people," the Chinese premier added. In his letter, Keqiang described the importance of China-India relations and stated that his country would like to work together with India to push forward bilateral ties. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, during his tenure, had visited China in the year 2003, the same year the two countries set up the Special Representatives mechanism to resolve the boundary dispute. Keqiang added that under Vajpayee's rule Indo-China ties made great strides. Former PM and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee breathed his last on August 16 at Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Science. He was 93. According to the official statement released by AIIMS, Vajpayee passed away at 5.05pm. He was cremated with full state honours at Smriti Sthal in Delhi on August 17.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was 'outstanding politician': Chinese Premier

Indigenously designed and developed guided bombs Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW) and anti-tank guided missile Helina were successfully tested at separate firing ranges in Rajasthan.

The SAAW, which was tested on Sunday at Chandan range was integrated with a live warhead and has destroyed the targets with high precision. The telemetry and tracking systems captured all the mission events.&nbsp;

This weapon is capable of destroying a variety of ground targets using precision navigation. A total of three tests with different release conditions were conducted during August 16-18 and all the mission objectives have been achieved.

The weapon has undergone eight developmental trials till date and performance of the system for different ranges under multiple launch conditions has been demonstrated. Senior officials from DRDO, HAL and Indian Air Force participated and witnessed the flight tests.

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Indigenously developed Helicopter launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile ‘HELINA’ was successfully flight tested in Pokhran, yesterday. The weapon system was tested for its full range. <a href="https://t.co/2O7z6bYmgm">pic.twitter.com/2O7z6bYmgm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031357092521594880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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While Helina missile was successfully flight tested from Army Helicopter in the ranges of Pokhran yesterday. The weapon system has been tested for its full range and was released smoothly from the launch platform has tracked the target all through its course and hit the target with high precision.&nbsp;

All the parameters have been monitored by the telemetry stations, tracking systems and the helicopters.

The Missile is guided by an Infrared Imaging Seeker (IIR) operating in the Lock on Before Launch mode. It is one of the most advanced Anti-Tank Weapons in the world. Senior officials from DRDO and Indian Army were present during the mission.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Air Force (IAF), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Indian Army on the successful tests and said that it will further strengthen the defence capabilities of the country.

The SAAW, which was tested on Sunday at Chandan range was integrated with a live warhead and has destroyed the targets with high precision

Indigenously designed and developed guided bombs Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW) and anti-tank guided missile Helina were successfully tested at separate firing ranges in Rajasthan. The SAAW, which was tested on Sunday at Chandan range was integrated with a live warhead and has destroyed the targets with high precision. The telemetry and tracking systems captured all the mission events. This weapon is capable of destroying a variety of ground targets using precision navigation. A total of three tests with different release conditions were conducted during August 16-18 and all the mission objectives have been achieved. The weapon has undergone eight developmental trials till date and performance of the system for different ranges under multiple launch conditions has been demonstrated. Senior officials from DRDO, HAL and Indian Air Force participated and witnessed the flight tests. Indigenously developed Helicopter launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile ‘HELINA’ was successfully flight tested in Pokhran, yesterday. The weapon system was tested for its full range. pic.twitter.com/2O7z6bYmgm — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × While Helina missile was successfully flight tested from Army Helicopter in the ranges of Pokhran yesterday. The weapon system has been tested for its full range and was released smoothly from the launch platform has tracked the target all through its course and hit the target with high precision. All the parameters have been monitored by the telemetry stations, tracking systems and the helicopters. The Missile is guided by an Infrared Imaging Seeker (IIR) operating in the Lock on Before Launch mode. It is one of the most advanced Anti-Tank Weapons in the world. Senior officials from DRDO and Indian Army were present during the mission. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Air Force (IAF), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Indian Army on the successful tests and said that it will further strengthen the defence capabilities of the country.

Rajasthan: Anti-tank missile, guided bombs, successfully test fired

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written to Imran Khan, the news agency PTI reported Monday.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kashmir-is-an-issue-we-need-to-acknowledge-it-says-pak-foreign-minister-qureshi--160350">Kashmir is an issue, we need to acknowledge it, says Pak foreign minister</a>

In his letter, written on Saturday, Modi said India was looking for constructive and meaningful engagement with Pakistan.&nbsp;

Modi added India was committed to peaceful and neighbourly ties with Pakistan, PTI reported official Indian sources as quoting from the letter.&nbsp;

Modi also stressed the need to work for a terror-free South Asia, the sources said.&nbsp;

Imran Khan was sworn in as prime minister of Pakistan on Friday. He is Pakistan's twenty-second prime minister.&nbsp;

Khan had in his first speech after winning the election called for <a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-promises-a-new-pakistan-calls-for-good-relations-with-india-154815">better trade and ties with India</a> and a resolution of the Kashmir dispute.&nbsp;

There was a slight kerfuffle on Monday after the new Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters in Islamabad that "The Indian prime minister has sent a letter in which he congratulated Imran Khan and ... he has sent a message to open talks."&nbsp;

News reports in India were quick to point out — they quoted diplomatic sources — that while Modi did write to Imran Khan, there was no mention of dialogue in his letter.&nbsp;

The Pakistani government later offered a clarification saying Qureshi hadn't said the “Indian PM had made (an) offer of dialogue”&nbsp;but that Modi had, in his letter to Imran Khan, said something similar to what Qureshi had said earlier — the way forward was only through constructive engagement.&nbsp;

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Foreign Minister hadn't stated “Indian PM had made offer of dialogue”, but had said that Indian PM in his letter to PM Imran Khan, had also mentioned something similar to what Foreign Min elucidated earlier i.e. the way forward was only through constructive engagement: Pak govt
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031510108226940929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Qureshi had said earlier that "We are not only neighbours but also nuclear powers. We have no other way but to talk. There is no place for adventurism."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

Modi wrote a letter to new Pakistan PM Imran Khan on Saturday. In it, he said India was looking forward to constructive and meaningful engagement with Pakistan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written to Imran Khan, the news agency PTI reported Monday. Also read: Kashmir is an issue, we need to acknowledge it, says Pak foreign minister In his letter, written on Saturday, Modi said India was looking for constructive and meaningful engagement with Pakistan. Modi added India was committed to peaceful and neighbourly ties with Pakistan, PTI reported official Indian sources as quoting from the letter. Modi also stressed the need to work for a terror-free South Asia, the sources said. Imran Khan was sworn in as prime minister of Pakistan on Friday. He is Pakistan's twenty-second prime minister. Khan had in his first speech after winning the election called for better trade and ties with India and a resolution of the Kashmir dispute. There was a slight kerfuffle on Monday after the new Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters in Islamabad that "The Indian prime minister has sent a letter in which he congratulated Imran Khan and ... he has sent a message to open talks." News reports in India were quick to point out — they quoted diplomatic sources — that while Modi did write to Imran Khan, there was no mention of dialogue in his letter. The Pakistani government later offered a clarification saying Qureshi hadn't said the “Indian PM had made (an) offer of dialogue” but that Modi had, in his letter to Imran Khan, said something similar to what Qureshi had said earlier — the way forward was only through constructive engagement. Foreign Minister hadn't stated “Indian PM had made offer of dialogue”, but had said that Indian PM in his letter to PM Imran Khan, had also mentioned something similar to what Foreign Min elucidated earlier i.e. the way forward was only through constructive engagement: Pak govt — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × Qureshi had said earlier that "We are not only neighbours but also nuclear powers. We have no other way but to talk. There is no place for adventurism." (With inputs from agencies)

Pak backtracks, says Modi letter to Imran Khan did not make offer of talks

The biggest ever organisational study to review and transform the Indian Army into a futuristic lethal warfighting machine is expected to be complete by December this year.

This is the biggest exercise after the Independence to review personnel and the organisational structure and to explore whether the present practice is sustainable for the Indian Army's future requirements.

The ambit of the fleeting study broadly includes - 1) Reorganisation of the Indian Army 2) Review of Army Headquarter 3) Cadre review for officers (being done after the AV Singh Committee report, 2001) and 4) Review of terms of engagement.

Each study is being conducted by a team of 25 members which is headed by senior Lieutenant Generals.

It was felt that few branches have overlapping work which not only causes a delay but also lead to duplication of work. The study on the duplicity in "Charter of Directorates" is looking at rationalising of work and see if work load can be distributed and some of the branches can be relocated. The teams will also review all the charter of duties of each appointment and identify positions that can be removed.

An officer well informed of the ongoing study told ANI: "The theme is aimed to make the Army a leaner, meaner and efficient war machine." Financial prudence in Defence budget handling and weapons, equipment procurement are the stress areas. This exercise may eventually lead to winding up some directorates, merging them with others or relocating them out of Delhi.

Finance planning, which is currently under the Deputy Chief of the Army Staff, might be brought under the Vice Chief of the Army Staff who happens to be the Top Level Budget Holder (TLBH) of the Army.

Two important directorates related to procurement -- Perspective Planning (PP) and the Weapons and Equipment (WE) Directorate -- are also under review in order to bring all capital procurements under one authority.

