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<p>Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday slammed former cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for hugging Pakistan army chief&nbsp;while attending Pakistan's newly elected Prime Minister Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/imran-khan-oath-taking-sidhu-issues-clarification-on-oppositions-deplorable-act-charge--160183">Sidhu issues clarification to Opposition's 'deplorable act' charge</a></p>

<p>Singh criticised Sidhu for hugging Pakistan army general Bajwa saying that he was against Sidhu's act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everyday our jawans are getting martyred. To hug their Chief General Bajwa...'I am against this. The fact is that the man should understand that our soldiers are being killed every day," the Chief Minister noted.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Everyday our jawans are getting martyred. To hug their Chief General Bajwa...I am against this. The fact is that the man should understand that our soldiers are being killed everyday: Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NavjotSinghSidhu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NavjotSinghSidhu</a> <a href="https://t.co/VIZ6FVmlUb">pic.twitter.com/VIZ6FVmlUb</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031138202977857536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>"My own regiment lost one Major and two jawans a few months ago while every day somebody is being shot and whether the man who pulled the trigger is to blame or the man who gives the order which is the chief, and the chief is General Bajwa," CM Singh added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief minister added that it was wrong on Sidhu's part to have "shown the affections he did for the Pakistan Army Chief".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">To say that 'I don't know General Bajwa'...it is written on their uniform. That's wrong for him (Sidhu) to have shown the affections he did for the Pakistan Army Chief: Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NavjotSinghSidhu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NavjotSinghSidhu</a> <a href="https://t.co/eMXeejEiKh">pic.twitter.com/eMXeejEiKh</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031138208115912704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, on Saturday, attended Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony as Pakistan's 22nd Prime Minister.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. I was sitting somewhere else but they asked me to sit there: Navjot Singh Sidhu on sitting beside President of PoK Masood Khan in the front row at Pak PM Imran Khan's oath ceremony in Islamabad <a href="https://t.co/7Ak2638JF7">pic.twitter.com/7Ak2638JF7</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031117683243139073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sidhu was see seated next to PoK (Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) President Masood Khan and was later seen hugging and exchanging pleasantries with Pak Army Chief General Bajwa.&nbsp;He has been criticised for the same ever since his return to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his defence, <a href="wionews.com/india-news/imran-khan-oath-taking-sidhu-issues-clarification-on-oppositions-deplorable-act-charge--160183">Sidhu maintained</a>, "If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. If someone (Pak Army Chief General Bajwa) comes to me and says that we belong to the same culture and we'll open Kartarpur border on Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Parv, what else I could do?"</p>


Cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, on Saturday, attended Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony as Pakistan's 22nd Prime Minister.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Sunday slammed former cricketer and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu for hugging Pakistan army chief while attending Pakistan's newly elected Prime Minister Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony. Also read: Sidhu issues clarification to Opposition's 'deplorable act' charge Singh criticised Sidhu for hugging Pakistan army general Bajwa saying that he was against Sidhu's act. "Everyday our jawans are getting martyred. To hug their Chief General Bajwa...'I am against this. The fact is that the man should understand that our soldiers are being killed every day," the Chief Minister noted. Everyday our jawans are getting martyred. To hug their Chief General Bajwa...I am against this. The fact is that the man should understand that our soldiers are being killed everyday: Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh on #NavjotSinghSidhu pic.twitter.com/VIZ6FVmlUb — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × "My own regiment lost one Major and two jawans a few months ago while every day somebody is being shot and whether the man who pulled the trigger is to blame or the man who gives the order which is the chief, and the chief is General Bajwa," CM Singh added. Chief minister added that it was wrong on Sidhu's part to have "shown the affections he did for the Pakistan Army Chief". To say that 'I don't know General Bajwa'...it is written on their uniform. That's wrong for him (Sidhu) to have shown the affections he did for the Pakistan Army Chief: Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh on #NavjotSinghSidhu pic.twitter.com/eMXeejEiKh — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × Cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, on Saturday, attended Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony as Pakistan's 22nd Prime Minister. If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. I was sitting somewhere else but they asked me to sit there: Navjot Singh Sidhu on sitting beside President of PoK Masood Khan in the front row at Pak PM Imran Khan's oath ceremony in Islamabad pic.twitter.com/7Ak2638JF7 — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × Sidhu was see seated next to PoK (Pakistan Occupied Kashmir) President Masood Khan and was later seen hugging and exchanging pleasantries with Pak Army Chief General Bajwa. He has been criticised for the same ever since his return to India. In his defence, Sidhu maintained, "If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. If someone (Pak Army Chief General Bajwa) comes to me and says that we belong to the same culture and we'll open Kartarpur border on Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Parv, what else I could do?"

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh slams Sidhu for hugging Pakistan army chief

<p>Congress President Rahul Gandhi has constituted a six-member task force to look into the alleged Rafale scam, ahead of the 2019 general elections.</p>

<p>The party has prepared a strategy to expose the 'scam'.</p>

<p>According to sources, the task force members have been personally selected by the party president. It will be headed by senior Congress leader Jaipal Reddy and supervised by national spokesperson Randeep Surjewala.</p>

<p>Other members in the task force include Arjun Modhwadia, Shakti Singh Gohil, Priyanka Chaturvedi, Jaiveer Shergill and Pawan Khera. The task force will aim at building a narrative against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) based on the allegations against the deal.</p>

<p>Sources said that the task force will cover 160 districts across the country in a time period of six months to reach out to people on the issue of Rafale deal in addition to 100 conferences to be held in various cities.</p>

<p>The first phase of the task force operations is expected to start on August 25.</p>

<p>The Congress has repeatedly attacked the BJP on the Rafale deal on several occasions.</p>

<p>At a rally in Hyderabad on August 14, Rahul Gandhi said that he was willing to engage in a debate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the alleged scam.</p>

<p>The Centre has, however, rubbished the Congress'&nbspallegations saying that the party was only trying "to malign the image of the ruling party".</p>

<p>"All allegations being levelled in various press conferences are already answered on the floor of Parliament. A recent attempt, in the House, to malign the government through baseless charges collapsed. Today`s was yet another attempt at repeating fabricated facts," Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted on August 9.</p>

<p>In 2008, India had signed a deal with France based Dassault Aviation to purchase 36 Rafale jets, which is slated to be one of the world`s biggest military procurement in recent history and could cost the Indian government USD 15 billion.</p>


The first phase of the task force operations is expected to start on August 25.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi has constituted a six-member task force to look into the alleged Rafale scam, ahead of the 2019 general elections. The party has prepared a strategy to expose the 'scam'. According to sources, the task force members have been personally selected by the party president. It will be headed by senior Congress leader Jaipal Reddy and supervised by national spokesperson Randeep Surjewala. Other members in the task force include Arjun Modhwadia, Shakti Singh Gohil, Priyanka Chaturvedi, Jaiveer Shergill and Pawan Khera. The task force will aim at building a narrative against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) based on the allegations against the deal. Sources said that the task force will cover 160 districts across the country in a time period of six months to reach out to people on the issue of Rafale deal in addition to 100 conferences to be held in various cities. The first phase of the task force operations is expected to start on August 25. The Congress has repeatedly attacked the BJP on the Rafale deal on several occasions. At a rally in Hyderabad on August 14, Rahul Gandhi said that he was willing to engage in a debate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the alleged scam. The Centre has, however, rubbished the Congress'&nbspallegations saying that the party was only trying "to malign the image of the ruling party". "All allegations being levelled in various press conferences are already answered on the floor of Parliament. A recent attempt, in the House, to malign the government through baseless charges collapsed. Today`s was yet another attempt at repeating fabricated facts," Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted on August 9. In 2008, India had signed a deal with France based Dassault Aviation to purchase 36 Rafale jets, which is slated to be one of the world`s biggest military procurement in recent history and could cost the Indian government USD 15 billion.

Congress forms task force to take on BJP over Rafale deal

<p>Braving inclement weather and risky conditions, a young Air Force officer dramatically winched up a toddler to safety from the roof-top of a marooned house in rain-battered Kerala where thousands of people are battling all odds to survive as the death toll has touched 197 in the past 10 days in the second spell of monsoon fury since August 8.</p>

<p>Wing Commander Prashanth slid down a rope to the terrace of the two-storey house which seemed from above like a toy floating on the yellowish murky waters.</p>

<p>TV visuals showed the officer airlifting the two-year-old boy with care, pressing him to his body and winching him to safety.</p>

<p>The proud officer later handed over the baby to his anxious mother waiting inside the chopper.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Update?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Update</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods2018</a>. Infants, sick & needy we are reaching to all. Naib Subedar Manbar Singh of 13 Garhwal Rifles led his column and carried out operations in 8-10 feet deep water for full day and rescued 536 persons. We are at it. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpMadad?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OpMadad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloodRelief?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloodRelief</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://t.co/qGvrLGmIyx">pic.twitter.com/qGvrLGmIyx</a></p>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1031048137866137600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The woman, who was almost in tears, was all gratitude and smiles as she received her bundle of joy in her hands.</p>

<p>Prashanth is one among many unsung heroes who have brought smiles to the faces of anxious and panic-stricken people of Kerala, reeling under the worst floods of a century.</p>

<p>Another TV grab showed some girls, trapped in their hostel room for days without food and water, making a lucky escape after an IAF helicopter came to their rescue.</p>

<p>They cried and hugged each other after all the stranded were safely pulled up into the copter yesterday.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">#Update#KeralaFloods2018. Task force led by Major Upreti of Sudarshan Chakra Sappers involved in rescue work at Thiruvilla, one of the worst affected places, worked non-stop for 15 hours in heavy rains to evacuate 250 persons, many sick & homeless.#OpMadad#KeralaFloodRelief2018. <a href="https://t.co/9CVu9JnpuP">pic.twitter.com/9CVu9JnpuP</a></p>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1031014735175708672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Commander Vijay Varma, who saved a pregnant woman in labour by winching her up in a helicopter from a stranded building, was later happy to hear that she had successfully delivered a baby boy.</p>

<p>"This was a very challenging task. We got an SOS and we traced them out...There is tremendous satisfaction, both professionally and personally," the officer said later.</p>

<p>The social media was all praise for the exceptional courage shown by the Indian Navy's Captain P Rajkumar who airlifted over 25 persons battling challenging conditions.</p>

<p>The visual of a man kneeling down in muddy waters to help women step on to him to get into rescue boats went viral today.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Update?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Update</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> 2018. A column of 8 Engr Regt led by Lt Anshu Mali rescued 256 civilians including 3 pregnant ladies & a large number of old couples in Chalakudy area. Rescue Operation undertaken in East Chalakudy. We are at it#OpMadad <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloodRelief?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloodRelief</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://t.co/UFIZZQbipm">pic.twitter.com/UFIZZQbipm</a></p>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1030775719822065664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>The man in a blue shirt was seen kneeling, with his face hardly a few inches above the flood waters, and women stepping onto his back to climb up to a rescue boat.</p>

<p>The act of IAS officers M G Rajamanikyam and N S Umesh who unloaded rice sacks at the Wayanad Collectorate for distribution at relief camps was also celebrated by netizens.</p>

<p>As soon as news of the devastating floods and the plight of the stranded came out, 600 odd fishermen immediately turned up with their country and mechanised boats to help rescue those marooned in various parts of the state.</p>

<p>Thousands of people, including women, children and college students are tediously working at various centres across the state free of cost to gather essential materials, including food, medicines, clothes to send to relief camps.</p>

<p>Union Tourism Minister K J Alphons, who visited some relief camps here today, said they are the 'unsung heroes'.&nbsp</p>

<p>Many people are still stranded in their homes with no food and sheaths of water around them at various places in Alappuzha, Thrissur and Ernakulam districts.</p>

<p>The maximum death toll has been reported from Idukki district, where 43 people have lost their lives so far, as per official estimates</p>


Many people are still stranded in their homes with no food and sheaths of water around them at various places in Alappuzha, Thrissur and Ernakulam districts

Braving inclement weather and risky conditions, a young Air Force officer dramatically winched up a toddler to safety from the roof-top of a marooned house in rain-battered Kerala where thousands of people are battling all odds to survive as the death toll has touched 197 in the past 10 days in the second spell of monsoon fury since August 8. Wing Commander Prashanth slid down a rope to the terrace of the two-storey house which seemed from above like a toy floating on the yellowish murky waters. TV visuals showed the officer airlifting the two-year-old boy with care, pressing him to his body and winching him to safety. The proud officer later handed over the baby to his anxious mother waiting inside the chopper. #Update #KeralaFloods2018. Infants, sick & needy we are reaching to all. Naib Subedar Manbar Singh of 13 Garhwal Rifles led his column and carried out operations in 8-10 feet deep water for full day and rescued 536 persons. We are at it. #OpMadad #KeralaFloodRelief @PIB_India pic.twitter.com/qGvrLGmIyx — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) August 19, 2018 × The woman, who was almost in tears, was all gratitude and smiles as she received her bundle of joy in her hands. Prashanth is one among many unsung heroes who have brought smiles to the faces of anxious and panic-stricken people of Kerala, reeling under the worst floods of a century. Another TV grab showed some girls, trapped in their hostel room for days without food and water, making a lucky escape after an IAF helicopter came to their rescue. They cried and hugged each other after all the stranded were safely pulled up into the copter yesterday. #Update#KeralaFloods2018. Task force led by Major Upreti of Sudarshan Chakra Sappers involved in rescue work at Thiruvilla, one of the worst affected places, worked non-stop for 15 hours in heavy rains to evacuate 250 persons, many sick & homeless.#OpMadad#KeralaFloodRelief2018. pic.twitter.com/9CVu9JnpuP — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) August 19, 2018 × Commander Vijay Varma, who saved a pregnant woman in labour by winching her up in a helicopter from a stranded building, was later happy to hear that she had successfully delivered a baby boy. "This was a very challenging task. We got an SOS and we traced them out...There is tremendous satisfaction, both professionally and personally," the officer said later. The social media was all praise for the exceptional courage shown by the Indian Navy's Captain P Rajkumar who airlifted over 25 persons battling challenging conditions. The visual of a man kneeling down in muddy waters to help women step on to him to get into rescue boats went viral today. #Update #KeralaFloods 2018. A column of 8 Engr Regt led by Lt Anshu Mali rescued 256 civilians including 3 pregnant ladies & a large number of old couples in Chalakudy area. Rescue Operation undertaken in East Chalakudy. We are at it#OpMadad #KeralaFloodRelief @PIB_India pic.twitter.com/UFIZZQbipm — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) August 18, 2018 × The man in a blue shirt was seen kneeling, with his face hardly a few inches above the flood waters, and women stepping onto his back to climb up to a rescue boat. The act of IAS officers M G Rajamanikyam and N S Umesh who unloaded rice sacks at the Wayanad Collectorate for distribution at relief camps was also celebrated by netizens. As soon as news of the devastating floods and the plight of the stranded came out, 600 odd fishermen immediately turned up with their country and mechanised boats to help rescue those marooned in various parts of the state. Thousands of people, including women, children and college students are tediously working at various centres across the state free of cost to gather essential materials, including food, medicines, clothes to send to relief camps. Union Tourism Minister K J Alphons, who visited some relief camps here today, said they are the 'unsung heroes'. Many people are still stranded in their homes with no food and sheaths of water around them at various places in Alappuzha, Thrissur and Ernakulam districts. The maximum death toll has been reported from Idukki district, where 43 people have lost their lives so far, as per official estimates

Unsung heroes bring smiles to stranded in rain-ravaged Kerala

<p>The active southwest monsoon over Telangana is likely to bring heavy rains at isolated places in several districts of the state today and tomorrow, the regional meteorological centre said.</p>

<p>The weatherman has also forecast very likely occurrence of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at most places of the state during August 21 to 24.</p>

<p>"Heavy to very heavy rain likely to occur at isolated places in 16 districts on August 19 and August 20," a weather bulletin said.</p>

<p>Very heavy rain occurred at isolated places in the district of Mahabubabad while some places in the districts of Warangal Rural, Khammam and Kothagudem received heavy rain yesterday, it said.</p>


Very heavy rain occurred at isolated places in the district of Mahabubabad.

The active southwest monsoon over Telangana is likely to bring heavy rains at isolated places in several districts of the state today and tomorrow, the regional meteorological centre said. The weatherman has also forecast very likely occurrence of light to moderate rain or thundershowers at most places of the state during August 21 to 24. "Heavy to very heavy rain likely to occur at isolated places in 16 districts on August 19 and August 20," a weather bulletin said. Very heavy rain occurred at isolated places in the district of Mahabubabad while some places in the districts of Warangal Rural, Khammam and Kothagudem received heavy rain yesterday, it said.

Telangana: MeT predicts heavy rains in 16 districts

<p>Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's ashes were immersed in holy river Ganga at Har-ki-Pauri, Haridwar on Sunday.</p>

<p>The ashes were taken by road to Prem Ashram in Haridwar before it arrived in Har-ki-Pauri and were immersed.</p>

<p>Vajpayee's ashes will also be immersed in Ganga, Yamuna and Tapti rivers in Uttar Pradesh. The Central government called it a gesture to pay homage to the magnanimous Bharat Ratna, Vajpayee.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former PM Vajpayee's daughter Namita Bhattacharya and granddaughter Niharika had earlier collected three urns of the ashes from Smriti Sthal in New Delhi after his cremation on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Late <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a>'s daughter Namita immerses his ashes in Ganga river at Har-ki-Pauri in Haridwar. Granddaughter Niharika, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP President Amit Shah also present. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Uttarakhand?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Uttarakhand</a> <a href="https://t.co/ETBCsAF3Dp">pic.twitter.com/ETBCsAF3Dp</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031085882806292480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chief Amit Shah, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took part in 'Asthi Kalash Yatra' earlier in the day on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee breathed his last on Thursday at Delhi's All India Institute Of Medical Science. He was 93.</p>

<p>According to the official statement released by AIIMS, Vajpayee passed away at 5.05pm on Thursday.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former PM Vajpayee's daughter Namita Bhattacharya and granddaughter Niharika had earlier collected three urns of the ashes from Smriti Sthal in Delhi.

Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's ashes were immersed in holy river Ganga at Har-ki-Pauri, Haridwar on Sunday. The ashes were taken by road to Prem Ashram in Haridwar before it arrived in Har-ki-Pauri and were immersed. Vajpayee's ashes will also be immersed in Ganga, Yamuna and Tapti rivers in Uttar Pradesh. The Central government called it a gesture to pay homage to the magnanimous Bharat Ratna, Vajpayee. Former PM Vajpayee's daughter Namita Bhattacharya and granddaughter Niharika had earlier collected three urns of the ashes from Smriti Sthal in New Delhi after his cremation on Friday. #WATCH: Late #AtalBihariVajpayee's daughter Namita immerses his ashes in Ganga river at Har-ki-Pauri in Haridwar. Granddaughter Niharika, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and BJP President Amit Shah also present. #Uttarakhand pic.twitter.com/ETBCsAF3Dp — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chief Amit Shah, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took part in 'Asthi Kalash Yatra' earlier in the day on Sunday. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee breathed his last on Thursday 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 on Thursday.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee's ashes immersed in Haridwar

<p>A parliamentary committee looking into the issue of mounting non-performing assets (NPAs) has asked former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan to appear before it and brief on the matter.</p>

<p>Rajan was invited after former Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) Arvind Subramanian praised him before the Parliament's Committee on Estimates, headed by veteran BJP leader Murali Manohar Joshi, for identifying the NPA crisis and trying to resolve it.</p>

<p>Joshi has written a letter to Rajan asking to appear before the panel and brief the members on the issue of mounting NPAs, a source said.</p>

<p>Rajan, who was RBI governor for three years till September 2016, is currently the Katherine Dusak Miller Distinguished Service Professor of Finance at Chicago Booth School of Business.</p>

<p>The letter has been written to Rajan after Subramanian credited him for identifying the problem, the source said.</p>

<p>Subramanian appeared before the panel last month as CEA and briefed it on the bad loans issue. During his submission, he expressed scepticism over the handling of the NPAs and indicated that big-ticket loans by public sector banks were influenced.</p>

<p>However, he did not elaborate on who and how the approvals were influenced. Subramanian also said there was an environment of fear among the bankers and they were reluctant to lend, besides retail lending.</p>

<p>The panel has already questioned senior finance ministry officials, including Finance Secretary Hasmukh Adhia and top brass of banks, about rising bad loans.</p>

<p>Members of the panel also demanded various documents including minutes of the board meetings of the public sector banks, in which high-ticket value loans were approved.</p>

<p>The banking sector is grappling with rising non-performing assets, which touched Rs 8.99 trillion or 10.11 per cent of the total advances at December-end 2017.</p>

<p>Of the gross NPAs, the public sector banks accounted for Rs 7.77 trillion.<br />
The rising number of banking frauds has also become a serious cause for concern.&nbsp;</p>


Rajan, who was RBI governor for three years till September 2016, is currently the Katherine Dusak Miller Distinguished Service Professor of Finance at Chicago Booth School of Business.

A parliamentary committee looking into the issue of mounting non-performing assets (NPAs) has asked former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan to appear before it and brief on the matter. Rajan was invited after former Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) Arvind Subramanian praised him before the Parliament's Committee on Estimates, headed by veteran BJP leader Murali Manohar Joshi, for identifying the NPA crisis and trying to resolve it. Joshi has written a letter to Rajan asking to appear before the panel and brief the members on the issue of mounting NPAs, a source said. Rajan, who was RBI governor for three years till September 2016, is currently the Katherine Dusak Miller Distinguished Service Professor of Finance at Chicago Booth School of Business. The letter has been written to Rajan after Subramanian credited him for identifying the problem, the source said. Subramanian appeared before the panel last month as CEA and briefed it on the bad loans issue. During his submission, he expressed scepticism over the handling of the NPAs and indicated that big-ticket loans by public sector banks were influenced. However, he did not elaborate on who and how the approvals were influenced. Subramanian also said there was an environment of fear among the bankers and they were reluctant to lend, besides retail lending. The panel has already questioned senior finance ministry officials, including Finance Secretary Hasmukh Adhia and top brass of banks, about rising bad loans. Members of the panel also demanded various documents including minutes of the board meetings of the public sector banks, in which high-ticket value loans were approved. The banking sector is grappling with rising non-performing assets, which touched Rs 8.99 trillion or 10.11 per cent of the total advances at December-end 2017. Of the gross NPAs, the public sector banks accounted for Rs 7.77 trillion. The rising number of banking frauds has also become a serious cause for concern.