Officers told ANI that in 2002 a similar subject was reviewed and accordingly changes were suggested by Lieutenant General SS Mehta.

The groups are expected to first submit their recommendations to the Vice Army Chief. He will review and then based on his feedback changes will be made before submitting it finally to the Chief of the Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat, by December.

The recommendations will be further sent to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

"The good part is that the current Army Chief will have a full year ahead to carry forward the recommendations to manifest the real changes," said an officer.

Important issue of personnel like pension and terms of engagements are being widely mulled over. The current Army regulation on pension is of 1987 vintage and the current pension is on the basis of the 2008. The officers, Junior commissioned Officers (JCOs') and Other Ranks (ORs) are all based as per the Ministry of Defence 1998 Letters.

Best practices of the world armies and that of other services and central government organisations will be studied along with their terms of engagements. Matters of Low Medical Category (LMC) is a big issue in Army, unwillingness among the JCOs and ORs to do the Promotion Cadre, pre-mature retirement and lure of second pension among the other ranks are to be studied. This all will be correlated with age profile vis-a-vis operational deployment, pensionable age, defence budget and posting and cadre management.

This is the biggest exercise after the Independence to review personnel and the organisational structure and to explore whether the present practice is sustainable for the Indian Army's future requirements

The biggest ever organisational study to review and transform the Indian Army into a futuristic lethal warfighting machine is expected to be complete by December this year. This is the biggest exercise after the Independence to review personnel and the organisational structure and to explore whether the present practice is sustainable for the Indian Army's future requirements. The ambit of the fleeting study broadly includes - 1) Reorganisation of the Indian Army 2) Review of Army Headquarter 3) Cadre review for officers (being done after the AV Singh Committee report, 2001) and 4) Review of terms of engagement. Each study is being conducted by a team of 25 members which is headed by senior Lieutenant Generals. It was felt that few branches have overlapping work which not only causes a delay but also lead to duplication of work. The study on the duplicity in "Charter of Directorates" is looking at rationalising of work and see if work load can be distributed and some of the branches can be relocated. The teams will also review all the charter of duties of each appointment and identify positions that can be removed. An officer well informed of the ongoing study told ANI: "The theme is aimed to make the Army a leaner, meaner and efficient war machine." Financial prudence in Defence budget handling and weapons, equipment procurement are the stress areas. This exercise may eventually lead to winding up some directorates, merging them with others or relocating them out of Delhi. Finance planning, which is currently under the Deputy Chief of the Army Staff, might be brought under the Vice Chief of the Army Staff who happens to be the Top Level Budget Holder (TLBH) of the Army. Two important directorates related to procurement -- Perspective Planning (PP) and the Weapons and Equipment (WE) Directorate -- are also under review in order to bring all capital procurements under one authority. Officers told ANI that in 2002 a similar subject was reviewed and accordingly changes were suggested by Lieutenant General SS Mehta. The groups are expected to first submit their recommendations to the Vice Army Chief. He will review and then based on his feedback changes will be made before submitting it finally to the Chief of the Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat, by December. The recommendations will be further sent to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. "The good part is that the current Army Chief will have a full year ahead to carry forward the recommendations to manifest the real changes," said an officer. Important issue of personnel like pension and terms of engagements are being widely mulled over. The current Army regulation on pension is of 1987 vintage and the current pension is on the basis of the 2008. The officers, Junior commissioned Officers (JCOs') and Other Ranks (ORs) are all based as per the Ministry of Defence 1998 Letters. Best practices of the world armies and that of other services and central government organisations will be studied along with their terms of engagements. Matters of Low Medical Category (LMC) is a big issue in Army, unwillingness among the JCOs and ORs to do the Promotion Cadre, pre-mature retirement and lure of second pension among the other ranks are to be studied. This all will be correlated with age profile vis-a-vis operational deployment, pensionable age, defence budget and posting and cadre management.

Study on Army's restructuring to be completed by December

The Army would continue to be engaged in the rescue operations in flood-hit Kerala till the situation stabilised, Southern Command chief Lt Gen DR Soni said on Monday.

He also said the Army's medical teams would extend the first line of relief in co-ordination with the government.

"There are inaccessible areas and our men will continue to reach out to people who needed to be rescued," he told reporters.

Noting that it was not possible to provide the exact number of people stranded, he said the rescue operations by the Army had not been called off.

He was replying to a question on the number of people still stranded in the state, ravaged by floods.

At a point of time, the army personnel had to return to the barracks, but "We are not in a hurry to do so until things stabilise," he said.

The Army has deployed 1,500 personnel including engineers and divers, for the rescue operation, the Lt Gen said adding it would provide initial relief to the people hit by floods.

"We do the rescue work and initial relief work. We have got a large number of medical personnel from the Southern Command," he said.

Dwelling on the role of Army personnel in the current operations in the state, ravaged by landslides and floods, Soni said: "We have saved people from tough areas".

"They (medical team) are here. I know there are hospitals here, the but the first relief will be given by our people which will be co-ordinated by the government departments," he said.

As a precautionary measure, Soni said, the Southern Command was working out a plan to make sure that equipment required to meet flood situations would be stationed in the region.

"I want to make sure in the next two-three months, this is centrally located in the region, so that long and large scale movement are not resorted to at a time of calamity. We will be prepared...I promise," the Lt General said.

He said the Army had brought 25 boats from Jodhpur, 15 from Bhopal and many other relief equipment from Pune and Bengaluru.

The Army has deployed 1,500 personnel including engineers and divers, for the rescue operation, the Lt Gen said adding it would provide initial relief to the people hit by floods

The Army would continue to be engaged in the rescue operations in flood-hit Kerala till the situation stabilised, Southern Command chief Lt Gen DR Soni said on Monday. He also said the Army's medical teams would extend the first line of relief in co-ordination with the government. "There are inaccessible areas and our men will continue to reach out to people who needed to be rescued," he told reporters. Noting that it was not possible to provide the exact number of people stranded, he said the rescue operations by the Army had not been called off. He was replying to a question on the number of people still stranded in the state, ravaged by floods. At a point of time, the army personnel had to return to the barracks, but "We are not in a hurry to do so until things stabilise," he said. The Army has deployed 1,500 personnel including engineers and divers, for the rescue operation, the Lt Gen said adding it would provide initial relief to the people hit by floods. "We do the rescue work and initial relief work. We have got a large number of medical personnel from the Southern Command," he said. Dwelling on the role of Army personnel in the current operations in the state, ravaged by landslides and floods, Soni said: "We have saved people from tough areas". "They (medical team) are here. I know there are hospitals here, the but the first relief will be given by our people which will be co-ordinated by the government departments," he said. As a precautionary measure, Soni said, the Southern Command was working out a plan to make sure that equipment required to meet flood situations would be stationed in the region. "I want to make sure in the next two-three months, this is centrally located in the region, so that long and large scale movement are not resorted to at a time of calamity. We will be prepared...I promise," the Lt General said. He said the Army had brought 25 boats from Jodhpur, 15 from Bhopal and many other relief equipment from Pune and Bengaluru.

Army will stay in Kerala till situation stabilised: Southern Command chief

Rescue and relief operations in rain-ravaged Karnataka's Kodagu were intensified on Monday, as the situation in the district bordering Kerala came "under control" after leaving a huge trail of destruction which has claimed at least 12 lives and rendered hundreds homeless.

The administration cancelled hotel bookings made by tourists in the scenic hilly district nestled on the hills of the Western Ghats till the end of this month as it tottered under torrential rains that caused floods and landslides.

The administration has cancelled hotel bookings made by tourists in the scenic hilly district till the end of this month.

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said the situation was "under control" and assured the people battered by floods and landslips of a "new life" with fair rehabilitation.

As the rains subsided since this afternoon, government machinery was now focusing on relief and rehabilitation work an almost all those who were stranded have been rescued, he said.

The chief minister also said action has been initiated to distribute an interim relief of Rs 3,800 per family of distressed people sheltered in relief centres.

Now the situation is totally under control, our officers are doing their best. We have taken things very seriously, without rest our people are on the job," Kumaraswamy told reporters here.

Calling it the "biggest disaster" that Kodagu has seen in recent times, he appealed to the affected people not to worry as the government was with them.

"Protecting your (affected people) interest is the responsibility of the government, we will try to build a new life for you," he said.

Asked about the number of people still to be rescued, the chief minister said almost everyone has been rescued.

"...If we still get any information or call for rescue, teams are stationed there. As of now the information with the government is everyone has been rescued," he said.

With all major roads leading to Kodagu being blocked, a massive rescue operation had been on for the last couple of days to rescue those stranded in the hilly terrains of the district.

As of today, over 4320 people have been rescued and brought to relief centres.

Several tourists were stuck in resorts and hotels ever since the disaster struck the district last week, with roads, including highways, suffering damage, making access to the region extremely difficult.

Restoration of damaged roads is on a war-footing, official sources said.

Personnel of the army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies are involved in the ongoing rescue operations, where 3,500 people had been moved to safer places till yesterday, officials said.