Parliamentary panel seeks Raghuram Rajan's advice to tackle bad loans

<p>The security forces on Sunday arrested two overground workers (OGW) of Jaish-e-Mohammed, in Handwara town of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district.</p>

<p>The OGWs, Irshad Ahmad and Feroz Ahmad were arrested in a joint operation, conducted by the Handwara Police and 30 Rashtriya Rifles.</p>

<p>The security forces also recovered arms and ammunition from their possession.</p>

<p>Earlier today, the security personnel foiled an infiltration bid and gunned down a terrorist in Baramulla district of the state.</p>

<p>On Saturday, three terrorists were killed after the security forces successfully foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara district.(ANI)</p>


On Saturday, three terrorists were killed after the security forces successfully foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar sector.

The security forces on Sunday arrested two overground workers (OGW) of Jaish-e-Mohammed, in Handwara town of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district. The OGWs, Irshad Ahmad and Feroz Ahmad were arrested in a joint operation, conducted by the Handwara Police and 30 Rashtriya Rifles. The security forces also recovered arms and ammunition from their possession. Earlier today, the security personnel foiled an infiltration bid and gunned down a terrorist in Baramulla district of the state. On Saturday, three terrorists were killed after the security forces successfully foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar sector of Kupwara district.(ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir: 2 JeM overground workers arrested in Handwara town

<p>Former Union Finance Minister P&nbspChidambaram on Sunday said the nation's economy under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government is on a downward trend and added that it is "not in very competent hands."</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference, Chidambaram said, "I have repeatedly said that the management of the economy is not in very good hands, and I have also said that under Dr Manmohan Singh, the management of the economy was under more competent hands."</p>

<p>The former finance minister compared several economic aspects under the two NDA governments and the two United Progressive Alliance (UPA) governments that have been in office since 1999.</p>

<p>Chidambaram highlighted that the average growth rates under the two UPA governments were at 8.36 and 7.68 per cent, while the same under the two NDA governments were 5.68 and 7.33 per cent respectively.</p>

<p>He further said that the UPA-I and UPA-II governments delivered the highest decadal growth of 8.31 per cent, since independence and that 140 million people were lifted out of poverty during this period.</p>

<p>He also mentioned that the economic growth had recovered to 6.39 per cent (at market prices), while the fiscal deficit had reduced to 4.48 per cent and the current account deficit had been contained at 1.7 per cent when the UPA government had demitted office in 2014.</p>

<p>Saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government "had inherited an economy that was on the upswing," the former finance minister said that because of demonetisation, flawed implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and "tax terrorism," the momentum gained by India's economy was lost.</p>

<p>The Congress leader also stressed that the "stagnation in investment" and "sluggish credit growth" were further hindering economic growth.</p>

<p>"The gross fixed capital formation as a percentage of GDP was 34.3 per cent in 2011-12. Even in 2013-14, it was 31.3 per cent. However, in the last three years, it has remained constant at 28.5 per cent. At that level of investment, it is not possible to achieve higher growth rates," Chidambaram said.</p>

<p>While saying that the Congress, during its tenure, promoted high growth, equity, and social justice, Chidambaram said that all three have suffered under the present government.</p>

<p>"For the sake of the country, we wish the government well in its fifth year. We know it cannot match the average growth rate of UPA-I, but we hope it can catch up with the average growth rate of UPA-II," Chidambaram said.&nbsp</p>


Chidambaram highlighted that the average growth rates under the two UPA governments were at 8.36 and 7.68 per cent

Former Union Finance Minister P&nbspChidambaram on Sunday said the nation's economy under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government is on a downward trend and added that it is "not in very competent hands." Addressing a press conference, Chidambaram said, "I have repeatedly said that the management of the economy is not in very good hands, and I have also said that under Dr Manmohan Singh, the management of the economy was under more competent hands." The former finance minister compared several economic aspects under the two NDA governments and the two United Progressive Alliance (UPA) governments that have been in office since 1999. Chidambaram highlighted that the average growth rates under the two UPA governments were at 8.36 and 7.68 per cent, while the same under the two NDA governments were 5.68 and 7.33 per cent respectively. He further said that the UPA-I and UPA-II governments delivered the highest decadal growth of 8.31 per cent, since independence and that 140 million people were lifted out of poverty during this period. He also mentioned that the economic growth had recovered to 6.39 per cent (at market prices), while the fiscal deficit had reduced to 4.48 per cent and the current account deficit had been contained at 1.7 per cent when the UPA government had demitted office in 2014. Saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government "had inherited an economy that was on the upswing," the former finance minister said that because of demonetisation, flawed implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and "tax terrorism," the momentum gained by India's economy was lost. The Congress leader also stressed that the "stagnation in investment" and "sluggish credit growth" were further hindering economic growth. "The gross fixed capital formation as a percentage of GDP was 34.3 per cent in 2011-12. Even in 2013-14, it was 31.3 per cent. However, in the last three years, it has remained constant at 28.5 per cent. At that level of investment, it is not possible to achieve higher growth rates," Chidambaram said. While saying that the Congress, during its tenure, promoted high growth, equity, and social justice, Chidambaram said that all three have suffered under the present government. "For the sake of the country, we wish the government well in its fifth year. We know it cannot match the average growth rate of UPA-I, but we hope it can catch up with the average growth rate of UPA-II," Chidambaram said.

Economy not in very competent hands: Chidambaram

<p>After sparking a row back home by attending Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony in Islamabad on Saturday, cricketer-turned-politician and &nbsp;Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu issued clarifications on some of the issues raised by BJP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the allegation that he sat right beside &nbsp;President of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) Masood Khan in the front row, Sidhu said If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. ''I was sitting somewhere else but they asked me to sit there,'' he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On hugging Pakistan Army chief, Sidhu said ''If someone (In this case Pakistan Army Chief General Bajwa) comes to me and says that we belong to the same culture and we'll open Kartarpur border on Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Parv, what else I could do?''.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sidhu returned to India after attending the oath-taking ceremony of Imran Khan as Pakistan Prime Minister in Islamabad yesterday.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Navjot Singh Sidhu returns to India after attending the oath-taking ceremony of Imran Khan as Pakistan Prime Minister in Islamabad yesterday <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Visuals?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Visuals</a> from Attari-Wagah border <a href="https://t.co/zUMRGPSQon">pic.twitter.com/zUMRGPSQon</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031114099793387520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>BJP on Saturday launched a vitriolic attack on Navjot Singh Sidhu for his "deplorable act" of hugging Pakistan Army chief at the swearing-in ceremony of Imran Khan as Pakistan's Prime Minister and asked Rahul Gandhi if he would suspend the leader for doing so.</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) President Masood Khan was seated next to Sidhu but the latter did not object to it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress, however, downplayed the matter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If someone (Pak Army Chief General Bajwa) comes to me&says that we belong to the same culture & we'll open Kartarpur border on Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Parv, what else I could do?: Navjot Singh Sidhu on hugging Bajwa at Pak PM Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony in Islamabad <a href="https://t.co/BMXowapA8q">pic.twitter.com/BMXowapA8q</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031117680323883009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala did not reply to a question on the Punjab minister embracing Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the event today.</p>

<p>Asked to comment on Haryana minister Anil Vij's statement that Sidhu was attending the oath-taking event amid fanfare at a time the nation was mourning, Surjewala said, "You should not take him seriously. It will be better".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Patra, however, said Congress had committed a "big crime" and it cannot wash its hands off the issue by describing it as an "individual's act".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a very serious issue. Congress president Rahul Gandhi should hold a press conference and say if he supports Sidhu's act. If not, what is the action he is taking? Will he immediately suspend Sidhu before his arrival back home? The country wants a clear answer," Patra said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. I was sitting somewhere else but they asked me to sit there: Navjot Singh Sidhu on sitting beside President of PoK Masood Khan in the front row at Pak PM Imran Khan's oath ceremony in Islamabad <a href="https://t.co/7Ak2638JF7">pic.twitter.com/7Ak2638JF7</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031117683243139073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sidhu is the only Indian to attend Khan's swearing-in ceremony. He was seen sitting next to PoK chief and hugging Bajwa at the event.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


BJP attacked Sidhu for his "deplorable act" of hugging Pakistan Army chief at the swearing-in ceremony of Imran Khan as Pakistan's Prime Minister

After sparking a row back home by attending Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony in Islamabad on Saturday, cricketer-turned-politician and Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu issued clarifications on some of the issues raised by BJP. On the allegation that he sat right beside President of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) Masood Khan in the front row, Sidhu said If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. ''I was sitting somewhere else but they asked me to sit there,'' he said. On hugging Pakistan Army chief, Sidhu said ''If someone (In this case Pakistan Army Chief General Bajwa) comes to me and says that we belong to the same culture and we'll open Kartarpur border on Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Parv, what else I could do?''. Sidhu returned to India after attending the oath-taking ceremony of Imran Khan as Pakistan Prime Minister in Islamabad yesterday. Navjot Singh Sidhu returns to India after attending the oath-taking ceremony of Imran Khan as Pakistan Prime Minister in Islamabad yesterday #Visuals from Attari-Wagah border pic.twitter.com/zUMRGPSQon — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × BJP on Saturday launched a vitriolic attack on Navjot Singh Sidhu for his "deplorable act" of hugging Pakistan Army chief at the swearing-in ceremony of Imran Khan as Pakistan's Prime Minister and asked Rahul Gandhi if he would suspend the leader for doing so. Speaking at a press conference, BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) President Masood Khan was seated next to Sidhu but the latter did not object to it. The Congress, however, downplayed the matter. If someone (Pak Army Chief General Bajwa) comes to me&says that we belong to the same culture & we'll open Kartarpur border on Guru Nanak Dev's 550th Prakash Parv, what else I could do?: Navjot Singh Sidhu on hugging Bajwa at Pak PM Imran Khan's oath-taking ceremony in Islamabad pic.twitter.com/BMXowapA8q — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala did not reply to a question on the Punjab minister embracing Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the event today. Asked to comment on Haryana minister Anil Vij's statement that Sidhu was attending the oath-taking event amid fanfare at a time the nation was mourning, Surjewala said, "You should not take him seriously. It will be better". Patra, however, said Congress had committed a "big crime" and it cannot wash its hands off the issue by describing it as an "individual's act". "This is a very serious issue. Congress president Rahul Gandhi should hold a press conference and say if he supports Sidhu's act. If not, what is the action he is taking? Will he immediately suspend Sidhu before his arrival back home? The country wants a clear answer," Patra said. If you're invited as a guest of honour somewhere, you sit wherever you are asked to. I was sitting somewhere else but they asked me to sit there: Navjot Singh Sidhu on sitting beside President of PoK Masood Khan in the front row at Pak PM Imran Khan's oath ceremony in Islamabad pic.twitter.com/7Ak2638JF7 — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × Sidhu is the only Indian to attend Khan's swearing-in ceremony. He was seen sitting next to PoK chief and hugging Bajwa at the event.