An official notification issued by the district deputy commissioner today said bookings made by tourists in hotels, resorts and home stays had been cancelled till August 31.

The measure has been taken for the safety of tourists, it added.

Kumaraswamy said 41 relief centres in Kodagu and nine relief centres in Dakshina Kannada, another flood-hit district, have been set up and a total of 6620people are sheltered in these relief centres, where all basic amenities like food, toilet and water facilities have been provided.

Giving details about loss to life and property, officials said, 12 people have lost their lives and 845 houses damaged of which 773 houses are partially damaged.

Also, 23 km of road, 58 bridges, 278 government buildings and 3800 electric poles have been damaged.

A total of 1725 specially trained experts from Karnataka State Reserve Police, National and State Disaster Response Forces, Army, Navy and Airforce, NCC, Home Guards and District Administration have been deployed in rescue operations, they said.

Kumaraswamy said three officials at the helm of the rescue and relief work- the District Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police and in-charge secretary of the district were women officers and commended the district administration for their efforts.&nbsp;

He said the President and the Prime Minister have spoken to him over the phone and enquired about the situation.

"I have told the Prime Minister that after gathering information about the extent of damage, I will be coming to Delhi to seek assistance," Kumaraswamy said.

He said during his visit to rain-hit areas, a few labourers, who are without any job, expressed worry about the future once the rescue centres were shut.

Officials have been instructed to provide them work under MNREGA scheme, the chief minister said.

While a blueprint is being prepared to provide permanent housing for those who have lost their dwellings, he said instructions have been given to set up 2000 temporary sheds in next 10 days, with all basic amenities.

Two IAS officers have been deputed to take up rehabilitation work, he said.

Officials said the government has also spoken to the Madras Engineer Group (MEG) for assistance in clearing and reconstruction of roads in the district that have been severely damaged.

Five divisions of the PWD department have been shifted to the district.

Detailing about the relief and rehabilitation work, officials said five teams of doctors have been deployed to prevent the spread of contagious diseases.

Ten teams of revenue officers have been drafted to oversee relief work, the chief minister said.

The chief minister said as schools in Kodagu district were closed for 20 days in three months, instructions have been issued to authorities concerned to complete the syllabus by taking special classes.&nbsp;

Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said the situation was 'under control' and assured the people battered by floods and landslips of a 'new life' with fair rehabilitation

Rescue and relief operations in rain-ravaged Karnataka's Kodagu were intensified on Monday, as the situation in the district bordering Kerala came "under control" after leaving a huge trail of destruction which has claimed at least 12 lives and rendered hundreds homeless. The administration cancelled hotel bookings made by tourists in the scenic hilly district nestled on the hills of the Western Ghats till the end of this month as it tottered under torrential rains that caused floods and landslides. The administration has cancelled hotel bookings made by tourists in the scenic hilly district till the end of this month. Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy said the situation was "under control" and assured the people battered by floods and landslips of a "new life" with fair rehabilitation. As the rains subsided since this afternoon, government machinery was now focusing on relief and rehabilitation work an almost all those who were stranded have been rescued, he said. The chief minister also said action has been initiated to distribute an interim relief of Rs 3,800 per family of distressed people sheltered in relief centres. Now the situation is totally under control, our officers are doing their best. We have taken things very seriously, without rest our people are on the job," Kumaraswamy told reporters here. Calling it the "biggest disaster" that Kodagu has seen in recent times, he appealed to the affected people not to worry as the government was with them. "Protecting your (affected people) interest is the responsibility of the government, we will try to build a new life for you," he said. Asked about the number of people still to be rescued, the chief minister said almost everyone has been rescued. "...If we still get any information or call for rescue, teams are stationed there. As of now the information with the government is everyone has been rescued," he said. With all major roads leading to Kodagu being blocked, a massive rescue operation had been on for the last couple of days to rescue those stranded in the hilly terrains of the district. As of today, over 4320 people have been rescued and brought to relief centres. Several tourists were stuck in resorts and hotels ever since the disaster struck the district last week, with roads, including highways, suffering damage, making access to the region extremely difficult. Restoration of damaged roads is on a war-footing, official sources said. Personnel of the army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and other agencies are involved in the ongoing rescue operations, where 3,500 people had been moved to safer places till yesterday, officials said. An official notification issued by the district deputy commissioner today said bookings made by tourists in hotels, resorts and home stays had been cancelled till August 31. The measure has been taken for the safety of tourists, it added. Kumaraswamy said 41 relief centres in Kodagu and nine relief centres in Dakshina Kannada, another flood-hit district, have been set up and a total of 6620people are sheltered in these relief centres, where all basic amenities like food, toilet and water facilities have been provided. Giving details about loss to life and property, officials said, 12 people have lost their lives and 845 houses damaged of which 773 houses are partially damaged. Also, 23 km of road, 58 bridges, 278 government buildings and 3800 electric poles have been damaged. A total of 1725 specially trained experts from Karnataka State Reserve Police, National and State Disaster Response Forces, Army, Navy and Airforce, NCC, Home Guards and District Administration have been deployed in rescue operations, they said. Kumaraswamy said three officials at the helm of the rescue and relief work- the District Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police and in-charge secretary of the district were women officers and commended the district administration for their efforts. He said the President and the Prime Minister have spoken to him over the phone and enquired about the situation. "I have told the Prime Minister that after gathering information about the extent of damage, I will be coming to Delhi to seek assistance," Kumaraswamy said. He said during his visit to rain-hit areas, a few labourers, who are without any job, expressed worry about the future once the rescue centres were shut. Officials have been instructed to provide them work under MNREGA scheme, the chief minister said. While a blueprint is being prepared to provide permanent housing for those who have lost their dwellings, he said instructions have been given to set up 2000 temporary sheds in next 10 days, with all basic amenities. Two IAS officers have been deputed to take up rehabilitation work, he said. Officials said the government has also spoken to the Madras Engineer Group (MEG) for assistance in clearing and reconstruction of roads in the district that have been severely damaged. Five divisions of the PWD department have been shifted to the district. Detailing about the relief and rehabilitation work, officials said five teams of doctors have been deployed to prevent the spread of contagious diseases. Ten teams of revenue officers have been drafted to oversee relief work, the chief minister said. The chief minister said as schools in Kodagu district were closed for 20 days in three months, instructions have been issued to authorities concerned to complete the syllabus by taking special classes.

Situation in rain-hit Karnataka's Kodagu under control:  HD Kumaraswamy

Reliance Group on Monday said its Chairman Anil Ambani has written to Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale fighter jet deal saying his party has been "misinformed, misdirected and misled" by "malicious vested interests and corporate rivals" on the issue.

Ambani, who had first written to Gandhi on the issue in December, last week again wrote to him saying not a single component worth a single rupee is to be manufactured by his group for the 36 Rafale jets India is buying from France, the company said in a statement here.

Gandhi has been attacking the government for inking the deal at a much higher price than the one the previous UPA regime had negotiated. While he has accused the government of changing the deal to benefit "one businessman", his party has demanded a JPC probe into the deal.

"Allegations of Reliance benefitting by thousands of crores is a figment of the imagination, promoted by vested interests," the company statement said, quoting from Ambani's letter. "Simply put, no contract exists with the Government of India."

French company Dassault, which is supplying the fighter jets, has entered into a joint venture with Reliance Group to meet its offset requirement of the contract.

Under defence offset, a foreign supplier of equipment agrees to manufacture a given per cent of his product (in terms of value) in the buying country. Sometimes this may take place with technology transfer.

While direct offsets are linked to the original defence contact where companies often agree to transfer relevant technological know-how or use local suppliers to build the equipment they are selling to the government, indirect offsets have nothing to do with the deal and can include the company making up investments in local industries.

In case of Rafale deal, which will give new comer Reliance Group a foothold in the defence industry, the companies have not specified what components will they manufacturer in India.

Ambani in the letter expressed "deep anguish over continued personal attacks by Rahul Gandhi on him", the statement said. He termed all allegations as "baseless, ill-informed and unfortunate"

Explaining the role of Reliance in offset exports/ work share with Dassault, he said: "The Congress has been misinformed, misdirected and misled by malicious vested interests and corporate rivals."

He said Rafale fighter jets are not being manufactured by Reliance of the Dassault Reliance joint venture. "All 36 planes are to be 100 per cent manufactured in France, and exported from France to India."

"There is no contract from the Ministry of Defence to any Reliance Group company related to 36 Rafale aircraft," the statement said.

Ambani said his group's "role is limited to offset/ export obligations. More than 100 medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs) will participate in this, along with public sector undertakings like BEL and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

"This role strengthens Indian manufacturing capabilities, and is in pursuance of the Offsets Policy introduced by the Congress-led UPA government itself from 2005 onwards."

He said Reliance Group announced its decision to enter the defence manufacturing sector in December 2014-January 2015, "months before the intention for the purchase of Rafale aircraft".

'Allegations of Reliance benefitting by thousands of crores is a figment of the imagination, promoted by vested interests,' Ambani wrote. 'Simply put, no contract exists with the Government of India.' This is the second time Ambani has written to Rahul.

Reliance Group on Monday said its Chairman Anil Ambani has written to Congress president Rahul Gandhi on the Rafale fighter jet deal saying his party has been "misinformed, misdirected and misled" by "malicious vested interests and corporate rivals" on the issue. Ambani, who had first written to Gandhi on the issue in December, last week again wrote to him saying not a single component worth a single rupee is to be manufactured by his group for the 36 Rafale jets India is buying from France, the company said in a statement here. Gandhi has been attacking the government for inking the deal at a much higher price than the one the previous UPA regime had negotiated. While he has accused the government of changing the deal to benefit "one businessman", his party has demanded a JPC probe into the deal. "Allegations of Reliance benefitting by thousands of crores is a figment of the imagination, promoted by vested interests," the company statement said, quoting from Ambani's letter. "Simply put, no contract exists with the Government of India." French company Dassault, which is supplying the fighter jets, has entered into a joint venture with Reliance Group to meet its offset requirement of the contract. Under defence offset, a foreign supplier of equipment agrees to manufacture a given per cent of his product (in terms of value) in the buying country. Sometimes this may take place with technology transfer. While direct offsets are linked to the original defence contact where companies often agree to transfer relevant technological know-how or use local suppliers to build the equipment they are selling to the government, indirect offsets have nothing to do with the deal and can include the company making up investments in local industries. In case of Rafale deal, which will give new comer Reliance Group a foothold in the defence industry, the companies have not specified what components will they manufacturer in India. Ambani in the letter expressed "deep anguish over continued personal attacks by Rahul Gandhi on him", the statement said. He termed all allegations as "baseless, ill-informed and unfortunate" Explaining the role of Reliance in offset exports/ work share with Dassault, he said: "The Congress has been misinformed, misdirected and misled by malicious vested interests and corporate rivals." He said Rafale fighter jets are not being manufactured by Reliance of the Dassault Reliance joint venture. "All 36 planes are to be 100 per cent manufactured in France, and exported from France to India." "There is no contract from the Ministry of Defence to any Reliance Group company related to 36 Rafale aircraft," the statement said. Ambani said his group's "role is limited to offset/ export obligations. More than 100 medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs) will participate in this, along with public sector undertakings like BEL and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). "This role strengthens Indian manufacturing capabilities, and is in pursuance of the Offsets Policy introduced by the Congress-led UPA government itself from 2005 onwards." He said Reliance Group announced its decision to enter the defence manufacturing sector in December 2014-January 2015, "months before the intention for the purchase of Rafale aircraft".

Congress misinformed on Rafale deal, Anil Ambani writes again to Rahul Gandhi

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday opposed Indrani Mukerjea's bail plea who is accused in the Sheena Bora murder case.&nbsp

The CBI stated that Indrani Mukerjea's release would be "prejudicial to the prosecution".

Mukerjea sought her release and moved an application for the same last week in the special CBI court. She cited ill-health and a threat to her life for seeking a release.

The CBI's reply noted that Mukerjea, along with other accused, kept the crime hidden until August 25, 2015, and therefore she does not deserve any leniency on medical grounds.&nbsp

It also said that Mukerjea could tamper with evidence, influence witnesses and could abscond if released.

Sheena Bora was allegedly killed on April 24, 2012. Indrani Mukerjea and her former husband Sanjeev Khanna were arrested when the matter came to light after Indrani's driver Shyamvar Rai, arrested in another case, revealed it to police in August 2015.

Indrani's husband and media baron Peter Mukerjea was later arrested for allegedly being part of the conspiracy.&nbsp

(With inputs from PTI)

The CBI also said that Mukerjea could tamper with evidence, influence witnesses and could abscond if released.

The Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday opposed Indrani Mukerjea's bail plea who is accused in the Sheena Bora murder case. The CBI stated that Indrani Mukerjea's release would be "prejudicial to the prosecution". Mukerjea sought her release and moved an application for the same last week in the special CBI court. She cited ill-health and a threat to her life for seeking a release. The CBI's reply noted that Mukerjea, along with other accused, kept the crime hidden until August 25, 2015, and therefore she does not deserve any leniency on medical grounds. It also said that Mukerjea could tamper with evidence, influence witnesses and could abscond if released. Sheena Bora was allegedly killed on April 24, 2012. Indrani Mukerjea and her former husband Sanjeev Khanna were arrested when the matter came to light after Indrani's driver Shyamvar Rai, arrested in another case, revealed it to police in August 2015. Indrani's husband and media baron Peter Mukerjea was later arrested for allegedly being part of the conspiracy. (With inputs from PTI)

Sheena Bora murder case: CBI opposes Indrani Mukerjea's bail plea

Recollecting his days with <a href="http://wionews.com/photos/atal-bihari-vajpayee-a-politician-with-a-heart-of-a-poet---159754">former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee</a>, Senior BJP leader LK Advani said on Monday that he never thought he would ever attend a meeting without "Atalji".

While addressing a <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/atal-bihari-vajpayees-ashes-immersed-in-haridwar-today-160173">Prayer meet of Vajpayee</a> in Delhi, Advani said, "I have addressed several public meetings but I had never thought that I will once have to address a meeting like this, a meeting where Atalji would not be there"

He further said, "I consider myself fortunate that my friendship with Atalji lasted for 65 years during which I watched him closely. Working together, we shared our experiences, watched films together and read books together".

A prayer meet of Atal Bihari Vajpayee was organised in Delhi on Monday. The meeting was attended by Union Minister Rajnath Singh, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, senior BJP leader LK Advani and former Jammu and Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti, Farooq Abdullah, Yoga Guru Ramdev.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee's daughter Namita Bhattacharya and his granddaughter Niharika were also present at the meeting.

Speaking at the event Prime Minister Modi said that the life of former PM is an inspiration for all Indians as he dedicated his entire life to democracy and to the country.

PM Modi said, "Atal Ji's life was for the people of India. In his youth itself, he had decided that he wanted to serve his fellow Indians. He entered politics when only one party dominated the political discourse".

He further added, "When he formed the government for 13 days, no party was willing to support him. As a result government fell. Yesterday, Bajrang Punia, who I think has never seen him dedicated his gold medal to Atal ji, I think this says a lot about his personality".

PM Modi said that Atal Ji never compromised on his ideology and served the nation despite many hurdles. He also said that he challenged the world to take notice of India.

He said, "He spent several years in opposition, but never compromised his ideology. His efforts ensured that India became a nuclear power and attributed the tests to the brilliance of our scientists. He never buckled under pressure. He was Atal after all".

Addressing the meet, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said, "He did not become popular because he was the PM. I think he would have been as popular as he was after being the PM, had he worked in any social or political sector".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Atal ji had a multifaceted personality. Besides being an 'ajatshatru' he was a great poet, journalist & politician who never let the party deviate from the path of its ideology: BJP President Amit Shah at the prayer meeting for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a> in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/94nY6tFnI3">pic.twitter.com/94nY6tFnI3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031533379982970880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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BJP President Amit Shah said, "Atal ji had a multifaceted personality. Besides being an 'ajatshatru' he was a great poet, journalist and politician who never let the party deviate from the path of its ideology".

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Atal ji ruled everyone's heart like an emperor. He might have been away from politics for long but he ruled people's hearts. Main uss shehenshah ko naman karti hoon: Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal at the prayer meeting for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a> in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/gZ59JTa15C">pic.twitter.com/gZ59JTa15C</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031526401059577858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat said, "Atal ji's words and his life...be it someone who watched him closely or saw him from far away, everyone found him to be the same and believed in him".

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "Even after his death he has brought us together in one room, which is great. When I was a minister & he was leader of opposition , we used to have lunch & tea in each others office. It was not that difficult in those days".

TMC leader Derek O'Brien said, " If you look for definition of certain words, you have to look in the dictionary. But there's one word you don't need to look in dictionary...if you look at his face you will get the meaning of the word 'secular'. There are many communities around the world, when someone passes away they always write RIP which means 'Rest in Peace' but maybe after 16th Aug 2018 RIP for this great man will mean 'Really Incredible Person'.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
If you look for definition of certain words, you have to look in the dictionary. But there's one word you don't need to look in dictionary...if you look at his face you will get the meaning of the word 'secular': Derek O'Brien, TMC at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a>'s prayer meeting in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/maLbapRSjs">pic.twitter.com/maLbapRSjs</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031529393057918977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah said, "Wo Wazire-e-Azam nahi Hindustan ke dilon ke maalik they. He was large-hearted. No one had a heart like him".

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah says 'Agar Atal ko yaad rakhna hai to uss desh ko banao jismein prem itna ho ki dunia jhukne aa jaaye iss desh ke saamne ki ye desh hai jo prem baant'ta hai. Wo prem baantiye, wahi hamari sabse badi shradhhanajli hogi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpaee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpaee</a> ko.' <a href="https://t.co/MYbhVArRsA">pic.twitter.com/MYbhVArRsA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031527036706320385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Yoga guru Ramdev said,"As long as he was alive he made Bharat Mata proud and he has set such an example that he will be remembered for the ages to come".