Imran Khan oath-taking: Sidhu issues clarification to Opposition's 'deplorable act' charge

<p>Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Sunday conducted an aerial survey of landslides and flood-affected areas in Karnataka's Kodagu district.</p>

<p>The Chief Minister also presented cheques to the families of Avarthi village who lost their houses in floods.</p>

<p>He also inspected rain-affected areas in Somawarpet and adjacent areas. Kumaraswamy on Saturday announced an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh per family who turned homeless after the recent floods.</p>

<p>While addressing the media, Kumaraswamy said that the situation was under control and the Army has reached the flood-affected area for the rescue operation.</p>

<p>Since August 14, incessant rains have lashed Karnataka, resulting in landslides and flooding in many parts of the state.</p>

<p>Following the same, a high alert was issued on August 15 in five districts namely Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru and Shivamogga.&nbsp;</p>


Since August 14, incessant rains have lashed Karnataka, resulting in landslides and flooding in many parts of the state.

Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy on Sunday conducted an aerial survey of landslides and flood-affected areas in Karnataka's Kodagu district. The Chief Minister also presented cheques to the families of Avarthi village who lost their houses in floods. He also inspected rain-affected areas in Somawarpet and adjacent areas. Kumaraswamy on Saturday announced an ex gratia of Rs 5 lakh per family who turned homeless after the recent floods. While addressing the media, Kumaraswamy said that the situation was under control and the Army has reached the flood-affected area for the rescue operation. Since August 14, incessant rains have lashed Karnataka, resulting in landslides and flooding in many parts of the state. Following the same, a high alert was issued on August 15 in five districts namely Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru and Shivamogga.

Karnataka floods: CM Kumaraswamy conducts second aerial survey in Kodagu district

<p>Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, along with BJP Chief Amit Shah, will visit Haridwar on Sunday to take former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's ashes to Prem Ashram, news agency ANI reported.</p>

<p>According to reports, Singh and Shah will also be accompanied by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra S Rawat and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministers, along with Vajpayee's ashes, will then head to Har ki Pauri&nbsp;by road, Krishna Kumar VK, SSP Haridwar told media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Central government on Friday announced that the ashes of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be <a href=".wionews.com/india-news/vajpayees-ashes-to-be-immersed-in-uttar-pradeshs-holy-rivers-159877">immersed in the holy rivers of Uttar Pradesh</a> ranging from Ganga, Yamuna to Tapti.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As per our information, HM Rajnath Singh and BJP President Amit Shah along with Uttarakhand CM Trivendra S Rawat and UP CM Yogi will be here tomorrow. Ashes of former PM <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a> will be taken to Prem Ashram then to Har-ki-Pauri by road: Krishna Kumar VK ,SSP <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haridwar?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haridwar</a> <a href="https://t.co/KH3ln5jOwJ">pic.twitter.com/KH3ln5jOwJ</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030779840318722048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to the official statement, the gesture is to pay respect and tribute to the grand stature of the magnanimous leader and Bharat Ratna.</p>

<p>Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee breathed his last on Thursday at Delhi's All India Institute Of Medical Science. He was 93.</p>

<p>According to the official statement released by AIIMS, Vajpayee passed away at 5.05pm on Thursday.</p>

<p>The entire nation mourned the loss as former PM Vajpayee was cremated on Friday at Smriti Sthal in Delhi with full state honours. PM Modi, President Kovind along with other leaders paid their last respects to the former prime minister.&nbsp;</p>


The Central government on Friday announced that the ashes of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be immersed in the holy rivers of Uttar Pradesh

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, along with BJP Chief Amit Shah, will visit Haridwar on Sunday to take former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's ashes to Prem Ashram, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, Singh and Shah will also be accompanied by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra S Rawat and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The ministers, along with Vajpayee's ashes, will then head to Har ki Pauri by road, Krishna Kumar VK, SSP Haridwar told media. The Central government on Friday announced that the ashes of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be immersed in the holy rivers of Uttar Pradesh ranging from Ganga, Yamuna to Tapti. As per our information, HM Rajnath Singh and BJP President Amit Shah along with Uttarakhand CM Trivendra S Rawat and UP CM Yogi will be here tomorrow. Ashes of former PM #AtalBihariVajpayee will be taken to Prem Ashram then to Har-ki-Pauri by road: Krishna Kumar VK ,SSP #Haridwar pic.twitter.com/KH3ln5jOwJ — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × According to the official statement, the gesture is to pay respect and tribute to the grand stature of the magnanimous leader and Bharat Ratna. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee breathed his last on Thursday 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 on Thursday. The entire nation mourned the loss as former PM Vajpayee was cremated on Friday at Smriti Sthal in Delhi with full state honours. PM Modi, President Kovind along with other leaders paid their last respects to the former prime minister.

Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah to reach Haridwar with Vajpayee's ashes

<p>The Indian and Thai armed forces on Sunday concluded a two-week long platoon level military exercise called 'Exercise Maitree 2018' in Jammu & Kashmir's Srinagar. The exercise was an annual event designed to strengthen the partnership between armies of the two countries.</p>

<p>The exercise began on August 6 and comprised of cross-training period, which included familiarization between the two armies to evolve drills and procedures that help in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in varied terrains under the United Nations (UN) mandate.</p>

<p>The first phase of the training also focused on familiarising both armies with each other's modus operandi, basic manoeuvres, and evolving joint drills in the first phase.</p>

<p>The second phase consisted of training related to various drills and tactical scenarios in a counter-insurgency environment, execution of tactical operations like search and destroy operation, house intervention, and survival techniques.</p>

<p>The exercise concluded with a 72-hour joint session on a series of tactical operations like raid, pursuit, establishing military check posts, and cordon and search operations. The exercise saw both the armed forces immensely benefitted from each other's expertise and experience, thus helping in the enhancement of cooperation and bonhomie between the troops.</p>


The exercise concluded with a 72-hour joint session on a series of tactical operations.

The Indian and Thai armed forces on Sunday concluded a two-week long platoon level military exercise called 'Exercise Maitree 2018' in Jammu & Kashmir's Srinagar. The exercise was an annual event designed to strengthen the partnership between armies of the two countries. The exercise began on August 6 and comprised of cross-training period, which included familiarization between the two armies to evolve drills and procedures that help in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in varied terrains under the United Nations (UN) mandate. The first phase of the training also focused on familiarising both armies with each other's modus operandi, basic manoeuvres, and evolving joint drills in the first phase. The second phase consisted of training related to various drills and tactical scenarios in a counter-insurgency environment, execution of tactical operations like search and destroy operation, house intervention, and survival techniques. The exercise concluded with a 72-hour joint session on a series of tactical operations like raid, pursuit, establishing military check posts, and cordon and search operations. The exercise saw both the armed forces immensely benefitted from each other's expertise and experience, thus helping in the enhancement of cooperation and bonhomie between the troops.

India, Thailand conclude 'Maitree' military exercise

<p>Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel was detained by Ahmedabad Crime Branch on Sunday morning before he was set to take part in a hunger strike.</p>

<p>Hardik and other Patidar leaders were on their way to Nikol assembly constituency of Ahmedabad district when they were detained by the crime branch. The group was intended to take part in a one-day hunger strike over the issue of reservation.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, the 25-year-old social-political activist tweeted, "To stop today's one-day hunger strike, our 130 agitators have been arrested so far and 58 agitators are under house arrest at my residence. Over 200 policemen are posted around my house. Why does Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) fear indefinite strike so much."</p>

<p>On July 25, Patel along with his two aides was sentenced to two years of imprisonment by a local court in Gujarat for inciting violence during a protest rally held in 2015. They, however, were later granted bail with a direction to file an appeal in the Gujarat High Court within a month.&nbsp</p>


On July 25, Patel along with his two aides was sentenced to two years of imprisonment by a local court in Gujarat for inciting violence during a protest rally held in 2015.

Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel was detained by Ahmedabad Crime Branch on Sunday morning before he was set to take part in a hunger strike. Hardik and other Patidar leaders were on their way to Nikol assembly constituency of Ahmedabad district when they were detained by the crime branch. The group was intended to take part in a one-day hunger strike over the issue of reservation. Earlier in the day, the 25-year-old social-political activist tweeted, "To stop today's one-day hunger strike, our 130 agitators have been arrested so far and 58 agitators are under house arrest at my residence. Over 200 policemen are posted around my house. Why does Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) fear indefinite strike so much." On July 25, Patel along with his two aides was sentenced to two years of imprisonment by a local court in Gujarat for inciting violence during a protest rally held in 2015. They, however, were later granted bail with a direction to file an appeal in the Gujarat High Court within a month.

Hardik Patel detained in Ahmedabad ahead of hunger strike

The worst floods in a century have hit Kerala, killing at least 370 people so far with people finding increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety.