Former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti said, "He was a great human being but for the people of Jammu and Kashmir he was not less than a Messiah. He was the first Indian leader who trusted the people of J&K and whom the people trusted. This was Vajpayee ji who went to Pakistan and made Musharraf sahab say that they will not use the land of Jammu and Kashmir for militancy".

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This was Vajpayee ji who went to Pakistan and made Musharraf sahab say that they will not use the land of Jammu and Kashmir for militancy: Former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti at the prayer meeting for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a> in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/JlWugePUuT">pic.twitter.com/JlWugePUuT</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031523653626810369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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BSP leader S Mishra said, "Although he was poetic and generous at heart, he took strong decisions, like nuclear test and Kargil war for the nation. He was loved and respected by the ruling party as well as opposition. We need to follow his principles to spread peace and harmony".

Loktantrik Janata Dal party leader Sharad Yadav said, "He led an absolutely unblemished life. He had a unique style. He never worried about food, lifestyle or any other thing. I pay my tributes to such a man full of love and humanity".

AIADMK leader, M. Thambi Durai said, "We mourn the loss of a great nationalist, a poet, a statesman, a veteran parliamentarian for decades and above all , a gentleman to the core, the former Prime Minister of India, Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee".

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I was in Lok Sabha 1984 onwards,he was a Rajya Sabha member. I developed friendship with him gradually. He told me once, “There is always difference in opinion. But for nation's development,what cabinet decides,we implement that": MT Durai at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a>'s prayer meeting <a href="https://t.co/KMGK42vrVy">pic.twitter.com/KMGK42vrVy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031537466530881537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

While addressing the Prayer meet of Vajpayee in Delhi, Advani said, 'I have addressed several public meetings but I had never thought that I will once have to address a meeting like this, a meeting where Atal ji would not be there'

Recollecting his days with former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Senior BJP leader LK Advani said on Monday that he never thought he would ever attend a meeting without "Atalji". While addressing a Prayer meet of Vajpayee in Delhi, Advani said, "I have addressed several public meetings but I had never thought that I will once have to address a meeting like this, a meeting where Atalji would not be there" He further said, "I consider myself fortunate that my friendship with Atalji lasted for 65 years during which I watched him closely. Working together, we shared our experiences, watched films together and read books together". A prayer meet of Atal Bihari Vajpayee was organised in Delhi on Monday. The meeting was attended by Union Minister Rajnath Singh, senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, senior BJP leader LK Advani and former Jammu and Kashmir CM Mehbooba Mufti, Farooq Abdullah, Yoga Guru Ramdev. Atal Bihari Vajpayee's daughter Namita Bhattacharya and his granddaughter Niharika were also present at the meeting. Speaking at the event Prime Minister Modi said that the life of former PM is an inspiration for all Indians as he dedicated his entire life to democracy and to the country. PM Modi said, "Atal Ji's life was for the people of India. In his youth itself, he had decided that he wanted to serve his fellow Indians. He entered politics when only one party dominated the political discourse". He further added, "When he formed the government for 13 days, no party was willing to support him. As a result government fell. Yesterday, Bajrang Punia, who I think has never seen him dedicated his gold medal to Atal ji, I think this says a lot about his personality". PM Modi said that Atal Ji never compromised on his ideology and served the nation despite many hurdles. He also said that he challenged the world to take notice of India. He said, "He spent several years in opposition, but never compromised his ideology. His efforts ensured that India became a nuclear power and attributed the tests to the brilliance of our scientists. He never buckled under pressure. He was Atal after all". Addressing the meet, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said, "He did not become popular because he was the PM. I think he would have been as popular as he was after being the PM, had he worked in any social or political sector". Atal ji had a multifaceted personality. Besides being an 'ajatshatru' he was a great poet, journalist & politician who never let the party deviate from the path of its ideology: BJP President Amit Shah at the prayer meeting for #AtalBihariVajpayee in Delhi pic.twitter.com/94nY6tFnI3 — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × BJP President Amit Shah said, "Atal ji had a multifaceted personality. Besides being an 'ajatshatru' he was a great poet, journalist and politician who never let the party deviate from the path of its ideology". Atal ji ruled everyone's heart like an emperor. He might have been away from politics for long but he ruled people's hearts. Main uss shehenshah ko naman karti hoon: Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal at the prayer meeting for #AtalBihariVajpayee in Delhi pic.twitter.com/gZ59JTa15C — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat said, "Atal ji's words and his life...be it someone who watched him closely or saw him from far away, everyone found him to be the same and believed in him". Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "Even after his death he has brought us together in one room, which is great. When I was a minister & he was leader of opposition , we used to have lunch & tea in each others office. It was not that difficult in those days". TMC leader Derek O'Brien said, " If you look for definition of certain words, you have to look in the dictionary. But there's one word you don't need to look in dictionary...if you look at his face you will get the meaning of the word 'secular'. There are many communities around the world, when someone passes away they always write RIP which means 'Rest in Peace' but maybe after 16th Aug 2018 RIP for this great man will mean 'Really Incredible Person'. If you look for definition of certain words, you have to look in the dictionary. But there's one word you don't need to look in dictionary...if you look at his face you will get the meaning of the word 'secular': Derek O'Brien, TMC at #AtalBihariVajpayee's prayer meeting in Delhi pic.twitter.com/maLbapRSjs — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah said, "Wo Wazire-e-Azam nahi Hindustan ke dilon ke maalik they. He was large-hearted. No one had a heart like him". #WATCH: Former J&K CM Farooq Abdullah says 'Agar Atal ko yaad rakhna hai to uss desh ko banao jismein prem itna ho ki dunia jhukne aa jaaye iss desh ke saamne ki ye desh hai jo prem baant'ta hai. Wo prem baantiye, wahi hamari sabse badi shradhhanajli hogi #AtalBihariVajpaee ko.' pic.twitter.com/MYbhVArRsA — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × Yoga guru Ramdev said,"As long as he was alive he made Bharat Mata proud and he has set such an example that he will be remembered for the ages to come". Former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti said, "He was a great human being but for the people of Jammu and Kashmir he was not less than a Messiah. He was the first Indian leader who trusted the people of J&K and whom the people trusted. This was Vajpayee ji who went to Pakistan and made Musharraf sahab say that they will not use the land of Jammu and Kashmir for militancy". This was Vajpayee ji who went to Pakistan and made Musharraf sahab say that they will not use the land of Jammu and Kashmir for militancy: Former J&K CM Mehbooba Mufti at the prayer meeting for #AtalBihariVajpayee in Delhi pic.twitter.com/JlWugePUuT — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × BSP leader S Mishra said, "Although he was poetic and generous at heart, he took strong decisions, like nuclear test and Kargil war for the nation. He was loved and respected by the ruling party as well as opposition. We need to follow his principles to spread peace and harmony". Loktantrik Janata Dal party leader Sharad Yadav said, "He led an absolutely unblemished life. He had a unique style. He never worried about food, lifestyle or any other thing. I pay my tributes to such a man full of love and humanity". AIADMK leader, M. Thambi Durai said, "We mourn the loss of a great nationalist, a poet, a statesman, a veteran parliamentarian for decades and above all , a gentleman to the core, the former Prime Minister of India, Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee". I was in Lok Sabha 1984 onwards,he was a Rajya Sabha member. I developed friendship with him gradually. He told me once, “There is always difference in opinion. But for nation's development,what cabinet decides,we implement that": MT Durai at #AtalBihariVajpayee's prayer meeting pic.twitter.com/KMGK42vrVy — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × (With inputs from agencies)

Never thought I would have to address a meeting without Atalji: LK Advani

The Supreme Court on Monday said that it will have to consider the issue that there was no contest on over 20,000 seats in recently-held elections for local bodies in West Bengal in the wake of an allegation that the candidates other, than the ruling party, were obstructed from filing their nomination papers.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud reserved its verdict on the pleas filed by the West Bengal State Election Commission and parties like the BJP and CPI (M).

"The issue of non-acceptance of nomination papers by the Election Commission has to be dealt by the election tribunal in election petition".

"The issue was that over 20,000 seats went un-contested and the allegation was that the non-contest was due to the obstruction in the filing of the nomination papers. Another aspect, which has been highlighted, was that nomination papers were filed by the candidates of one party. We have to see as to what can be done in such a situation," the bench said.

The bench also disapproved the Calcutta High Court's order allowing the filing of nomination papers through e-mails and WhatsApp.

It, however, said it would consider the circumstances in which the High Court passed such a direction to infer that there were obstructions in the filing of nomination papers.

It has been alleged by the BJP and the CPI (M) that candidates from ruling All India Trinamool Congress in West Bengal were only allowed to file nomination papers and as a result, they won without any contest.&nbsp;

Senior advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for the state government, raised the issue of constitutional crisis in view of the fact that panchayat and local bodies have to be notified to avail funds to the tune of Rs 20,000 crore.

The counsel for the Trinamool Congress opposed the plea of BJP and CPI (M) and said that not a single affected candidate is a party before the apex court and it is the political parties which are before it.&nbsp;

The apex court had earlier stayed the High Court order asking the state election body to accept the nomination papers filed through e-mail for panchayat elections and directed the poll panel not to declare in the Gazette the names of those candidates who had won unopposed.

The West Bengal government had, on the other hand, told the court that the row over the recently concluded panchayat polls in the state has led to a "constitutional crisis" since the tenure of several Panchayats were over and new bodies have not been made functional.

Out of a total 58,692 posts for gram panchayat village, zilla parishad and panchayat samiti, 20,159 had remained uncontested in the violence-marred local polls in the state held in May this year.

The poll panel, however, argued that 33 per cent of nearly 50,000 panchayat seats going uncontested in the state was not "an alarming situation".&nbsp;

Elections were held in phases for 48,650 posts in Gram Panchayats, 825 posts in Zilla Parishads and 9,217 posts in Panchayat Samitis and it has been alleged that around 34 per cent seats were uncontested.

The court was hearing an appeal filed by the state election panel against the High Court order asking it to accept the nomination papers filed through e-mail for the panchayat elections.

(With inputs from PTI)

It has been alleged by the BJP and the CPI (M) that candidates from ruling All India Trinamool Congress in West Bengal were only allowed to file nomination papers and as a result, they won without any contest

The Supreme Court on Monday said that it will have to consider the issue that there was no contest on over 20,000 seats in recently-held elections for local bodies in West Bengal in the wake of an allegation that the candidates other, than the ruling party, were obstructed from filing their nomination papers. A bench comprising Chief Justice Dipak Misra and justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud reserved its verdict on the pleas filed by the West Bengal State Election Commission and parties like the BJP and CPI (M). "The issue of non-acceptance of nomination papers by the Election Commission has to be dealt by the election tribunal in election petition". "The issue was that over 20,000 seats went un-contested and the allegation was that the non-contest was due to the obstruction in the filing of the nomination papers. Another aspect, which has been highlighted, was that nomination papers were filed by the candidates of one party. We have to see as to what can be done in such a situation," the bench said. The bench also disapproved the Calcutta High Court's order allowing the filing of nomination papers through e-mails and WhatsApp. It, however, said it would consider the circumstances in which the High Court passed such a direction to infer that there were obstructions in the filing of nomination papers. It has been alleged by the BJP and the CPI (M) that candidates from ruling All India Trinamool Congress in West Bengal were only allowed to file nomination papers and as a result, they won without any contest. Senior advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for the state government, raised the issue of constitutional crisis in view of the fact that panchayat and local bodies have to be notified to avail funds to the tune of Rs 20,000 crore. The counsel for the Trinamool Congress opposed the plea of BJP and CPI (M) and said that not a single affected candidate is a party before the apex court and it is the political parties which are before it. The apex court had earlier stayed the High Court order asking the state election body to accept the nomination papers filed through e-mail for panchayat elections and directed the poll panel not to declare in the Gazette the names of those candidates who had won unopposed. The West Bengal government had, on the other hand, told the court that the row over the recently concluded panchayat polls in the state has led to a "constitutional crisis" since the tenure of several Panchayats were over and new bodies have not been made functional. Out of a total 58,692 posts for gram panchayat village, zilla parishad and panchayat samiti, 20,159 had remained uncontested in the violence-marred local polls in the state held in May this year. The poll panel, however, argued that 33 per cent of nearly 50,000 panchayat seats going uncontested in the state was not "an alarming situation". Elections were held in phases for 48,650 posts in Gram Panchayats, 825 posts in Zilla Parishads and 9,217 posts in Panchayat Samitis and it has been alleged that around 34 per cent seats were uncontested. The court was hearing an appeal filed by the state election panel against the High Court order asking it to accept the nomination papers filed through e-mail for the panchayat elections. (With inputs from PTI)

WB panchayat polls: SC to consider declaring no-contest in over 20,000 seats

A Delhi court today granted bail to former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh's son in a money laundering case.

Special judge Arvind Kumar granted the relief to Vikramaditya Singh on a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and one surety of like amount.

The court has put various conditions on the accused, including that he will not leave country without its prior permission and he will not try to influence any witness in the case.

Special public prosecutors N K Matta and Nitesh Rana appearing for ED opposed the bail application, saying he may misuse the liberty.

The court has now put up the matter for further hearing on September 19.

The court had on July 24 summoned Vikramaditya Singh and others to appear before it on August 27 in a money laundering case.

The court was considering a charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on July 21 against Vikramaditya Singh in the money laundering case, which also involved the former Himachal Pradesh chief minister.

The charge sheet also named the managing director of Tarani Infrastructure, Vakamulla Chandrasekhar, and one Ram Prakash Bhatia as accused.

Both Chandrasekhar and Bhatia are also accused in a CBI case related to the matter, along with Virbhadra Singh, his wife Pratibha Singh and others.

Besides 83-year-old Singh and his 62-year-old wife, the others named in the ED charge sheet are Universal Apple Associate owner Chunni Lal Chauhan, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) agent Anand Chauhan and two other co-accused--Prem Raj and Lawan Kumar Roach.

The CBI claimed Virbhadra Singh had amassed assets worth around Rs 10 crore which were disproportionate to his total income during his tenure as a Union minister.

The matter was transferred by the Supreme Court to the Delhi High Court which, on April 6, 2016, asked the CBI not to arrest Singh and directed him to join the probe.

On November 5 last year, the apex court transferred Singh's plea from the Himachal Pradesh High Court to the Delhi High Court, saying it was not expressing any opinion on the merits of the case, but "simply" transferring the petition "in the interest of justice and to save the institution (judiciary) from any embarrassment".

Special judge Arvind Kumar granted the relief to Vikramaditya Singh on a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and one surety of like amount.

A Delhi court today granted bail to former Himachal Pradesh chief minister Virbhadra Singh's son in a money laundering case. Special judge Arvind Kumar granted the relief to Vikramaditya Singh on a personal bond of Rs 50,000 and one surety of like amount. The court has put various conditions on the accused, including that he will not leave country without its prior permission and he will not try to influence any witness in the case. Special public prosecutors N K Matta and Nitesh Rana appearing for ED opposed the bail application, saying he may misuse the liberty. The court has now put up the matter for further hearing on September 19. The court had on July 24 summoned Vikramaditya Singh and others to appear before it on August 27 in a money laundering case. The court was considering a charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on July 21 against Vikramaditya Singh in the money laundering case, which also involved the former Himachal Pradesh chief minister. The charge sheet also named the managing director of Tarani Infrastructure, Vakamulla Chandrasekhar, and one Ram Prakash Bhatia as accused. Both Chandrasekhar and Bhatia are also accused in a CBI case related to the matter, along with Virbhadra Singh, his wife Pratibha Singh and others. Besides 83-year-old Singh and his 62-year-old wife, the others named in the ED charge sheet are Universal Apple Associate owner Chunni Lal Chauhan, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) agent Anand Chauhan and two other co-accused--Prem Raj and Lawan Kumar Roach. The CBI claimed Virbhadra Singh had amassed assets worth around Rs 10 crore which were disproportionate to his total income during his tenure as a Union minister. The matter was transferred by the Supreme Court to the Delhi High Court which, on April 6, 2016, asked the CBI not to arrest Singh and directed him to join the probe. On November 5 last year, the apex court transferred Singh's plea from the Himachal Pradesh High Court to the Delhi High Court, saying it was not expressing any opinion on the merits of the case, but "simply" transferring the petition "in the interest of justice and to save the institution (judiciary) from any embarrassment".

Court grants bail to former Himachal Pradesh CM's son in money laundering case

Funds for relief operations in<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rain-abates-in-kerala-as-first-commercial-flight-lands-in-kochi-naval-air-base-160298"> flood-hit Kerala</a> have been coming from across the border with Qatar providing financial aid of Rs 34.89 crores as well as an Indian non-profit organisation in America raising over US $10,000.&nbsp;

Sewa International USA has raised over US $10,000 towards the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rescue-operations-by-indian-air-force-continue-tonnes-of-relief-material-dropped-160271"> flood relief in Kerela</a>, where nearly 370 people have died in devastating floods and thousands have lost lives and have been rendered homeless, the organisation said in a statement. 
&nbsp; 
Over 5,000 Sewa volunteers have fanned out distributing food packets and cooking kits, and are opening free kitchens and medical camps to help the flood affected.

"Given the immediate need for help, we decided to release USD 10,000 in our first tranche of funds toward flood relief. We are in regular contact with our India partner, and our volunteers are joining hands with other relief agencies to provide as much help as we can in this hour of need," Swadesh Katoch, Director Disaster Relief said.

On their Facebook page they have appealed Indian-Americans to open their hearts, and wallets and purses, to help us help the people in distress.

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The Qatar Charity, through its representative in India, has launched emergency relief for those affected by the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-as-rains-ease-kochi-naval-base-inspected-for-commercial-flight-operations-160188">huge floods</a> with a total value of half a million riyals during the first stage, the Gulf Times reported.

Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani issued a directive to allocate US $5 million (Rs. 34.89 crore) in aid of those affected by the floods that recently hit the southern Indian state of Kerala, to help provide shelter to those who lost their homes as a result of the humanitarian crisis, the daily reported.