Rain abates in flood-hit Kerala, fears of disease in camps

<p>A deluge in flood-stricken state of Kerala finally let up on Sunday, giving some respite for thousands of marooned families, while authorities feared an outbreak of disease among two million people crammed into relief camps.</p>

<p>Incessant rains since August 8 have caused the state's worst floods in a century, and at least 186 people have perished, many of them killed by landslides. The beaches and backwaters of Kerala are top destinations for domestic and international tourists, but far fewer visit during the monsoon season.</p>

<p>The India Meteorological Department forecast heavy rainfall only at one or two places of Kerala on Sunday and withdrew a red alert in several districts. Flood waters too began to recede from several places.</p>

<p>Using boats and helicopters, India's military has led rescue efforts to reach people in communities cut off for days by the floods, with many trapped on roof tops and the upper floors of their homes, and in desperate need of food and potable water.</p>

<p>Rescue teams were focused on the town of Chengannur on the banks of the Pamba River, where some 5,000 people are feared to be trapped, officials said.</p>

<p>More than 200,000 families have taken refuge at relief camps set up across the state, an official at the Kerala State Disaster Management office said. Kerala's chief minister had earlier said two million people had taken shelter in camps since the monsoon rains began three months ago.</p>

<p>Anil Vasudevan, who handles disaster management at the Kerala health department, said authorities had isolated three people with chickenpox in one of the relief camps in Aluva town, nearly 250 km (155 miles) from state capital Thiruvananthapuram.</p>

<p>He said the department was preparing to deal with a possible outbreak of water-borne and air-borne diseases in the camps, where an estimated two million people have taken shelter since the monsoon rains began three months ago.</p>

<p>Kerala, which usually receives high rainfall, has seen over 250 per cent more rain than normal between August 8 and Aug. 15, causing the state authorities to release water from 35 dangerously full dams, sending a surge into its main river.</p>

<p>As the rain abated on Sunday morning, one resident in Cheranelloor, a suburb of Kochi situated on the banks of the Periyar river, visited his home to see when he and his family could return.</p>

<p>"The entire house is covered with mud. It will take days to clean to make it liveable. All our household articles, including the TV and fridge have been destroyed," 60-year-old TP Johnny told Reuters.</p>

<p>Kochi's airport is closed due to waterlogging, and Jet Airways has arranged additional flights from Thiruvananthapuram for passengers holding confirmed tickets from Kochi.</p>

<p>India's national carrier Air India will operate ATR flights from the naval airport in Kochi to Bangalore and Coimbatore, starting Monday.</p>

<p>Late on Saturday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that there was no shortage of food in the state as traders had stocked up ahead of a local festival.</p>

<p>"The only problem is transporting it," he told reporters. "The central government and public have cooperated well in this effort to fight this disaster."</p>

<p>He also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited the state on Saturday, announced an assistance of 5 billion rupees ($71 million) against his request for 20 billion.</p>

<p>Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of the United Arab Emirates, where many Keralites work, has also offered assistance to the state.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The India Meteorological Department forecast heavy rainfall only at one or two places of Kerala on Sunday

A deluge in flood-stricken state of Kerala finally let up on Sunday, giving some respite for thousands of marooned families, while authorities feared an outbreak of disease among two million people crammed into relief camps. Incessant rains since August 8 have caused the state's worst floods in a century, and at least 186 people have perished, many of them killed by landslides. The beaches and backwaters of Kerala are top destinations for domestic and international tourists, but far fewer visit during the monsoon season. The India Meteorological Department forecast heavy rainfall only at one or two places of Kerala on Sunday and withdrew a red alert in several districts. Flood waters too began to recede from several places. Using boats and helicopters, India's military has led rescue efforts to reach people in communities cut off for days by the floods, with many trapped on roof tops and the upper floors of their homes, and in desperate need of food and potable water. Rescue teams were focused on the town of Chengannur on the banks of the Pamba River, where some 5,000 people are feared to be trapped, officials said. More than 200,000 families have taken refuge at relief camps set up across the state, an official at the Kerala State Disaster Management office said. Kerala's chief minister had earlier said two million people had taken shelter in camps since the monsoon rains began three months ago. Anil Vasudevan, who handles disaster management at the Kerala health department, said authorities had isolated three people with chickenpox in one of the relief camps in Aluva town, nearly 250 km (155 miles) from state capital Thiruvananthapuram. He said the department was preparing to deal with a possible outbreak of water-borne and air-borne diseases in the camps, where an estimated two million people have taken shelter since the monsoon rains began three months ago. Kerala, which usually receives high rainfall, has seen over 250 per cent more rain than normal between August 8 and Aug. 15, causing the state authorities to release water from 35 dangerously full dams, sending a surge into its main river. As the rain abated on Sunday morning, one resident in Cheranelloor, a suburb of Kochi situated on the banks of the Periyar river, visited his home to see when he and his family could return. "The entire house is covered with mud. It will take days to clean to make it liveable. All our household articles, including the TV and fridge have been destroyed," 60-year-old TP Johnny told Reuters. Kochi's airport is closed due to waterlogging, and Jet Airways has arranged additional flights from Thiruvananthapuram for passengers holding confirmed tickets from Kochi. India's national carrier Air India will operate ATR flights from the naval airport in Kochi to Bangalore and Coimbatore, starting Monday. Late on Saturday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that there was no shortage of food in the state as traders had stocked up ahead of a local festival. "The only problem is transporting it," he told reporters. "The central government and public have cooperated well in this effort to fight this disaster." He also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited the state on Saturday, announced an assistance of 5 billion rupees ($71 million) against his request for 20 billion. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of the United Arab Emirates, where many Keralites work, has also offered assistance to the state.

Kerala off the red alert as rain abates in flood-hit Kerala

<p>The Delhi Police has registered a case against unidentified persons for allegedly assaulting and heckling social activist Swami Agnivesh near the BJP headquarters here.</p>

<p>The social activist claimed that the accused were BJP workers. A complaint was submitted by one Vithal Rao on behalf of Agnivesh at the Parliament Street police station.</p>

<p>It was later transferred to IP Estate police station in central district. Today, an FIR was registered in the matter.</p>

<p>A video of the alleged attack doing the rounds on social media showed some people heckling the 79-year-old social activist.</p>

<p>"I was attacked while walking towards the BJP headquarters to pay my respects to Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Around 20-30 BJP workers came and surrounded me and pushed me. My 'pagdi' (turban) fell down and they started calling me a 'traitor' and asked me to leave the country," the activist had said yesterday.</p>

<p>"They pushed me towards the Vishnu Digamber roundabout and kept abusing me. Some policemen were standing there and these persons, including some women carrying slippers, kept abusing me," he had said.?</p>

<p>The policemen then escorted Agnivesh in a vehicle back to his office on the Jantar Mantar Road.</p>

<p>The complainant alleged that despite the police presence, they (miscreants) continued with their 'gundagardi' (hooliganism). This is against law and democratic values, he stated.</p>

<p>In the police complaint, Rao also sought police security for Agnivesh.? Swami Agnivesh was allegedly assaulted by Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) activists during his visit to Pakur in Jharkhand last month.&nbsp</p>


A complaint was submitted by one Vithal Rao on behalf of Agnivesh at the Parliament Street police station.

The Delhi Police has registered a case against unidentified persons for allegedly assaulting and heckling social activist Swami Agnivesh near the BJP headquarters here. The social activist claimed that the accused were BJP workers. A complaint was submitted by one Vithal Rao on behalf of Agnivesh at the Parliament Street police station. It was later transferred to IP Estate police station in central district. Today, an FIR was registered in the matter. A video of the alleged attack doing the rounds on social media showed some people heckling the 79-year-old social activist. "I was attacked while walking towards the BJP headquarters to pay my respects to Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Around 20-30 BJP workers came and surrounded me and pushed me. My 'pagdi' (turban) fell down and they started calling me a 'traitor' and asked me to leave the country," the activist had said yesterday. "They pushed me towards the Vishnu Digamber roundabout and kept abusing me. Some policemen were standing there and these persons, including some women carrying slippers, kept abusing me," he had said.? The policemen then escorted Agnivesh in a vehicle back to his office on the Jantar Mantar Road. The complainant alleged that despite the police presence, they (miscreants) continued with their 'gundagardi' (hooliganism). This is against law and democratic values, he stated. In the police complaint, Rao also sought police security for Agnivesh.? Swami Agnivesh was allegedly assaulted by Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) activists during his visit to Pakur in Jharkhand last month.

Agnivesh attack: Delhi Police files case against unidentified persons

<p>The death toll due to the devastating rains and floods in Kerala increased to 370, as two more deaths were reported on Sunday with rescue operations continuing in the worst affected districts of Alappuzha, Ernakulam and Thrissur.<br />
<br />
Authorities also withdrew the red alert which was issued in these three districts and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted moderate rains in a few districts of the state.</p>

<p>People trapped without food, water and electricity worried about being left without help as their phone batteries were dying. An adviser to the state`s chief minister put the initial loss estimate at $4 billion.</p>

<p>"There are seven families in this apartment now. We`re safe compared to many others, but we`re cut off," said James Joseph Moolakkaat, owner of an agricultural business who lives in a 10-story building across the southwestern state`s Periyar river.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is my second phone and to save power I have been turning data on and off intermittently. If this goes out, I will have some charge left in my laptop and then it will be incommunicado."</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was taken by helicopter over inundated farmland and villages, promised more helicopters, boats and other equipment needed to expand the rescue operation in the still unfolding emergency.</p>

<p>He said the Army, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard were assisting disaster relief agencies in the rescue, and a total of 38 helicopters had been pressed into service along with a number of aircraft and ships to ferry resources.</p>

<p>"More helicopters, boats and other equipment are being sought and Modi promised to provide all of these as fast as possible," Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told journalists. "The air marshal in charge of the air operations said more helicopters are on the way."</p>

<p>According to a lawmaker in Pathanamthitta district, some 10,000 people were stranded and in grave danger unless they were rescued urgently.</p>

<p>A&nbsp;witness in Aluva town, nearly 250 km (155 miles)from state capital Thiruvananthapuram, said army helicopters airlifted up to 14 marooned residents, including children and elderly people from an apartment.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a>: Veterinary Hospital converted to a relief shelter in Idukki district's Vandiperiyar, total 35 people are staying at the shelter. <a href="https://t.co/OZCcbz7366">pic.twitter.com/OZCcbz7366</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1031063506781495297?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Food shortage</strong></p>

<p>With hundreds of thousands of people converging in halls and auditoriums of schools, temples, churches, and mosques with little or no toilet facilities, people from less affected areas moved in to help those badly in need.</p>

<p>But some people in the relief camps were finding it difficult to access food and water. Videos on social media showed groups of people breaking open shops to take food.</p>

<p>Chief Minister Vijayan has estimated that more than two million people have been forced to move into relief camps since the monsoon season brought torrential rains three months ago. He put the death toll from floods and landslides since the start of the rainy season at 324.</p>

<p>One of his advisers, Prabha Varma, said 186 people had died since Aug. 8, when the waters began to rise. He said the floods had destroyed 26,000 homes and damaged crops across as much as 40,000 hectares, with estimated losses of 277 billion rupees.</p>

<p>On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the state to take stock the flood situation. He along with CM Pinarayi Vijayan conducted an aerial survey and announced an interim relief of Rs 500 crore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to those seriously injured from the PM’s National Relief Fund.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also assured that the federal government would send desperately needed grains, as storage in the state had been flooded and stocks destroyed.</p>

<p>Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of the United Arab Emirates, where many Keralites work, said he had formed a committee to extend emergency assistance to the flood victims of the state, whose people he said: "Have always been and are still part of our success story".</p>

<p>Kerala is facing the heaviest rains and consequent widespread floods and destruction since 1924, which the state estimates has caused a loss of over Rs 21,000 crore.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from Reuters)</em></p>


According to a lawmaker in Pathanamthitta district, some 10,000 people were stranded and in grave danger unless they were rescued urgently.