Qatar's aid comes a day after the UAE ordered the formation of an emergency committee to provide relief to the victims hit by devastating rains and floods in the state of Kerala.

(With PTI inputs)

Nearly 370 people have lost their lives with lakhs of people displaced and homeless due to the ongoing floods.

Funds for relief operations in flood-hit Kerala have been coming from across the border with Qatar providing financial aid of Rs 34.89 crores as well as an Indian non-profit organisation in America raising over US $10,000. Sewa International USA has raised over US $10,000 towards the flood relief in Kerela, where nearly 370 people have died in devastating floods and thousands have lost lives and have been rendered homeless, the organisation said in a statement. Over 5,000 Sewa volunteers have fanned out distributing food packets and cooking kits, and are opening free kitchens and medical camps to help the flood affected. "Given the immediate need for help, we decided to release USD 10,000 in our first tranche of funds toward flood relief. We are in regular contact with our India partner, and our volunteers are joining hands with other relief agencies to provide as much help as we can in this hour of need," Swadesh Katoch, Director Disaster Relief said. On their Facebook page they have appealed Indian-Americans to open their hearts, and wallets and purses, to help us help the people in distress. × The Qatar Charity, through its representative in India, has launched emergency relief for those affected by the huge floods with a total value of half a million riyals during the first stage, the Gulf Times reported. Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani issued a directive to allocate US $5 million (Rs. 34.89 crore) in aid of those affected by the floods that recently hit the southern Indian state of Kerala, to help provide shelter to those who lost their homes as a result of the humanitarian crisis, the daily reported. Qatar's aid comes a day after the UAE ordered the formation of an emergency committee to provide relief to the victims hit by devastating rains and floods in the state of Kerala. (With PTI inputs)

Kerala floods: Indian NGO in US donates $10,000, Qatar announces Rs 34.89 crore financial aid

Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar on Monday reacted to the controversy-buildup around Navjot Singh Sidhu's recent Pakistan visit. Aiyar noted that the controversy only affects the media and will be forgotten.&nbsp;

"The Sidhu controversy only affects the media, you will forget it by tomorrow," he said.&nbsp;

Aiyar stated that the more fundamental question is on India-Pak ties, "on which there has been no progress".&nbsp;

He added that he does not expect any change&nbsp;in India-Pak relations in the last few months of the BJP-led central government, " will speak on it once the new government comes," Aiyar added.&nbsp;

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This Sidhu controversy only affects the media,you will forget it by tomorrow.More fundamental question is India-Pak relations on which there has been no progress in 4 1/2 yrs,don't expect in the last few months left of this Govt. Will speak on it once a New Govt comes: MS Aiyar <a href="https://t.co/RhgfCuJj3w">pic.twitter.com/RhgfCuJj3w</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031448928124715008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Mani Shankar Aiyar, who was previously <a href="wionews.com/india-news/congress-revokes-mani-shakar-aiyars-suspension-over-his-neech-remark-on-pm-modi-160052">suspended from Congress party</a> over allegedly passing a comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His suspension was revoked on Saturday.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader and cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu on Saturday attended the oath-taking ceremony of the 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan.&nbsp;

Many political leaders, especially <a href="wionews.com/india-news/navjot-singh-sidhu-defends-himself-over-pakistan-visit-row-160283">the Opposition, criticised Sidhu</a> for sitting next to PoK President Masood Khan and for hugging Pak Army Chief General Bajwa.&nbsp;

Aiyar added that he does not expect any changes in India-Pak relations in the last few months of the BJP-led central government.

Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar on Monday reacted to the controversy-buildup around Navjot Singh Sidhu's recent Pakistan visit. Aiyar noted that the controversy only affects the media and will be forgotten. "The Sidhu controversy only affects the media, you will forget it by tomorrow," he said. Aiyar stated that the more fundamental question is on India-Pak ties, "on which there has been no progress". He added that he does not expect any change in India-Pak relations in the last few months of the BJP-led central government, " will speak on it once the new government comes," Aiyar added. This Sidhu controversy only affects the media,you will forget it by tomorrow.More fundamental question is India-Pak relations on which there has been no progress in 4 1/2 yrs,don't expect in the last few months left of this Govt. Will speak on it once a New Govt comes: MS Aiyar pic.twitter.com/RhgfCuJj3w — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × Mani Shankar Aiyar, who was previously suspended from Congress party over allegedly passing a comment on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His suspension was revoked on Saturday. Senior Congress leader and cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu on Saturday attended the oath-taking ceremony of the 22nd Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan. Many political leaders, especially the Opposition, criticised Sidhu for sitting next to PoK President Masood Khan and for hugging Pak Army Chief General Bajwa.

Sidhu controversy will be forgotten, fundamental question is of India-Pak ties: Mani Shankar Aiyar 

The Andhra Pradesh government has issued a high alert in several regions after Godavari and Krishna rivers went in spate following heavy rains.

After the alert, people from villages situated on the banks of the rivers were moved to safer places.

The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has, however, assured that there was no loss of life or damage to property.

Krishna, the second major river in Andhra Pradesh was in spate due to continuous rain in Krishna and Guntur districts over the last two days that led to a surge in the water flow in many rivulets that empty into the river.

The surge affected 28 villages of the two Godavari districts.&nbsp;

Over a hundred acres of standing crops were affected in the two districts due to the surging water.

The high alert was put on the rain hit region after Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to collectors of the districts.

Communication to several villages in the agency area of West Godavari district and island villages in East Godavari was disrupted.

The government has opened 16 relief camps each in West and East Godavari districts for the evacuated villagers.

About 2982 people were lodged in relief camps in East and 6336 in West Godavari district.

Three teams of national disaster response force and six of SDRF, with 80 and 220 personnel respectively, have been deployed in the flood-hit areas in the two Godavari districts.

Besides, 118 personnel of the state disaster response and fire services department are also on duty.

They are using 13 boats and 400 life jackets to ferry stranded people to safety, the SDMA said, adding that three satellite phones are also being used for communication in remote villages.

Medical teams have also been positioned to tackle any emergency.

The Chief Ministers Office said 1210 tmcft from Godavari and 14 tmcft from Krishna flowed into the Bay of Bengal this season while the storage in various reservoirs in the state touched 420 tmcft.

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Yesterday’s slow pressure area now lies over Odisha, West Bengal & its adjoining areas of northwest Bay of Bengal. Its associated upper air cyclonic circulation is extending up to 7.6 km above mean sea level tilting south westwards with height: India Meteorological Department <a href="https://t.co/RXO3zPYjXP">pic.twitter.com/RXO3zPYjXP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031556312956452864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Rest of the places received heavy to very heavy rainfall in West Godavari&Krishna dist&some parts of Visakhapatnam&Vizianagaram. Next 48 hrs,coastal Andhra is very likely to receive isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in many places,light to moderate rainfall at most places:IMD <a href="https://t.co/Hc0wBvyUjZ">pic.twitter.com/Hc0wBvyUjZ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031556315313659904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Under its influence, Andhra northern coastal received copious amounts of rainfall in last 24 hours.Some parts of Visakhapatnam,East&West Godavari have received heavy to very heavy rainfall: India Meteorological Department <a href="https://t.co/0BIJ3L3Jq9">pic.twitter.com/0BIJ3L3Jq9</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031556318300057600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has however assured that there was no loss of life or damage to property

The Andhra Pradesh government has issued a high alert in several regions after Godavari and Krishna rivers went in spate following heavy rains. After the alert, people from villages situated on the banks of the rivers were moved to safer places. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has, however, assured that there was no loss of life or damage to property. Krishna, the second major river in Andhra Pradesh was in spate due to continuous rain in Krishna and Guntur districts over the last two days that led to a surge in the water flow in many rivulets that empty into the river. The surge affected 28 villages of the two Godavari districts. Over a hundred acres of standing crops were affected in the two districts due to the surging water. The high alert was put on the rain hit region after Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu spoke to collectors of the districts. Communication to several villages in the agency area of West Godavari district and island villages in East Godavari was disrupted. The government has opened 16 relief camps each in West and East Godavari districts for the evacuated villagers. About 2982 people were lodged in relief camps in East and 6336 in West Godavari district. Three teams of national disaster response force and six of SDRF, with 80 and 220 personnel respectively, have been deployed in the flood-hit areas in the two Godavari districts. Besides, 118 personnel of the state disaster response and fire services department are also on duty. They are using 13 boats and 400 life jackets to ferry stranded people to safety, the SDMA said, adding that three satellite phones are also being used for communication in remote villages. Medical teams have also been positioned to tackle any emergency. The Chief Ministers Office said 1210 tmcft from Godavari and 14 tmcft from Krishna flowed into the Bay of Bengal this season while the storage in various reservoirs in the state touched 420 tmcft. Yesterday’s slow pressure area now lies over Odisha, West Bengal & its adjoining areas of northwest Bay of Bengal. Its associated upper air cyclonic circulation is extending up to 7.6 km above mean sea level tilting south westwards with height: India Meteorological Department pic.twitter.com/RXO3zPYjXP — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × Rest of the places received heavy to very heavy rainfall in West Godavari&Krishna dist&some parts of Visakhapatnam&Vizianagaram. Next 48 hrs,coastal Andhra is very likely to receive isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall in many places,light to moderate rainfall at most places:IMD pic.twitter.com/Hc0wBvyUjZ — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × Under its influence, Andhra northern coastal received copious amounts of rainfall in last 24 hours.Some parts of Visakhapatnam,East&West Godavari have received heavy to very heavy rainfall: India Meteorological Department pic.twitter.com/0BIJ3L3Jq9 — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × (With inputs from PTI)

Godavari, Krishna rivers in spate, Andhra Pradesh on high alert

The Delhi Police said on Monday that the two suspected accused in the case of firing on JNU student Umar Khalid were arrested.