The death toll due to the devastating rains and floods in Kerala increased to 370, as two more deaths were reported on Sunday with rescue operations continuing in the worst affected districts of Alappuzha, Ernakulam and Thrissur. Authorities also withdrew the red alert which was issued in these three districts and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted moderate rains in a few districts of the state. People trapped without food, water and electricity worried about being left without help as their phone batteries were dying. An adviser to the state`s chief minister put the initial loss estimate at $4 billion. "There are seven families in this apartment now. We`re safe compared to many others, but we`re cut off," said James Joseph Moolakkaat, owner of an agricultural business who lives in a 10-story building across the southwestern state`s Periyar river. "This is my second phone and to save power I have been turning data on and off intermittently. If this goes out, I will have some charge left in my laptop and then it will be incommunicado." Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was taken by helicopter over inundated farmland and villages, promised more helicopters, boats and other equipment needed to expand the rescue operation in the still unfolding emergency. He said the Army, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard were assisting disaster relief agencies in the rescue, and a total of 38 helicopters had been pressed into service along with a number of aircraft and ships to ferry resources. "More helicopters, boats and other equipment are being sought and Modi promised to provide all of these as fast as possible," Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan told journalists. "The air marshal in charge of the air operations said more helicopters are on the way." According to a lawmaker in Pathanamthitta district, some 10,000 people were stranded and in grave danger unless they were rescued urgently. A witness in Aluva town, nearly 250 km (155 miles)from state capital Thiruvananthapuram, said army helicopters airlifted up to 14 marooned residents, including children and elderly people from an apartment. #Kerala: Veterinary Hospital converted to a relief shelter in Idukki district's Vandiperiyar, total 35 people are staying at the shelter. pic.twitter.com/OZCcbz7366 — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2018 × Food shortage With hundreds of thousands of people converging in halls and auditoriums of schools, temples, churches, and mosques with little or no toilet facilities, people from less affected areas moved in to help those badly in need. But some people in the relief camps were finding it difficult to access food and water. Videos on social media showed groups of people breaking open shops to take food. Chief Minister Vijayan has estimated that more than two million people have been forced to move into relief camps since the monsoon season brought torrential rains three months ago. He put the death toll from floods and landslides since the start of the rainy season at 324. One of his advisers, Prabha Varma, said 186 people had died since Aug. 8, when the waters began to rise. He said the floods had destroyed 26,000 homes and damaged crops across as much as 40,000 hectares, with estimated losses of 277 billion rupees. On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the state to take stock the flood situation. He along with CM Pinarayi Vijayan conducted an aerial survey and announced an interim relief of Rs 500 crore. PM Modi also announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to those seriously injured from the PM’s National Relief Fund. He also assured that the federal government would send desperately needed grains, as storage in the state had been flooded and stocks destroyed. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of the United Arab Emirates, where many Keralites work, said he had formed a committee to extend emergency assistance to the flood victims of the state, whose people he said: "Have always been and are still part of our success story". Kerala is facing the heaviest rains and consequent widespread floods and destruction since 1924, which the state estimates has caused a loss of over Rs 21,000 crore. (With inputs from Reuters)

Kerala floods: More heavy rains likely in state as death toll reaches 370, red alert lifted

<p>The UK government has distanced itself from the issue of a pro-Khalistan rally organised by Sikh separatist groups at London’s Trafalgar Square earlier this month.</p>

<p>The so-called ‘London Declaration on Referendum 2020’ rally, organised by Sikhs for Justice on August 12, triggered a diplomatic row as India had warned the UK to take bilateral ties into consideration before allowing groups that “propagate violence, secessionism and hatred” to demonstrate.</p>

<p>“Although we allowed the protest to take place, this should not be taken as expressing a view either in support or against. We are clear that this is a question for the people and government of India,” a UK government source said.</p>

<p>The comment followed reports of letters exchanged between Sikhs for Justice and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) on the “campaign for Sikh self-determination”.</p>

<p>Turning down the prospect of a “short meeting” sought by Sikhs for Justice with UK government representatives to raise concerns of the Sikh community, the FCO said it “encouraged all involved parties to resolve any differences through dialogue”.</p>

<p>“The UK is rightly proud of the long-standing tradition in this country that people are free to gather together and demonstrate their views,” the letter dated August 17 from the unnamed ‘Desk Officer for India’ at the FCO states.</p>

<p>“The British government acknowledges the strength of feeling in the Sikh community regarding the events of 1984, including events at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. We encourage all states to ensure that their domestic laws meet international human rights standards,” it adds.</p>

<p>Sikhs for Justice, which hailed its announcement of a global non-binding referendum on so-called “Punjab Independence” in November 2020 at the rally, described the FCO response as “very encouraging”.</p>

<p>“The response of the UK’s Foreign Office on the pro-Khalistan rally is very encouraging and we will continue to engage foreign governments on the issue of Sikhs right of self-determination and demand to hold a referendum to determine the status of Punjab,” said Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, legal adviser to the group.</p>


"Although we allowed the protest to take place, this should not be taken as expressing a view either in support or against. We are clear that this is a question for the people and government of India," a UK government source said.

The UK government has distanced itself from the issue of a pro-Khalistan rally organised by Sikh separatist groups at London’s Trafalgar Square earlier this month. The so-called ‘London Declaration on Referendum 2020’ rally, organised by Sikhs for Justice on August 12, triggered a diplomatic row as India had warned the UK to take bilateral ties into consideration before allowing groups that “propagate violence, secessionism and hatred” to demonstrate. “Although we allowed the protest to take place, this should not be taken as expressing a view either in support or against. We are clear that this is a question for the people and government of India,” a UK government source said. The comment followed reports of letters exchanged between Sikhs for Justice and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) on the “campaign for Sikh self-determination”. Turning down the prospect of a “short meeting” sought by Sikhs for Justice with UK government representatives to raise concerns of the Sikh community, the FCO said it “encouraged all involved parties to resolve any differences through dialogue”. “The UK is rightly proud of the long-standing tradition in this country that people are free to gather together and demonstrate their views,” the letter dated August 17 from the unnamed ‘Desk Officer for India’ at the FCO states. “The British government acknowledges the strength of feeling in the Sikh community regarding the events of 1984, including events at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. We encourage all states to ensure that their domestic laws meet international human rights standards,” it adds. Sikhs for Justice, which hailed its announcement of a global non-binding referendum on so-called “Punjab Independence” in November 2020 at the rally, described the FCO response as “very encouraging”. “The response of the UK’s Foreign Office on the pro-Khalistan rally is very encouraging and we will continue to engage foreign governments on the issue of Sikhs right of self-determination and demand to hold a referendum to determine the status of Punjab,” said Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, legal adviser to the group.

UK government distances itself from pro-Khalistan rally

<p>More villages along the banks of the Cauvery in Tamil Nadu were inundated, standing crops submerged and the number of people in relief camps in Tamil Nadu crossed 13,000 today as heavy inflows from Karnataka dams continued, which was being discharged from Mettur dam.</p>

<p>Chief Minister K Palaniswami will visit the affected areas tomorrow and hold a meeting with officials at Erode to review the situation.</p>

<p>Tourism Minister Vellamandi N Natarajan told reporters that an estimated 450 acres of standing crops, including paddy, has been affected in Tiruchirappalli district.</p>

<p>Transport Minister M R Vijayabhaskar said approximately 185 hectare of crops have been hit in Karur.</p>

<p>Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said affected people would be given "appropriate relief."</p>

<p>More villages,meanwhile, including those around Seerkali, Komarapalayam, Pallipalayam, Mayanur, and Tirumukkodal falling under Nagapattinam, Namakkal and Karur districts were inundated.</p>

<p>Regions downstream of Mettur dam like Edappadi in Salem too witnessed deluge.</p>

<p>Karungalpalayam in Erode and several regions close to the river banks in delta districts, including Tiruchirappalli too witnessed inundation.</p>

<p>Also, villages off Chidambaram in Cuddalore district saw heavy inundation. Industries Minister M C Sampath inspected the hamlets by going around in a boat along with officials.</p>

<p>The inflows from Karnataka dams was about two lakh cusecs and the same volume was being released from Mettur Dam in Salem district, officials said.</p>

<p>A flood alert has already been sounded in as many as 13 districts, including the southern Madurai and Theni as Periyar and Vaigai dams were witnessing significant inflows.</p>

<p>As many as 13,569 people are now housed in 119 relief centres in Tamil Nadu at districts including Tiruchirappalli and Karur and people living in low lying areas were evacauated from over 1,000 locations, official sources told PTI.</p>

<p>Revenue Minister R B Udaya Kumar told reporters in Madurai that if needed National Disaster Response Force personnel would be requistioned and added that the State Disaster Response force personnel have already been posted in districts along the banks of Cauvery.</p>

<p>A government release said a crack on the pier of an old abandoned steel bridge over Kollidam River (a branch of Cauvery) in Tiruchirappalli district was "widening" and "sinking," days after the heavy discharge of flood waters.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in Tirunelveli, District Collector Shilpa Prabhakar said oxygen cylinders needed for a government medical college hospital in Kerala, milk powder and and baby food items were being dispatched to the neighbouring state.</p>


Chief Minister K Palaniswami will visit the affected areas and hold a meeting with officials at Erode to review the situation.

More villages along the banks of the Cauvery in Tamil Nadu were inundated, standing crops submerged and the number of people in relief camps in Tamil Nadu crossed 13,000 today as heavy inflows from Karnataka dams continued, which was being discharged from Mettur dam. Chief Minister K Palaniswami will visit the affected areas tomorrow and hold a meeting with officials at Erode to review the situation. Tourism Minister Vellamandi N Natarajan told reporters that an estimated 450 acres of standing crops, including paddy, has been affected in Tiruchirappalli district. Transport Minister M R Vijayabhaskar said approximately 185 hectare of crops have been hit in Karur. Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam said affected people would be given "appropriate relief." More villages,meanwhile, including those around Seerkali, Komarapalayam, Pallipalayam, Mayanur, and Tirumukkodal falling under Nagapattinam, Namakkal and Karur districts were inundated. Regions downstream of Mettur dam like Edappadi in Salem too witnessed deluge. Karungalpalayam in Erode and several regions close to the river banks in delta districts, including Tiruchirappalli too witnessed inundation. Also, villages off Chidambaram in Cuddalore district saw heavy inundation. Industries Minister M C Sampath inspected the hamlets by going around in a boat along with officials. The inflows from Karnataka dams was about two lakh cusecs and the same volume was being released from Mettur Dam in Salem district, officials said. A flood alert has already been sounded in as many as 13 districts, including the southern Madurai and Theni as Periyar and Vaigai dams were witnessing significant inflows. As many as 13,569 people are now housed in 119 relief centres in Tamil Nadu at districts including Tiruchirappalli and Karur and people living in low lying areas were evacauated from over 1,000 locations, official sources told PTI. Revenue Minister R B Udaya Kumar told reporters in Madurai that if needed National Disaster Response Force personnel would be requistioned and added that the State Disaster Response force personnel have already been posted in districts along the banks of Cauvery. A government release said a crack on the pier of an old abandoned steel bridge over Kollidam River (a branch of Cauvery) in Tiruchirappalli district was "widening" and "sinking," days after the heavy discharge of flood waters. Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in Tirunelveli, District Collector Shilpa Prabhakar said oxygen cylinders needed for a government medical college hospital in Kerala, milk powder and and baby food items were being dispatched to the neighbouring state.

More Tamil Nadu villages, crops go under water,13,569 people in relief camps

<p>The Uttar Pradesh government today told the Supreme Court that it has got vacated 157 government bungalows including those allotted to former chief ministers.&nbsp</p>

<p>A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justice D Y Chandrachud was told by the counsel for Uttar Pradesh that those persons who have stayed in the bungalows beyond the stipulated time as given in the order of apex court will pay occupational charges.</p>

<p>“We are complying with the order of apex court and till now 157 homes have been vacated. Those persons who have occupied the bungalows beyond the stipulated time, will have to pay occupational charges,” the counsel said. The bench, asked the state government to file a detailed affidavit in two weeks giving specifics of how many homes have been vacated and how much occupational charges have been collected.</p>

<p>The court posted the matter for further hearing on September 17. On April 11, last year, the apex court had sought response from the Uttar Pradesh government on a plea seeking action against authorities for alleged failure to get the government bungalows allotted to former chief ministers vacated.</p>

<p>The court had sought reply from the director of estates of the state government within three weeks as to why the government bungalows allotted to the ex-CMs have not been vacated. The apex court was hearing a PIL filed by Uttar Pradesh-based NGO ‘Lok Prahari’ which has sought contempt action against the authorities concerned saying that despite the apex court’s verdict of August 1, 2016 against the allotment of bungalows to ex-CMs, they have not vacated them.</p>

<p>In its 2016 verdict the apex court had held that the former chief ministers should hand over possession of the bungalows occupied by them. It had said the state government should also recover appropriate rent from the occupants of the bungalows for the period during which they were “unauthorised” to do so. It had also said that the local laws only gave largesse to former chief ministers “without any element of reasonableness”.</p>

<p>Dealing with the legality of the impugned provisions, it had said, “In our opinion, the 1997 Rules, which permit the former chief ministers to occupy government bungalows for life, cannot be said to be valid. “In the circumstances, respondent no.1 (Uttar Pradesh) cannot permit any former chief minister to occupy any government bungalow or any government accommodation after 15 days from the date on which his term comes to an end.”</p>

<p>The UP government had in 2016 year passed amendments to laws to circumvent the effect of the verdict of apex court and enable former chief ministers to retain the accommodation allotted to them. Another plea of Lok Prahari in the apex court which is listed for final hearing, challenges the amendments made to laws to enable the ex-CMs to occupy government bungalows.</p>


The Uttar Pradesh government today told the Supreme Court that it has got vacated 157 government bungalows including those allotted to former chief ministers.

The Uttar Pradesh government today told the Supreme Court that it has got vacated 157 government bungalows including those allotted to former chief ministers. A bench of Chief Justice Dipak Misra and Justice D Y Chandrachud was told by the counsel for Uttar Pradesh that those persons who have stayed in the bungalows beyond the stipulated time as given in the order of apex court will pay occupational charges. “We are complying with the order of apex court and till now 157 homes have been vacated. Those persons who have occupied the bungalows beyond the stipulated time, will have to pay occupational charges,” the counsel said. The bench, asked the state government to file a detailed affidavit in two weeks giving specifics of how many homes have been vacated and how much occupational charges have been collected. The court posted the matter for further hearing on September 17. On April 11, last year, the apex court had sought response from the Uttar Pradesh government on a plea seeking action against authorities for alleged failure to get the government bungalows allotted to former chief ministers vacated. The court had sought reply from the director of estates of the state government within three weeks as to why the government bungalows allotted to the ex-CMs have not been vacated. The apex court was hearing a PIL filed by Uttar Pradesh-based NGO ‘Lok Prahari’ which has sought contempt action against the authorities concerned saying that despite the apex court’s verdict of August 1, 2016 against the allotment of bungalows to ex-CMs, they have not vacated them. In its 2016 verdict the apex court had held that the former chief ministers should hand over possession of the bungalows occupied by them. It had said the state government should also recover appropriate rent from the occupants of the bungalows for the period during which they were “unauthorised” to do so. It had also said that the local laws only gave largesse to former chief ministers “without any element of reasonableness”. Dealing with the legality of the impugned provisions, it had said, “In our opinion, the 1997 Rules, which permit the former chief ministers to occupy government bungalows for life, cannot be said to be valid. “In the circumstances, respondent no.1 (Uttar Pradesh) cannot permit any former chief minister to occupy any government bungalow or any government accommodation after 15 days from the date on which his term comes to an end.” The UP government had in 2016 year passed amendments to laws to circumvent the effect of the verdict of apex court and enable former chief ministers to retain the accommodation allotted to them. Another plea of Lok Prahari in the apex court which is listed for final hearing, challenges the amendments made to laws to enable the ex-CMs to occupy government bungalows.

157 government bungalows in Uttar Pradesh including those occupied by ex-CMs vacated, SC told

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi took stock of the situation in flood-hit areas in Kerala as he conducted an aerial survey in Kochi.</p>

<p>PM also announced&nbsp;an ex-gratia of Rs&nbsp;2 lakh per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs.50,000 to those seriously injured, from PM’s National Relief Funds (PMNRF).</p>

<p>He&nbsp;also announced Rs 500 crore as immediate aid for Kerala, in addition to the 100 crore announced earlier.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducts an aerial survey of flood affected areas. PM has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs.50,000 to those seriously injured, from PM’s National Relief Funds (PMNRF). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/T6FYNVLmMu">pic.twitter.com/T6FYNVLmMu</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030687913468743680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi was accompanied by&nbsp;Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor P&nbsp;Sathasivam and Union Tourism Minister KJ Alphons during the&nbsp;survey.</p>

<p>Also read: <a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900">324 people dead in </a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900">worst</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900"> disaster in 100 years, PM Modi conducts </a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900">aerial</a><a href="wionews.com/india-news/kerala-floods-324-people-dead-in-worst-disaster-in-100-years-pm-modi-to-conduct-aerial-survey-159900"> survey</a></p>

<p>Kerala is hit by major devastating flash floods due to the continuous heavy rains from past few months.</p>

<p>The worst floods in a century in Kerala have killed 324 people and forced more than 200,000 into relief camps&nbsp;with the toll expected to rise as heavy rain pushes water levels higher still.</p>

<p>As the southwestern coastal state's chief minister sought military reinforcements to boost rescue efforts, a disaster management official said that, since the monsoon season started about three months ago, more than 324 people had died due to flooding and landslides.</p>

<p>As the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Aerial visual of flooded Kalady as rain continues to lash the state. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> (17.08.18) <a href="https://t.co/lhu4oR50H7">pic.twitter.com/lhu4oR50H7</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030611855092342784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to reports, more than 30 military helicopters and over 300 boats are attempting<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/centre-launches-massive-rescue-and-relief-operations-in-kerala-as-death-toll-rises-above-324-159869"> rescue operations</a> across Kerala.</p>

<p>PM Modi arrived in the state capital on Friday night and flew into Kochi earlier in the day.</p>

<p>Before returning to Delhi, Modi is also expected to chair a meeting with the officials to discuss the situation.</p>

<p>Media reports say PM May declare the floods as a "national calamity" as the devastating flood worsens with time.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, United Arab Emirates will form a committee to help flood-hit areas of Kerala. Sheikh Khalifa has instructed the formation of a national emergency committee to provide assistance to the people affected.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Before returning to Delhi, Modi is also expected to chair a meeting with the officials to discuss the situation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took stock of the situation in flood-hit areas in Kerala as he conducted an aerial survey in Kochi. PM also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs.50,000 to those seriously injured, from PM’s National Relief Funds (PMNRF). He also announced Rs 500 crore as immediate aid for Kerala, in addition to the 100 crore announced earlier. #WATCH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducts an aerial survey of flood affected areas. PM has announced an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh per person to the next kin of the deceased and Rs.50,000 to those seriously injured, from PM’s National Relief Funds (PMNRF). #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/T6FYNVLmMu — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × PM Modi was accompanied by Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Governor P Sathasivam and Union Tourism Minister KJ Alphons during the survey. Also read: 324 people dead in worst disaster in 100 years, PM Modi conducts aerial survey Kerala is hit by major devastating flash floods due to the continuous heavy rains from past few months. The worst floods in a century in Kerala have killed 324 people and forced more than 200,000 into relief camps with the toll expected to rise as heavy rain pushes water levels higher still. As the southwestern coastal state's chief minister sought military reinforcements to boost rescue efforts, a disaster management official said that, since the monsoon season started about three months ago, more than 324 people had died due to flooding and landslides. As the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety. #WATCH: Aerial visual of flooded Kalady as rain continues to lash the state. #KeralaFloods (17.08.18) pic.twitter.com/lhu4oR50H7 — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × According to reports, more than 30 military helicopters and over 300 boats are attempting rescue operations across Kerala. PM Modi arrived in the state capital on Friday night and flew into Kochi earlier in the day. Before returning to Delhi, Modi is also expected to chair a meeting with the officials to discuss the situation. Media reports say PM May declare the floods as a "national calamity" as the devastating flood worsens with time. Meanwhile, United Arab Emirates will form a committee to help flood-hit areas of Kerala. Sheikh Khalifa has instructed the formation of a national emergency committee to provide assistance to the people affected.

Watch: PM Modi conducts aerial survey of flood-hit Kerala, announces aid of Rs 500 crore

<p>Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel and 500 of his supporters will observe a fast while sitting in cars here on August 19, to mount pressure on the authorities to allocate a ground for his August 25 agitation.&nbsp</p>

<p>He and his supporters will stage a day-long fast in their cars in a parking area in Nikol locality here, where Patel has sought permission to hold a rally on August 25.&nbsp</p>

<p>To respect the national mourning declared by the government after the death of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he and his supporters will cover their mouths with a black cloth, he said in a statement here.</p>

<p>Earlier, Patel had announced an indefinite hunger strike at this ground in Nikol area from August 25 to press the demand of reservations for the Patidar community.&nbsp</p>

<p>However, the ground was recently converted into a public parking area by the civic body.&nbsp</p>

<p>As the authorities have not taken any decision about allotting an alternative site for the August 25 agitation, Hardik Patel would be carrying out a stir in the parking area on August 19 so as to put pressure on them, said his close aide Jayesh Patel.</p>


Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel and 500 of his supporters will observe a fast while sitting in cars here on August 19, to mount pressure on the authorities to allocate a ground for his August 25 agitation.

Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel and 500 of his supporters will observe a fast while sitting in cars here on August 19, to mount pressure on the authorities to allocate a ground for his August 25 agitation. He and his supporters will stage a day-long fast in their cars in a parking area in Nikol locality here, where Patel has sought permission to hold a rally on August 25. To respect the national mourning declared by the government after the death of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he and his supporters will cover their mouths with a black cloth, he said in a statement here. Earlier, Patel had announced an indefinite hunger strike at this ground in Nikol area from August 25 to press the demand of reservations for the Patidar community. However, the ground was recently converted into a public parking area by the civic body. As the authorities have not taken any decision about allotting an alternative site for the August 25 agitation, Hardik Patel would be carrying out a stir in the parking area on August 19 so as to put pressure on them, said his close aide Jayesh Patel.