The accused were arrested by the Special Cell and will be produced before the Patiala House Court on Tuesday, the police said.

The police had said earlier that two men, who had <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/2-men-detained-for-attack-on-umar-khalid-police-160352">claimed responsibility for the attack were detained</a>.

Khalid was attacked on August 13 when he was on his way to take part in an event at the Constitution Club here. He, however, escaped unhurt.

Also read: <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/real-culprits-behind-attack-are-people-in-power-breeding-atmosphere-of-hatred-umar-khalid--159172">Real culprits behind </a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/real-culprits-behind-attack-are-people-in-power-breeding-atmosphere-of-hatred-umar-khalid--159172">attack</a><a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/real-culprits-behind-attack-are-people-in-power-breeding-atmosphere-of-hatred-umar-khalid--159172"> are people in power: Umar Khalid</a>

On Tuesday, the Delhi Police handed over the case to its Special Cell, which incidentally is already probing a sedition case against Khalid and two other JNU students.

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Special Cell has arrested both the accused in the case of firing on JNU student <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UmarKhalid?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UmarKhalid</a>. They will be produced before Patiala House Court tomorrow: Delhi police (file pic - Umar Khalid) <a href="https://t.co/EtIpQDyoZ7">pic.twitter.com/EtIpQDyoZ7</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031570166121934848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

Umar was shot at in the heart of Delhi, only a stone's throw from Parliament, on August 13. His attacker however missed him.

The Delhi Police said on Monday that the two suspected accused in the case of firing on JNU student Umar Khalid were arrested. The accused were arrested by the Special Cell and will be produced before the Patiala House Court on Tuesday, the police said. The police had said earlier that two men, who had claimed responsibility for the attack were detained. Khalid was attacked on August 13 when he was on his way to take part in an event at the Constitution Club here. He, however, escaped unhurt. Also read: Real culprits behind attack are people in power: Umar Khalid On Tuesday, the Delhi Police handed over the case to its Special Cell, which incidentally is already probing a sedition case against Khalid and two other JNU students. Special Cell has arrested both the accused in the case of firing on JNU student #UmarKhalid. They will be produced before Patiala House Court tomorrow: Delhi police (file pic - Umar Khalid) pic.twitter.com/EtIpQDyoZ7 — ANI (@ANI) August 20, 2018 × (With inputs from agencies)

Umar Khalid attack: Suspects to be produced in court on Tuesday

United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi along with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Robert Vadra on Monday paid floral tribute to late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary here at Veer Bhumi.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Ashok Gehlot also paid homage to the former prime minister on his birth anniversary that is celebrated as `Sadbhavna divas`.

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Rajiv Gandhi was a kind, gentle and affectionate man whose untimely death left a deep void in my life. 
 
I remember the times we had together and the many birthdays we were lucky to celebrate with him when he was alive. 
 
He is greatly missed, but his memory lives on. <a href="https://t.co/IGwTDJprRd">pic.twitter.com/IGwTDJprRd</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1031375155669422080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Born on August 20, 1944, Rajiv Gandhi represented Uttar Pradesh's Amethi parliamentary constituency four times.

He served as the sixth Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989. Rajiv took office after the assassination of his mother, then prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1984.

He was assassinated in a suicide bombing at Tamil Nadu's Sriperumbudur on May 21, 1991, and was later cremated at Veer Bhumi, on the banks of the river Yamuna. 
&nbsp

Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated in a suicide bombing at Tamil Nadu's Sriperumbudur on May 21, 1991, and was later cremated at Veer Bhumi, on the banks of the river Yamuna.

United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Congress president Rahul Gandhi along with Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Robert Vadra on Monday paid floral tribute to late prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary here at Veer Bhumi. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh, Congress leaders Ghulam Nabi Azad and Ashok Gehlot also paid homage to the former prime minister on his birth anniversary that is celebrated as `Sadbhavna divas`. Rajiv Gandhi was a kind, gentle and affectionate man whose untimely death left a deep void in my life. I remember the times we had together and the many birthdays we were lucky to celebrate with him when he was alive. He is greatly missed, but his memory lives on. pic.twitter.com/IGwTDJprRd — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) August 20, 2018 × Born on August 20, 1944, Rajiv Gandhi represented Uttar Pradesh's Amethi parliamentary constituency four times. He served as the sixth Prime Minister of India from 1984 to 1989. Rajiv took office after the assassination of his mother, then prime minister Indira Gandhi in 1984. He was assassinated in a suicide bombing at Tamil Nadu's Sriperumbudur on May 21, 1991, and was later cremated at Veer Bhumi, on the banks of the river Yamuna.

Sonia, Rahul pay tribute to Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary

India and Japan on Monday resolved to expand their maritime cooperation and work together to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, which is witnessing growing Chinese assertiveness, officials said.

In their wide-ranging talks, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her Japanese counterpart Itsunori Onodera also agreed to deepen the overall defence cooperation between the two countries including in areas of co-development of military platforms and weapons.

Officials said the two ministers also exchange views on India's long-pending proposal to procure the US-2 ShinMaywa amphibious aircraft from Japan for its Navy.&nbsp

The two sides also firmed up a project in the area of Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) and robotics, marking the start of first such bilateral initiative.

They said Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Indian Navy are working towards firming up an arrangement for deeper cooperation between the two navies.

"The ministers shared the recognition that it is important for the two countries to further strengthen defence and security cooperation under the 'Japan-lndia Special Strategic and Global Partnership' that aligns Japan's Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy' with India's 'Act East Policy'," a joint press statement said.

It said Sitharaman and Onodera recognised that stability of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean are crucial for ensuring the peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region.

The two ministers also deliberated on the situation in Korean Peninsula.

"The ministers reaffirmed that they have shared interests in expanding cooperation in the maritime security domain and welcomed the fact that Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Indian Navy are working towards the signing of the Implementing Arrangement for Deeper Cooperation between the two navies," the statement said.

On technology sharing, it said engagement between the Acquisition, Technology and Logistical Agency (ATLA) of Japan and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has resulted in a joint project in the area of development of Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) and Robotics.

"The Ministers recognised the importance of promoting defence equipment and technology cooperation through a joint effort between the public and private sectors in order to bilaterally strengthen technological capability," said the statement.&nbsp

On India's proposal to procure the US-2 amphibious aircraft, the statement said the ministers noted the effort made by both countries over it.

In their wide-ranging talks, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her Japanese counterpart Itsunori Onodera also agreed to deepen the overall defence cooperation between the two countries including in areas of co-development of military platforms and weapons

India and Japan on Monday resolved to expand their maritime cooperation and work together to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, which is witnessing growing Chinese assertiveness, officials said. In their wide-ranging talks, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her Japanese counterpart Itsunori Onodera also agreed to deepen the overall defence cooperation between the two countries including in areas of co-development of military platforms and weapons. Officials said the two ministers also exchange views on India's long-pending proposal to procure the US-2 ShinMaywa amphibious aircraft from Japan for its Navy. The two sides also firmed up a project in the area of Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) and robotics, marking the start of first such bilateral initiative. They said Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Indian Navy are working towards firming up an arrangement for deeper cooperation between the two navies. "The ministers shared the recognition that it is important for the two countries to further strengthen defence and security cooperation under the 'Japan-lndia Special Strategic and Global Partnership' that aligns Japan's Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy' with India's 'Act East Policy'," a joint press statement said. It said Sitharaman and Onodera recognised that stability of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean are crucial for ensuring the peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region. The two ministers also deliberated on the situation in Korean Peninsula. "The ministers reaffirmed that they have shared interests in expanding cooperation in the maritime security domain and welcomed the fact that Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) and the Indian Navy are working towards the signing of the Implementing Arrangement for Deeper Cooperation between the two navies," the statement said. On technology sharing, it said engagement between the Acquisition, Technology and Logistical Agency (ATLA) of Japan and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has resulted in a joint project in the area of development of Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) and Robotics. "The Ministers recognised the importance of promoting defence equipment and technology cooperation through a joint effort between the public and private sectors in order to bilaterally strengthen technological capability," said the statement. On India's proposal to procure the US-2 amphibious aircraft, the statement said the ministers noted the effort made by both countries over it.

India, Japan resolve to deepen maritime cooperation

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