Patidar quota agitation leader Hardik Patel, supporters to observe fast sitting in cars

<p>A day after Independence Day in Delhi, a drunk man triggered a security scare in Indira Gandhi International airport as he tried to "hijack" a car he was travelling in and made an attempt to enter the airport.</p>

<p>According to a report by PTI, the 27-year-old man has been identified as Shankar who is a resident of Sangam Vihar in Delhi. He is a bouncer at a nightclub by profession.</p>

<p>The man also had a scuffle with the CISF personnel as they tried to stop him during which two shots were also fired in the air.</p>

<p>Shankar sitting at the back seat kicked the driver out of the vehicle, took his position and tried to speed away, a senior police official was quoted saying by PTI.</p>

<p>The CISF personnel managed to stop the man, who then got into a physical fight with them, he added.</p>

<p>The CISF personnel pinned him to the ground and tied him the rope during which he also tried to snatch a pistol of a jawan, who subsequently fired two rounds in the air in order to bring the situation under control.</p>

<p>The man was finally handed over to the Delhi police who is now probing the matter.</p>

<p>He has been booked under the sections 186, 353 and 332 of Indian Penal Code.&nbsp</p>

<p>No weapon was recovered from his possession and no terror-like link was established, the official said, adding that it was not clear why the man was headed towards the airport as he had no flight to catch.<br />
&nbsp</p>


The man identified as Shankar has been booked under the sections 186, 353 and 332 of Indian Penal Code.

A day after Independence Day in Delhi, a drunk man triggered a security scare in Indira Gandhi International airport as he tried to "hijack" a car he was travelling in and made an attempt to enter the airport. According to a report by PTI, the 27-year-old man has been identified as Shankar who is a resident of Sangam Vihar in Delhi. He is a bouncer at a nightclub by profession. The man also had a scuffle with the CISF personnel as they tried to stop him during which two shots were also fired in the air. Shankar sitting at the back seat kicked the driver out of the vehicle, took his position and tried to speed away, a senior police official was quoted saying by PTI. The CISF personnel managed to stop the man, who then got into a physical fight with them, he added. The CISF personnel pinned him to the ground and tied him the rope during which he also tried to snatch a pistol of a jawan, who subsequently fired two rounds in the air in order to bring the situation under control. The man was finally handed over to the Delhi police who is now probing the matter. He has been booked under the sections 186, 353 and 332 of Indian Penal Code. No weapon was recovered from his possession and no terror-like link was established, the official said, adding that it was not clear why the man was headed towards the airport as he had no flight to catch.

Drunk man triggers security threat as he tries to enter Delhi airport

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a stock of the situation in flood-hit areas in Kerala as he conducted an aerial survey in Kochi.

PM Modi conducts aerial survey, announce aid of Rs 500 crore

<p>The United Arab Emirates announced to form a committee to provide relief for the people affected by the devastating flash floods in Kerala on Saturday.</p>

<p>The UAE President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan made the announcement on Twitter as he also urged everyone to "contribute generously towards this initiative."</p>

<p>UAE President wrote on Twitter, "The people of Kerala have always been and are still part of our success story in the UAE. We have a special responsibility to help and support those affected, especially during this holy and blessed days."</p>

<p>The second tweet read, "UAE and the Indian community will unite to offer relief to those affected. We have formed a committee to start immediately. We urge everyone to contribute generously towards this initiative."</p>

<p>"The state of Kerala in India is currently witnessing huge floods, the most devastating in a century. Hundreds have been killed, hundreds of thousands have been displaced. Ahead of Eid Al Adha, do not forget to extend a helping hand to our brothers in India," He further added.</p>

<p>As Kerala is hit with the worst flash floods of the century due to the continuous heavy rains from past few months accompanied by heavy gusty winds. Many states in the country have extended their support by announcing aid for the victims.<br />
&nbsp<br />
Telangana chief minister, K Chandrasekhar Rao also announced 25 crores and 10 reverse osmosis plants worth Rs 2.5 crore.</p>

<p>Telangana IT Minister KT Rama Rao tweeted on Friday, "To aid and assist our brothers and sisters of Kerala in their hour of grief, Telangana CM KCR Garu has just announced assistance of Rs 25 crore and 10 reverse osmosis plants worth Rs 2.5 crore towards the flood hit Kerala."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the State Bank of India also donated 2 crores to chief minister's relief fund and announced waiver of fees and charges on services offered by the bank in Kerala.</p>

<p>Earlier on Friday, Punjab and Delhi had also announced an aid of&nbsp10 crores to Kerala.</p>

<p>The worst floods in a century in Kerala has killed at least 324 people so far and forced more than 200,000 into relief camps with the toll expected to rise as heavy rain pushes water levels higher still.</p>

<p>As the southwestern coastal state's chief minister sought military reinforcements to boost rescue efforts, a disaster management official said that, since the monsoon season started about three months ago, more than 324 people had died due to flooding and landslides.</p>

<p>As the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety.&nbsp</p>


The UAE President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan made the announcement on Twitter and urged everyone to 'contribute generously towards this initiative.'

The United Arab Emirates announced to form a committee to provide relief for the people affected by the devastating flash floods in Kerala on Saturday. The UAE President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan made the announcement on Twitter as he also urged everyone to "contribute generously towards this initiative." UAE President wrote on Twitter, "The people of Kerala have always been and are still part of our success story in the UAE. We have a special responsibility to help and support those affected, especially during this holy and blessed days." The second tweet read, "UAE and the Indian community will unite to offer relief to those affected. We have formed a committee to start immediately. We urge everyone to contribute generously towards this initiative." "The state of Kerala in India is currently witnessing huge floods, the most devastating in a century. Hundreds have been killed, hundreds of thousands have been displaced. Ahead of Eid Al Adha, do not forget to extend a helping hand to our brothers in India," He further added. As Kerala is hit with the worst flash floods of the century due to the continuous heavy rains from past few months accompanied by heavy gusty winds. Many states in the country have extended their support by announcing aid for the victims. Telangana chief minister, K Chandrasekhar Rao also announced 25 crores and 10 reverse osmosis plants worth Rs 2.5 crore. Telangana IT Minister KT Rama Rao tweeted on Friday, "To aid and assist our brothers and sisters of Kerala in their hour of grief, Telangana CM KCR Garu has just announced assistance of Rs 25 crore and 10 reverse osmosis plants worth Rs 2.5 crore towards the flood hit Kerala." Meanwhile, the State Bank of India also donated 2 crores to chief minister's relief fund and announced waiver of fees and charges on services offered by the bank in Kerala. Earlier on Friday, Punjab and Delhi had also announced an aid of&nbsp10 crores to Kerala. The worst floods in a century in Kerala has killed at least 324 people so far and forced more than 200,000 into relief camps with the toll expected to rise as heavy rain pushes water levels higher still. As the southwestern coastal state's chief minister sought military reinforcements to boost rescue efforts, a disaster management official said that, since the monsoon season started about three months ago, more than 324 people had died due to flooding and landslides. As the waters have risen, many people have found it increasingly hard to access food and other basic amenities, or to reach safety.

Kerala floods: UAE to form committee to help victims; Telangana announces aid

<p>CM Vijayan on Saturday noted that Kerala is in middle of a disaster, "we need to unite as one to tackle it," he stated.</p>

<p>Kerala authorities estimate a cumulative loss of over Rs 19,000 crore to the state. CM Vijayan, earlier on Saturday, requested the centre to help with Rs 2,000 crore to help Kerala battle the flood fury.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, around 42 navy, 16 army, 28 coast guard and 39 National Disaster Relief Force teams have been deployed in rescue operations. The death toll on Saturday climbed to 357 people with over 3 lakh people displaced and homeless.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are in the middle of a disaster, we need unite as one to tackle it: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/r0p433RnPV">pic.twitter.com/r0p433RnPV</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030844176483659776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Various state governments have also extended help to flood-ravaged Kerala. Central Ministries have made food, water and medicines available, including 3,00,000 food packets, 6,00,000 MT of milk, 14,00,000 litres of drinking water, 150 portable water purification kits with the capacity of 1,00,000 litre each.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So far, various Central Ministries have made available food, water and medicines which include 3,00,000 food packets, 6,00,000 MT of milk, 14,00,000 litres of drinking water, 150 potable water purification kits with capacity of 1,00,000 litre each: NCMC. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a> — ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030828697853423622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></p>
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<p>According to the National Crisis Management Committee, more than 6,900 life jackets, 3,000 lifebuoys,167 inflatable tower lights,2,100 raincoats,1,300 gumboots and 153 chainsaws have been provided as per the request of Kerala government.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeralaFloods?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeralaFloods</a>: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan says "total 33 people have died in the state today". Death toll rises to 357. <a href="https://t.co/aiACV26mcv">pic.twitter.com/aiACV26mcv</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1030848598068539393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>67 helicopters, 24 aircraft, 548 motorboats and thousands of rescue personnel from Navy, Army, Air Force, NDRF, Coast Guard are pressed into service to evacuate people from submerged areas to relief camps and distribute relief materials, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;</p>

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So far, around 42 navy, 16 army, 28 coast guard and 39 National Disaster Relief Force teams have been deployed in rescue operations.

CM Vijayan on Saturday noted that Kerala is in middle of a disaster, "we need to unite as one to tackle it," he stated. Kerala authorities estimate a cumulative loss of over Rs 19,000 crore to the state. CM Vijayan, earlier on Saturday, requested the centre to help with Rs 2,000 crore to help Kerala battle the flood fury. So far, around 42 navy, 16 army, 28 coast guard and 39 National Disaster Relief Force teams have been deployed in rescue operations. The death toll on Saturday climbed to 357 people with over 3 lakh people displaced and homeless. We are in the middle of a disaster, we need unite as one to tackle it: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on #KeralaFloods pic.twitter.com/r0p433RnPV — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × Various state governments have also extended help to flood-ravaged Kerala. Central Ministries have made food, water and medicines available, including 3,00,000 food packets, 6,00,000 MT of milk, 14,00,000 litres of drinking water, 150 portable water purification kits with the capacity of 1,00,000 litre each. So far, various Central Ministries have made available food, water and medicines which include 3,00,000 food packets, 6,00,000 MT of milk, 14,00,000 litres of drinking water, 150 potable water purification kits with capacity of 1,00,000 litre each: NCMC. #KeralaFloods — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × According to the National Crisis Management Committee, more than 6,900 life jackets, 3,000 lifebuoys,167 inflatable tower lights,2,100 raincoats,1,300 gumboots and 153 chainsaws have been provided as per the request of Kerala government. #KeralaFloods: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan says "total 33 people have died in the state today". Death toll rises to 357. pic.twitter.com/aiACV26mcv — ANI (@ANI) August 18, 2018 × 67 helicopters, 24 aircraft, 548 motorboats and thousands of rescue personnel from Navy, Army, Air Force, NDRF, Coast Guard are pressed into service to evacuate people from submerged areas to relief camps and distribute relief materials, news agency ANI reported. × ×

Kerala is in middle of disaster, we need to unite to tackle it: CM Vijayan

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